new 67' LWB, got a few Q's

[tmc1986]

Im new to the 67-72 truck world. always wanted one and so i finally bought a 67 c/10 LWB 2wd. its got an older targetmaster 350 crate engine and the original 4 speed and rear end. the truck is a good driver that im working on whenever i get the chance. the body is super straight but it does have the typical rusted kick plates, outer rockers, and floor pans. my questions are:

is it possible to replace the pans, rockers, and kick plates at home? im thinking of ordering the LMC parts and doing it for a weekend project. i have a mig welder and all the other tools i need. i have never done any kind of body work like this before and was hoping it was relatively simple. i searched the forums but it didnt make me feel any more confident. should i just pay someone to do it right?

my other question is about that targetmaster crate motor. i researched them as much as i could, i figured its the 4 bolt main, 260hp, 350 ftlbs, mexican cast from 1996. im not opposed to yanking that thing out and buying something new to build but obviously if i can i would like to built the current engine. im looking for 350 to 400 horses. is this thing worth saving? it runs fine but the power is nothing special.

thanks

[Tinkermc]

welcome to the forum. Enjoy us all and pic's are a must.

[tmc1986]

no prob, here's some pix (assuming i can figure out how to post them

[ole dollor]

welcome to the forum from Texas, it would be a lot of fun and save money at the same time if you can do the work yourself. that is why these truck are so good...what are your plans, daily driver or show..

[tmc1986]

im looking for a solid classic truck to take to car shows but also to use as a truck. im more focused on reliability and performance. lets just say that id rather put the money into the drive train than the paint. i would like to do the work myself. i want to try doing the body work because i havent ever done it before, but on the other hand i'd be be lying if i said i wasnt worried about cutting my new truck apart.

[gottalottac20]

how is this going because i am in the same boat

[tmc1986]

[ATTACH]

[/ATTACH]

its going well. all new ECE 4.5/6 drop kit with with anti-sway bar and power disc brake kit. got a killer deal on the wheels and tires ($400 for all). slowly getting the interior parts together and saving for a 383 stroker kit for that 350 hopefully that'll be the project for the winter while the weather is crap up here in Washington