Family Project 65 C10 SWB "Old Blue"

[JamieGallien]

I wanted to update the pics where I had to clearance the block for the headers to clarify:

I completely cut off the top block even with the surrounding area with no problem. That was the biggest problem I was having. (pic 1 and 2, right and left side respectively)

Down at the starter bolt, I just cut off the sharp edge and rounded it off. Should be no compromise to strength as I didn't grind any thinner that the thinnest part that was already there. (Pic 3)

I'm still going to have to grind the collector rings to clear, but not much. Should be GOOD TO GO!

[JamieGallien]

More baby steps! I stripped the wiring harness again, since my first try didn't give me enough slack. The harness I have is from a Silverado, which mounts the computer and fuses on the fender under the hood and the wiring harness comes from the drivers side inner fender over the top of the intake and then down to the connections. I want the computer under the dash with the wiring harness entering behind the engine and spreading out from there. I had to extend a few power wires, one ground wire, the alternator and temperature sensor.

I also wired up the fuse and relay block. I now have 12v Battery, Keyed 12v, Ground, and fuel pump feed to connect. i also wired up the OBD2 connector and have it ready to go.

Now to put the sheath back on the wires and get everything taped up.

[JamieGallien]

Got a little more clearance on the header collector flange. Lot of room now. Also re-bent the tranny cooler lines to clear the header better.

Got all the wiring connected and ready to put new tape and sleeve on it. Wired up to test the fuel pump, starter, etc. All good so far!

[clay68c10]

I just read this whole thread, very cool family fun.
Any updates? It’s been a while.

[JamieGallien]

Originally Posted by clay68c10

I just read this whole thread, very cool family fun.
Any updates? It’s been a while.

Yes, it has been a while. I installed the rear gas tank, hand made braided fuel lines, fuel pump, filter, etc. Computer and wiring was all connected. Was ready to test the fuel system pressure and fire her up....

...BUT had a daughter go through her senior year and graduate, that took up a ton of time. Changed jobs. Knees surgery. Just life.

Also, I rolled the Yukon in the garage 11/18 to completely redo the rear, wheel, diff, pinion bearings, etc. I will never tackle that again! it has proven to be much harder than I thought, especially without a lift. Good news though, I should have it running and out of the garage TOMORROW! We'll be back on old blue in no time.

Thanks for reading and asking for an update!

[clay68c10]

I thought something like that happened. I’ve got a 7 and 11 year old. It gets busy.

I would agree about rear axle work on the floor. Not fun, especially at 40+

[JamieGallien]

Just about ready to get started again. Garage is empty, football will be over in the next few weeks, everyone is healthy!

The "short" list to get it driveable:

• Rear brake line
• Pressure test tank and fuel lines
• Fire engine
• Rear wheel and differential bearings
• Rear brakes
• Driveshaft cut and new u-joints
• Exhaust pipes and muffler install
• Power steering adapter, unit, hoses
• Power brake booster
• Bleed brakes
• New water pump
• New plugs
• Install engine accessories, ps pump, alternator, a/c compressor, idlers, tensioner
• Repair floor, rockers, cab corners
• Paint metal repairs
• Paint firewall
• Mount cab (New body mounts and bolts)
• Steering column and wheel
• Floor shifter
• Gas pedal and wiring
• Fusebox and new wiring
• Wire in engine harness
• Sound deadening material and carpet (in doors too)
• Seat
• Door cards and headliner
• Wipers
• Mount nose (new body mounts and bolts)
• Install a/c in cab and engine compartment (condenser, evaporator, lines, wiring)
• Headlights and turn signals
• Install radiator, overflow, and electric fan
• Run trans cooler lines and install cooler
• Install battery wiring and battery.
• Install hood
• Install bumper
• Install bed
• Install filler and filler tub for gas tank in fender
• Tail lights
• DRIVE!

[65truckowner]

IS this project still on going?

[JamieGallien]

Yeah, it's still technically a project anyway, lol. I've had my son's 84 vette and now my dad's 83 K-5 Diesel squarebody come though. I'm hoping to start back up in earnest on the 65 this summer.

[65truckowner]

Good, really enjoyed looking through the build

[350TacoZilla]

Good to hear your still going with it, also who doesn't love a K5 diesel right?

[LostChord]

Read through the entire thread, really enjoyed reading about this build. Hope it continues!