73-87chevytrucks.com

73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Members Rides => Topic started by: hobbz on November 25, 2013, 06:47:22 am

Title: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on November 25, 2013, 06:47:22 am
Bought the truck last week for $600 with plans to park it in the garage and start working on it.  It will be my project for the winter, and probably longer.

Starting pics:

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9036-2/r10-10.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9026-2/r10-08.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9001-2/r10-03.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9046-2/r10-12.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9016-2/r10-06.jpg)


Sitting in the garage:

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9021-2/r10-07.jpg)


Degreasing the engine:

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9051-2/r10-01_001.jpg)


Hood, bumper and grill off:

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9091-2/r10-09_001.jpg)


Bed and rear bumper off:

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9100-2/r10-11_001.jpg)


Passenger fender off:

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9105-2/r10-14.jpg)


So far I have ordered the 5 piece cab repair kits for both sides and a flip kit for the rear.  I am limiting my spending to about $200 a month on it, so the wife doesn't complain too much.  Plans are to lower it 5/6 spindles and springs up front and flip kit in the rear. clean the frame up and paint it. fix rockers and cab corners. hopefully find a new bed in better shape that the one I have. Find new seats to replace the crappy mustang seats that are bolted to 2x4's in it right now. All new autometer gauges. Then next winter I will hopefully have a 350 ready to put in it.

It has a TBI 305 in it with a 700R4 all stock. As far as I can tell the truck is unmolested except for the seats.  It even still has the factory radio and the hole has not been cut out for a "new" radio.  It even has the owners manual in the glove box still.

Best I can tell is the truck is 3 owner and between the 1st and 2nd owners it sat for a few years. Which explains why the drivers side is rusted and the passenger isn't...

Title: Re: 1987 R10 Build
Post by: solve4x on November 25, 2013, 07:15:21 am
It will be fun to watch this one!  Keep the great pics coming as it progresses.
Do you plan to keep it original?  or do something different with it?

Have fun!
Scott
Title: Re: 1987 R10 Build
Post by: hobbz on November 25, 2013, 08:00:00 am
Plans are 5/6 drop, maybe a little more. Front and rear roll pans. tonneu cover. ~500hp 350 carbed. locker with wide tires in the back. probably 16" wheels on all 4 corners. Paint will be electric blue pearl with black accents and VERY LITTLE chrome.  interior will be black.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 Build
Post by: hobbz on November 26, 2013, 08:13:59 am
Got some more done this morning. Got the drivers fender off, and got a coat of black on the rear frame. While I was painting, I noticed there is a broken leaf in the spring pack on the passenger side... my solution will be to just pull the broken one, and pull the same one out on the drivers side...haha

Pics from today:
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9109-2/r10-15.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9114-2/r10-16.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9119-2/r10-17.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9124-2/r10-18.jpg)

If you look at the hood, you can see what I am dealing with today, snow, sleet, and rain...
Title: Re: 1987 R10 Build
Post by: hobbz on November 28, 2013, 07:44:52 am
I got some boxes yesterday that said they were from some guy named Chris Lucas... Guess it's time to start on the rockers and cab corners.

On a side note, I have decided to go with the jegs 355ci 385hp crate engine when the time comes...
Title: Re: 1987 R10 Build
Post by: hobbz on November 30, 2013, 09:29:11 am
Finally got a chance to work on it again for a little while today.  I got the inner fenders off, which took about 10 minutes...haha  Also took the seats out, which took a little longer. The genius that put them in used 4 different size bolts, and you can see by the pic, one corner was supported by wood.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9133-2/r10-19.jpg)

On the bright side, I pulled the rubber mat back and scrapped the liner off the floor, and to my surprise the floor was not rusty at all. I took a pic to it and couldn't find any spot that was weak. I put the wire brush on the grinder and hit it a little, and it looks in pretty good shape. 

