Author Topic: My `78 c10 Project  (Read 7260 times)

Offline Zychotic

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My `78 c10 Project
« on: January 09, 2012, 10:08:58 pm »

Hi all,


  In August of 2011 my Grandfather insisted that I was to receive his 1978 Chevy C10. I picked up the truck and drove it 250 miles from his house to mine. He was thrilled that the truck still ran like a champ and made the trip without a single issue. Sadly, he passed away just a few short weeks later.


  I don't have as much time as I'd like, but I plan to completely restore/rebuild this incredible truck. I'll post when I can to keep you updated on my progress, but know that it will most likely take me a few years to complete this project.


But before I get started I wanted to go into some of the specs and history of this particular truck. Here it is...






  My Grandfather bought it brand new in 1978 with 11 miles on the odometer and was the only owner and driver. Currently, it has a whopping total of 63,000 original miles on it. He was a meticulous record keeper with files containing tons of original paperwork including the bill of sale and owners manual. I also have receipts for almost, if not all, service and warranty work for the engine, transmission, brakes, exhaust, and tires.


Specs:
  • Its got the 350 v8 with the 4 barrel carburetor under the hood.
  • 3 speed automatic transmission.
  • Long wheel-base and long bed.
  • Original "Bonanza" trim package with AM/FM radio and A/C (already converted to R134a).
The interior (carpets, seats, and dash) is in great condition.
The body has almost no rust due to being garage kept.
The engine is in great shape and even has a lot of the factory paint on the block.


Since taking possession of it, I have replaced the battery, both rear tires, and the radiator. I have also taken it in for a detailed inspection to spot any areas that are more critical in addressing. So far the only areas to work on are replace the vacuum lines, rebuild/adjust the carb, and service the transmission.


There are so many more things that I could point out, but remembering them all would take the rest of the night.


I'll try to get some more pics (inside and out) up soon.


Until then,
  Thank you Granddad


Offline pendergraft2111

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Re: My `78 c10 Project
« Reply #1 on: January 09, 2012, 10:17:55 pm »
Awesome that it stayed in the family. What a great memory and I am sure you will enjoy the restoration... good luck
When life gives you lemons... find someone who wants lemons, sell them and buy what you want.

Offline thirsty

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Re: My `78 c10 Project
« Reply #2 on: January 09, 2012, 10:48:00 pm »
Awesome truck and a great story to go with it too! Sounds like you will be just as proud of it as Granddad was.
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Offline firefighter

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Re: My `78 c10 Project
« Reply #3 on: January 10, 2012, 06:31:50 am »
"Thanks" is right, Grandpa. What an awesome gift from what sounds like an awesome person.
This will be a family memory for years to come.

Keep up with the truck and it will easily give you another 34 years of service.

Thanks for sharing the story with us.

Offline bake74

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Re: My `78 c10 Project
« Reply #4 on: January 10, 2012, 07:44:30 am »
     Welcome to the site from California.  Very nice looking truck, and even greater your grandfather insisted you have it, that should mean something to you.
#1: The easiest and most obvious solution to any problem is 99% of the time correct.
#2: There is no such thing as impossible, it just takes longer.
  74 k10, 77k10    Tom

Offline mikek20

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Re: My `78 c10 Project
« Reply #5 on: January 10, 2012, 09:07:21 am »
Welcome from ohio. Cant wait to follow the future plans with this truck. Holds strong sentimental value and thats what makes some of the best builds. My grandfather gave me his 82 c10 that ive been building for 4 1/2 years now. My goal is to finish in time for him to ride with me.

Offline 87454westernhauler

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Re: My `78 c10 Project
« Reply #6 on: January 10, 2012, 05:11:40 pm »
welcome from nebraska. My best friend back at home has a 78 k1500 that has the exact same paint job!
86 c10 350 sbc 700R4 Daily Driver
79 gmc c20 350 th350
78 k1500 4x4 350 th350

Offline Blazin

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Re: My `78 c10 Project
« Reply #7 on: January 10, 2012, 07:03:16 pm »
Welcome from New Hampshaa! Sweet truck, and just broke in too!
Some people are like Slinkies. Not really good for anything, but they still bring a smile to your face when you push them down a flight of stairs

Offline 69byrd

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Re: My `78 c10 Project
« Reply #8 on: January 11, 2012, 03:11:50 pm »
Welcome from TN. That is a great looking truck and its cool that your grandfather wanted you to have it.
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