16ga.com ~ View topic

As some of you may remember, I've been selling a bunch of guns to finance the restoration of my 68 C10 pickup, which I plan on using as a rolling advertisement for my art business. I've had a few people ask to see pics, so here you go. It was a complete rust bucket, and the only thing I've been able to keep is the frame and cab. I got rid of the original blown 6 cylinder and 4 speed and have replaced it with a fuel injected 350 from a Suburban, with a 700r4 automatic with overdrive so it will cruise and get decent mileage. I've also done a front power disc brake conversion with power steering, and I'll be adding a/c and maybe power windows as well.

I've been able to drive it around the block, and it's a hoot! It has been a ton of work, but a very enjoyable project. New floor, new roof, lots of welding and body work. I've never done this before, but it's not too different than restoring a gun. I plan on finishing it in the spring, in between gun and art projects (yes, I'm still doing both! ). Here are some pics:

Joined: 26 Apr 2010 Posts: 3227 Location: NCWa

There's a lot of work to do, but it will be worth it.

UncleDan,

No good hunting vehicle is off topic, looks like you are doing a great restoration job on a real nice old hunting and fishing vehicle. Immune to any electronic interference also. I have considered getting another Bronco II, I do miss her.

all the best,

Pine Creek/Dave
L.C. Smith Man

That’s gonna be a sweet ride!

Thanks guys. It's really gratifying to see it come together.

great project, good job, finished restoring a VW sandrail a few years ago and had to teach my self to weld, loved it, sold it and now I am back to mastering all the guns I own.

Super project on a cool truck.

Good modern updates for the motor and brakes.

You will surely enjoy it.

My plan is to paint it with some art and my website added, then put up carpeted panels in the bed so I can use it at art shows as a display and to draw attention. Could even do pop up art shows with it. Neat idea in theory, not sure how it will work in actual practice. May have to add a trailer hitch too. And of course, bird hunting trips. Fingers crossed.

Joined: 30 Sep 2019 Posts: 182 Location: Colorado

From one “fan” to another Cool

I like your vision for the truck and for its use. It will definitely draw attention. Good for you.

The first vehicle that I remember is my Dad’s ‘55 Chevy stepside. