68 C-10. Project 1st Timer - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

jljohnson3579 · 12-23-2008, 03:35 PM

Hi guys, I'm new to the board, and I've been keeping up with alot of the projects that the members are working on. To say the least, the board members here are a talented bunch, with a common thread--the love of the classic Chevy truck. I've loved the 67-72 for years, since I left the military at age 24. I never had enough money to buy one to tinker with, and had children to raise, so now, at the ripe old age of 43, with 24, 22, and a 7 yr old, I'm ready. I've been through alot over the last 3 1/2 years, from Hurricane Katrina sweeping my home away on the Mississippi Gulf Coast (Pass Christian, MS), to having a mild heart attack and open heart surgery at age 41 (fully recovered in 2 weeks, like nothing happened in 2 months!). I restated my graphics business in Montgomery, AL, bought another home, and I'm blessed and happy. I admire all of you guys and I have always stated that I am here to learn. I look forward to your advice and tips and I Know that I am learning and being guided by the best.

Anyway--I have 68 short step--in I think decent shape. Bought it for 1K, and actually drove it home from across town. Found it sitting there, waiting for me. My plans are to get the engine running where it's driveable ( I live in one of "those" subdivisions where you gotta move it every now an then to keep "Mrs Kravitz" from sending you a nasty/nosey letter), take off the step side bed and install a fleet side bed, fuel cell, air bags or static drop (I'll take your advice), 20/18 wheel combos, flowmasters, and a build up 350/350 turbo combo--unless I can get a sweet deal on a later model motor. I'll leave the emblems, and the chrome on the front, and put on a nice coat of candy paint. I'll start from the frame, and do the full disk brake swap. I'd love to do a 6 lug to 5 lug swap, but I'm kinda dumb to the process. I have a person willing to sell me a ford 9 inch rear end--but I'm kinda like a deer in the headlights right now. So, any comments and advice will be Helpful! I touched base with Fuelcellguy, and another board member here in Montgomery, Mike Nutt, who is very talented. I'll post many pics, so bombs away!

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p...9/RearPsgr.jpg

jljohnson3579 · 12-23-2008, 03:43 PM

More pics coming--just gotta learn how to post!

**Hart_Rod** · 12-23-2008, 03:50 PM

Welcome from NM (but soon to be PCola again,

)! There is a lot of great information/people on this board. Read a lot and continue to ask questions. Mike and Joe (OJOE) are a couple of great local guys that have a ton of knowledge and connections. Best of luck on your project, I look forward to seeing it in person in the near future.

R/

jljohnson3579 · 12-23-2008, 03:52 PM

a couple more pics

SCIV · 12-23-2008, 05:46 PM

Welcome! Nice start.

Don't ditch the step side bed!! I am partial of course.

mike nutt · 12-23-2008, 08:06 PM

no fair , thats a way nicer truck than what i started with. i've got a set of nice fenders and a decent tailgate if you decide to keep the step bed. well good luck and feel free to call me , you've got my number.
mike

LuckyHenriksen · 12-23-2008, 09:02 PM

Sweet looks good man. The 6-5 lug swap is pretty simple, I did it on my '68 and I had never done suspension work before. And we love lots of pictures =]

msgross · 12-23-2008, 09:16 PM

welcome and nice ride... I like 67/68's myself... I'm often through the Montgomery, AL area too...

This board is full of a ton of helpful members, and way better to buy and sell (once your a piad member) parts than Ebay....

I am sure that you already know that your 350 isn't original and most guys just find a newer (72 and up?) suspension setup to go 5 lug disc. Or get most of the parts from a donor and buy new drop spindles and such.

Now sure how your budget is but that fleetside might cost you as much as your truck did... just wanted to warn you...

Good buy for a grand... I would have picked that up last year when I was down in the area myself...

