New member and new project

[oldhokie]

I’ve been reading the forum for a while, doing my research, just signed up. Thursday I picked up a 71 shortbed.

Originally a 6 cylinder 3 speed, now has 350, auto, power steering, power brakes, ac. Has a solid, uncut frame, running motor and a clear title, needs a lot of work but got it for $900, so expectations were low.

Has a a newer model stepside bed (that will go away soon), new gas tank, and somewhere along the way rear differential was swapped to a 6 lug.

Still taking inventory on what needs to be done. Be it’s going to be a long list.

Having trouble posting pics, probably because I’m a newbie. But I’m the proud owner of a rust bucket 71 c10.

[jocko]

Welcome. Make sure you select "Go Advanced" to post - or- if you choose "Post Reply" it should take you to the advanced post window. Select the paperclip and the browse for pics menu will pop up. You can attach 5 total per post. Just select the ones you want, then don't forget to select upload. They will appear when the post is finalized.

[Ol Blue K20]

Welcome and lets figure out the pictures. We want to see it.

[oldhokie]

First pic.

[oldhokie]

Probably need to resize the pics, but will post a couple more, then work on that.

[oldhokie]

Garage is tight and doors need work so went ahead and pulled them.

[oldhokie]

Seat is in decent shape, and as a bonus had about 10 pounds of acorns, some squirrels are going to starve.

[oldhokie]

Seriously, filled two big trash bags full of crap, plus half a 5 gallon shop vac full of acorns and nesting material.

[Ol Blue K20]

Looks like a great deal

[oldhokie]

Got some pics resized. Needs floor pans, rockers, cowl, and probably more once I dig deeper.

Based on the guy I bought it from, I think the rear change was just for better gearing. Haven’t even looked to see what it is yet.

[BRL]

$900 with V-8 Auto and AC?

Yea I'd say you did good!

[Getter-Done]

For $900 you done good.
I am glad you plan to get rid of the bed.
They just don't look right. IMO.
First thing I done to my rust bucket is spray all the bolts down with PB blaster.

Will you do the sheet metal work yourself?

[oldhokie]

I may do the metal work, I’ve done floor pans before, but don’t have a welder now. Dad passed away 11 years ago and we didn’t have anything going on so we sold off all that stuff. I’m searching Craigslist for welders and solid cabs and doors. Not in a rush so I can (try to) be patient and wait for a deal.

[panhead59]

If u can find a good cab u will be MILES ahead !!! Its all about time and money. WELCOME LOTS OF GOOD KNOWLEDGABLE PEOPLE HERE WILLING TO HELP.

[NF6]

Welcome!

You got yourself a good deal there.

This road has ups and downs, just so you know. Be patient, because its gonna turn out great!

I say start with the frame by sand blasting then powder coating it. Then move on to the cab and sand blast that as well. After you done all that, do the metal work!

I think that's a better way so you don't miss any rusted areas.

Welcome again, this forums helped me a lot, and it will do the same for you!

[Paul72]

Welcome to the board!

Good luck with the project! No matter what you want to do, I'm sure there will be someone here that can help you

[rjs53]

Welcome! These trucks came with the 6 lug. I just replace partial floors, rockers, cab supports and cab corner. Replacement parts are inexpensive, just need some work fitting, quality isn't that great. Took me about 3 weekends to do. A cab will save you time, but if you enjoy building things with your own hands, then the money you spend on a cab could buy a descent welder. I have a millermatic 135. I've had it for about 12 yrs, one of the best investments I've made. Whichever route you decide to take will still be an enjoyable one. Your trucks 50yrs old, build it and in another 50yrs it'll still be here.

[yuccales]

Originally Posted by rjs53

Your trucks 50yrs old, build it and in another 50yrs it'll still be here.

Very true!