Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

I have not built a truck before and am totally blown away by the trucks on this site. I have dropped motors into truck before, but I want to do an entire truck. I decided to pick up a 1968 truck and with the help of some members, I was able to replace the old motor and trans. I want to build this one as a daily driver so I can't go too extreme. I love the style of these years and want to build something worthy of display here.
I will have a ton of questions along the way, so feel free to chime in with helpful comments and advice. (notice how I said helpful)

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

So, like I said, I'm starting with a stock '68 longbed. It's flat black and sitting on stock steel wheels and tires. (picture coming soon)
What I decided to do is to do a concept design first so I know the direction I will go and it may help others when posting comments or suggestions.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

In this concept, I have one-piece windows, custom mirrors, shaved bumpers and doors and side markers. I'd like to use Accuair suspension system and Porterbuilt equipment for the frame modifications.
My first question would be; when the suspension is on bags, how does it drive? Is it stiff or sloshy?

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Here is the truck as it sits now. runner/driver C10 longbed paid $2000

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

nice truck and nice art. Did you do that or did you have somebody do a rendering for you?

Since you asked for comments ;) I dont love single glass windows. Smoking windows are the stuff dude!!! Back glass actually looks good as a single piece but it is nice cracking the back glass with your arm on the bench seat on a nice day.

I think I like those bumpers you came up with. What wheels are those?

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

2X on the vent widows and rear slider.

Welcome to the madness. and nice rendering.
And we consider any truck, rust bucket to show room restore to a fully customized one worthy of this board. And we love pictures.

The ride quality of these trucks is actually quite good comparatively. Bagging it will make it ride even better.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Subscribed..

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

JointTech - Thanks, I did the CG model.
I do like the look of the one piece windows, but heard it could lead to problems.
Those bumpers are smoothed and the wheels are just a design I came up with to sit the truck on the ground. I'll have to pick out some real wheels and model those instead.

MMiddle - So you think the ride quality is improved with bags. Cool.

I may come up with other paint schemes as I built this truck, but I had to start somewhere. I'm not totally sold on the idea of a rear slider. But I was thinking that a vertical sliding electric back window would be cool (like the Toyotas).

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

As long as you are not running around on the bump-stops or Pogoing they will ride really nice.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Nice design! They make a electric up/down back window for these models, well there use to be a company making them. They also make the regular electric slider also. Like it being a LWB also! Cool.

Check this link out also.;):chevy:

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=263020

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Very nice rendering! I am a long bed freak myself, good luck with it!

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Thanks for the feedback.
Read that post about the vertical slider window and it gave me some ideas.
It doesn't look like anyone has a kit for this, so it's going to be a major fabrication process (especially trying to keep water out).

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Also, I guess I need to update my rendering...

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

The CG model looks great and the color isn't bad either. You will need to do a lot of fabrication to get a vertical sliding rear window installed but the electrics are available. As for one piece glass in the doors causing problems I think that's more fiction than fact. That's an ambitious project you have laid out and it will be an expensive one as well. Good Luck and keep us posted!

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

I hear you, I hear you.
Been saving up for this over the past few months.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

First order of business is to fix these holes in the floor. And it looks like the kick panels need to be fixed or replaced too. Still have to check the underneath to see how far the rust has expanded.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

got my placement panels. I'm thinking about replacing the floor sections just with sheet metal from local store. Doubt it's that difficult.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Have also been considering the rear window idea. Since the roof is tilted 6 degrees forward, it looks like most guys extend the metal along the bottom edge while cutting into the top edge to compensate for this offset.
I don't think I like that solution, so if I can't find a better one, I'll scrap the idea.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Like your rendering and confidence. I have faith in ya and I'm subscribed

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Thanks Ol Blue.
I have worked on cars over the years (mostly engines and paint) but nothing like what you guys do here. This will be my first custom build so I might be taking it slow.
On a side not, I do have some other ideas for the paint as this rendering seems a bit too close to other designs out there. I don't want my truck to look like a copy of another design, so I'll continue to modify details to make it unique.
I realize that may be an impossible task these days, since there are so many designs, but I guess in the end I just have to built it my way.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

I might experiment with the back of the cab in a vertical position.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

This is what am talking about. See how the bottom of the window is deeper and the top is almost flush with the cab. Plus, when you cut out the pinch weld, you'll loose some strength there, I think.
Most of the links to sources were broken and/or missing so a kit doesn't appear to be an option. Full custom all the way if done right.

... still thinking.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

I've always thought that a roll down window would be pretty slick on any truck. I wonder how much of a difference there is, as far as width/height, from some of the OEM roll down windows like the Toyota tundras. You might be able to steal some parts from one of them, like the window tracks and linkages, and modify them to fit if they're close enough.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Hi, welcome to the board. I love the idea of the 68 (kinda partial to them myself).

