Just bought a 74 longbed, I need a clue.

[manilapoo_92]

Hey guys,

I ran across a good deal not too long ago for a 1974 Chevy Pickup for $250. It runs fine but I fear it is on its last leg. I have always driven/built smaller cars in the past and this is my first pickup.

The truck is a longbed that has a 454 motor and a RWD setup with an automatic transmission. I would like to rebuild the motor myself, replace the tranny or rebuild it as cheap as possible, maybe swap the bed out with a newer model bed, and overhaul the brakes.

What is the best way of finding out specs on the motor, tranny, driveshaft, rearend, etc. etc and knowing which replacement parts are interchangable between models?

Also, I am located in central Oklahoma if anyone knows of a good machine shop or parts source in the area.