Tomorrow I hope I can finish cleaning out the interior.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 Build
Post by: solve4x on November 30, 2013, 01:33:41 pm
Nice floors!...my 87 floors, not so nice...what's left any way.
Keep the pics and updates coming!
Title: Re: 1987 R10 Build
Post by: hobbz on December 01, 2013, 09:18:10 am
Got the rest of the interior cleaned out today.  I am ready to start cutting the old rockers and cab corners.

Here are a few pics from today...

How many people got this stuff with their truck???
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9143-2/r10-21.jpg)


(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9148-2/r10-22.jpg)


Drivers side, you can see there is more rust over here.
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9156-2/r10-24.jpg)

Title: Re: 1987 R10 Build
Post by: hobbz on December 06, 2013, 01:25:20 pm
Started cutting on the passenger side today. Found some bondo and rust on the b pillar higher than the cab corner will go so I had to order another piece of metal. Also, the kick panel is a little worse than I thought so I will be ordering that too...

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9205-2/r10-34.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9209-2/r10-35.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9214-2/r10-36.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 Build
Post by: STxMunky on December 06, 2013, 01:47:14 pm
I love these detailed top-to-bottom restoration articles. Keep it up!
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on December 22, 2013, 08:15:41 am
Update.

Finally started welding... It is nice to have a buddy that has done it before. We hope to finish up next weekend.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9356-2/r10-42.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9361-2/r10-43.jpg)

Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: dvdswan on December 22, 2013, 12:03:40 pm
awesome work.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on December 23, 2013, 10:11:08 pm
Cut some of the drivers side out...

Also I now have to pull the trans and replace the flexplate. It is broke or the bolts on the crank are loose.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bob75 on December 23, 2013, 11:48:57 pm
glad i am in calif after seeing the rust some guys have
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on December 24, 2013, 12:48:02 pm
glad i am in calif after seeing the rust some guys have

I will take my rust and country living over all the nonsense in Cali any day...lol



No progress on the rust, but got the driveshaft out and exhaust and exhaust manifolds off in preparation for pulling the transmission.  Also got my headers and ball joints in.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9376-2/r10-46.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9381-2/r10-47.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9395-2/r10-50.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9371-2/r10-45.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9385-2/r10-48.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on December 25, 2013, 09:02:44 pm
glad i am in calif after seeing the rust some guys have

I will take my rust and country living over all the nonsense in Cali any day...lol

      That is the reason why I moved more out into the country and am looking to buy even out a little bit more.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bob75 on December 26, 2013, 09:12:24 pm
thanks guys...i will take my 360 days of sunshine anytime...my family lives in east tenn...too humid for me...but beautiful...i just drove a 78 c20 back from there   (orig cali truck so no rust)...and am building a 74 shortbed...i am just amazed at the work you have to put into some of the trucks back east...meanwhile i have four rust free trucks sitting in my yard....i need a flat bed...keep up the nice work though...fun to see the progress of these trucks from start to finish
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on December 28, 2013, 01:37:28 pm
More progress today.  My cousin(the welder) come over and we pretty much got the passenger side knocked out this morning, and he started on the drivers side. I had to leave for work, but when I left he had the floor and kick panel tacked into place already. Hoping he gets the drivers side to a point that I can finish it myself. I can weld half way decent...lol  I still have to weld a little more on the passenger side and grind and fill everything.

