'86 C20 Custom Deluxe LB - just starting project

[logbuilder69]

I have a 1986 C20 Custom Deluxe long bed. I've owned it for 13 years. It has been my 'farm' truck. It basically sits as it did when I bought it. Brakes 10 years ago, two belts, battery and a new radio. It has what I believe to be the original 350 and 3 speed (also has Low). 4wd.

I'm fine with it as is for a farm truck but my 15 year old daughter has taken an interest in it as her first vehicle. She will get her license in 10 months. She has already learned how to use the clutch for starting and stopping. For shifting, we need to go out to the road but that isn't a problem since it is a non busy rural road. At her school, trucks are very popular.

If she is going to be driving it, I want it safe and reliable. Also, I'd like to spiff it up a bit as far as cosmetics. She hasn't yet formed an idea on what look she is going for. I would be against lowering it.

Body is really solid with little rust. There are only two places I am concerned about. One is behind the drivers door. The other is the inner fender liner on the passenger side. Apparently in the past a battery leaked and the battery tray and the liner are rusted thru. I ordered and have received a new battery tray. It drives solid and straight. No rattles to speak of. Very stiff suspension. I'd really like to soften it up a bit. 410 rear end I'd likely change for better mileage.

I'd love your ideas. Budget is not really and issue as long as it makes sense mechanically or cosmetically. But generally, I am a tightwad.

Next post will contain pics.

[logbuilder69]

Here are pics taken today.

[logbuilder69]

Here are some interior shots.

[logbuilder69]

These are the problem areas. One behind driver door at bottom and the other two are both of the passenger inner fender below battery tray. I'd really like ideas on the right way to fix these.

[logbuilder69]

What I like:

• It is basically stock
• Pretty much the whole truck I like
• Solid and doesn't rattle.
• Color and trim (not the bed rail covers)

What I don't like:

• Two rust areas
• Way too stiff suspension
• Existing side mirrors
• Stock wheels. I would tend to go towards a polished alum with slightly bigger/wider tires
• Condition of bed. I can deal with the rust since it is only surface but it is also has lots of dints and dings
• Bent back bumper
• Driver side vent window assembly needs replacing due to rust

Things I know I want to do:

• Replace windshield
• Replace rear window. I am tending to a solid piece with no slider
• Replace driver vent window.
• Replace back bumper and mounting brackets
• Replace mirrors
• Do something with cracked dash pad. I would suspect replacement is the right thing rather than a cover
• Fix two rusty areas
• Probably paint it. Same color and trim.
• General cleanup. I would love to see a beautiful engine compartment but I'm not wild about pulling the engine.

Things I know I don't know:

• I've never done body work
• I don't know how to weld or have the equipment
• I don't know many sources for replacement parts.

Things I do know:

• I have an old Chilton's book that covers this model
• I have basic tools. Air tools, creeper, stands, jack, wrenches. Tractor with loader for moving heavy items
• I have an dry garage to do the work in
• I learn best by seeing something. I really like youtube videos
• This will be a great project for my daughter.
• Any and all input is greatly appreciated!