help preparing my new 67' for a 1k mile trip...

[sommsdrumz]

hi, i'm new to the board and just baught a 1967 4x4, looks sort of a frankenstein. it has:

holley carb (not sure which modle)
edlebrock highrise intake
hooker headers
flowmaster mufflers
rebuilt 350 mild cam engine 5k miles ago

im going to be driving it about 1000 miles home (central utah to seattle) and i'm wondering what all i should make sure is done/checked before the long trip, i am leaning twards synthetics (brands any one?) engine/tranny/differential in a manditory fluid change. i am adding a MSD super HEI kit right off the bat.


pics:











thanks and enjoy the pics!

[sommsdrumz]

[msgross]

first off welcome, second are you sure that it is ready for a 1,000 mile trip? I would consider renting a trailer or having it shipped. Good luck..

[goldengoat2]

tripple A, gas money, tools, bars leak, check axle lub level, grease u joints, spare tire, ask if it over heats, spare water pump, etc.

[1969K10]

I've done similar 2X's now. 600 miles with the '72 & 1800 with the '69. Oil change & filter. check (& fill if needed) fluid levels in the axles, tranny & X-fer.
The 69, i even changed the plugs & air filter. Othere than that, take a toolbox with some basic tools in case you have problems on the way. A 1/2" & 9/16 wrench, & sockets & ratchet, straight & phillips screwdrivers & adjustable wrench should be able to handle anything you're going to fix on the side of the road. Anything else, and you're going to need some serious work to fix it.

What you're getting ready to do is a little risky, but has worked for me twice now. make sure the axles are unlocked & the X-fer in 2WD mode! then enjoy the ride home in your new baby!!!!!!!

Oh yeah, and keep and eye on the oil level in the engine everytime you stop for gas...

[Yukon Jack]

In addition to the above check the radiator fluid and look at the hoses. They look good from here but should be inspected.

What does the prior owner say about it's reliability? It looks awfully nice so hopefully that means the drivetrain is up for the trip.

Welcome to the board!

[special-K]

Just do an overall maintainence check/replace and go!I took a`71 C/20 with camper to the North Rim (Grande Canyon) and back from Maryland.I had a new radiator,water pump,belts/hoses,and fresh fluids.

[Elwayno]

I would check the fluids and stuff but not put the Hei in yet. There is a rule about not doing anything major (or even minor if it can be helped) before a trip. Cuz you got no time to shake it down and be sure of it. If the current ign. is working I would leave it. If you get it home and change it and break down in your town then it is no big deal.

[special-K]

I agree.I`ve never been left on the road by points.I have from an HEI.They either work or you`re screwed.

[bufmatmuslepants]

im in a similar situation in that i have to drive my 79 K10 which i recently bought from WV to NJ then my friend is gonna take it from NJ to my house in CT. if your water temp gauge and oil pressure gauge work then your a step ahead of me i always bring duct tape and WD40 when i make long road trips with old cars, the duct tape to keep something thats moving from moving, and the WD40 to make something that isnt moving keep moving. good luck.

im sure a pic of my truck will make you feel better about your drive




and yes the license plate IS tied on with a clothes hanger to the hitch.

[vectorit]

If you're plannin on travelin through Utah during the summer, I would suggest getting a fan shroud since I didn't see one in your pic of the engine compartment. It gets hot around there, and bein you dont have a shroud, your cooling system won't be doing its best.
Call one of the truck shops like LMC or Classic Industries, and get one sent to you before your trip.

Thats my 2 cents, along with everyons elses good suggestions.

have fun!

[68K20 x Drill]

If I'm woried, I bring a can of gas, some hose, and an electric fuel pump.
Check the tie rods and wheel bearings for loosness, and brakes for drag...I guess bring a jack.
And if its like mine, you may also want some earplugs on a 1000 mile drive.
Looking at it, I'd guess you'll make it no problem. Driving an old car takes more out of you than a new one, so stop and stretch your legs a bit more often, and check for drips.
Also, take lots of pictures

[Hoods69BadBowTie]

Originally Posted by Elwayno

I would check the fluids and stuff but not put the Hei in yet. There is a rule about not doing anything major (or even minor if it can be helped) before a trip. Cuz you got no time to shake it down and be sure of it. If the current ign. is working I would leave it. If you get it home and change it and break down in your town then it is no big deal.

I was going to say exactly the same thing. Everything else I could think of has pretty much been stated above. Good luck and have fun with your new ride!