Good luck

PHAT TONY · 12-24-2008, 12:56 AM

Welcome aboard(from one newbie to another), just getting started on a '67 GMC myself. I'd be glad to help and offer a Canadian perspective, but I think we're all pretty similar in our love for these trucks. Good luck and the first one done is envied by the other-hahaha.

nuke1 · 12-24-2008, 07:53 AM

very clean looking truck you bought there, and what does not kill you only makes you stronger, lifes lesseon i learned

jljohnson3579 · 12-24-2008, 01:37 PM

Thanks for the welcome and comments guys. I guess this deer in the headlights got hit by a Mercedes...! I'm glad I picked a good one. I have to admit that I'm not a top notch mechanic, but I learn extremely fast--and I am able to do some light body work/engine work--light. But I'll attempt to do alot on my on--but I'm ready to throw plenty of life lines.

I just found out due to researching the numbers on carb and engine that the motor and tranny is a 305 from a 78' model. It actually runs pretty smooth.

So first question. Do I build it up--alum intake, 4bbl, cam, bore .40 over etc., or do I look for a decent goodie for sale that's been built already?

Any suggestions?

jb4short · 12-24-2008, 01:54 PM

Nice! Looks like a great one to start with.

LuckyHenriksen · 12-24-2008, 02:40 PM

Personally I wouldnt invest a single penny in a 305, but then again I love horsepower. You can find some nice deals on motors on sites like craigslist, and someone will probably want to buy that 305 from you

msgross · 12-24-2008, 02:45 PM

I would clean the engine up, paint it with engine spray paint and run it till it dies... then buy a $2,000 crate engine with warranty.

LuckyHenriksen · 12-24-2008, 02:49 PM

Good idea. Keep it cheap

jljohnson3579 · 12-24-2008, 05:25 PM

I like the cheap idea. I'll want to use some $ in the beginning to to get the frame components together to get the stance right.

jljohnson3579 · 12-24-2008, 05:59 PM

Thanks Mike. I just ran into a buddy from back home with a 68' short fleet side--and wants to swap beds. He loves the short step as much as I love the short fleet bed. As soon as I take a look at his bed ( I haven't seen it) I'll decide whether to do the do or not. He's a square guy, so I know his bed is cool.

jljohnson3579 · 12-24-2008, 06:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LuckyHenriksen

Personally I wouldnt invest a single penny in a 305, but then again I love horsepower. You can find some nice deals on motors on sites like craigslist, and someone will probably want to buy that 305 from you

You're right. I've seen some guys on the board here put some LS1's in their trucks, so I know I have some options. I'll just have to keep a sharp eye out--I get lucky every now and then!

LuckyHenriksen · 12-24-2008, 06:06 PM

Awesome, can't beat a straight up trade

djracer · 12-29-2008, 04:32 PM

John
You have a nice start. I know where a really nice motor is if you might be interested. I'm also the one with all the 5 lug stuff you need so give me a call.

Kevin

jljohnson3579 · 12-30-2008, 02:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by djracer

John
You have a nice start. I know where a really nice motor is if you might be interested. I'm also the one with all the 5 lug stuff you need so give me a call.

Kevin

Hey thanks Kevin, it was a pleasure meeting you at the Pull A Part yard yesterday. I stayed long enough to get the steering column with the gear shift and letters on it (P R N D), power steering gearbox and mounting hardware, radiator, shroud, carb, and trans linkage. Total cost, 100 bucks! That place is a gold mine! I'll give you a holler on the 5 lug stuff and the motor. Thanks!

jljohnson3579 · 12-30-2008, 02:12 PM

I went to the local u pull it type parts yard yesterday, and ran into a primo 68 long bed c 20. Man, that thing was prime. I pulled a bunch of parts, (will post pics) and a guy that pulled the motor in front of me started it beforehand--and it ran excellent--unbelieveable! Guys, this thing was prime. I met another member there, djracer, who got the tailgate, and he can attest, this was a rare find. I'm going back today to scavenge some other parts to have on hand.

LuckyHenriksen · 12-30-2008, 05:02 PM

Wow great work. I need to find some deals like that!

jljohnson3579 · 01-01-2009, 10:54 PM

Happy New Year guys! Just ran into more great deals on parts from good people wanting to see the project come together. I'm late posting pics, but they're coming--had to do the holiday thingy--but we have a fresh new year, a new attitude, and if you're reading this, you're one of the few that's blessed with life, health, and peace of mind. Blessings to all!

jljohnson3579 · 01-03-2009, 03:44 AM

I wanted to send a shoutout to fellow board member djracer from here in Montgomery, AL. I met him at a pull it yard last week and he invited me over to look at a parts truck had. He wound up giving me an awsome battery tray since the one on my truck was rusted gone. When I asked what I owed him, he replied "I'm donating to the cause". You can't say enough about a great guy, and the caliper and comraderie of members that belong to this board.

12-23-2008, 03:35 PM	#1
jljohnson3579 I'm here 2 learn! Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: montgomery, al Posts: 54	68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Hi guys, I'm new to the board, and I've been keeping up with alot of the projects that the members are working on. To say the least, the board members here are a talented bunch, with a common thread--the love of the classic Chevy truck. I've loved the 67-72 for years, since I left the military at age 24. I never had enough money to buy one to tinker with, and had children to raise, so now, at the ripe old age of 43, with 24, 22, and a 7 yr old, I'm ready. I've been through alot over the last 3 1/2 years, from Hurricane Katrina sweeping my home away on the Mississippi Gulf Coast (Pass Christian, MS), to having a mild heart attack and open heart surgery at age 41 (fully recovered in 2 weeks, like nothing happened in 2 months!). I restated my graphics business in Montgomery, AL, bought another home, and I'm blessed and happy. I admire all of you guys and I have always stated that I am here to learn. I look forward to your advice and tips and I Know that I am learning and being guided by the best. Anyway--I have 68 short step--in I think decent shape. Bought it for 1K, and actually drove it home from across town. Found it sitting there, waiting for me. My plans are to get the engine running where it's driveable ( I live in one of "those" subdivisions where you gotta move it every now an then to keep "Mrs Kravitz" from sending you a nasty/nosey letter), take off the step side bed and install a fleet side bed, fuel cell, air bags or static drop (I'll take your advice), 20/18 wheel combos, flowmasters, and a build up 350/350 turbo combo--unless I can get a sweet deal on a later model motor. I'll leave the emblems, and the chrome on the front, and put on a nice coat of candy paint. I'll start from the frame, and do the full disk brake swap. I'd love to do a 6 lug to 5 lug swap, but I'm kinda dumb to the process. I have a person willing to sell me a ford 9 inch rear end--but I'm kinda like a deer in the headlights right now. So, any comments and advice will be Helpful! I touched base with Fuelcellguy, and another board member here in Montgomery, Mike Nutt, who is very talented. I'll post many pics, so bombs away! http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p...9/RearPsgr.jpg

12-23-2008, 03:43 PM	#2
jljohnson3579 I'm here 2 learn! Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: montgomery, al Posts: 54	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer More pics coming--just gotta learn how to post! Last edited by jljohnson3579; 12-23-2008 at 03:46 PM. Reason: pics didn't show

12-23-2008, 03:50 PM	#3
Hart_Rod ************* Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Pensacola, FL Posts: 17,827	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Welcome from NM (but soon to be PCola again, )! There is a lot of great information/people on this board. Read a lot and continue to ask questions. Mike and Joe (OJOE) are a couple of great local guys that have a ton of knowledge and connections. Best of luck on your project, I look forward to seeing it in person in the near future. R/ __________________ Rob - https://www.instagram.com/hart_rod_c10 As Iron Sharpens Iron, So One Man Sharpens Another. Proverbs 27:17 FOR SALE: DBW pedal bracket - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=651123 FOR SALE: Hood Brackets http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=679945 1987 Silverado SWB - 34.5K original miles http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=801834 1969 SuperBurb - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=200387 1968 Farm truck - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=358692 1968 SWB - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=551258 1948 Chevy - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=122164&page=3 Last edited by Hart_Rod; 12-23-2008 at 04:02 PM.

12-23-2008, 03:52 PM	#4
jljohnson3579 I'm here 2 learn! Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: montgomery, al Posts: 54	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer a couple more pics Attached Images

12-23-2008, 05:46 PM	#5
SCIV Registered User Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Georgetown, Texas Posts: 170	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Welcome! Nice start. Don't ditch the step side bed!! I am partial of course.

12-23-2008, 08:06 PM	#6
mike nutt 69fatmotor Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: bama Posts: 660	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer no fair , thats a way nicer truck than what i started with. i've got a set of nice fenders and a decent tailgate if you decide to keep the step bed. well good luck and feel free to call me , you've got my number. mike Last edited by mike nutt; 12-23-2008 at 08:07 PM.

12-23-2008, 09:02 PM	#7
LuckyHenriksen Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Sherwood Oregon Posts: 1,908	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Sweet looks good man. The 6-5 lug swap is pretty simple, I did it on my '68 and I had never done suspension work before. And we love lots of pictures =] __________________ 1968 Yenko Chevy LWB 6.0L/TH400 3/4 Drop Senior Project Build Thread Here

12-23-2008, 09:16 PM	#8
msgross Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Central PA Posts: 12,201	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer welcome and nice ride... I like 67/68's myself... I'm often through the Montgomery, AL area too... This board is full of a ton of helpful members, and way better to buy and sell (once your a piad member) parts than Ebay.... I am sure that you already know that your 350 isn't original and most guys just find a newer (72 and up?) suspension setup to go 5 lug disc. Or get most of the parts from a donor and buy new drop spindles and such. Now sure how your budget is but that fleetside might cost you as much as your truck did... just wanted to warn you... Good buy for a grand... I would have picked that up last year when I was down in the area myself... Good luck __________________ The Garage: 1968 K-10 SWB - "Project Money Pit" 1996 Z-71 - "huntin rig" 1969 C-10 LWB (SOLD) "Project flip that truck or else" 1993 Passport, F@rd 1-ton (SOLD)"Project Cousin Eddie" My Garage Build "The 1,000 footer" Last edited by msgross; 12-23-2008 at 09:17 PM.

12-24-2008, 12:56 AM	#9
PHAT TONY Registered User Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Red Deer ab canada Posts: 1,250	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Welcome aboard(from one newbie to another), just getting started on a '67 GMC myself. I'd be glad to help and offer a Canadian perspective, but I think we're all pretty similar in our love for these trucks. Good luck and the first one done is envied by the other-hahaha.

12-24-2008, 07:53 AM	#10
nuke1 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan,: Posts: 2,901	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer very clean looking truck you bought there, and what does not kill you only makes you stronger, lifes lesseon i learned __________________ James 1968 GMC "HAVOC" 1986 GMC "Frank" J.J.R.H. Design & Consulting My 68`Rebuild "HAVOC": http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=316300 A 58' chev build thread: http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=311238 1969 Camaro Pro Touring http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...61#post3513361 Swiss Cheese: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=384390 Adjustable Trailing Arm How-To: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=321100 1968 Ford Farm Truck: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=1#post6555587

12-24-2008, 01:37 PM	#11
jljohnson3579 I'm here 2 learn! Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: montgomery, al Posts: 54	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Thanks for the welcome and comments guys. I guess this deer in the headlights got hit by a Mercedes...! I'm glad I picked a good one. I have to admit that I'm not a top notch mechanic, but I learn extremely fast--and I am able to do some light body work/engine work--light. But I'll attempt to do alot on my on--but I'm ready to throw plenty of life lines. I just found out due to researching the numbers on carb and engine that the motor and tranny is a 305 from a 78' model. It actually runs pretty smooth. So first question. Do I build it up--alum intake, 4bbl, cam, bore .40 over etc., or do I look for a decent goodie for sale that's been built already? Any suggestions? __________________ This is a great place!

12-24-2008, 01:54 PM	#12
jb4short Damn Yankee Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Lynchburg, VA Posts: 2,261	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Nice! Looks like a great one to start with.

12-24-2008, 02:40 PM	#13
LuckyHenriksen Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Sherwood Oregon Posts: 1,908	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Personally I wouldnt invest a single penny in a 305, but then again I love horsepower. You can find some nice deals on motors on sites like craigslist, and someone will probably want to buy that 305 from you __________________ 1968 Yenko Chevy LWB 6.0L/TH400 3/4 Drop Senior Project Build Thread Here

12-24-2008, 02:45 PM	#14
msgross Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Central PA Posts: 12,201	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer I would clean the engine up, paint it with engine spray paint and run it till it dies... then buy a $2,000 crate engine with warranty. __________________ The Garage: 1968 K-10 SWB - "Project Money Pit" 1996 Z-71 - "huntin rig" 1969 C-10 LWB (SOLD) "Project flip that truck or else" 1993 Passport, F@rd 1-ton (SOLD)"Project Cousin Eddie" My Garage Build "The 1,000 footer"

12-24-2008, 02:49 PM	#15
LuckyHenriksen Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Sherwood Oregon Posts: 1,908	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Good idea. Keep it cheap __________________ 1968 Yenko Chevy LWB 6.0L/TH400 3/4 Drop Senior Project Build Thread Here



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12-24-2008, 05:25 PM	#16
jljohnson3579 I'm here 2 learn! Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: montgomery, al Posts: 54	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer I like the cheap idea. I'll want to use some $ in the beginning to to get the frame components together to get the stance right. __________________ This is a great place!

12-24-2008, 05:59 PM	#17
jljohnson3579 I'm here 2 learn! Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: montgomery, al Posts: 54	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Thanks Mike. I just ran into a buddy from back home with a 68' short fleet side--and wants to swap beds. He loves the short step as much as I love the short fleet bed. As soon as I take a look at his bed ( I haven't seen it) I'll decide whether to do the do or not. He's a square guy, so I know his bed is cool. __________________ This is a great place!

12-24-2008, 06:06 PM	#19
LuckyHenriksen Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Sherwood Oregon Posts: 1,908	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Awesome, can't beat a straight up trade __________________ 1968 Yenko Chevy LWB 6.0L/TH400 3/4 Drop Senior Project Build Thread Here

12-29-2008, 04:32 PM	#20
djracer Registered User Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: Wetumpka, Al, U.S. Posts: 8,891	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer John You have a nice start. I know where a really nice motor is if you might be interested. I'm also the one with all the 5 lug stuff you need so give me a call. Kevin __________________ Kevin Special Thanks to All who have helped on the TRUCK! My Pass Time Show http://s129.photobucket.com/albums/p...Chapter1-0.mp4 So Far my best Times are: Motor only: 6.44 1/8 @ 104.13 10.39 1/4 @ 125.83 Nitrous Times: 5.785 1/8 @ 118.65 with a 1.336 60ft 9.168 1/4 @ 142.58 with a 250 shot dead out of the hole!

12-30-2008, 02:12 PM	#22
jljohnson3579 I'm here 2 learn! Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: montgomery, al Posts: 54	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer I went to the local u pull it type parts yard yesterday, and ran into a primo 68 long bed c 20. Man, that thing was prime. I pulled a bunch of parts, (will post pics) and a guy that pulled the motor in front of me started it beforehand--and it ran excellent--unbelieveable! Guys, this thing was prime. I met another member there, djracer, who got the tailgate, and he can attest, this was a rare find. I'm going back today to scavenge some other parts to have on hand. __________________ This is a great place!

12-30-2008, 05:02 PM	#23
LuckyHenriksen Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Sherwood Oregon Posts: 1,908	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Wow great work. I need to find some deals like that! __________________ 1968 Yenko Chevy LWB 6.0L/TH400 3/4 Drop Senior Project Build Thread Here

01-01-2009, 10:54 PM	#24
jljohnson3579 I'm here 2 learn! Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: montgomery, al Posts: 54	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer Happy New Year guys! Just ran into more great deals on parts from good people wanting to see the project come together. I'm late posting pics, but they're coming--had to do the holiday thingy--but we have a fresh new year, a new attitude, and if you're reading this, you're one of the few that's blessed with life, health, and peace of mind. Blessings to all! __________________ This is a great place!

01-03-2009, 03:44 AM	#25
jljohnson3579 I'm here 2 learn! Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: montgomery, al Posts: 54	Re: 68 C-10. Project 1st Timer I wanted to send a shoutout to fellow board member djracer from here in Montgomery, AL. I met him at a pull it yard last week and he invited me over to look at a parts truck had. He wound up giving me an awsome battery tray since the one on my truck was rusted gone. When I asked what I owed him, he replied "I'm donating to the cause". You can't say enough about a great guy, and the caliper and comraderie of members that belong to this board. __________________ This is a great place!

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