If I might, Id like to make a suggestion(s). On the one pc windows---make sure you have the ones sold by Brothers--there are two brands and the Other one has more issues. But, make sure you want them before you start the install---either brand requires door modification----non reversible modification. Ive also been told by some who have them that they have a lot of issues with sealing and window channels. (?)

After seeing your pics of your rust issues, my suggestion there would be to take care of all the rust issues Before you invest your money into mods. Im not tryng to scare you off, but these trucks GROOOOOW rust. when youre checking everything out--pull the fenders and check high on the firewall in front and on the sides for rust. Use an ice pick to probe areas you suspect. On my build, the rust had been pruposely hidden and I ended up putting a fortune in repair before I got to do the things I wanted to do.

Ive restored some other vehicles--but I sure got surprised on this one. I like your ideas, enjoy the work, enjoy the result.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Looks like the truck needs some rust repair but solid otherwise.. Love the rendering cant wait to see what ya come up with..

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Well, the Thanksgiving holiday set me back with a ton of work to catch-up with. I'm back at it.
So, I noticed that the Toyota back window bulges out along the lower half of the cab. This is what must used to make room for the mechanism. The tailgate windows have the same (extra) space behind them making the thickness of the tailgates bulge out or taper in for the glass to lift straight from the groove.

I suppose I could modify the back of the cab slightly for the necessary angle. Not sure I want to hack up my roof though.
This is a tough call since I really like the idea. Just don't know if it's practical for this truck body.

Question:
Do the side markers fit the same front to back? In other words, can I take a front, side marker and use it in the rear instead?

Question:
What's the best way to remove rust from the metal panels that make up the roof? I know I must have rust in there. Is there a gel or spray that dissolves the rust? Really.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Another question:
If I shave the side markers (front) where do guys usually move them too? Just cut the wires and forget? Or relocate to the grill?

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Read my post on Muratic Acid, You need to be able to flush it out real well with water so how it will work with roof problems i'm not too sure but i'd think you would wanna gut the interior in the process, just remember this stuff is super nasty stuff both in vapors and to the skin.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...&postcount=138

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Well, it's been a great holiday season. My daughter wanted her truck painted, so I had to take care of that first.
Now I can get back to my truck. I have more ideas and will post them soon. Also someone told me I need to name my project so it's easier to follow.
Have to think about that one.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Here are a few more ideas for my truck. And I have my first customer since this post, so it looks like I will be designing a truck for the Triumph Foundation for use in their hand cycling clinics.
It has begun.
www.triumphfoundation.org

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Hey Johnny, great job with those renders and the confidence man! If you ever need a hand, just hollar. I am about an hr away from you in Bako, and I lived in Canyon Country for 2 years before here. I am more than willing to come lend you a hand if need be! Keep up the good work and updates!

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Hey Dan,
Thanks. Yeah, we'll have to hook up sometime when the project is underway.
I hang around the local custom scene when the weather warms up.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Starting to research the Porter Built "drop member" now. Looks like I can use the same upper A-Arms. But I have to find some lowers on an 80s truck.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Sweet truck!

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Wow!
I was hit with some kind of virus that took me out for 3 weeks. I just made it through work and now have to play catch-up.

So, still looking at the Extreme drop Porterbuilt front member. I am now considering the rear, or at least the parts for it. Looking at other ideas for rear ends too. Does it matter if you use a straight level lift or cantilever as far as how high you can lift the rear? What are the benifits to all those crazy designs for lift suspension? Is it all for looks? Does it change the ride quality?


BTW: saw a truck with my exact paint scheme, so I definitely have to mix it up a bit. I'll post more designs as they come. Feeling much better.

Time to work!

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Well, I talked to Nate and Dave at Porterbuilt and ordered the "Extreme Dropmember" kit. I'll be using my own A-arms and bags, but they sure are helpful when it comes to answering questions prior and after placing an order. Great guys!
Now I wait 6-8 weeks for the package and in the meantime, I will start looking at that rust along the bottom of my door sills again.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Finally got my Extreme Dropmember form PorterBuilt. Love the new logo too. It looks stronger than the old one. I had to take a shot of the raw metal before I coat it and install it. Still a few weeks before I can get started on my truck. I have commitments to another truck first. A quick promo piece.

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Okay, so I thought I would pre-assemble the Dropmember to better understand it and I have a few questions.
1. Does this assembly look correct?
2. Which direction do the "hats" sits. Taller lip forward or backwards?
3. What are these extra bolts for?

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Dang! Those are some serious "daily drivers." :lol:
Would love to see how all this turns out. Best of luck. Subscribed!

Re: Newbe builder starting a grand project
 

Wonder if anyone can my questions on the "extreme dropmemeber" from Porterbuilt assembly. Does anyone have instructions on this or some insight?





hello?


Nate?