Truck recommendation

[KidA]

I'm currently considering (after 8 years without a 4-wheeled vehicle) the purchase of a truck and I want some ideas.

Background: I'm familiar with mechanics. I've dropped a V-8 350 motor in an old Landcruiser by myself on a weekend and outfitted it with all the goodies.

However I've got zero experience with computer controlled systems, or fuel injections and so on.

So I'm looking for a 1950 to 1972 or so Chevy or Ford, something I can pick up parts for at an Autozone or junkyard. Looking to spend around 10 grand.

Not looking for a show-quality vehicle or a trailer queen, but am looking for something that's decent looking and reliable (the good thing about these old trucks is many have rebuilt motors). The other good thing is that they have two hoses and two belts. You can fix that on the side of the road.

Here are a couple examples of what I'm looking at (these are just examples, not necessarily these specific vehicles):

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1951-CHEVROLET-RESTORED-3100-PICKUP-TRUCK_W0QQitemZ260216626869QQcmdZViewItem?hash=ite m260216626869

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/67-Chevy-C-10-Long-Bed-Truck_W0QQitemZ190202444299QQcmdZViewItem?hash=ite m190202444299

So what am I overlooking here? Anyone have pros and cons?

I prefer something old, cool, and relatively easy to work on (not interested in sourcing the correct door handle or choke knob if it is missing) so I'm really dismissing, say, a newer Ford Ranger or Chevy or anything with fuel injection, electronics, and all that shit, but I'm here to listen to guidance.

Yeah, you won't see that said again :D

Use? Mainly to drive to my dad's (6 hour round trip) once a month or so, and to haul motorcycles and scooters around.

Probably drive it a few weekends a month, more in winter, less in summer.

[DevilDawg]

KidA,

Considering your deisres and excellent taste, I would imagine anything similar to what you are looking at in regards to the two ebay ads would work. You might want to hit the local craigslist to save a ton on frieght though. Considering the location in your corner, I might suggest looking in the Houston area maybe north of you as well. Wouldn't do to pick up something flooded. I know you can pick up any one of these types in the Kingwood area for 3grand or less. Maybe need more work than those, but you can drive them home.

[Hot Mess]

The only advice I can give is bring your piece if you get the '67. Gardena is G-H-E-T-T-O!:eek:

[KidA]

The only advice I can give is bring your piece if you get the '67. Gardena is G-H-E-T-T-O!:eek:

That's my other consideration - anything I buy would require flying out west (to get a rust-free example) and driving home. I did this with a 1972 Volvo 142 (2 door rally car) in 2000 - flew to Oregon and screamed back across the country with it in 3.5 days...nothing like a positive traction rear end 2 door rally car with 4 wheel disks.

If it's really ghetto you can pick it up for me. :D

Oh and I should add that I'm looking for 2-wheel drive as 4-wheel drive is really unnecessary in the city and for what I'll be doing. I may consider an old military Land Rover if I can find one that's had the 12 volt conversion and all the bugs taken out, but it's unlikely. That's about the only 4 wheel drive I'd consider.

Except this one (I know it's not original and I don't care because it's awesome. The purists can scoff all they want):

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/RARE-46-CHEVY-TRUCK-350-V8-POWER-STEERING-BRAKES-4X4_W0QQitemZ230227555631QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item2 30227555631

[Kurt V]

I would look for trucks from 1960 up to around 1972. If you look at older trucks like that '51 Chevy make sure you find one that has an updated drive train. I've had a number of old trucks and right now have a '60 Willys Wagon. Those old drive trains weren't made to go much over 55-60 on the highway and they are noisy as hell doing it. Hard to go wrong with any Chevy truck with the small block engine.

[MPCOA]

I would broaden to the 73 to 87 Chevy's, not considered classics, yet. Pre 72 you may pay some for the cool factor, plus more creature comforts in that style while still being shadetree friendly.

