'70 CST/10 Dead Engine

[Jakes-66-K10]

Hi everyone, I'm new to the forums and need some help. I just picked up a CST/20 with a stock 350 engine. I scored one sweet deal of a truck, it has very little rust although some in the usual places like rocker panels, lower rear of the cab etc. Someone rubber undercoated alot of panels, which really seems to have helped.

So, first question: Did these CST trucks come from the factory equipped for campers? I hear it stands for Custom Sport Truck, but not sure what this really means to make it different from a C20. This had a second battery which was wired to a connector in the drivers side of the bed for the camper. It also has 3 gas tanks, a geared loading mechanism on the bed in place of a tailgate, and all kinds of wiring that I'm not sure if this was done stock or from the original owner.

Next question would be the engine. I bought this for such a great price because it wouldn't start. Well, after trying various things and noticing some problems, I have found out it has thrown a rod, and punctured the oilpan. So, I'm trying to weigh my options here. I could put in a 350 I have from another truck, rebuild this one (if possible) or part out the engine since it is original.

Any suggestions to get this beast driving again?

Thanks,

Jake