Were do i strart

[Pratts70]

I recently picked up this 1970 c20 a guy was going to scrap it so i saved her from being crushed i asked what was wrong with it and only thing wrong was clutch was out i picked it up for $200 to my luck in the tool box was a nice 8 ton jack and newer ridgid vise i also got $50 for scrappen the tool boxes so im already ahead my question is this i have removed the rusted out tool boxes and the bench seat to check out the floor pans but this is the first project im starting is it best to strip it down and start with the frame up replacing things as i go or find all replacement body panels first then strip it down just curious thanks

[Bladeboy1998]

Nice score!!!!!!

[MagmaJct]

I suppose it depends on your budget. Both money, and time. If I had enough money, time, and a reliable alternate vehicle, I'd have all my classic cars restored. But I only have bits and pieces of money and time here and here.

So I focus on the safeties first. Does it stop? Does it steer? I then move on to making it run. Does it run well?

Granted, I live in the desert, so rust/cancer isn't a concern for me, but it may be for you. YMMV.

Regards,
Mike

[Pratts70]

Well i have more time than money but i want to replace all breaks and components there all rusted to hell and i am always iffy on other peoples work ive heard 67-72 c10 and c20 body panels are the same is this correct

[franken]

If you tear it all apart, its almost certain it will never get put back together.
Fix the brakes, go through the fuel system, make the lights work and drive it.

[davepl]

I'd guess that 80% of vehicles that get blown apart never get put back together again. With three years into mine, I can assure you it's not easy.

Do the mechanicals, make it safe, make it run right, then decide.

[Redline novdog]

drive it and do a todo list.repair as you go. It's fun takin' em apart but they never get put back together!!!

[hugger6933]

Yes the panels are the same for C10 20 and 30 with exception of roof skin on the C30's they had lights atop them. They were optional on the others I think though. Jim

[leftybass209]

Originally Posted by davepl

I'd guess that 80% of vehicles that get blown apart never get put back together again. With three years into mine, I can assure you it's not easy.

Do the mechanicals, make it safe, make it run right, then decide.

This is right on the money! If this is your first project, you're so much better off to fix what needs fixing and keep on driving it. If you get too deep into the project it's going to be $$$$ and time.

[HeavyD]

Yup, dont take it apart. I started with a basket case a decade ago and its still sitting in a field. Wish i could just drive something like yours.

Id start with the brakes as having none really sucks, and then try and make it run better. Can always redo the seat etc. and still keep rolling. Good luck!

[7tee]

Originally Posted by HeavyD

Yup, dont take it apart. I started with a basket case a decade ago and its still sitting in a field. Wish i could just drive something like yours.

Id start with the brakes as having none really sucks, and then try and make it run better. Can always redo the seat etc. and still keep rolling. Good luck!

RIGHT-ON, this is what I did...

[Pratts70]

I think your right Il just replace as i go and drive her lol i like the thought of haven her all done but theres something about a beater with a heater till shes done always a work in progress