My 71 C-10 build beginnings

[sofla71chev]

Well the truck is a 1971 Chevy C-10 Stepside. It runs and it drives. It doesn't have any factory options, yet. Has the 250ci with a 4 speed on the floor.

This build will more then likely take quite a long time considering I dont have a lot of money for this particular project. I dont plan on building an all out show car, or an all out race car. Maybe something in between. I can do all mechanical work myself, but when it comes to body work I dont have any experience and this will be my chance to learn.

I got it in August 07, and so far I have replaced the cracked windshield, replaced the front calipers, rotors, bearings, and pads. Also last weekend I bolted on a power brake booster. I have had it up on a lift and found a few things that need serious attention that I will be fixing first. For one the rear crossmember that the trailing arms attached to is only being held on by 1 of 8 rivets, looks like the previous owner bottomed it out and tore/ripped the crossmember. Also the right front lower control arm is bent back causing the rf wheel to sit about 2" further back then it should. Oh yeah and rust, the rocker panels are rusted out and so is the floor along the rocker area. Cab corners look like surface rust but may be deeper when I actually get a better look at them. front and rear fenders dont seem to be to rusted. right front inner fender is rusted through, as is the battery tray and right lower portion of the core support.


My ideas and plans change daily but as of right now they include:

Lowering it, probably around 4" front and 6" rear.
Get rid of the rust.
Possibly convert to a fleetside bed, if a deal comes up.
Engine, I am undecided about doing a 5.3l vortec, or turbocharging a 4.2l l6vortec
Some sort of buckets to make the interior a little more comfortable.
Wheels, I am leaning towards some 18" wheels

I have already bought some parts I need:

Classic performance dropped member to replace my broken one
Classic performance rear shock relocator and super panhard bar kit
Airride Tech rear air bag kit
Rocker panels, inner rocker panels, floorboard halfs, and front cab supports
Full cab and window weatherstrip kit
I do have a new master cylinder and proportioning valve to install, the stock proportioning valve causes the rear to lock up fast.

More pictures and updates to come, questions, suggestions, and comments welcome.