1970 C10 Long Bed Build

[1970_Chevy]

I have viewed my build threads on here but have never posted (so hopefully all my pictures appear). I own a 1970 C10 LWB that I am just starting to build. The direction is still a little unclear as there are so many options and so many things that have been done. As you can see in the pictures the body of the truck leaves a lot to be desired. The one thing I do know is I would like to be able to use this truck as a truck. I enjoy looking at high end pro touring style builds but I do not intend on auto-crossing this truck.

The truck is currently equipped with a 250CI incline 6 and 3 speed manual that has been moved to the floor. I currently own a 5.3 LS style engine, 454 gen 5 big block, and a 5.9L 12v p-pump cummins. I have yet to decide on the drive train, including transmission and axle(s). I live in Iowa so the thought has crossed my mind about a 4 wheel drive conversion of some type.

I do know that the truck will not being stay 4 wheel drum brakes. I also know that it will be significant work to numerous body panel, body mounts, and normal wear items.

This project is going to be a long project as I also have a 1967 Camaro (nearing completion) and a recently purchased house. I look forward to sharing my progress here while hopefully gaining and sharing some knowledge.

[1970_Chevy]

As I stated I am converting the truck to disc brakes (at least in the front for now). I also would like to be able to use the truck as a truck is intended. For these reason I decided to drop the entire front suspension and replace it with a c20 assembly with disc brakes.

Besides working in the dirt in an old junkyard with limited tools everything went fairly smooth during the removal. I was able to float the engine while removing the front suspension it was then set on blocks.

At this point the truck is going to be staying 2wd. However, in the future, I may be swapping to 4wd. I will just have to see where this build takes me, but for now I will proceed with truck as 2wd.

I did not have jack stands at the junkyard so I used the biggest logs I could find to hold the truck up. Yes this is not the most safe but jack stands would have sunk in the ground and I kept the jack under the car at all times.

[1970_Chevy]

So I may have found an engine for my c10! I brought a 5.3L L83 (LT family) engine. It is not set in stone that this is going into my truck, I still have to tear the engine down and see what kind of condition it is in. I should have more information on this soon when I begin to tear the engine down.





In the mean time to continue the progress on the truck. I have the new front end rebuild with c20 spring, all new bushing and ball joints. I also did a basic disc brake upgrade. Nothing to fancy at this point but all OEM parts that are easily attainable.

The next step is going to be to paint this entire front end assembly. I am going to use POR15 since there is some surface rust. Once painted I will install the new front end.