1971 3/4T 4x4 or is it?

[Lance]

I'm new to the site and am looking for some assistance in a potential purchase.

I'm looking at buying a 1971 flat bed, 3/4 4x4. It has seen better times but I want it as a beach truck for my commercial fishing business in Alaska. It has a run out 350 with water in the oil, 4 sp and a Spicer decal on the glove box. I was going to buy it but I mentioned to friend who is an old chevy guy that the prior owner said he rebuilt a front wheel cylinder. I checked back with the owner and sure enough, it has front drums not discs which I understand is not the factory option for 1971.

I'm thinking that the body may be the '71 but perhaps the chassis is older? The vin on the inside drivers door jam is KE148Z118205. Is there a vin number location to check on the chassis to see exactly what year/model it is? I have to have at least a 3/4 ton chassis as we routinely haul 4,500lb anchors on the back of our trucks!!! Any other clues to look for to ensure its a 3/4 ton?

If the chassis is a 1971, how much to go with a disc brake front axle or is there a conversion kit to put discs on? If so, who do I check with for parts to swap?

The truck cosmetically not bad for a 35 yr old rig. It has a flat bed on it which is what I need and decent 32" wide tires. He wants 1000.00/offer. I've got a rebuilt sBC 400 on my engine stand or could rebuild the 350 and hope the tranny is fine.

Thanks,

Lance