In need of some serious help

[Slade64]

I apologize now, this will be a long explanation. For those of you that read it and reply, I thank you in advance.

I have a 64 c10 stepside that I bought from my grandfather when I was 15 and rebuilt in high school (straight 6 3 on the tree- 350 tpi w/ 700r4). During college and the building of my career I've carried her around with me. Garaged the whole time and on and off again getting it running and driving.

Here is the problem, I'm in a position now mentally and financially to start doing the things I have always wanted to do. However, since doing the motor swap in high school, i have disconnected from the rebuild life and at this point consider myself a newb (embarrassing considering my family restores and races classics).

I really want to dive into this and get started again. I can wrench and know basics. But I really dont know where to start. So my question is, for those of you that have let a truck sit, where did you start? I'll list some things I'm interested in doing down below.


Tires- already on the board, but what sizes are you running? Current stock 15" rims 6 lug

Coils- stock, 1 sagging, thinking of dropping

Brakes- stock, have new drums and pads

Rear end- stock, want to do posi, no idea what fits

Driveline is custom built and will hold up to posi

Drive line seal needs replaced- yay youtube

Interior is good, but needs upgrades.

Dash- thinking dakota digital

Seats- bench, needs reupholstering to match

Floor- carpet, needs new to match hump

These are just the things I can think of right now. Paint is good, but will need new after the rest is done. Any help, support, advice is more than appreciated. I live in Phoenix, so any good shops or parts houses recommendations are appreciated as well.

[Blue Goose]

Wow this can lead to a lot of questions so here is my 2 cents.
1-Tires-I don't like big tires and wheels(ie 18s and up)but I could go maybe 17 out back and 16 up front.I like wide tires in back.
2-Drop-I don't care for trucks slammed.A 3\4 drop is good [email protected] inch spindles and 1 inch springs up front.Depends on what rear is set up leaf or coil and yes Chevy did offer leaf back then.A lot of guys use complete front crossmember from 73 to 87 trucks.Its supposed to bolt right in only having to drill one hole per side.Most guys go for the ones with the 1 1\4 rotors.This gives you disc ,more modern suspension and more options of what you want to do.
3-Rear end-I think its already a 12 bolt just add a posi.Going with the 5 lug option then axles and drums could be drilled for that or go to a later model that aleady is 5 lug.
4-You-Its really a matter of what you like and what you want to end up with.Not sure then go to some car shows and see what others have done.Myself I like the sock factory look with just some subtle changes.Hp is a must and with gas prices overdrive to.Most of all have fun with your project.Good luck.
David

[eburge]

Blue Goose, could you expound on No. 3 (3-Rear end-I think its already a 12 bolt just add a posi. Going with the 5 lug option then axles and drums could be drilled for that or go to a later model that already is 5 lug.)

I'd like to add posi, 5 lug and disc to my 12 bolt rear end.

Thanx, Ermitt

[Slade64]

Thanks man, I appreciate the reply. It has been a, let's say, a brain fart for me because it's so many things I want to do. But at the same time back myself off and start practical.

I agree with your thoughts on rims/tires. I would like to keep the stock look in and out (minus the dakota digital dash). I love this era of trucks and would like to stick with it. Only difference being the stance. I'm curious to know what tire size everyone is running with for the 15" rims. Currently looking at 215/75r15.

I do have all 4 coils, P. Rear is sagging and needs replaced anyway. I was thinking a 3/5 drop, but it is a stepside and I'm worried about rubbing on the bed with a wider tire size.

With the rearend, this is above my knowledge. I'm sure I could figure it out, but tips are appreciated. It definitely needs more grip.

Jesus, again, long ass post.

[Blue Goose]

I think 72 models came 5 lug in 2wd models,but I'm nut sure about over all length.Might need to do some searching on rear diff dimensions.Otherwise you could have your drums and axles redrilled to 5 x5 pattern or if you want rear discs then just drill axles and get a kit for 5 lug.I'm running 255\70 15s on 15x8 rallies..60 series will add width but also lose height.

[Slade64]

Just got new tires put on, went with the 205/75 r 15. From what I have read, this is the stock tire. I'm fine with that. But when I look at the clearance from the rear tire, being a stepside, it looks like i will rub on the fender well. With the tire size I want to drop it to fill up the well. But I'm reconsidering the 3/5.

I like that it is 6 lug, dont know why, but I do. This is what keeps me from the switch. I guess if I drop in the 70's front end and add PW steering. It would make sense. Not sure I want to do that yet. I really like the feel it has. Not to mention the great workout you get driving it lol.

[RoadTrip]

Slade64, I just finished putting a posi in place of the open carrier. Much of what you are asking depends on other things as I am sure you are aware. What engine? Which transmission? Mods to engine? You really should decide on these things before selecting a new rear end ratio. I have a big block with cam that comes on around 2300 rpm and am using a 700R4. No need in putting a ring/pinion ratio and torque converter that don't work in the power band of your truck. By knowing these things you can select the right wheel/tire diameter to make the engine run in its most efficient range. With my setup I am using a 4.1:1 posi with 16" tires. This puts me at the lower end of the power band of the engine. I also have some 15" wheels I can use as a standby. Talk to Yukon Gear, they have good products and can sell the axles you need to go with your wheel/stud choice. Hope this helps a little.