Project 68 1/2 ton longbed

[Jayblythe]

Hello all, I have a 68 1/2 ton 6 lug long bed with a 250 straight 6 and a 4 speed with the granny gear. relatively clean, rust in the normal spots, rockers, cab corners, fender wells. I have some questions about certain routes i could take with this project, to be clear im not looking for a show truck, just a fun driver.

1) i have noticed the growing popularity in swapping vortecs or LS motors into c10's, its an attractive idea but im not sure that i am up to the challenge and budget in terms of wiring, fuel injection, and the cost of upgrading

2)I was also looking for small blocks, either a 350 or 327, cant decide what i want, some extra power would be nice. so your thoughts on if i should go Ls or small block
3) transmission: i love the stick shift but a new 5 speed with overdrive is a little out of my budget, i was thinking a th350 or 400 automatic until i can get the manual transmission i want. Any thoughts on possible transmission options feel free to chime in

4) im converting the front drums to discs thats a no brainer, im looking to drop the truck but not to much, its got coils in the back, looking at drop spindles in the front, any recommendations for kits, not really looking to pull any off a square body. also recommendations on ride height would be appreciated

5) Power steering is my last problem, I would really like to upgrade however my dad thinks its an unnecessary effort and expense, your thoughts?

Pictures will come soon, not around the truck right now but any insight would be greatly appreciated,

Thanks