questions about pulling parts

[RedZ71]

are the frames/engine mounts the same from a 71/72 between a 350 and straight 6?

[krue]

No they're not. If you mount a 350 on straight 6 mounts it will sit a few inches further back (puts an HEI dizzy REAL close to the firewall).

[RedZ71]

reason im asking is, there is a 71 straight 6 in my neighborhood, that the owner sounds like he "ready to get rid of it", just possibly might accept quite a lowball bid on it. it doesnt run or even turn over (i think), but the body panels are quite rust free and straight all the way around.

trying to decide if i make a move on it, what all i would try to use it for.

my frame has a couple of small (possibly insignificant) bends, but enough that bumpers might not mount perfectly straight. im fairly positive that this one would have everything perfectly straight (of course, based on its outward appearance).

if the engine mounts are different, i probably wouldnt be looking to use its frame with my v8. however, its cab is in really good shape. that, and its bed are what i consider to be my primary targets on this deal i guess.

[krue]

Engine mounts are easily swapped, the crossmember is the same, just different towers bolted to it. Go for it!

[RedZ71]

yeah, i need to go look a this truck inside and out i guess. outside of the cab corners are not rusted, which is why im so interested in it. if i get it tho, it will be time to stop dreaming and start getting busy on some real work (ie, call my agent and cancel the road insurance for it... becuase it probably woudlnt be back on the road for a while).

its easy for me to see both sides of the argument for/against this truck tho.

against:
1) i live in an apartment, and only have access to 1 car garages. i can probaby get a 3rd garage (to go with the 2 i already have), but of course at a cost (my apartment is already as expensive as a house, and im an idiot).
2) my 71 runs and drives, and is a fun toy to cruise around in, in the evenings. right now as i sit, the next thing up is the $50 paint job, a front bumper, and then a long pause until i own a house (when the full and proper teardown will happen).

for getting this other truck:
1) all the non-rusted panels will save me a bundle in replacements and cost of having the rust cut out and patched. swapping the cab and bed would fast forward me over lots of time and money.
2) realistically, i could probably part out the remainder of the parts i dont need, and come pretty dang close to recouping what i pay for this 2nd truck.

[cdowns]

sounds like a good plan// just start with a really really lowball figure he might just want it gone and take next to nothing to move it. also have a way to move it in place before going to see him. more than a few deals have been lost due to delays at getting them gone imediately

[RedZ71]

Originally Posted by cdowns

also have a way to move it in place before going to see him. more than a few deals have been lost due to delays at getting them gone imediately

that sounds like good advice ill make sure i plan that ahead if i end up going for it.