[KidA]

I would look for trucks from 1960 up to around 1972. If you look at older trucks like that '51 Chevy make sure you find one that has an updated drive train. I've had a number of old trucks and right now have a '60 Willys Wagon. Those old drive trains weren't made to go much over 55-60 on the highway and they are noisy as hell doing it. Hard to go wrong with any Chevy truck with the small block engine.

Thanks, that's the kind of info I'm looking for...

If I remember correctly it's better to get a 350 Chevy than a 305 because the 305 guzzles gas to move the weight?

[MPCOA]

Thanks, that's the kind of info I'm looking for...

If I remember correctly it's better to get a 350 Chevy than a 305 because the 305 guzzles gas to move the weight?
Yep, it's a dog, and try to get a four bolt main if need to block exchange.

[Kurt V]

You want the 350 for the low end torque. The old carburated small blocks are all gas hogs. 15mpg on the highway is about all you are going to see.

Here is my Willys:

[KidA]

Yep, it's a dog, and try to get a four bolt main if need to block exchange.

Thanks...this is why I ask. I've got some knowledge but it's been housed on the back shelf for quite some time now and definitely needed the help dusting it off.

[MPCOA]

Kurt, nice ride

[KidA]

Here is my Willys:

Very nice.

Yeah I know I'm going to get killed on gas, but again this isn't something that I'd be driving all the time - mostly in winter to make that 6 hour trip. In summer it's fine on the cycles.

Last time I did it on the Ducati I left his house at 28 degrees and rode for 3 hours. It eventually warmed up to just below 40. Add a 70mph wind chill and, well, it's pretty freaking cold.

What's the deal on the old straight 6's?

I do have my eye on this though:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Land-Rover-109-Series-III-3-4-ton-Military-Truck_W0QQitemZ290210003550QQcmdZViewItem?hash=ite m290210003550

[Kurt V]

The old straight sixes, like my Willys, are stump pullers with all their torque. Unfortunately they also only have around 120 horse power. Hello lower gear going up hills.

[r8er55]

If you are not dead set on a truck, I would reccomend a K5 Blazer.

[Hot Mess]

I'm thinking this (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://***********.com/rsovphoto.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.roversnorth.com/forums/showthread.php%3Ft%3D830&h=284&w=400&sz=23&hl=en&start=3&sig2=ZVFyMShzvJbmETJ3Qxd8Tg&um=1&tbnid=c8YBVxOyWXY5VM:&tbnh=88&tbnw=124&ei=yq_MR7HnDpeMigGK_LGUDg&prev=/images%3Fq%3Drsov%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfi refox-a%26channel%3Ds%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN)
If I didn't know better that's the ADAG on Hunter. And if I didn't know better than that,I say that MEDSOV was only driven in combat by one person, in one conflict:cool: :cool:

[TPD1280]

1970 F100 Ranger. Long bed, 2wd, 360.

I picked her up for $4K.

You can do better on the price if you are willing to do the paint/trim on your own.

[TPD1280]

If you're willing to road trip, I'll lend a hand and some tools. Swapping out an auto tranny is childs play.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1970-Ford-F-100-Pickup-Truck-LWB_W0QQitemZ200203390731QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item2 00203390731

After that it's all up to you to make it pretty.

[TPD1280]

Here's one that's already done:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/COLLECTORS-CLEAN-PRE-OWNED_W0QQitemZ150221827533QQcmdZViewItem?hash=ite m150221827533


Almost. The carpet needs help. And I'd get rid of that silly inline fuel filter just before the carb. Put a larger inline filter BEFORE the fuel pump. Mechanical fuel pumps like it when you filter the gas first.

[Whitebean54]

5779

My 84.....:D

It has a 302 V8 and is 4wd. I have a few things I gonna replace come summer time like the suspension, the motor is going to get a few goodies and some larger tires are a must.

