[updated:LAST EDITED ON Jan-21-03 AT 07:13 PM (CST)]Howdy, boys 'n girls. A little bit about myself. In case you haven't guessed by my name, I joined the Marines in 1971. Served 4. I live about 45 miles north of Springfield, Mo. The 15 y/o and I are the proud owners of a rust bucket '64 LWB Chevy. By #, it was originally a step-side. When we bought it, it had a fleetside on it. The previous owner had a camper on this truck and you can tell. So, the poor 'ol 230, 3 on the column, rear-end and suspension are all worn out. I thought about re-building the 6 but I decided on a small block. I went through one 283 that was cracked, a 350 that was seized, a 327 that was at 40 over already and would have to go to 60, and finally found a numbers matching '63 283. The block is at the machine shop at this time and I expect to get it back soon. I didn't really have plans to do a full restoration to this truck, but the more I messed with it, the more damage I found. Since I am building this for the kid(he's supposed to be helping)I wanted it to be mechanically safe and sound whether it was purty or not. So, we are doing a frame off to it. We have sandblasted, primered and painted the frame, front crossmember, upper and lower control arms, rear traction arms and control arm. We will start the rebuild of the 283 soon. We have the cab lying on its back in the barn so we can see how much rust there is on the bottom. It will need rockers, pans, and some other stuff, etc. Typical '64. So, we have 3 or 4 different little projects going on all at the same time. I have always wanted to do this. This is the first one for me. In reviewing some of the past posts, I see that I have alot in common with some of you. See ya around.
THese projects always get carried away(if you read the truck mags anyway). What starts out as a 'driver' inevitably turns in to a show stopping ride. It sounds like your off to a good start, especially with that 283. I love the small blocks, and they are really rewarding to build. I'm sure you're no stranger to this. Good luck with the whole ordeal, and HAVE A GOOD TIME! --TrustyRusty
Welcome aboard. I have a '63 that keeps me busy. I can tell you this...the folks in this forum are the greatest around. Everytime I get stuck, I just get on here and plead for help. Semper Fi
Welcome aboard from another recent recruit. I have to keep slapping myself to remind me that this is just an old truck that I use for daily driving. It is tough for a guy with a limited budget to restrain himself from going the show route. You are wise in going with the safety items first. The guys on this forum are top notch mechanics. Stay with us. Tom in Steamboat '60 Short Fleetside
