What to buy?

MavFlyBy · January 30, 2003

Hello,

I'm thinking of purchasing an older truck as a project for this spring/summer. I'd like to put in a 350 V8, new driveshaft, new transmission and put a nice set of wheels on the truck. Nothing too extreme. Any comments on what year truck would be best? I don't like the late 60s models. The 1980s style is nice however. Any year recommendations or tips?

Thank You

January 30, 2003

I'm pretty stuck on the early 60's myself. I had a '62 and a '65. The '65 was a little more modern and it was easier to swap in good stuff from late model vehicles. Things like power steering, disc brakes, springs, etc.

The '73-'86 stayed pretty similar the whole time. There are millions of them out there for donor parts.

The '50's and '60's year models are getting a little pricey.

City_Slicker · January 31, 2003

50s and 60s are classix for ol fogeys. The real vehicles we need to fix up are 70's and 80's. I saw an old beat up 1985 Chevy the other day that looked sweet lowrided. It was the original gray with black stripe and orange pin stripes. But it looked good. A matter of opinion but I like the boxy style too.

Torque Junkie · January 31, 2003

My truck's for sale and needs a little more work. It does have a modified 350, a new tranny & rear end. It just needs a little TLC on the engine and interior and body. I just can't afford the project any longer, once I get back on my feet in a year or 2.

An engine rebuild surely wouldn'thurt the truck at all, but it does run strong as is, and the interor isn't in bad shape but a complete restoration was on my to-do list. The fenders are showing a little tiny bit of minor surface rust but is in otherwise excellent shape.

If you're interested in a lifted 4x4, make me an offer. See some pics in the sig.

-Mike