My '85 starting point

[peresich]

Introductions are in order. I'm Brooks. This is My Sqaure. The spelling is intentional and only funny to about 4 people, but it dates back to my first attempt at vandalism over a buddy's workbench in the shop where I learned how to work on truck suspension. Turns out, I can't spell with spray paint.

I have always wanted to get my hands on one of these and see what I could make out of it, but parental responsibilities have kept me on the sidelines until now. I sold my sensible car and bought this. Now I need some guidance.

I am terrible about letting projects overwhelm me with details. I plan to daily drive this and upgrade along the way. I will be doing most of the work myself, but I need help in figuring out what to start with.

I need to make sure that everything is mechanically sound and minimize the risk of any major motor/transmission issues. It is supposed to be a 350 small block with 350 Turbo Transmission. Is there any way to verify that visually or with the VIN number?

If you had just bought a truck like this what steps would you walk through to verify that everything was in perfect working order in the motor and drivetrain before you felt comfortable with it?

I already have my plan, but I like to compare notes with other people to see if I missed anything.

Thanks for the help.

Anyway, here is the truck. '85 C10 Silverado Short Bed.