Hey guys,

been lurking for a while and finally decided to sign up seeing as how I'm spending the summer working on my truck. I could use some advice.

I have a 1978 F150 Ranger XLT 4x4 that I bought when I was in high school. Since then, I've put in a rebuilt 300 L6, headers, Offenhauser intake, and a Carter 4 barrel carb. She runs like a champ, most of the time and has about 180k miles.

Problem is, up here in Illinois, the winter is taking a toll on the body. Here is my plan:

1) I am looking at removing the bed completely, building a wooden flatbed (it's rusted pretty bad)

2) replacing the rollbar with a shiny stainless steel one that will be bolted to the frame

3) Running dual stainless stacks for the exhaust behind the cab

4) Fixing all the rusted out body problems on the cab (new doors, new corner caps, new floor pans)

5) Replacing the turn signal switch

Once that's all done, I think it'll be a pretty sharp ride. Any thoughts, or suggestions?

Specifically, I am wondering if anyone has a source of good ford body parts in the northern Illinois area - I'd be willing to drive a couple hundred miles if needed. I really need doors, corner caps, floor pans.

I am also looking for a turn signal switch that doesn't cost $80 (non-tilt steering, manual tranny).

Thanks a lot guys,

maharashii

 

ILLINOIS ALSO. E-MAIL ME YOUR POSTAL ADRESS AND I HAVE A NON-TILT AUTO TURN SIGNAL SWITCH YOU CAN HAVE IF YOU PAY SHIPPING.
OUT OF 76.

 

Hello! Just a little suggestion for your truck. If you go thru the trouble of replacing parts, make sure you use stainless bolts and screws to attach your accessories. Also, make sure you keep the inside of your door panels,(especially under the doors) wiped from time to time.I used to live in IN, and the winters will take their toll if you aren't careful.I remove the bed from my truck every Spring, and clean the rails, and spray them with a good paint like rustoleum.It seems to have deterred the rust from claiming my most prized possession!!!