So I asked a couple of my buddies to come over tonight and we pushed the truck in the garage. I'll get pics up as soon as I can. Here's where this forum starts to help.

Where is a good place to start? Should I tear down the body, then motor, then drive train, get it down to the frame and start building there? Do I go through the parts and see what's good and what's not in order to start a parts list....

What are your thoughts and expericance... oh btw I am sure this has been beat to death. Thanks for helping me and not telling me to search the site

 

First, i am sure you know a frame off resto cost big bucks! i would start by getting the truck running and driving and then go from there with all your improvments.


just my 2 cents.

 

I'd have to agree

Engine, Drive Line, Suspension.

 

I like that order.. I haven't taken a good look under it yet. I know all the rubber is going to need replacing. I guess I'll start breaking down the motor tomorrow!! I will get my 25 posts going so I can get those pics up! Thanks for the input.

 

Also pick up a good supply of Zip Lock bags, storage box's, Good Black
markers, Masking tape. and ALWAYS keep a Camera around

 

I was thinking I would take the motor out and get it to a shop. Any suggestions on where I should take it to??

 

I used Five Star Engines in Glendale
Five Star Engine Exchange

They were the only ones that had an A+ BBB rating

Very easy to deal with, and I like the warranty !

I did an exchange on a 360 with about 500 miles on it no issues or better yet
NO SURPRISES

 

Know of any place in Tucson?

 

Sorry I don't

Bill W might as he's from that area

 

Is there anything I need to beaware of while removing the accesories off the motor or any tricks I need to know about?

 

Just take your time, spray everything down with penetrating oil and utilize your zip lock bags and masking tape and mark everything you can, pay close attention to the smaller parts and it never hurts to keep a log that co-insides with pictures. This is also a good time to note the condition of things like hoses, belts ect.

Also consider a very clean area underneath and plenty of good light !

I found a complete repair manual on E-Bay that was transferred to a CD
I just print out the page I need at the time and if it gets messed up I just
print another

 

Thanks! I like the idea of a photo log for referance later on! I am going to put a paint drop cloth underneath so things wont bounce and fly all over when I drop things. The truck has been sitting for about 20 years outside. All the belts, & hoses are getting replaced no matter how good they look!

 

go see Matt @ machine works on stone ave.... 1 blk south of the wildcat house, same side of the street.

i second the photos idea.
+ mark and tape any wires as you unhook them.

 

Thanks Bill. I know right where you mean.

At some point packrats got in the engine bay & chewed up the wireing. I am pretty sure I am going to have to get a new wiring harness. I only need a few more posts & I'll show you what I am working with.

 

If you haven't go here and order a catalog...It's free
LMC Truck Parts - Page 1

You can also use the site to blow up each page plus it makes for
great reading in the conference room

Also, Local salvage yards & E-Bay will give you a good feel for the
market on prices as it pays to shop around !