My '51 Project

[stevehsd]

thanks pgf
this is my first chevy build (was into vw's) built my Harley
I'm learning as I go
As far as a motor I'm questioning a $500 used 350 or a rebuilt 350 for $1250.
What do you think?

[watahyahknow]

if the engine is out of a low milage car i would buy the used engine
that way you can get some dress up stuff , drive for a year or 2 maybe 3 before pulling the engine out again and do with it wat you want done with it ...... chainge it intoo a 383 for instance

[pgf545]

I would take a look at the used motor and maybe run a compression and cylinder leak check if possible. I am alway leary of buying used motors because you can't really verify everything. If it will start and run then you can usually get an idea of the shape. If you can't start it then it is just a gamble. But I agree with watahyaknow with the extra money you save you can get some dress up stuff and save some money for a later preformance rebuild.

Bernie

[stevehsd]

We are back from the shop!
I've got a new stance.
4 air bags plus motor and tranny mounts installed.
Stock bed still intact.
Had a hard time getting past the transition from sidewalk to driveway (aired out)

[Daniel U]

Putting in any skid plates? Looks low!

[stevehsd]

I'm sure I should consider it.
the lowest point is the board supports.
What would you suggest?
Where are you in central Cal?
you'll be at Paso?
Steve

[Daniel U]

Originally Posted by stevehsd

I'm sure I should consider it.
the lowest point is the board supports.
What would you suggest?
Where are you in central Cal?
you'll be at Paso?
Steve

I'm in Paso. If you're going to be there, PM/email me and maybe we can meet up. I know with bags, I'd want skid plates for insurance. A few budddies of mine have had accidents with a burst line or valve. Besides the cool sparks you can make

[cajundragger]

I hate the board supports. My truck lays them all on the ground and they bow out a little...not to mention I still need to cut the front two down so the board lays flat.

I think im going to build ski's that hang down from the frame and sit on the ground.

[stevehsd]

Never realized the supports needed to be clearanced to lay boards. Mine are still 1" off the ground and would be the first thing to hit only with air bag and tire failure together. I guess I've got built in skid plates. (speed bumps are another story) BTW my nephew came by tonight and told me a story about his S10 that would lay frame, that lost air for some reason and the sparks and carnage weren't pretty.

[Daniel U]

The real cool skid plates have different types of metal for a multi color spark. In your case, the plates would be for function, not fashion. How high will you fuel tank sit from the botom? My buddy went through 3 plastic tanks and 1 fuel pump before replacing his bags/lines/compressor.

[stevehsd]

My tank is still in the cab.

[Jebb1978]

That truck looks sick man!

[stevehsd]

Got the 350 + 700R4 in today
everything went smooth!
Gotta laugh at those Holly valve covers and the Rotchester carb!
The seering column needs to be shorter, otherwise it fit perfect.


Good to GO!

[CAL 58 GMC]

lookin real good!

[stevehsd]

Thanks Cal,
Paso is this weekend, will you go?
I'll be there and my truck'll be in the garage. Maybe next year!
I've got a lot done, rear brakes and e brake, drive shaft, master cylinder, steering column, actually I'm still working on that. What headers or exh. manifold can I use with a 2 point streering shaft? I've got the third one and pivot, if needed, but I feel it would be more solid if I could leave it as just 2. Yet there is no room for the stock ram horn! Does anyone know what is the best?
Thanks again,
Steve

[solidaxel]

For exhaust manifolds I am using Camaro rear dumps that have been ground smooth and jet coated and some slowmasters!

[68c10owner]

Originally Posted by stevehsd

We are back from the shop!
I've got a new stance.
4 air bags plus motor and tranny mounts installed.
Stock bed still intact.
Had a hard time getting past the transition from sidewalk to driveway (aired out)

The stance is awsome. Is this will all of the air out? Are you running drop spindles? Looks great.

[stevehsd]

yes, aired out, 2" lowered spindles, stock bed height, 265/50-15 tires

[stevehsd]

Got the steering, shifter, and gas pedal in.
There is no room for the steering with stock exhaust.
need to adjust the TV cable for the 700 r 4 and lock up next.

[entourageguy]

My 59 has the 2nd joint and has work fine for 4 years. Lots of clearance for exhaust. Has headers now.

Brian ..

[Sam59]

awesome truck,i love how it sits! are you planning on painting it or leaving it like it is? IMO i'd leave it and just clean up the inside, less worries about scratches and dents. it just looks mean!

[stevehsd]

Thanks for the props!
I hate when people ask me what color I'm going to paint it!
I appreciate your opinion, that was one of the reasons I bought it, it's all one color and is presentable as is. It's just gonna get old. So I'm gonna leave it.
The interior is another part I like. It's a 20 yr old restoration on a 2000's suspension with a classic 350/700r4/10bolt driveline.

[tiggerstoy]

i love 'em low... and thats low, nice job, keep them pics coming!

[solidaxel]

............ Looks finished too me!!!

[TATE228]

what engine mounts are those? Are they just towers welded to the frame boxes?