Possible purchase, need some opinions 77 Reg cab, long bed

[brendonak]

Hey Everyone,

I've been lurking in here for a bit, peeking on others trucks and projects. I've decided to get a square body myself in hopes of making an nice little dirt bike hauler. The particular truck I found is a 77 reg cab long bed, straight six under the hood and a stick. I'm pretty sure it is a 4 speed with granny gear based on the year and I believe it is a 250 six based on what I've read from 73-87.com. The truck is at a used car lot and is priced at 1300, firm. I'm not sure how firm, but for arguments sake lets just say 1300. I want a truck with a six in hopes of keeping some decent mileage. I've been used to driving like an old man so I'm not trying to blow the doors off anyone, hence the six. I also must have a stick as I hate automatics. Since the truck is 2wd lowering it is a must, probably a 3/5 drop, basically the lowest I can go without notching the frame and with making minimal ride quality compromises.

I've attached some pics to show you guys the truck and I'll do my best to answer any questions. Are there any items that I should watch out for? I've noticed some obvious wear, dash, ect, but other than that the only large areas of rust is in the passenger front inner fender.








There is also a small oil leak, not sure where it is coming from.

Basically I'm open to any comments, and looking for any pointers. Thanks!

Also who makes performance parts for the sixes, just looking to make it a bit more efficient

[bigblock73]

Truck looks real nice for $1300...I think that is more than reasonable. I just purchased a 77 short bed, 6 cylinder auto...paid $200 more for what appears to be one in a little worse shape than this one.

It does have 79/80 headlight bezels on it though...you'll have to fix that.

Clifford Performance deals with 6 cylinder engines and performance, but your 250 will not have much aftermarket performance support as it is fairly undesireable.

[f.monroe]

That looks like a deal to me . It also looks like a 79 -80 truck instead of 77 since the dash trim is brushed and the dash bezel insnt a 77 bezel and the headlight bezels and hood are 79 an up . Either way , it looks like a deal . Being me though , I would walk in with $1000 cash and pretend like I wouldnt pay more .
Frank

[brendonak]

^^That was my idea of negotiating on the price too.

So you guys think it is a later model? Wouldn't that change the engine displacement to a 292? Are there any tell tale signs I should look for?

[bigblock73]

292's were older than 250's...that truck will more than likely be a 250. As far as the year, I think it is a 79 too looking back at it...but the 6th digit in the VIN will tell you for sure. Also, if it is indeed a 79, the VIN will be on the dash...as 73-78 had them on the door jamb.

Def bring cash, money talks. I got my 77 for $700 less than they were asking.

[brendonak]

Cool, thanks for the speedy response

If I were to obtain this truck I think a muncie od tranny would be in order, would the 250 pull an od gear without too much trouble? I'd think it would handle it after some life was breathed into it.

[andresco50]

Is in good shape but need a complete paintjob...

[454HO]

What kind of shape is the dark green one sitting next to it? Looks like a Big 10. What are they asking for it?

Oh, the blue one looks pretty solid. The only rust is that spot on the inner fender?? I'd say $1300 is a fair price.

[brendonak]

yea the dark green one is a big 10, no price on it. I'll swing back by there sometime and ask for ya if you'd like. It has an auto and most likely a v8, therefore completely undesirable for me.