Register or Log In To remove these advertisements. |
|
|
|
Thread Tools | Display Modes |
01-02-2011, 03:39 AM | #1 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to : '68 SWB Step LS250
BUILD THREAD STARTS POST # 12
This is a great site and a big help for me with detail information and how to's for various projects on these 67-72 trucks. I've acquired a '68 C10 SWB stepside with the 250 3spd setup. The truck has been sitting in the original owners sons garage for years and I finally was able to get my hands on it. The trucks currently runs and drives but still needs alot of work to have it reliable enough to drive to town with no worries. In the past few months I've: - Replace the fuel system (new tank, lines, fuel pump, carb) - Replaced the Radiator - New Valve cover gasket/breather/pcv Future plans: 1) HEI (read numerous times best upgrade you can do for these motors) 2) Power steering and front end rebuild (loose manual steering as is) 3) Power Brakes 4) ECE 4/6 drop with 6 lug disk Goal: get this truck mechanically solid and reliable without getting into the overbuilding nightmare that keeps projects in the garage for years. Right now my plan is to follow the 1-4 sequence as above unless others have suggestions that doing certain upgrades together at once is best or any other upgrades are key. Last edited by RdoubleU; 04-16-2013 at 08:55 PM. Reason: Turning Thread into a build thread |
01-02-2011, 04:36 AM | #2 |
Registered User
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: a t w a t e r cali 95301
Posts: 10,713
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
you should take care of that but your not over building it you ve got great plans ,you know us guys we need pics got any
|
01-02-2011, 06:54 AM | #3 |
I am a Referee of life.
Join Date: Jun 2000
Location: Greensboro N.C.
Posts: 13,993
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Sounds like you have a goal and a plan.I would fix the oil leak and stick with the plan you outlined.
__________________
The 47-present Chevrolet and GMC Truck Message Board Network,it's owners,moderators,members,and associates of any type should not be held responsible for my opinion. You can't fix stupid,not even with duct tape. "My appearance is due to the fact that "GOD" does punish you for having too much fun!" Barrett-Jackson has perfected alchemy,they make rust into gold! "You can lead a horse to water but you can't saddle a duck" "Cleverly disguised as a 'Responsible Adult' "Sometimes your Knight in shining armor is just a retard in tinfoil" |
01-02-2011, 09:18 AM | #4 |
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: Smith Mountain Lake Virginia
Posts: 1,537
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
oh yeah... yeah,... yeah yeah,, the plan... geesch - almost forgot about that! Man... 5 years in, ha! forgot what I was doing there for a year or two.....
__________________
"A cat will almost always blink when hit between the eyes with a ball peen hammer" (you don't always have to state the obvious) Wear your PPE! You can eat with false teeth but you can't see with a false eye. 1959 Studebaker Silverhawk 350/400 1972 C10 L6 3OTT 2005 F350 - Built - whew! |
01-02-2011, 09:39 AM | #5 |
Special Order
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Mt Airy, MD
Posts: 85,852
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
If you're not losing a great amount of oil,like making the whole underside wet and leaving puddles,the leak is just an annoyance. The main threat is losing track and letting it run low. Gaskets dry up when a vehicle sits a period of time,then start leaking once it starts being driven. It's a common practice to go ahead and re-gasket/seal the whole motor and would not be considered overbuilding. It's no big project to go ahead and replace the timing cover,oil pan,side cover gaskets,and crank seals. You can let them go,fix them as they leak,or do it all and be done.
__________________
"BUILDING A BETTER WAY TO SERVE THE USA"......67/72......"The New Breed" GMC '67 C1500 Wideside Super Custom SWB: 327/M22/3.42 posi.........."The '67" (project) GMC '72 K2500 Wideside Sierra Custom Camper: 350/TH350/4.10 Power-Lok..."The '72" (rolling) Tim "Don't call me a redneck. I'm a rough cut country gentleman" R.I.P. ~ East Side Low Life ~ El Jay ~ 72BLUZ ~ Fasteddie69 ~ Ron586 ~ 67ChevyRedneck ~ Grumpy Old Man ~ |
01-02-2011, 11:52 AM | #6 |
The Older Generation
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: Montezuma, Iowa
Posts: 25,649
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
-
The first thing I would do is try re-tightening the bolts on the pan. Just don't get carried away, they are easy to twist off if you get heavy handed. LockDoc
__________________
Leon Locksmith, Specializing In Antique Trucks, Automobiles, & Motorcycles (My Dually Pickup Project Thread) http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=829820 - |
01-02-2011, 12:11 PM | #7 |
Registered User
Join Date: Jun 2000
Location: Festus, Missouri
Posts: 1,005
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Regarding overbuilding... just try to keep in mind, if you think at any time you may sell your truck you will probably not get much in return for your labor... That is unless you are locdock then everything you touch turns to gold... Or some sweet wine!
