Looking at a 69 c/10 stepside for a hot rod project... questions before purchase

[scapegoat]

Hey all, as the title states... I'm looking at a couple of 69's for a hot rod project, lowered, big block, possibly f/i (actually would love to do a turbo diesel for this) slicks, etc etc etc... the usual stuff...

One of the trucks i'm looking at is a 4x4 and the other is 2wd, both in excellent shape with a price difference of about 2k, with the 2wd being more expensive.

As the intention would be to replace the rear end w/ something more suitable for... we'll say 500-600whp, would it really matter which of the two trucks I purchase as the drivetrain and engine will be replaced?

Obviously, the major difference would be in the front suspension between the two trucks, correct? (after the engine and rearend are done) I'd have to swap everything from the 4x4 front end out with a 2wd front end. What about the steering linkage, etc...

both trucks are 100% stock and appear to be in great condition from the images I was given. Both w/ 6cyl and I believe 4 speeds... so the only real difference is the drivetrain

[streetstar]

It would be easier and possibly cheaper in the long run to start with the 2wd if thats what you want in the end anyway.

A properly rebuilt 12 bolt truck rearend should handle anything you can throw at it power wise within reason -- 5 or 600 hp should be easy (thats unless something is wrong with it, which is why i said it should be properly overhauled before hitting it with 600 hp's at the strip)

On the street, you will probably spin the tires enough that breakeage would not be much of an issue

[scapegoat]

Originally Posted by streetstar

It would be easier and possibly cheaper in the long run to start with the 2wd if thats what you want in the end anyway.

A properly rebuilt 12 bolt truck rearend should handle anything you can throw at it power wise within reason -- 5 or 600 hp should be easy (thats unless something is wrong with it, which is why i said it should be properly overhauled before hitting it with 600 hp's at the strip)

On the street, you will probably spin the tires enough that breakeage would not be much of an issue

if that is the case then I'd def go for the 2wd. Now... what entails a "properly rebuilt 12 bolt rearend" and where what truck would I get one? unless the 6cyl 2wd truck comes with one?

yes, I am a complete and utter novice when it comes to this... nice big learning experience

[68350]

Nearly all 1/2 chevy trucks had a 12 bolt, with a few exceptions(my dads 68 gmc had a dana 44). Streetstar is talking about have someone who knows rearends completely go through and replace stuff that is worn and/or could cause significant failure of the rearend. a 12 bolt can definitely handle 500-600 horse, though. do you have any pics of the trucks? thanks

[scapegoat]

Originally Posted by 68350

Nearly all 1/2 chevy trucks had a 12 bolt, with a few exceptions(my dads 68 gmc had a dana 44). Streetstar is talking about have someone who knows rearends completely go through and replace stuff that is worn and/or could cause significant failure of the rearend. a 12 bolt can definitely handle 500-600 horse, though. do you have any pics of the trucks? thanks

I'll get pics of both up with the guys contact info once I make my purchase

Awesome, I'd def take it to a professional. lol especially since I'm serious about making it reliable at 500-600 ponies.

Though, my major plan is fitting a turbo diesel under the hood...

[cdowns]

i'd much rather start with a rear coil suspension that most 2wd have//the 12bolts can be made strong usually for less than $3000 so if you've got it build it then if it blows you can always stepup th a custom 9" or bigger

[69halfton]

i think you should buy the 2wd, for all reasons stated about,