'56 Chevy Project Thread

[jds319]

Here goes (encouragement appreciated -- this is my first build). This was my brother's truck when he was in high school (85-86), and I inherited it in unrunning condition once I got my driver's license (1996). Ten years and two degrees later, I finally have the time and job to get dirty.

The front clip was done back in 1997. It's from a 1979 Trans Am.

July 2006:

August 2006:


Test fitting the new steps (Sept 30):


New steps:

[texascowboy593]

jds, I've been waiting to see what you had up your sleeve... You have a solid project there and keep those pics coming!!! Whoop!

[CAL 58 GMC]

The new steps look good!

[dwcsr]

That cab looks Identical to mine before I hacked it up. The Utility Co Gray paint and the rusty red primer. Keep us updated. I don't think there is a 55 -59 3100 in Texas that wasn't originally either gray or turquois then painted red. I have one of each.

[Jebb1978]

That front end looks like a pretty clean job, did you do it?

Looks like a nice project truck, keep the pics coming we love to follow projects around here!

[jds319]

I wish I could claim that kind of expertise. An old neighbor back in the metroplex, Phil, suggested we clip the truck, and pretty much did all of the welding and fabrication. My job - I was 16 at the time - was to make sure the measurements were quadruple checked.

[55ChevyPU]

Originally Posted by jds319

Here goes (encouragement appreciated -- this is my first build). This was my brother's truck when he was in high school (85-86), and I inherited it in unrunning condition once I got my driver's license (1996). Ten years and two degrees later, I finally have the time and job to get dirty.

Hey you are in the same situation as me but -8 years *im only 20*- 2 degrees, and no money!



but I do have lots of tools at my disposal!

[jds319]

Man, you find a way to paint my truck like your's and I'd definitely return the favor --- it's beautiful. For your first build, that is stunning. You have a real future it the hobby.

I'm definitely lacking on the tool front, especially when it comes to paint.

I've only got six years on you though (I'm 26). I guess I can assume you get your driver's license in Cali at 18?

[55ChevyPU]

umm I think you can actually get your permit at 16 6 months of probation or w/e its called then you can take your license test. I didnt bother till I was 18, when you are 18 you dont have to have a permit you can just walk in and take your test.

[Daniel U]

Just buy the tools as you need them a few a month. That way it's not overwhelming. You'd be surprised how quick you can collect'em. Also try to meet others in your area that are enthusiasts. They can help an share tools. My friends and younger brother(ASE Certified painter) have tought me a bunch. As well as given me advice on different companies. p.S. I'm 31 and still like getting more tools.

[Spank-a-lank]

keep the work going. the worst thing u can do is stop working on it trust me. im 16 and it takes a lot of disipline to keep my priorities straight for my 58.

[caino59]

nice!

this is the first time i've seen somone use the whole subframe and not cut it off after where it bends down...

if you use the whole thing, you can use the trans mount from the donor car (if you're using the smae trans)

plus, i always figured it would be stronger...

[jds319]

Being out of town for training for two weeks at a time does not help one stay focused on the old truck. Any ideas for getting back in the swing of things?

[Low84]

Nice solid start you got there. Very nice.

[Daniel U]

Depends on how much $ you have. Ever heard of "soda blasting"? It takes rust/paint off, leaving the bare metal without warping or overheating the body panels like sand will. Just make sure you have your etching primer close or a dry place to store it. I paid someone to do mine. Good luck and don't get too bummed out!

[Bishops Trucks]

Originally Posted by Daniel U

Just buy the tools as you need them a few a month. That way it's not overwhelming. You'd be surprised how quick you can collect'em. Also try to meet others in your area that are enthusiasts. They can help an share tools. My friends and younger brother(ASE Certified painter) have tought me a bunch. As well as given me advice on different companies. p.S. I'm 31 and still like getting more tools.

Like I constantly tell my wife, " You can never have to many tools". Keep plugging away JD, it will get there and like they said, buy a few tools a month and before you know it you will have what ever you need to do a job. I bought a Mig Welder by throwing my change in a jar. It adds up over time.

[55ChevyPU]

Originally Posted by jds319

Being out of town for training for two weeks at a time does not help one stay focused on the old truck. Any ideas for getting back in the swing of things?

If I dont feel like working on my truck or am in a bad mood I wont. I screw stuff up when im like that

[texascowboy593]

While away, make a wish list of what you would like to purchase or achieve then get your mind in gear when home. I'm gone often from home and I look thru catalogs and magazines for ideas. Another thing I do is when I get paid on Friday, I make a part or tool purchase. If it's from an online outfit, I place the order on Friday and the part gets here before next Friday. Something I look foward to. Just my .02

[jds319]

Well I'm starting to get back on track, and have a question for y'all...

I ordered a smooth dash panel from Brothers' and am out to fix the hole in my dash. The Question: where do I cut my existing dash to fix it: (a) at the "v" of the gauge bezel; (b) covering up the glovebox; (c) preserving the glove box?

Here it is currently:

[Daniel U]

I'm more of a purist. I say preserve the entire thing and keep it as stock looking as possible without loosing function. If you look at my threads recent pics, you can see that I added metal to have a place to put the cd/heater/ac vent/climate controls. The way it was done, it looks factory, no hack job. My goal is to look as factory as possible (using as many GM parts I can) and have the newer bells and whistles. I will also have power windows using the factory window cranks to switch up/down.

[jds319]

Smooth dash welded in this weekend. Pics to follow as soon as the batteries are charged.

[jds319]

Smooth dash welded in and ground. For beginners like me and my buddy, this was easily the hardest project we've tackled yet. A little bondo here and there, and it should be good to go.

[GATORBUILT '59]

looks good 'Aggie' Nice work!

[55ChevyPU]

I like the dash, just like mine !

[Daniel U]

Cleaned up that very well. Good job!