Came across this gem (possibly) guy is asking $800...has a 226(I6?) and 3 speed manual trans...

I've done 3-4 '73-'79 models over the years, from frame off factory rebuild, to full mods...engine swaps, trans, etc...

What all can be done to these jewels? I have a two year old son that I'm thinking of starting a slow project with him, of course get it drivable then slowly start updates, upgrades, etc. definite power brakes and steering, manual trans...possible Fuel Injected?

Thoughts?

 

Looks OK, even so, try to find one in the best rust-free condition possible and especially, with all the big pieces still there. Practically everything has to be cleaned, removed, inspected, lubed, adjusted, replaced and rebuilt before they are ... an old truck? In other words, pay a little over scrap value because that's all it's worth.

 

My first '78 I purchased for $500 and drove it home... This one I'd have to trailer, but it would be a long term project...

 

Ok, so you know the deal, then.

 

You always need to look in the footwell and floor board area. That's where they tend to rust bad. And even one that's solid there will almost always have thin or pinholed cab corners due to crap accumulating, same as any old truck. Also right behind the fender in the lower front part of the cab is another dirt catcher. The hood is junk and judging by that rust, the header will be too. In my area, I would pass on that one. I'd much rather spend 2000-3000 for one that's solid. You'll have hundreds of hours into just getting the cancer carved out and replaced.