Pics:
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9405-2/r10-52.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9415-2/r10-54.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9400-2/r10-51.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9420-2/r10-55.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9425-2/r10-56.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: dvdswan on December 28, 2013, 10:36:20 pm
nice progress.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on January 04, 2014, 09:40:05 pm
Got some work done today. Finished welding everything into place, did some sanding and bondo work on the passenger side. Also got the front and back glass out.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9435-2/r10-58.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9444-2/r10-60.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9448-2/r10-61.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9453-2/r10-62.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9463-2/r10-64.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: velojym on January 04, 2014, 10:14:51 pm
Oy... yer makin' me feel pretty danged lazy there!
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on January 05, 2014, 09:53:20 pm
Little more progress today.  Got the drivers side welds ground down, and the first coat of filler on. Also did a little more sanding on the passenger side and got it primed.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9468-2/r10-65.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9478-2/r10-67.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9483-2/r10-68.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: Venton on January 06, 2014, 04:15:00 pm
OK, you've managed to officially make me feel like I'm lazy. You've done more in 2 months then I've done in 6 months. lol!! Not only that, but what you've done so far really looks FANTASTIC! Keep up the great work and keep those pics coming!!
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on January 06, 2014, 05:09:23 pm
Thanks.  Next I am going to pull the transmission and replace the broken flexplate. Then pull what's left of the interior. Then I will start sanding, and prime the entire cab. 
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: dvdswan on January 06, 2014, 08:07:48 pm
OK, you've managed to officially make me feel like I'm lazy. You've done more in 2 months then I've done in 6 months. lol!! Not only that, but what you've done so far really looks FANTASTIC! Keep up the great work and keep those pics coming!!

I have to agree with your statement.  I've been slacken on the body work on my other truck... I blame the lack of heat in my garage.  lol
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on January 06, 2014, 11:12:00 pm
OK, you've managed to officially make me feel like I'm lazy. You've done more in 2 months then I've done in 6 months. lol!! Not only that, but what you've done so far really looks FANTASTIC! Keep up the great work and keep those pics coming!!

I have to agree with your statement.  I've been slacken on the body work on my other truck... I blame the lack of heat in my garage.  lol

Well I just got a new torpedo heater for my garage so heat isn't an issue. Rated for 3300sq ft and the garage is only 700sq ft
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: velojym on January 07, 2014, 06:39:25 pm
My garage is part of a full basement in my house. Without any additional heat or cooling, it's pretty comfy year round. I've just been shamefully lazy, and maybe a little nervous about screwing up my truck.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: Venton on January 08, 2014, 06:05:50 pm
OK, you've managed to officially make me feel like I'm lazy. You've done more in 2 months then I've done in 6 months. lol!! Not only that, but what you've done so far really looks FANTASTIC! Keep up the great work and keep those pics coming!!

I have to agree with your statement.  I've been slacken on the body work on my other truck... I blame the lack of heat in my garage.  lol

Well I just got a new torpedo heater for my garage so heat isn't an issue. Rated for 3300sq ft and the garage is only 700sq ft

At least you both have garages! I think that's the biggest thing I miss in this house. I have a good size shed where I can do engines, transmissions etc... (Could probable fit the cab in it if I had too.) But I can't fit a whole vehicle in it. So I now have to work outside, and with it being 5 degrees the last few days and either raining and/snowing at least once a week, everything has come to a halt.

I actually thought about building another garage, but the County wants as much for permits and other fees as the garage would cost. So all I can do right now, is sit here and watch all of you work on your rides and pray it gets warm again....soon. So please keep the post and pics coming!!! 
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on January 09, 2014, 03:42:57 pm
I haven't made any progress in the last few days. That work thing gets in the way. I am off till Tuesday now, so I am going to try and get the cab sanded down and if time allows, primed. I am off week after next, so I am going to try and have the cab ready to paint by then.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on January 10, 2014, 05:00:06 pm
Progress today.  Sanded the rest of the rear of the truck, and primed it and the B pillars. There is no more bare metal showing... Also got the interior/dash stripped down. I am hoping to get the interior sanded tomorrow so it will be ready for paint.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9508-2/r10-73.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9513-2/r10-74.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on January 12, 2014, 11:37:47 am
More progress today, but not body work.  I have decided to go ahead and pull the engine and transmission. Today I pulled the radiator, fan, core support, fan shroud, water pump, and alternator.  I also got all of the wiring unhooked from the engine, now I need to crawl under it and get everything unhooked from the transmission.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9536-2/r10-79.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9541-2/r10-80.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on January 12, 2014, 12:07:22 pm
     Did you pull engine/trans combo for ease of body work, or are you getting more detailed in your rebuild ?
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on January 12, 2014, 12:23:27 pm
Both.  I had planned on doing the engine/trans next winter, but with the leaks and noise at idle(flexplate i think), I decided to pull it now so I can paint the engine bay at the same time as the rest of the body.  Now to decide if I want to get a 350 and build it myself or just get a crate engine...
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: Skyshadow on January 13, 2014, 12:43:42 am
Subscribed  :)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on March 04, 2014, 07:54:26 pm
Plans changed. Not pulling the engine until next winter. Finally starting to work on it again now that it's warming up. Going Friday to pick up a good bed I found 6 hours away...
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/05/e2e7udun.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on April 10, 2014, 07:00:50 am
Big update...

