Close to Taking on a big Project

[SS From the "Wood"]

New to this forum, as I've been spending the latter part of my life driving performance sedans, but have always had an obsession that ran very deep w/ the square bodies of the '80's. My first vehicle was an '82 GMC SB 1/2 Fleetside that my dad and I spent about 8mos frame off restoring. So I guess that explains it. Why the late model sedans? A long career in the real estate business, but God's pointed me in another direction recently. Working in a more blue-collar environment (not knocking it... loving it) gives me the chance to get back into a truck, and actually have the time to wrench on it. My modern attitude had me looking at the $30K+ Sierra Denali's that were cammed & tuned, but God again brought me to the conclusion that it wasn't for me. I needed something more than what it would've provided, and I was close to owning it. Believe me it was bad to the bone!

So onward... I recently was inspired by an old Truckin' Magazine feature of a Hill's Hot Rods build, and that's where mod hell started for me! I wanted something that was super cool, daily driveable, held my family, and would cook some thick meats. Realizing my undeniable love of this era pickup, I decided to move forward with a crew cab 1/2 ton SWB project, and likely after Christmas will make a deal on it's inception! Even have my wife's blessing, so I'm 90% there!

Of course at this point I'm in my project management research phase, and trying to make a decision on a powerplant. My previous square had a .60 overbore 350 w/ a .400 crank totaling 388ci's. I'm not certain that I wanna go that radical w/ what will be a SBC mill. Maybe a 383 stroker. That's where I'm stuck. I would like to go fuel injected over carb, but which style? I like a nice, modern lopey sound, so I think I'll put it on my square body brethren to help me decide. I don't have a million dollars, but I'm not poor either. Yet. I'd like to take advantage of as many bargains as possible.

Please feel free to offer thoughts freely and honestly. I've been enjoying some of the project/build threads the last few days, and admire the support you guys give. In the end I know I'll have a sweet ride, that's low and mean, and likely the envy of the 16 year olds today! That's what I want afterall. Talk to you guys soon.

-Shannon (hailing from Clear Lake/Houston, TX)