[Derka Derka]

Kid A
A 1972 Chevy Fleetside shortbed is a tough but great find...
72 is great because it and the 71 were the first years chevy put disc brakes on their trucks and they also have the standard 5 lug pattern, so you can easily find nice wheels for it ...
go for a factory ac truck as well if possible...
also the 72 had a bucket seat option that was really rare for the trucks..but standard on their vans... so that is an easy upgrade... their interiors were also 72 only ... door has a distinct marking as well as unique for that year door panels...their are tons of aftermarket companies that offer restoratio nparts as well.....
and you can put pretty much put anything under the hood GM...
the top model being:
1972 Chevy Super Cheyenne 1/2 ton shortbed fleetside with 402ci big block
factory bucket seats with center console. IMHO a beautiful truck.

http://www.oldride.com/classic_trucks/782673.html
not the best link but the quickest I can find..

[Derka Derka]

by the way .. a factory 4wd is an even rarer find ... as only a few hundred were ever made with a shortbed....

[KSM]

I do have my eye on this though:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Land-Rover-109-Series-III-3-4-ton-Military-Truck_W0QQitemZ290210003550QQcmdZViewItem?hash=ite m290210003550

That one definitely has the cool factor, I like it. My buddy has an old International Scout that he swears by, though I don't really know anything about them. Might be worth a look.

[Carl Spackler]

Good record and bought it used.
5781
Triton 5.4, 4WD, auto, no electric nothing, 1000watt audio system, gets 10 miles to the gallon, bullet proof. Good for me maybe not for you.

[Cujo]

What's the deal on the old straight 6's?



http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Land-Rover-109-Series-III-3-4-ton-Military-Truck_W0QQitemZ290210003550QQcmdZViewItem?hash=ite m290210003550

You have good taste.
The inline 6 is a pretty reliable motor, IMO. A little under powered, but reliable.

[RGR.Montcalm]

I'm thinking this (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://***********.com/rsovphoto.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.roversnorth.com/forums/showthread.php%3Ft%3D830&h=284&w=400&sz=23&hl=en&start=3&sig2=ZVFyMShzvJbmETJ3Qxd8Tg&um=1&tbnid=c8YBVxOyWXY5VM:&tbnh=88&tbnw=124&ei=yq_MR7HnDpeMigGK_LGUDg&prev=/images%3Fq%3Drsov%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfi refox-a%26channel%3Ds%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN)
If I didn't know better that's the ADAG on Hunter. And if I didn't know better than that,I say that MEDSOV was only driven in combat by one person, in one conflict:cool: :cool:

What is really sad is that there are 5 of the RSOVs here at Campbell out at Range Control waiting their turn to become targets. They are using 2 of them to run around the range complex the last time I was out there. Still had the 'seat belts' in them...

[MBTex]

This looks pretty cool.

http://www.vintageoffroad.com/_cache/5d1cb688f922dd328bd58e1f94b1112d.jpg

http://www.vintageoffroad.com/viewvehicle.cfm?id=602

[KidA]

What about this one?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1973-CHEVY-CUSTOM-DELUXE-20-3-4-TON-RESTORED-454_W0QQitemZ130201657003QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1 30201657003

[KSM]

What about this one?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1973-CHEVY-CUSTOM-DELUXE-20-3-4-TON-RESTORED-454_W0QQitemZ130201657003QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1 30201657003

I'm no car expert, but that looks like a damn nice truck. That 454 will probably suck down the gas, though.

[eltrane]

Any US engine made prior to 75 will need hardened valve seats to burn unleaded, unless you want to add lead. This may be outdated info, it's been a few years since my last older car.

[Cujo]

X2 on that 454 big block. Go with a 350 mill and don't look back.

[KidA]

X2 on that 454 big block. Go with a 350 mill and don't look back.


What's the MPG difference in a 454 and a 350 (this would be on a 2-wheel drive). I'm not about whomping on it, that's what I've got bikes for.

[Cujo]

What's the MPG difference in a 454 and a 350 (this would be on a 2-wheel drive). I'm not about whomping on it, that's what I've got bikes for.