Interior of cab is painted. Engine is out. Installed flip kit in rear. Installed 3" drop spindles up front. Cut 1 coil on Springs. New ball joints. Found a grill, fender, and seat. Also have some bed parts. Just need sides now. I will be putting in a built 350 out of my uncle's corvette this fall.

And now the important part... PICS

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/10/y7utuvuq.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/10/ragasaju.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/10/3y7umupa.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/10/vepe4yme.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/10/adavehes.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/10/se7aquqa.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on April 10, 2014, 09:08:40 am
     Cab looks good, now you just have to paint the doors to match.   ;D
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on April 10, 2014, 10:18:27 am
Lol yeah. I just put them back on to get them out of the way the other day.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: slammed79 on April 11, 2014, 09:10:34 am
Sweet build! 

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on May 23, 2014, 05:20:58 pm
Progress update...
Pass mirror holes welded and filled. Working on drivers door next chance I get.   Bought a stepside bed today. Should have it sitting on the truck next week.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/24/eqy9eqen.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/24/jyra5ura.jpg)

First time it has seen sunlight since I started last fall. I pulled it out to turn around to make it easier to work on the drivers side.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: FlatBlack77 on May 24, 2014, 06:31:57 am
awesome progress dude it should be pretty  sweet when its done
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on May 24, 2014, 07:04:08 am
     What type of mirrors are you going to be putting on your truck now ?
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on May 24, 2014, 08:59:13 am
probably the little square sport mirrors
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on May 25, 2014, 12:49:27 pm
Got one load ready to scrap. Still have 2 305 engines, 2 th350 transmissions, and a 700r4 to haul off if they don't sell next week.   I'm ready to get into high gear with getting the body finished, then on to the engine /Trans...

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/26/a2yparej.jpg)

The cab was a donor truck me and my cousin split.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on June 01, 2014, 01:09:11 pm
Got my bed today


(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/02/qe6u4umy.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on June 01, 2014, 02:40:16 pm
     Progress, we all like progress.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on June 04, 2014, 05:56:51 am
Little more progress. Had to drill most of the bolts, but got one fender off. There is one hole in the bedside that I am going to have to patch, but nothing bad. If the storm will hold off this afternoon, I am going to get the other fender off. Then will be time to break out the paint stripper.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/04/a5u8uquh.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on June 04, 2014, 07:18:37 pm
     Were the bolts rusted that bad or the heads stripped that you had to drill them ?
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on June 05, 2014, 07:08:02 pm
They heads stripped
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on June 10, 2014, 01:20:28 pm
Both fenders are now off, starting to take the bed apart now. Also got all of the factory wiring harness out of the truck. Going to use a new harness without all the extra wires since I won't have heat, radio, or much else...
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on June 21, 2014, 11:06:51 pm
Got the bed all apart today with a little help from the wife. going to start prepping them for pain and paint them next.

