need help/medical problem and truck

[big blue 72]

I need to put an automatic trans and possibly power steering in my 72 gmc/350/3 on - the - tree.
I need to find a donor truck/van that will give me the least problems with simple bolt on replacement.
i have a bad back and now need knee surgery. so i have about $500-700 to get this done. Anybody got any ideas?
P.S. i do have a neighbor that will help with the trans and p/s switch over. just need to know what vehicle i should look for.
Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!!!!!

[too many]

Its been a while since I did a conversion, but I think IF you could find another 69 - 72 pickup with an automatic ,things would be a lot easier! The trans could be taken out of almost any "short" shaft vehicle, but all the "hardware" ( column , shift linkage ,brake pedals , driveshaft , etc ) would be best if from that generation of truck!

I just bought a "70 that ran but needed brake lines for $400. If you could buy something like that ,You would still have motor and lots of misc parts you could re-sell to help defray cost!
Maybe some member has / or knows of something in your area!

PS nows the time to put a tilt in if you ever wanted! Find one from a "70s van . Can sometimes buy them for $50 -75 ! Usually need to re-work wiring plug , but not a big deal!
GOOD LUCK !!!

[Dan67]

Here's a potentially silly request... If you will be getting rid of your 3 speed manual hardware (column shift, etc.), could you possibly measure the column gearshift lever from where it enters the column to the tip of the black handle? I believe the later levers like yours are longer than the one in my '67. If it is longer, I'd be glad to send you $10 (+ shipping) for it. Then you'd have a little more cash to put toward your A/T and P/S conversion. I'd rather buy a used one from a fellow owner than lay out cash for a new one.

Thanks,
Dan67