With the 454 you'd be lucky to pull 12 MPG on the highway. You should get close to 20 MPG with a 350. Remember that gearing/tire size can play into this as well.

[Scotty]

I'm considering picking up a used 92 Range Rover shortly, just for something to haul things in and piddle around in. It's the "County" edition with the spring kit, etc. It'll be my first SUV, and a gas guzzler, but I figure the price has to go down SOME DAY, and the price of the Rover is low.

Scott

[ET1/ss nuke]

That one definitely has the cool factor, I like it. My buddy has an old International Scout that he swears by, though I don't really know anything about them. Might be worth a look.

My dad had an early 70s model Scout II. They are built like tanks with dependable engines and drive trains. They can haul big heavy loads or two a boat trailer with ease, or you can fold up the back seat and put an air mattress back there to make it a love machine. They are a bit top-heavy, and they love the taste of gasoline, but their biggest flaw is that the body has a strong tendency to rust, especially the roof which is flat enough to hold water. That's why you see some of them with the roof cut off, because you would get wet inside in a rainstorm anyway.

[KidA]

Yeah I've never seen a Scout that doesn't have the cancer.

Dude with the orange truck

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1973-CHEVY-CUSTOM-DELUXE-20-3-4-TON-RESTORED-454_W0QQitemZ130201657003QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item1 30201657003

Said the winning bidder didn't show up.

But fuck. I don't want to only get 12 mpg and I think my bank approved me on the loan if I want to get it ($6300). It was appraised for $13,878 by the bank).

It would cost me about $130 to get to my dad's and back, which is why I wanted a truck in the first place.

Then again it's so f'ing nice I'd hate to pass on it.

[KidA]

double tap

[Hot Mess]

What is really sad is that there are 5 of the RSOVs here at Campbell out at Range Control waiting their turn to become targets. They are using 2 of them to run around the range complex the last time I was out there. Still had the 'seat belts' in them...


I just wiped a tear from my eye:(

[Scotty]

Sounds like one of mods here known for such things should "acquire" them. :d

I'm just saying.

Scotty

[Hot Mess]

Sounds like one of mods here known for such things should "acquire" them. :d

I'm just saying.

Scotty


I'd buy one in a heartbeat. In fact I was looking a while ago for one, to no avail. Think how frickin' cool that would be to run errands in:cool: I mean shit, who's gunna tell you to put on your kevlar:p


OK my all time favorite RSOV story. I just got to batt and we went and did RSOV live fires. In between iterations my tm ldr takes me and another cherry to do some NOD's driving, cool. So we are coming back and crossing the highway (Ft. Stewart). Blacked out under NOD's we see a family pulled over eating on the side of the road while dad is looking at a map. We haul ass by them, out of no where, screaming and yelling. The family flips out! Dad starts the car and they beat feet at a double time:D One of my all time favorite moments in batt.

[ET1/ss nuke]

The coolest vehicle I ever got to play with was called a mule. It was literally an overgrown motorized rollerskate. I have no idea what the official military name for it was, but it had low inflation tires that could go through mud and nothing remotely resembling a safety feature anywhere.

[KidA]

The coolest vehicle I ever got to play with was called a mule. It was literally an overgrown motorized rollerskate. I have no idea what the official military name for it was, but it had low inflation tires that could go through mud and nothing remotely resembling a safety feature anywhere.

Was it this?

http://rivrdog.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/mule2.jpg

http://www.webewebbiers.com/vietnam/images/eglzkathleen/Army%20Mule%201970.jpg

[ET1/ss nuke]

Yeah, that's it, except the one in the picture has a padded seat instead of just metal one. The padding would definitely be a nice touch.

[MBTex]

Saw this on another site I visit.

