59 fleet 4x4 project

[wanderlust]

I started on this truck about 3 years ago but I put it on the back burner so my son and I could rebuild my old 85 step side 4x4 that I gave him. I have it on another thread but I'm new here and not sure how to link it to this. but anyway after we were done with the '85 I started back on my '59 it was originally a 2wd double deluxe long wheel base fleet with a 283 and 4 speed auto. I always wanted a task force 4x4 so my plans are to make it look original but with modern running gear. I mounted a dana 44 front axle and a 12 bolt rear that matched the original springs 3.08 gears, a rebuilt 305 small block and a fresh turbo 350. my transfer case walked off so I'm looking for another one now. I will try to keep this page updated as I go with more pics.

[47 Fasttoys]

What extras do you get with a "double deluxe long wheel base fleet"? I've never heard of this option. Two extra doors?
Rob

[wanderlust]

from what I understand that's the term they used for the trim, stainless bed rockets, stainless cab trim, light rings and chrome dash knobs.

[mvitale27]

Cool! This is very similar to my build. One HUGE question I have is steering and shocks. What steering box set up do you have and where are you mounting your shocks? The original location would interfere with the steering linkage. Your knuckle/steering arm/drag link/pitman arm/steering box are making me dizzy!!

[wanderlust]

for the shocks I'm not sure yet. on the steering linkage I used the original steering box and drag link and combined the '59 pitman arm with the '85 arm. I'm using small tires and it has the same lock to lock turns on the wheel and the 44 axle has less radius then the original 2wd axle so it should take less effort.