1979 F-350 flatbed dually question

[jasonmartin206]

I have a '79 F-350 flatbed dually that I think has a 400 in it with four on the floor. I got this from a guy that told me if I dump all the stuff in the back (lots and lots of trash) I could have the truck for $150. So I drove it to the dump, unloaded it then drove it about 45 miles home. It runs rough, but for $150 plus the $90 dump fee I think I got a good deal.
Can anyone tell me anything about this truck?
I want to do a tune-up on it and replace some engine stuff, but dont know where I should start. Would it be expensive for me to have a mechanic make a list of the things I need to fix?
Thanks in advance.

[kermit]

hmmmm, if i had a little more time in the pacific northwest i would come look at it in person, but since i am moving i guess the ol' internet will have to do. i would do a compression check on all of the cylinders, clean and rebuild the carb, new plugs, wires, probably new valve cover, oil pan and intake gaskets if it is like every one of these trucks that i have worked on, '79, so probably new dizzy cap and rotor to start with, and make sure you have no vacuum leaks.

[jasonmartin206]

Any specific brands you suggest for all the things I need to buy?

[Adam79]

TRADE YA'! Just kidding- I'm 2600 miles away anyways.

$150 (or $240) for a truck that can even MAKE a 45 mile trip sounds like a cool find! I just paid $450 for a Bronco that I haven't even heard run yet... and when it does run (if?) it still needs brake line work and who knows what else. Looks like you got yourself a good deal! Duallys are TOUGH lookin'!

[supercab79]

The motorcraft 2 barrel carbs hold up pretty good compaired to alot of the others. when it comes to sitting for a long time and even getting alot of gunk built up in them. But even so an old fashion tune up (cap, rotor, plugs, wires, fuel filter, air filter, and pcv) and carb rebuild usually will work wonders. You can buy a carb rebuild kit complete for about $20 and change I just got one for my 79 250 351m for $19.86 plus tax.

Good Luck and Good find

[jasonmartin206]

Thanks Adam! I will be posting pictures of the dually soon. It's not pretty but it's my first truck, so I'm happy.

[kermit]

if you are just gonna use it for everyday stuff, nothing mind bending, then i would just use everyday autozone stuff.....just as good imo for basic stock applications.

[jasonmartin206]

Kermit, just saw your truck pics....... that is one sharp '73!

[kermit]

thanks, need to find the rest of the trim for the passenger side though, couple other little blemishes need fixed, but it is a ton of fun