Next will be fuel tank between the rails in the back.  I am still hoping to get my engine this fall, and hope to have it drivable shortly after.  It will be far from perfect, but should be a fun toy.  The wife is already looking forward to taking a few trips to the drag strips. there are 2 1/8 mile and 1 1/4 mile tracks within 1.5 hours from me.


pics:

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9760-2/r10-126.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9765-2/r10-127.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 14, 2014, 12:21:12 pm
Been working a lot of overtime and haven't been able to work on the truck much.  Finally able to make some time this week, and got some more of the bed prepped for paint.  Also picked up a few parts for the engine bay yesterday.  I am picking up a 350 for it this weekend.

The manifold is a Edelbrock 2701, the carb is a 1405
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9836-2/r10-134.jpg)

The e-fan was a freebie, I just have to get the thermostat kit for it
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9801-2/r10-127_001.jpg)

No new pics of the truck, but if the weather is ok tomorrow, I am going to paint and put the bed box back together. I am also going to roll it outside to make it easier to drop the engine in.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 15, 2014, 03:33:10 pm
Bed is painted and together

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9861-2/r10-139.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 16, 2014, 03:53:46 pm
Picked up the engine today.  Going to wait till tomorrow to try and get it running.  Going to pull the exhaust manifolds, intake manifold, and plugs. Then put my new headers and intake/carb on and see if it will make some noise.

My wife helped me drop the engine in and roll the truck around today.
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9881-2/r10-143.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9886-2/r10-144.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 16, 2014, 05:27:38 pm
Got it stripped down and ready to go back together

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9896-2/r10-146.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on August 16, 2014, 09:31:05 pm
     Probably a good thing you at least inspected it as much as you did before you tried to fire it up.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 16, 2014, 09:53:02 pm
Yeah.  Everything looks good.  Checked the numbers on the heads and they are 601 heads which are from a 305.  I knew the engine had been built, just didn't know how.  From the numbers, it looks like the engine should be good up to about 4500rpm with monster low in torque.  I still don't know what cam or pistons...

I hope to get it fired out tomorrow as long as the wife doesn't keep me busy with honeydos...
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 17, 2014, 03:20:22 pm
Got the new intake on. cranked it over without the plugs in and it started building oil pressure. I put the plugs in, and went to crank it over again, and my jumper cables I was using for battery wires aren't big enough to let it crank enough to fire.  The cables were getting very hot.  I have the battery charging, and will pick up a 2 or 4 gauge battery wire tomorrow and try again... Guess I need to get some 93 octane gas too...
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 17, 2014, 11:52:18 pm
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/18/2epyta8a.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: solve4x on August 18, 2014, 03:02:31 pm
as long as the wife doesn't keep me busy with honeydos...

A wife willing to help with an engine swap job, deserves a few "honeydos"!!!!!
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 18, 2014, 04:17:16 pm
I did get it to fire up and run for a few seconds on starter fluid today. I had to work 16 today after working midnight last night so I didn't get time to really mess with it. I hope to get it running tomorrow and start putting the front end back together
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on August 18, 2014, 06:45:10 pm
as long as the wife doesn't keep me busy with honeydos...

A wife willing to help with an engine swap job, deserves a few "honeydos"!!!!!

      I will second that, especially since mine would not.   :)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 19, 2014, 12:49:53 pm
I finally got to start it!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVYguEBeMuU
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bd on August 19, 2014, 09:07:34 pm
Woo-Hoo!!  Sounds good!
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: FlatBlack77 on August 19, 2014, 10:39:10 pm
Woo-Hoo!!  Sounds good!
2nd!
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 19, 2014, 11:00:50 pm
It really was a huge relief to get it running. Now I know I can continue putting it back together and maybe drive it soonish.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 22, 2014, 03:23:37 pm
Got my wiring harness in the mail today... Going to be fun putting it in.
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9916-2/r10-150.jpg)

My core support mounts will be in tomorrow, and my other front fender will be here Tuesday.  I am running up to Jegs in Ohio to pick up my transmission and a few other odds and ends week after next.

