*New to the boards- seeking some direction*

[Zach Jaynes]

Hello guys and gals, I just joined the boards and this is my first post. After wanting to own a 67-72 for as long as I can remember, I ran across one this week (wasn't even looking really), and now I am the proud owner of a '69 C10. It's a project for sure. It is a complete running and driving pickup, but needs a ton of work. I have not personally restored a vehicle of any kind before, but have basic mechanical knowledge and ability. Here is my plan for the truck, and please chime in if you have any advice, major do's and dont's, etc... I don't want to do a complete frame off resto, but close to it if that makes sense. I would ideally like to tackle the progress in stages, so that the truck remains semi-complete/functional most of the time throughout the process. It doesn't have to become an award winning show truck, but I do want a good, solid, nice looking truck that can be a part time driver. I plan to do most everything myself with the exception of body work. I don't have the time, patience, and most importantly skill for that. Several of the panels are going to need replacing all together I'm afraid, including roof, right fender, right bedside,etc.... Some of the others might be worth saving depending on what the body man says. I would like to maybe start with suspension stuff (planning to do a 4/6 or 5/7 drop, which I understand will also require a disk brake conversion for the front, and I plan to replace all suspension bushings, wear items,etc... while I'm at it. Figured I'd remove the bed for easier access, and maybe try to sand blast the rear part of the chassis and suspension components while I'm at it, and give them a fresh coat of matte black paint. Then I'd like to possibly get my engine compartment and other mechanical systems in order, before moving on to body work, interior, and ultimately paint. Again, just looking for some general direction here. I like to have a general plan when I start something, although I'm sure that is subject to change along the way. Just want to eliminate spending unnecessary time and money and avoid "double work" as much as possible. I tried to attach a current photo of the truck, and a general idea of what I would like the finished product to look like, but didn't have any luck. Any and all advice/info would be greatly appreciated. Looking forward to this project with my two sons.