Location: Allen, Texas
Price: $5,500
1961 Chevrolet Apache 10 Short Wheel Base Pickup
-Big Back Window
-One owner until 2007 (Bought new in Texas & never left)
-Original paint (0 rust, just Patina)
-235 six with 3 speed
-Factory chrome front & rear bumpers.
-Lowered 3 inches
-Nice vinyl seat cover.
-New Firestone 6.70 x 15 Wide White Walls (have original hubcaps)
-Runs & drives good.
-Solid untouched original survivor pickup.
$5,500

Can e-mail more pictures if serious.
Call (972)396-9502
http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=421967&d=1204999323

[KidA]

I think I got one - at least I put the winning bid on one:

1970 Chevy C-10 Long bed fleetside. 350 V-8 with factory working A/C.

[eltrane]

That is a cool looking truck, time to ditch those wheels though.

[Cujo]

Good choice. That truck has plenty of build-up potential. You know what you are doing with build-ups, so I am sure it is only a matter of time before the bug bites you. :D

[Derka Derka]

Yeah thats a good choice... get some factory rally wheels for it and it will look pretty close to original...I would try to stick with 71-72 for the disc brakes but if the AC is working .... youre better off.... you can always make the disc brake conversion for about 1200 bucks, if you were so inclined. Anyways good choice... hope youget it...

[Sharky]

Sounds like one of mods here known for such things should "acquire" them. :D

I'm just saying.

Scotty




I've become more mature and cultured since those days. Although, my auto-theft skills aren't too shabby these days. Which range are they on again? :D

[KSM]

Not to knock the dust off an old thread, but I just saw this truck and had to throw it up here. If only I had an extra 18K lying around, it's only like 90 minutes from me...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Custom-4X4-Chevy_W0QQitemZ150225857403QQcmdZViewItem?hash=ite m150225857403

[Mini-Poly]

Not to knock the dust off an old thread, but I just saw this truck and had to throw it up here. If only I had an extra 18K lying around, it's only like 90 minutes from me...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Custom-4X4-Chevy_W0QQitemZ150225857403QQcmdZViewItem?hash=ite m150225857403


That thing is sick! Freaking solar power! It would cost about $150.00 to fill the tank,but well worth it. Nice find. This thing is a one of kind.

[CA SGT]

I had a 72 Chevy cheyenne short bed in high school. Loved that truck and would like to find another one to tinker with.
I have a 2001 Toyota Tacoma 4wd, TRD, that I drive daily, as well as 4wd anywhere Im brave enough to take it, albeit carefully. I dont think you can go wrong with a Toyota truck. The FJ40 Landcruiser is legendary as well

[Scotty]

Well, despite the rising price of gas and the fact that I already had three vehicles (counting my motorcycle) I decided to pick up a truck I always wanted. '92 Range Rover County, V8, leather, "roo bar" in front and towing package. Who's up for a road trip? :D

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h244/wesari/Rover.jpg

To those who're wondering, yes, I still have the Cadi. I can't pimp without it.

Scotty

[KidA]

Well I got it. Flew into Huntsville, Alabama on Thursday, drove straight through to Farmville, VA and arrived at 6 am to my dad's. Stayed over until Saturday and drove to DC on Sat.

Only problem is it has a 650 cfm Edelbrock carb and they didn't have the choke hooked up (elect. choke) so in 30 degree weather the choke was staying on. I didn't realize it until the next day at my dad's. Wired the choke shut with some breadties until I can get some electric juice running to it so it will shut off. Was seriously sucking gas with the choke on and did much better once it was off.

other problem is the heater lever is broken because the cable is rusted in the housing (that's how they broke it - trying to force it), so I was in a metal truck for three or four hours freezing my ass off because I couldn't turn it from AC to heat - stopped at a truck stop and stuffed my legs into a sweatshirt, covered my head with a t-shirt, and zipped up my jacket and tried to sleep for a couple hours. Woke up with deadarm, went and got gas, was shivering and then remembered:

the stupid lever just pulls a valve open and closed that allows the hot water from the radiator to flow into the core. Popped the hood, found the valve, turned it to heat and was on my way.