Here is the latest pic of the engine bay
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/9911-2/r10-149.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 24, 2014, 01:08:17 pm
More progress today. Got the bed on. Tailgate hinges came in so tailgate is now on. Got the core support on and fender back on. Also test fit my grill that was a freebie.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/25/vuqy5e6e.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/25/5a9e4ebe.jpg)
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/25/5ebasu9u.jpg)

The headlights and turns are just resting there, that is why they look goofy...
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on August 24, 2014, 05:45:51 pm
     You are at least making progress.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: mikek20 on August 24, 2014, 10:26:34 pm
How far are you from jegs? I'm about an hour north of Cincinnati Ohio.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 25, 2014, 06:54:33 am
3 hours. I am just outside Ashland,KY
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 25, 2014, 07:33:44 pm
Wiring today went ok.  I got all the column connections done. I got all the head/tail wires pulled and in loom. Just have to hook them into the plugs now.  As soon as my fender gets here(tomorrow hopefully), I can set the battery in place and finish all of the engine bay wiring.  No pics for today.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on August 26, 2014, 07:12:42 pm
All of the interior wiring is done. Got the new passenger fender on and shimmed up. Did a little wiring in the  engine bay, but need a longer battery cable to clear the headers.  Got my wife to help bleed the brakes.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on September 05, 2014, 10:46:14 am
Day before yesterday I pushed the truck out of the garage and cleaned the garage up.
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/10035-2/r10-163.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/10040-2/r10-164.jpg)

Then yesterday I got all of the water lines hooked up and got it filled with water. I also hooked up the alternator today.  Check out my sweet overflow tank.
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/10030-2/r10-162.jpg)

I also sanded and painted the hood and cowl piece. Sorry no pics of that.

Today's progress: Wire up headlights and front turn signals, put grill on, seat cover, new door seals, put door panels on.  Going to wire the tail lights tomorrow and then start on the dash. My aluminum bezel will be here today and I am going with autometer phantom gauges.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/10205-2/r10--166.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/10210-2/r10--167.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/10215-2/r10--168.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/10220-2/r10--165.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on September 16, 2014, 04:15:52 pm
Hood on, dash pad on,  all wiring done, and I lost a few Springs in the back.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/09/17/ynuna8e4.jpg)

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/09/17/jabujy8u.jpg)

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/09/17/tynyja5y.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bd on September 16, 2014, 04:27:49 pm
Lookin' goooood!   8)    The milestones feel great, don't they?
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on September 16, 2014, 04:53:13 pm
Yeah, I'm picking the transmission up next week while on vacation. Then it will be drivable
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on October 07, 2014, 04:11:22 pm
Been a while, but I come with pics...  I didn't get the transmission while on vacation. My wife told me if I wait till the end of October, I could get a better one from summit/jegs...

I did order some of the gauges, and the fuel cell. The straps are on backorder, and won't have them until next week. 

I plan on running the hard line along the rail this weekend.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/10/08/pyrutere.jpg)

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/10/08/jetyvyvy.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: bake74 on October 13, 2014, 08:19:32 am
     Looking good, nice progress at least.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on October 19, 2014, 07:32:23 pm
I bought a second bed for 200 the other day. I just needed the fenders off of it. I got them off today and test fitted on my bed to see how the stance of the truck is, and to measure for wheels.

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/10/20/y9u4eja4.jpg)

I also drove 3 hours to Louisville for a big swap meet today and didn't buy a thing, but would have bought these if they had them in 17x8 in Stock. They are the wheels I am going with.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/10/20/e8uhyvaj.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: FlatBlack77 on October 19, 2014, 10:18:54 pm
gonna look awesome dude
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on November 14, 2014, 07:11:12 pm
Finally got a day off work and got to work on the truck again.

Today I revisited the fuel tank.  I took it back off and added foam to the straps to keep the wear down and make the fit better.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11178-2/r10-188.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11183-2/r10-189.jpg)

My rear roll pan came in today as well, so I threw it on while I was at it. 

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11173-2/r10-187.jpg)


My front roll pan should be here tomorrow, and I will hopefully cut the frame and install it.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on November 15, 2014, 10:05:49 am
So today's progress.

