54 GMC build

[docrock]

On June 5th 2010 I bought a 54 GMC Hydramatic. No engine or trans.
I decided that it would be fun to build it like original but have modern suspension, engine and drive train. I bought a 90 extended cab truck and stripped it to the chassis. I should have found something with an older style trans but that is ok because I can sell the 4l60e trans and buy other parts.
I found a factory seam just after the front suspension. I cut the frame 26 inches and slid the frame forward into the original joint and welded it. At least now I have the 116 wheel base for my truck.
I read alot of info on not being able to use a 1500 for a chassis but I have not run into a problem yet.

['58Patch]

Welcome! Sounds great, we'd love to see some pictures! So you're in Encinitas eh? I'm right around the corner in Cardiff!

[docrock]

Right down the street. Thursday afternoon and night this week I will be in downtown Encinitas with my 1950 Ford Woodie and my son will be driving my 54 Chevy Truck. Look for the black one in my profile. I was going to have my other son drive my 72 4x4 but the transfer case is being rebuilt.
I have some pics but cant figure out how to put them on the thread without using a photo site.

[entourageguy]

To attach photo saved in your computer go into the post reply then on the top tool bar you will see a paperclip. Click on that and it opens a new window to browse your files for pic on your computer.

[docrock]

Thanks

[docrock]

[bjcaldwe]

Keep the progress coming. Glade to see another GMC in the works.

[docrock]

Yours is going along good. I build cars on a very strict budget and do all the work myself.
I bought the truck for 500.
I bought the running but wrecked 90 1500 for 500.
I plan on spending another 1000 and it will be done.
My 54 Chevy Rat Truck I spent 500 and built it for 500 and parts laying around the yard that my wife was *****ing about. hahhaaa showed her
Now she doesnt know if she is pissed about parts or another car in the yard.


I painted it witha quart of semigloss rustoleum with a roller.
The current project will have a nice paint job.

[sgtusmc]

Originally Posted by bjcaldwe

Keep the progress coming. Glade to see another GMC in the works.

I too am glad to see another GMC in the works. So let me get this straight. Your GMC is on a full size truck frame? If so, you have saved me many dollars as I was just about to pull the trigger today on a Scotts IFS kit for my TF. I really need to pick up my father-in-laws '88 long bed and use the frame and engine and tranny for my swap. I didn't think a 1500 frame would fit under my TF yet alone a AD. Sorry for the hijack.

[docrock]

Thanks.
This is yesterdays progress. Frame is welded including exhaust.
I didnt get pics of the cab sitting on the chassis but it looks cool.
I am taking the cab off to cut the body supports off. they really are not going to help. they might get cut down and reused. not sure yet.
heading to my buddies to pic up a turbo 350, intake manifold and carb.
That way i wont need the the pcm or any of the other controls. the cool thing about the turbo 350 is mounts in the same location. the linkage is the same and the speedo cable works on the original guage.

[docrock]

cut the body supports off the frame. they are not useable. tried the cab and front sheet metal. it doesnt get down as low as i want. the core support hits the steering box and idle arm. i will measure the radiator to see how high i can get it and cut the rest off.

[docrock]

I moved over to the build area to finish this project with pics

[pinecrest]

How's it going?

[hotrodjoe1952]

I can't wait to see how the front wheels look on this, i have always been told you can't use a full size frame with this style of truck because the 1500 series frame is to wide, i hope it comes out looking good.