Restore or Retro-Mod

[Chebbierus]

Hi all - New to the forum and this is my first post.

I've had my '73 K10 stepside for close to 27 years. It has seen many ups and downs over that time. Currently it has a non-stock 400cid SBC, a 4-speed with new 3.73 gears and drivelines. I run 12.50 x33 x15 tires on alum wheels. The truck is not lifted which seems to be rare these days. The steering box frame has already been done.

It has been sitting still for awhile and it is getting time to do something with it. It needs to be repainted again, has some rust and needs a new bed. So, since I'm a hotrodder at heart anyway, what would be the wisdom to either restore this vehicle back to stock or go resto-mod with fuel-injection and shiny new paint? Either way the body will need a bit of work. (I could transplant a new body on it if the rust gets too extensive.) What are your thoughts?

So any ways, looking forward to some good conversations with youse guys. Talk at'cha later,
Cheb

[zieg85]

Welcome to the site from NW Indiana.  What kind of money are you wanting to spend, that will determine a lot.  If it were me I would keep it stock as much as possible and make it as brand new looking as funds will allow.  Go through it since it has been sitting to make sure it is road worthy.  I am sure you will get many opinions on this subject.  We also like pictures to see what you are starting with...

[beastie_3]

its your choice. you will get mixed reviews. what are your plans for the vehicle? sell it later? then go stock. keep it for a long time? resto mod.

[Chebbierus]

Wow, quick replies ... I like it.

I'll have to figure out how to load photos. I'm sure it can't be too hard.

As for long term use for the rig ... I'm up in the air right now. I've had it so long it seems to be part of the family. But, I've not driven it much lately and it is taking up alot of room, so ...

Financing the project shouldn't be much of a problem, either way. I'm just looking for a new project to sink my teeth into and decided to just look right under my nose. I just thought I'd ask the community for opinions just to test the waters.

Thanks,
Cheb

[DustyRusty]

Well, Cheb, I've thought about the same for my truck.  Here's my $ .02.

I'd restore the body, paint, and interior to stock (mine is that funky lime green).  I just happen to like the look of 'back in the day'.

I would keep the D44F and 12-bolt rear and go w/ 33" tires and ~ 3" of suspension lift (although I've had 33" tires w/o a lift kit and had no problems).  I'd probably also use the rallye wheels w/ center caps and trim rings.  I'd also upgrade the brakes w/ discs at all 4 corners.

I really would like to switch to a 5.7 L LS-1 engine, a 4L60E auto trans and retain the NP205 t-case.  I would use the f. i. setup and go w/ all the computer controlled 'stuff'.  I like carbs but would like the challenge of learning and understanding, and adapting to the electronic technology.  I think the LS- series of engines are becoming more plentiful in the j/y but the prices are still almost prohibitively high (at least in Alaska).  If I couldn't locate a relatively inexpensive LS- engine, I would opt for a sbc 383 stroker engine but would pair it up w/ a 700R4 trans.

Maybe this will give you some ideas.

Rusty

[Blazin]

To me lifted is better, One ton axles are cool but if its a pavement queen not really needed. I like both small and big blocks for power, they both have their pros, and cons if you want to call them that.

[VileZambonie]

Modify it

[chevymanrob]

the best answer is decide what YOU want. i know that sounds corny but its true. i am taking a lot of different things i have seen on other trucks and making mine a mix of it all. pretty plain (i like simple and clean looking vehicles) but lowered and a little beef under the hood. and A/C is mandatory in the florida sun....
but anyway decide on what you like, get a vision and then make it happen.

[paniolo]

Welcome from another newbie!  Are you looking to make it offroad capable, or mainly a street truck?  Personally I've usually liked keeping the period look but upgrading systems to current standards.  Things like upgraded braking and lighting and for a 4x4 current size tires ... 33's are good for the street.  But you want to keep performance which could mean gearing or engine.  Updating the interior to current comfort standards, but I like keeping a period looking dash.  So good seats, A/C, stereo system, analog gauges etc.

Sounds fun ... a new project would be fun.

[Chebbierus]

OK, let the fun begin!

Just picked up another complete stepside bed. $125 bucks. Not too bad I think.

Obviously some one played with it in it's past because there are some light customizations done to it. It is fairly solid with no rust to speak of. The bed wood is bad, but so is my original. The tail gate better than the I have, but will still need some massaging to straighten the top rail. The fenders will need a bit of metal work and smoothing, but it is do-able. The front panel is in good shape. The crossbars underneath are in good shape as are most all of the fasteners. So all in all a good score and will provide hours of enjoyment.

More at eleven. - Cheb

[roadrage41]

Just as a note, when it comes to these here newfangled engines, alot of people seem to lust after the ls1, for what you'll pay for an ls1 you can build a 5.3 that will destroy one.

[DustyRusty]

Correct me if I'm wrong but isn't a 5.3 also an LS- series engine? 

Rusty

[roadrage41]

Its a Gen 3, parts interchange. Decent mileage ls1 will run you 1500-3000, my 90k mile 5.3 cost me 400.

[DustyRusty]

$400 for a 5.3?  Sounds like a steal to me!  A used 5.3 up here is ~$1500 - $2500 last time I checked.  Also, a guy up here had a couple of the last gen GTOs and wanted $5000 for the engine and $2500 for the 6-spd tranny.  That seems waaaay too much.  I think our 'used' prices in Alaska are 75% to 85% of retail. 

Rusty

[slammed79]

I'd say mod it either way. And with the LSX you'll pickup fuel economy and reliability as well, making your truck more of a pleasure to drive.

And welcome from Arizona.