I woke up early and ran to Lowes to pick up the wood for my bed as I am going to my dad's tomorrow and he has a wood shop and is going to help my cut them down and groove them.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11203-2/r10-193.jpg)

When I got back home, FedEx had dropped off my front roll pan.  I took it up to my garage and proceeded to cut my frame so it would fit, and fit it into place roughly.  I really don't want to weld it to the fenders, but not sure it will look right otherwise.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11213-2/r10-195.jpg)
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on November 16, 2014, 05:37:40 pm
Today my dad and I cut the wood for the bed, then I came back home and got the first layer of poly on them.

Half covered:
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11228-2/r10-197.jpg)

First coat:
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11223-2/r10-196.jpg)

Tomorrow I will get the 2nd coat on the top and after that dries, flip it over and get the back.  Hopefully I will have my stainless strips in sometime this week, and can get it all installed.
Title: Re: 1987 R10 - Low and Slow
Post by: hobbz on November 17, 2014, 12:34:10 pm
My last day off work for a while.  I finished the stain/poly on the boards.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11258-2/r10-203.jpg)

Then I had to do the test to see how they will look

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11273-2/r10-206.jpg)

Then I started on another project, my electronics panel.  This panel will replace the climate controls.  This one was just a test to see how it would look. 

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11263-2/r10-204.jpg)
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on November 22, 2014, 04:33:35 pm


Made a little more progress today.  Over the last few days, my bed strips came in, and also my battery box/tray came in. It is one that I can mount on the firewall.

I can't attach the middle board till I figure out what fuel door I want to install and cut the hole for it.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11278-2/r10-210.jpg)
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: bd on November 23, 2014, 05:00:12 pm
Coming along nicely!
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: FlatBlack77 on November 23, 2014, 07:42:15 pm
nice bed
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on November 25, 2014, 11:04:21 am
Little more work today.

I installed my new firewall mount battery box/tray and shortened and cleaned up the battery wires.

Installed with lost of extra and ugly wires.
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11313-2/r10-214.jpg)

Cleaned up
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11308-2/r10-213.jpg)
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on November 25, 2014, 05:43:03 pm
2nd update for today.  UPS delivered my gas door, and it was still early enough that I decided to install it.  I am pretty happy with how it turned out.  I need to pick up some longer bolts for it still though.  I also need to decide if I want to cut the strips or the door base. I am thinking just trim the lip on the strips...

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11318-2/r10-217.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11323-2/r10-218.jpg)

Here you can see why I think I need to trim the lip of the strips

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11328-2/r10-219.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11338-2/r10-216.jpg)
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on November 26, 2014, 07:59:03 pm
I got my electronics panel done.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11343-2/r10-221.jpg)
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: Dan75k20 on November 27, 2014, 09:08:12 pm
Hobbz its looking good
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on February 03, 2015, 05:39:19 pm
Finally some progress...

Picked up a transmission(th350) and over the last couple day, I got it in the truck along with a new 2400 stall converter.  I put in braided stainless cooler lines as well. 
Today I was able to button it up and start the truck. Good news is the back wheels now spin.  Bad news is the back wheels don't stop.  Looks like I need to put in some new wheel cylinders...

I am off this coming weekend for 4 days, so hopefully the truck will see a road test...
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on February 10, 2015, 08:10:15 am
Parts are on the way...
Locker, sway bar, brake stuff, bed steps, seat belts, will all be here today and tomorrow.

Wheel Cylinders weren't bad, not getting fluid to them. Determined it was the proportioning valve...
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on March 17, 2015, 02:01:23 pm
First time out of the garage in over a year under its own power...

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11597-2/r10-222.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11602-2/r10-223.jpg)
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on April 10, 2015, 07:10:44 pm
Got me some old school cragar ss wheels...

