1969 GMC Custom Long Bed - Questions

[RhapidFyre]

Greetings all! Just picked this big boy up for restoration... I say "restoration" but it's nearly running already. Got a 350 V8 with 70k on it, long bed. The restoration part is mostly going to consist of visuals and details such as audio, rear view mirror, gauges, etc. This project is of sentimental value; I'm trying to replicate and then exceed the '69 GMC my grandfather had before he passed away and it was sold to my friend (who wrecked it).

Right now, we got the truck to fire but it died quickly due to a clogged fuel sender that was not supplying the engine with fuel. This is the closest I've ever got to learning how an engine works besides "turn key, hope it starts". My father in law is a mechanic so he's gladly helping me with it, but I have to do the work (obviously).

1) What focus, once the fuel sender is fixed, should I take before beginning on body work and detail? Are there certain engine parts that need to be inspected closely? We're replacing the fuel filter, and if the fuel pump is working, that's about it for the fuel line.

2) How do you feel about " www.classicindustries.com "? Is there a more reputable or affordable source for parts for this guy? I'm planning on replacing all the gauges, and panels inside the cab.

[extd56]

What parts are you looking for?

[clay68c10]

Nice project, it looks pretty solid.
Before you get too deep into taking things apart, do an overall cleanup and change all the fluids. Then just drive it as is for a bit. It’s very easy to get things taken apart and then loose steam (and $) when putting it back together.
If it needs something mechanical, it will let you know as you drive it around.
It’s nice you have an experienced mechanic to give you some guidance.

[Don Quixote]

I would second the idea of working out the mechanical gremlins first. Each of these trucks seem to have a personality of their own. On mine, I guess I can say I've been testing it for 21 years because it is mechanically sound as hell but a rust nightmare but I don't trust myself with body work and my funds have dried up. I can say I have one hell of an amazing truck as long as I don't look at the hole in the floor big enough to drop a baby through.

As far as the parts companies, I use Classic Parts and Classic Industries for some stuff but for body stuff I like Brothers but they tend to be more expensive. For more and more of the stuff I need I have been using Southern Kentucky Classics but not for rubber as I saw they source it from LMC which is absolute crap in my opinion.

[RhapidFyre]

Originally Posted by extd56

What parts are you looking for?

As of right now, I think we have what we need to get it running.

Originally Posted by clay68c10

... do an overall cleanup and change all the fluids. Then just drive it as is for a bit.

Will do. Brake fluid, tranny fluid, engine oil, seals and plugs?

Originally Posted by Don Quixote

As far as the parts companies, I use Classic Parts and Classic Industries for some stuff but for body stuff I like Brothers but they tend to be more expensive. For more and more of the stuff I need I have been using Southern Kentucky Classics but not for rubber as I saw they source it from LMC which is absolute crap in my opinion.

Thank you for the confirmation, and the notice to avoid I will shop around soon. I know they say to save the body work for last but if this big boy runs I'm going to be super tempted to start knocking out the body.

[Swar]

Nice 4 eyes, I like the old rims too, but how'd you get it on the trailer like that? What am I looking at?

[demian5]

http://www.truckandcarshop.com

Enjoy

[stevenfromtexas]

I'm curious of how you painted it so dang fast.....

[demian5]

I want to know how he also lowered it while on the trailer!?

[RhapidFyre]

It didn't fit and I wasn't about to redo a 2 hour trip for it, so we made it work!

[RhapidFyre]

Just rebuilt the carburetor and siphoned out about 3 gallons of coffee out of the gas tank. Finally fired! Just have to get the timing right and he should run.