Hey guys, I'm looking for another project and here are the two finalists that I'm looking for input on. My ultimate goal is a 460 and C6 with 36-38" tires.

1973 F250 HB, 35" tires, 460 and c6 that have seen "A lot" of offroad. The body is beat, corners of the cab dented, and the front fenders don't sit straight. Dana 60 rear, 44 front big open hub, disc brakes, 4.10 gears. Edelbrock intake, holley carb, bored 30 over, runs and drives for $2300.

The second option:
1979 F350 regular cab, Dana 60 front and rear, 400m motor, c6, 3.54 gears I think, it looks like the low boy frame by its stance, but decently maintained body and interior, been sitting for about 9 years, asking $2100.

I've heard the f350's are great finds, so in the long run should I build up the f350 with a 460, lift it, and gear it or take the 73 how it is. Any input is appreciated! Thanks!

 

Personally I'd get the F350. Also I'd hit up Tim Meyer and get some 302 Aussie Cleveland heads, an aluminum intake, a 4 barrel carb, some headers, and keep the 400.

 

Fixing a banged up body can take a huge amount of time and money. Also, if the F250 has seen "a lot" of hard off road use there may be additional problems with the frame and drivetrain. I'd go with the F350. Personaly, I'd probably rebuild and upgrade the 400, however, I understand 460 core engines are not too hard to find so the 460 upgrade would not be too hard or expensive.

 

Why are you pondering this!?!??! - There's no question!!

Go with the '79!

Pluses:
Integral power steering
Dana 60 Front (and rear)
400M (a good starting point, easy to swap to 460!)
400M C6 shares a bellhousing with the 460 = easy swap
Better body (rust/damage sucks!)
Bolt on 6" lift should fit 38" tires no problem! (33's fit at stock height!)
"Married" transfer case = better rear driveline angles (coming from a short-wheelbase Jeep person, heh)

Minuses:
You don't get to deal with hunting down parts to rebuild the crap stock power assist steering
You wouldn't get to say "it's a hi-boy" (or high-boy)
Won't fit the 36's/38's stock without a lift


Seriously, the '77.5-'79 trucks are awesome
-Brad

 

Thanks for the great input, you guys are awesome! I've been leaning towards the F350 but coming across that 73 got me excited. But I'll stick it out with the longer term route; The 1979 F350 it is! And thanks for the 400 info, I might just build that up and stick with it.

 

Or you could keep looking ....... thats half the fun.... Road trips area always fun and you may save a ton of money.... bought my 77 for $400 and drove it home