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/10/669b4cb2f15560a2175e3263453bc9a0.jpg)

You can really tell in this pic that I need to replace my cab bushings too...
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: WillSquared on April 10, 2015, 11:14:12 pm
Looks good.  What lugs do those use?  I've found two styles of the cragars.  One uses shank lugs and one uses conical lugs and I wondered which was better for our trucks?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on April 11, 2015, 05:42:27 am
These use the shank lugs. Regular lugs would even start threading on.  I don't know that one is better than the other, just whichever the wheel is made for is what you have to use.
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: FlatBlack77 on April 11, 2015, 08:19:51 am
Hobbz is right about the lugs. it doesnt depend on the vehicle it depends on the wheel and what style lugs the wheels are designed for.

i LOVE the Cragar SS look on these trucks! i hardly ever see it. id love to find a staggered set

your truck is looking better and better 8)
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: Stepside Billy on April 25, 2015, 02:27:09 am
Wow, that is coming along nice!
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on May 05, 2015, 12:20:35 pm
Need some help...  Should I lower the front a little more?  I just can't decide.

(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11787-2/r10-248.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11742-2/r10-252.jpg)
(http://www.hobbz-garage.com/gallery/d/11757-2/r10-255.jpg)
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: FlatBlack77 on May 05, 2015, 02:52:11 pm
i say YES
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: roundhouse on May 08, 2015, 09:53:58 am
I'd make the space between the front tire and top of fender match the rear

Lowered a little more should do it


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: FlatBlack77 on May 08, 2015, 07:29:42 pm
I'd make the space between the front tire and top of fender match the rear


that would be perfect
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: Car10s on May 09, 2015, 09:37:32 am
I am impressed with the before and after! I would go maybe an inch lower in the front and no more.
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on May 16, 2015, 01:28:52 pm
I am impressed with the before and after! I would go maybe an inch lower in the front and no more.
Thanks.  I think I am going to drive it like this some and see if the front end settles any.

I ordered new bushings for the cab. They will be here Monday and hopefully I will have time to get them in.

I still need a windshield and need to install my locker before I start driving it.
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on May 21, 2015, 02:44:54 pm
Changed my cab mount bushings and installed my locker today.
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: FlatBlack77 on May 22, 2015, 08:39:26 pm
how did the bushings go? i need to do the same thing on my 77
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on May 22, 2015, 09:48:35 pm
Had to use breaker bar to break the bolts loose. After that the impact took them the rest of the way out.  Did both on each side at a time.
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: FlatBlack77 on May 23, 2015, 06:49:18 am
did you get Energy Suspension? or another brand
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on May 23, 2015, 08:10:13 am
I went back with stock replacement
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: FlatBlack77 on May 23, 2015, 11:46:55 am
thanks dude keep the progress coiming!
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on May 23, 2015, 09:42:04 pm
Picked up some spinner center caps yesterday at the Springfield Ohio swap meet.
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on May 30, 2015, 04:14:54 pm
I printed some adapters so I could use 3 3/8 gauges instead of enlarging the hole for 5" gauges.

Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: Cane on May 30, 2015, 06:46:54 pm
Real nice truck, hobbz, I just read all of your journey.... I have tons of questions on the wiring... What kit did you get and where? Did you just tear out and start new? Timeline for all? Thanks man and keep it up!
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on May 30, 2015, 08:21:19 pm
I bought the wire harness from ebay, just search hot rod wiring harness...

Yes, I tore every single factory wire out of the truck and started fresh, including new headlight and parking light sockets.

I have been working on the truck for about a year and a half just as a project.  Probably could have been to the point I am now in just a few months if you worked on it every day after work.
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: Cane on May 30, 2015, 08:27:49 pm
What was your timeline from start to finish on the wiring? seems like you did it in about 2 days...any diagrams that helped you? TIA!
Title: Re: Project 87 Short Step
Post by: hobbz on May 30, 2015, 09:06:31 pm
I was able to get it wired enough to start in a day or 2. Lights and stuff I just did as I got time later on.

Make sure you have a gm column wiring diagram