1979 Chevy Shortbed Build

[gouuld79]

This is my '79 Chevy shortbox, picked it up with 100% original paint and interior, originally came with an I6 but had been swapped out for a strong running 350sbc, 3 speed manual tranny and a open rear end with 3.73's just over 5 years ago from Taber, Alberta for $1500.

[gouuld79]

Within the first couple hours tried to somewhat get rid of the total farm truck look, got rid of the box rails, fog lights bumperettes, cleaned her up a little, etc. Not sure what's done internally to the motor but externally has a set of long tube headers, Edelbrock Performer Series aluminum intake, Edelbrock Performer 600cfm carb,MSD Street Fire Distributor, and a Holley mechanical fuel pump.

[gouuld79]

My grandpa had owned and ran many body shops locally so with the help of him and my dad the "restoration" began. I had always loved Fords "grabber blue" colour BUT being the die hard Chevy guy i am i had to change the paint code just a little and go slightly darker. Found a guy somewhat locally who had started to part out his single cab stepside '76 show mud truck and took the carpet, seat belts, door panels, lower door carpets, and some trim off of his hands.

[gouuld79]

I ended up moving to Medicine Hat, AB and from there we set up a paint booth in our garage with our compressor, a couple stationary fans and a furnace filter to protect the neighbours from overspray.

[gouuld79]

We ended up having the truck road worthy for the budget i was on right in time for my 16th birthday. For the box liner we bought a roll on kit from Canadian Tire

[gouuld79]

Only 2 months after having my truck on the road (being the stupid classic teenager) got in a 3 way collision while cruising with my best friend:wash: Had my rear slider open and put my head through both sheets of glass (that knocked a little sense into me)

[73Super8]

Ouch. Doesn't look real bad but I can't see underneath lol. Glad you're ok.