project: Wheeler

[Devil'S Ride]

Ok....so I have had this truck for a while, and after i got it, the PO at somepoint had converted it to a gas motor from a diesel. To say that the wiring was AFU and atrocious would be a complete understatement. After replacing two carbs, a front driveshaft, front brakes, rebuilding the hubs, changing all the fluids, 6 starters, two new flex plates, a PS pump and box and going to all MSD dist and ignition I decided it was time to stop trying to just fix all the problems the truck came with and tear it all apart. I don't use the truck for anything more than a wheeling and hunting truck, and sometimes to tow my camp trailer to the hunting camp. After taking the truck wheelin 3 times and coming home with something broken and new electrical problems every time I parked it for about 2 years, planning and collecting parts.

About two years ago I started tearing everything out, to begin a re-wire. I gutted the interior, everything came out, dash, wiring, pad, carpet, seats:
starting off-




almost empty!


engine compartment disaster!




In this build I am going for simplicity and function....

Some of my new parts:


The Dash as it sits now.


I have since put in buckets, which makes things a lot more comfortable, and a better view point. The old steering has been replaced with a 4x2 box, and crossover. Custom front bumper, new rear bumper in the works, Bushwacker flares have been removed, fenders hogged out, 3" body lift is coming off in favor of a 1" aluminum puck BL, Bed will be bobbed for the time being, plans for a flatbed are in the works with about 8 inches removed from the frame. At the moment I am trying to figure out a new fuel tank, as having the saddle bag tanks makes me nervous about crushing one on a tree or rock. Thinking about having one made to fit between the frame rails under the tool box at the front of the bed. (Cut a hole in the bed floor to fit around) Hoping for a 25-30 gallon capacity.

Eventually going to finish setting up a 203/205 to go behind my TH400. I will either end up rebuilding my BBC again, or toying with the thought of a warmed over 12 valve CTD. I'll get some more pics of the seats and the fender trimming sometime in the near future.

I run a lot of trails, rocks, narrow climbs, and all my wheelin' buddies run mini trucks....toyotas, ford rangers, scouts, jeeps....and I have followed them everywhere without an issue. Now, getting them to follow me is not so easy!


Let me know your thoughts and ideas!!

Thanks for looking and reading!