Posted via Mobile Device
__________________
*SOLD* 1968 Chevy SWB Fleet 350/350 combo Tach/tilt/buddy buckets Bagged/18" Wheels Black on Black Project "Pandemic" the Farm Rat 1927 Chevy Capitol Truck Rat rod '30 Model A Frame Dual Carb 5.3 LS http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=804162 2007 GMC 4 DOOR 2WD BUILT 5.3 STAGE 3 CAM 93 TUNE LIFTED 22X12 WHEELS 33" TIRES 2023 Jeep RENEGADE Wifes ride |
01-02-2011, 01:02 PM | #8 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: daytonabeach
Posts: 22,956
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
make it a habit for work// must b able to drivein in the morning and driveout compleated at night// live by that rule you'll never overbuild
__________________
71c-10 350/2004r/4:11 lowered3/4 longbed/dead by hurricane MEANING OF DEATH::::: SOMEBODY ELSE GETS YOUR STUFF DONT BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU THINK TAKE MY ADVISE;I DON'T USE IT ANYWAY |
01-02-2011, 01:34 PM | #9 |
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Spanaway
Posts: 8,451
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Thats my goal, but sometimes its more like 1-2 weeks.. i'm sure i'll break it this year tho.
__________________
Mike. Swamp Rat build thread : http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=595019 72 3/4T 4X4 4" BDS Lift 33" BFG's |
01-03-2011, 01:28 AM | #10 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
There is a decent amount of oil spray on the lower oil pan/flywheel/trans area and about a coffee mug sized puddle on the ground so the leak issues will definitely need to be addressed once the truck starts to see the road more often.
Believe I will shoot for the HEI upgrade next and follow that up with new seals once I'm positive the engine is good to go and dependable enough to drive anywhere anytime. Heres a few shots: - the day the truck left the garage - Proof of the wonders of simple green and time: Before/Halfway/Done - And my fauxpantina valve cover so it wouldn't stand out |
01-03-2011, 01:48 AM | #11 |
Classic Chevy Recycler
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Alabama
Posts: 422
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
I bought a truck with a 250 in it. It was covered in oil and gunk. I changed the valve cover gasket and cleaned it a little. It hasn't leaked since.
__________________
2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT 1970 Chevrolet C50 1979 Chevrolet C30 Need another 67 or 68 soon... |
04-14-2013, 02:27 AM | #12 | |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to : '68 SWB Step LS250
Quote:
Since I did not create a build thread as I went, I am going to try and do alittle catch up and also provide some links to information i collected along the way that might help others out working on the same issues This forum is a great resource, just have to do some searching for the info But to start heres the As Was to As Is comparison and then I'll start posting all the stuff that happened inbetween
__________________
'68 SWB Stepside - Inline Long Six 250 C.I. (LS250): http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ferrerid=83901 Last edited by RdoubleU; 04-14-2013 at 07:48 PM. |
|
04-14-2013, 02:38 AM | #13 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Again here's the straight from the garage day and Original Stance
__________________
'68 SWB Stepside - Inline Long Six 250 C.I. (LS250): http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ferrerid=83901 |
04-14-2013, 02:45 AM | #14 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Future plans Update :
1) HEI (read numerous times best upgrade you can do for these motors) I went with the Skip White HEI: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=405650 And Followed the FAQ Index Thread for the Install: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=148346 Plug Gap : http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=349565 Additional Wiring Detail: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=388275 Working great and no issues
__________________
'68 SWB Stepside - Inline Long Six 250 C.I. (LS250): http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ferrerid=83901 |
04-14-2013, 03:06 AM | #15 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Future plans Update:
2) Power steering and front end rebuild (loose manual steering as is) I followed this How To in the FAQ Index Thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=216886 I did have the flat front frame on my '68 which required me to indent the frame to clear the steering box bulge. It really a simple task and I used a Hand Torch with a Hammer just enough to get the clearance I needed.: http://www.classicheartbeat.com/panel_5.htm http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=456086 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=419306 Used all the part #'s and parts sourced from the FAQ thread and purchased a set of power steering brackets for a 250 I6 from a member here on the board I did run into some issues with the pulley alignment, but was able to figure out a solution by making some custom washers and "keying" them to match the power steering pumps shaft and align the pulley as needed (see below) http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=354622 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=470040 Alignment Solution:
