Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

So a couple of weeks ago I was perusing eBay and saw this '68 step side. Lately, I have preferred fleet side trucks, but this little stepper caught my eye. At first glance it's well... just an old truck, but as I studied it I could see much promise. So, I have set my '70 cab and frame aside and will be focusing my efforts, and the parts I have gathered, on the '68. The first phase of the plan is to do a 4/6 drop over the next couple of weeks and drive the truck a while. The drop consists of a rebuilt 73-87 style disc brake front suspension with energy suspension bushings, moog ball joints, ECE 2.5" drop spindles, and 2" drop coils up front and 6" drop springs in the rear. The second phase will have the 5.3L and 4L60E taking the place of the inline 6 and 3 speed gear box. The 5.3 has a cam upgrade, re-flashed computer, and modified factory wiring harness. A Boyd's Welding rear mount fuel tank is already on the way to replace the in-cab tank. The interior is also getting a few upgrades, but nothing too fancy. I have a set of buddy buckets and new foams with factory style covers from board member "Truckseats" on their way. A new black dash pad and sun visors, along with black 3 point seat belts will be installed to match the new seat covers. So, the plan is laid out and parts are flowing in, I am going to get busy in the garage so we can get the party started! Here is picture to mark the starting point...

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

very nice. I'll like your plan.

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

I like your new truck too. More pictures and details about it please:)

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Wow, that patina is amazing. Nice truck!

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

I remember seeing this truck on Ebay. I wished I could have bought it. It's a beautiful truck. Congrats! Do it right!:c2:

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

what a nice place to start a fantastic build

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Lookin good! Cant wait to see more

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

I want my next truck to be a step side like this one. Very cool!!

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Took a few pictures the other day...

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Interior and a shot of the 250 I6...

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Love it!

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Thanks bro!

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

was hoping to see progress, but I will loook in on you another time or 2

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Like the truck!!! Always have loved that color!!!

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Me too! Waiting on parts...

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Love this truck. Thanks for sharing more pictures. Looks super solid.

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

I feel very lucky to have snatched it up! It does have some rust issues but they appear minor. Front of drivers rocker, front lower portion of the left front fender under the battery, and a small spot on the firewall above the blower motor. I think it is going to be fun, I just wish the parts would start showing up! A few of the things I have ordered are being built, like the fuel tank and the seat covers. I also have brake parts on order to complete the 5 lug swap. Seems like I am all over the place, but as parts come in I will prioritize it all and get to work! :metal:

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

So here is my progress for today...destruction! It looks like a board member from Biloxi, MS is coming next week to look at the cab and frame I have for sale, so I had to get it taken apart. This is what my garage looked like before I turned the light out for the night...

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Okay, so not much progress on the actual truck, but a lot of progress in the build. I sold the '70 cab and frame and I have been ordering parts and picking up parts from fellow board members like a mad man over the last two weeks or so. I really hope to get started this weekend by at least pulling the bed off and getting the 6 cylinder out. Here is a pic of the pile of parts that include:entropy LSx radiator/fans, rebuilt truck tilt column, all new rear brakes (11 5/32 x 2 3/4), CPP booster/master cylinder, ECE 5-lug axles... just to name a few. the fuel system is on order and should be here in a day or so. I wish I was farther along, but I am currently working full time as an aircraft mechanic and finishing my bachelors degree (last two classes, Woo Hoo!) so my truck time is pretty tight. I will however be getting something done this weekend! I will of course post pics:D

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Hey buckss...are you keeping a tab on what your spending to upgrade? ( it would be cool so others can kinda see what it'll take to do the 5.3 swap:D (of course please password protect your spreadsheet so the wifey doesn't see!!!:lol:)

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

looking at it further I don't know that I would paint anymore than I had 2. it has good looks now.

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

First step... more to come if the weather cooperates.

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Really nice project truck! Good luck.

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

Looking good

Re: Project "Just an Old Truck"
 

LOVED it just the way it was. Cant wait to see what becomes of your truck.