1984 k10 restoration

[Justin84k10]

Hello, I have recently purchased a 1984 k10 and am looking to restore it. The truck needs a lot of work as it was used as a plow truck by the previous owner. None of the gauges work and head lights do not fully work, it's missing the driver side fuel tank, and lots of other issues. I have taken the bed off of it and that is shot but I am thinking of flat bedding it. I currently looking at some cabs, frames, engines and transmissions on Craig's list. It currently has a 305 or 350 and an auto tranny but I want to get a 454 or built 350 and an sm456 for it. Not sure what's the best way to go with anything, this is my first project truck and don't have too much experience but want to fix it myself for the most part. Any suggestions or advice would be helpful, thanks.

[Irish_Alley]

first thing is work on the safety issues. make sure your brake lines are in good working order.

[philo_beddoe]

Watch those fingers if using a sledge hammer!!  This is coming from experience. 

[philo_beddoe]

Oh, i did a little searching for ya, found a nice economy chevy crate engine.

http://m.chevrolet.com/performance/crate-engines/big-block-anniversary-427.html#.VjDnE1_3bCQ