Looking at a 78 1/2 ton

[chvtrkman]

Hey guys n gals, I've been mostly into the 67-72 trucks,but have been liking the 73-87 style lately...spotted a 78 longbed a while back and gave it the once over.I plan on calling the owner to arrange a better look.Is there anything in particular to look for on these trucks that would be unique to this body style?
I'm thinking mostly areas that rust out that are easy to miss. The truck has a 305 w/auto trans and so far it looks fairly solid.I couldn't get a good look at the odometer so don't know mileage.

[77ChevySharkBite]

Um...as far as unique, check the build sheet what would make it unique to the 73-87 would be either a Beau James, Big Ten, or even a Heavy Half.

The places that rust, or cause a rust hole are Core Support due to battery acid, cab corners, and rocker panels. Also find out if the heater box has leaked that could cause a rusted floors, where the fender and cab meet there should be a rubber piece there that's a common rust spot too. Those are the most common spots I've seen rust and or experienced it first hand.

[chvtrkman]

Ok,thanks much for the help. I hope to get a look under the carpet..looking underneath the cab it all looks solid.The rubber cab mounts are dry rotted pretty bad but that's to be expected.

[nheller76]

Also the window seals tend to dry up and u will get some nasty rust there too.
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[77ChevySharkBite]

Hey no problem man! We're all here to help each other and as you know don't be afraid to ask questions we have some knowledgeable people here on the board.

Even if you want run the vin number on the truck to if you want to verify that it's everything the owner says it is.