Project: Over My Head

[yossarian19]

Well, I've been lurking for a while and asking questions about bits & pieces of the project. Since I've been working on the truck a bit I figured it was time to start a build thread. First, a picture & a paragraph or two with the back story.
Here it is on the day I hauled it home: [IMG][/IMG]
Back in '78, my girlfriend's parents bought this truck to get to work & haul firewood, construction supplies, etc. Despite constantly breaking down, leaking gas fumes into the cab (with both parents & 3 kids in it) and generally being under-maintained due to poverty the truck served the family well into the 80s.
Depending whose story you like better, it is suspected that my girl's cousin Vinca was conceived in the back of this truck. It's total unreliability caused more than one marital dispute, though, so as with most things it seems to balance out pretty neutral.
Eventually Steven, girlfriend's father, upgraded to something newer and the truck got parked for 10 years or so until his son Jeffrey, girlfriend's brother, put a camper on it got it running and used it for a Burning Man rig, like so [IMG][/IMG]
Not long after the truck takes on this role, though, the #2 conn rod bearing goes out and makes a helluva racket. Jeffrey's mechanic says it will be a $2500 rebuild, at least, and he decides to sell the truck.
Girlfriend asks me if I want a project. 6 months later, here we all are taking it home:
[IMG][/IMG]
About me...
I'm a professional mechanic who thinks mostly in practical terms. I was raised by a computer dork / born researcher(mom) and a hot rodder / electrical technician (dad). All of this together means that I want a reliable, powerful car that doesn't burn too much gas. I'm not afraid of wiring and I try to do my homework before I start buying parts / getting my hands dirty.

Now, on to the plan.
2001 Vortec 4.8 w/ 4L60E, Camaro LS1 fuel system, hydroboost brakes (disc / drum) and stock height suspension. Long term, might try to do a truck-rated IFS swap. Eventually, it will get body work & paint done. The first phase, where I get it running, is being done at work during lunch breaks & evenings. So I'll try and get it out of the boss's way without too much drama.