86 short box advice needed

[24storm]

Hello everyone

I recently bought a 86 short box fleet side that i am looking to restore. Most of the body work has already been done just has a small amount of rust behind the rear wheels. Rockers and cab corners have already been replaced.

I am looking for advice about a few things so i will blast away here and hope you guys can chime in.

For the rust should a guy replace the entire box side or are patch panels okay.

I want to lower the truck 3-4 what kit is the best or at least what are the pros and cons between them.

Trying to decide if i want to put a healthy carb small block or get something newer and fuel injected and input would be great.

Are all interior pieces available? i can find door panels headliners dash pads and such but what about the other plastic pieces my interior is blue and i would like a black interior i know i can dye the pieces but i have a couple that need to be replaced like the piece by your shoulder where the seat belt mounts.

I know everyone likes pictures so i have included pictures of the truck.

I also included pics of my wifes 2004 SS that we have that i have supercharged and also a picture of my "baby" i am thinking of painting the 86 the same color as my baby opinions?

This looks like a great site for information i plan to all work except the painting and body work myself so i look forward to sharing with you guys my progress. The SS truck has a Maggie supercharger Dyna tech headers B&B exhaust rear air bags as well as other things i can't think of right now all that was done by myself. The Corvette is new to me and i have enjoyed it a ton i currently have a vortec supercharger and American racing headers on order for it. Plan to the install on that this winter.

[Canadian 4X4]

Those are some sweet rides, you painting the truck blue as well, with a super charger?

[1980c10]

patch panels are fine on the box sides. I like the blue color as a color choice for your project. I think tan would be a nicer color for the interior color. I haven't been able to find the seat belt pieces you are talking about. As far as engine choice fuel injection is more dependable and effiecient but the carb option is easier and cheaper. an upgrade to an overdrive transmission is nice if you don't already have one.

[thachevythang]

I'm in the same situation with the interior and have found everything except those seat belt pieces! From what I've seen they aren't available to order by color. You would have to color match them yourself. I'm switching to a tan interior and just plan on covering them with some material. I'm converting all the belts to lap belts to kind of avoid that trim. As far as an engine choice, it's what you prefer. I'm going with a LQ4 out of a 02 2500 HD. Almost the same block as your SS. Sounds like you like performance so the engine choices are definitely going to be whatever it is you want that 86 to do. Sweet rides and welcome!!!

[24storm]

Well i think i am going to order up the patch panels and give them a shot worst case if they don't turn out they way i want i guess i will order box sides.

Trying to decided about painting the same color as my car debating about powder coating the bumpers and other chrome if i go that route then i will need to paint the truck a blue that will match a blue powder coat.

I have been watching for engines local. I have a friend that would make me a good deal on a virtually new 502 ram jet but i am thinking thats over kill.

Can anyone give me some info on lowering kits?

[slammed79]

A 502 is not overkill. I like McGaughy's or Belltech for static dropping. McGaughy's are USA built too if I remember right.

[Layne]

get a 572 or a 632.   

[24storm]

Found this picture on another site. This is the look i am going for can anyone give me clues as to what the drop is on this truck.
Also what the wheels are and maybe a guess at the size 18"s?

Is there anyone that could photo shop this pic the same color as my car?

[three8six]

Looks like 18's in front 20's in back

[85dubbin]

I saw the white truck somewhere on the web and it said it was a 6 front 8 back drop and the wheels are american racing torq thrust 2's and were 20x8 front and 20x10 rear which is what i want to put on mine

[Canadian 4X4]

Looks like the same size rims front and back

[24storm]

I saw the white truck somewhere on the web and it said it was a 6 front 8 back drop and the wheels are american racing torq thrust 2's and were 20x8 front and 20x10 rear which is what i want to put on mine

Thanks thats a big help. If a guy wants to do that much of a drop anyone have suggestions on a kit or parts to use?

[VileZambonie]

Flip the rear axle, use lowering spindles and springs.

If you want to go any lower, bag it.

[24storm]

Whats the lowest you can go with spindles and flip kit? does it effect the ride really bad? should a person just look at bagging it right away? I dont want the truck dragging the frame or anything just a cool stance. Thanks to everyone for the input i am sorry for asking so many questions. I am just trying to get a game plan together so i can start ordering parts. I do not plan on painting the truck until next year some time but i would like to start gathering all the parts and pieces i will need.

[VileZambonie]

If you aren't planning on scraping your rockers then just do it the way I said. That'll give you 5-6"