__________________
'68 SWB Stepside - Inline Long Six 250 C.I. (LS250): http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ferrerid=83901 |
04-14-2013, 03:17 AM | #16 | |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
So these were supposed to be the next Future Plans Update:
3) Power Brakes 4) ECE 4/6 drop with 6 lug disk But when I took the truck to get aligned after replacing all of my steering components they would not touch it due to my control arm bushings and ball joints were completely shot. So I started researching costs on what it would take to rebuild them...... And then I found Rob's thread and it was all over from there: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=419251 Quote:
__________________
'68 SWB Stepside - Inline Long Six 250 C.I. (LS250): http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ferrerid=83901 |
|
04-14-2013, 08:36 AM | #17 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: Indep, MO
Posts: 5,893
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Oh no, you found the make it handle thread! Lotta good info there. Did you do the 3/4" LC mod and how do you like it post-op? Neat little truck!
__________________
Boppa's Old Yeller Truck Build, Old Yeller's New Heart! Project Buzz Bomb Flyin' Low! |
04-14-2013, 11:53 AM | #18 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Lots of great info and I suggest to anyone reading on that thread and over in the Suspension forum. I didn't do the exact mod Rob talks about doing to the factory control arms but I did go with Porterbuilt Forward Arms that accomplish the same goal - ill post up more on that later
__________________
'68 SWB Stepside - Inline Long Six 250 C.I. (LS250): http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ferrerid=83901 |
04-14-2013, 12:01 PM | #19 |
Registered User
Join Date: May 2012
Location: Moose Jaw Saskatchewan Canada
Posts: 1,099
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Nice work....truck looks great!!!
Posted via Mobile Device
__________________
My build thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=563712 Instagram: http://instagram.com/rockylakekustoms Rocky Lake Kustoms Russ |
04-14-2013, 12:05 PM | #20 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
So after reading the Make It Handle Thread and other posts on suspension/handling I decided I was going to move forward and do it right the first time
Next step was to remove the bed, clean and prep the frame and put some chassis black on it
__________________
'68 SWB Stepside - Inline Long Six 250 C.I. (LS250): http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ferrerid=83901 |
04-14-2013, 12:07 PM | #21 |
Registered User
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Monroe, WI
Posts: 1,415
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Looking back I should have taken your approach! I definitely took the overbuild approach! I'll follow this!
__________________
Adam My 1967 C10 - Turbo 250 Build Thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=485843 (608) 214-8706 |
04-14-2013, 07:49 PM | #22 |
Registered User
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Morristown, Tn
Posts: 275
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Looking Good
|
04-15-2013, 09:57 AM | #23 |
67cheby
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: siloam springs ar 72761
Posts: 17,890
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
love the truck
|
04-15-2013, 03:26 PM | #24 |
Registered User
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Richmond
Posts: 77
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Nice. I just saw a pic of your truck pop up on my Facebook timeline today, believe it was posted by Pro Performance.
Looks good. I'm in to follow the rest of your updates. |
04-16-2013, 01:40 PM | #25 |
Registered User
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: AL
Posts: 209
|
Re: Overbuilding - Looking for advice on how not to
Thanks Guys, I appreciate it
Once I was done painting the frame and under the cab, next issue was to address my front pinion seal on the axle leaking So Since I had to tear the entire axle down that lead to: - Moser 5 Lug axle swap - All new bearings and seals throughout - Richmond 3.42 gears - Eaton Posi All done so I shouldn't have to touch that axle again for awhile I followed this How To for the rebuild: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=484897
__________________
'68 SWB Stepside - Inline Long Six 250 C.I. (LS250): http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ferrerid=83901 |
Bookmarks |
|
|