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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => 73-87 Chevy & GMC Trucks => Topic started by: tnclark1970 on June 06, 2023, 01:23:16 PM

Title: 81 GMC 2500 350 block High Sierra Camper Special Restoration Project
Post by: tnclark1970 on June 06, 2023, 01:23:16 PM

Hello, I am new to forum and I have owned a 1981 GMC for sevveral years.Been close to selling  a few times but since the body and frame are still quite good (engine compression is 110 unofficially) , it still runs...I think I would like to start restoring it because I love the body and how it handles all my flower farm materials/lumber etc. I am not a mechanic but have a few who are willing to work on it here and there. I am looking for info on
1) what tire/rim options are for this truck it has 8 lugs and 16.5 at the moment hard to find 16.5 tires so far
2)muffler options
3) maybe how long it will run at 110 compression?

Any tips, advice or info on this model would be great!

Title: Re: 81 GMC 2500 350 block High Sierra Camper Special Restoration Project
Post by: JohnnyPopper on June 06, 2023, 02:27:35 PM

Welcome from So Cal San Diego!

Aftermarket wheels are plentiful, depends on your taste, that goes for mufflers- loud or quiet, or somewhere in between.

110 across the board? Did you check what the stock spec is for that year/model/size? I would start there.

Title: Re: 81 GMC 2500 350 block High Sierra Camper Special Restoration Project
Post by: Shifty on June 06, 2023, 05:14:25 PM

1981 had low, low compression, if the 110 is roughly the same on all cylinders, and doesn't use oil excessively, I wouldn't worry.

Welcome from AZ!  8)

Title: Re: 81 GMC 2500 350 block High Sierra Camper Special Restoration Project
Post by: Mr Diesel on June 06, 2023, 07:33:58 PM

For tires check Walmart.com. Distributors all over the country sell on their website. They can ship directly to your house and have great prices. Select tires that have lots of good reviews.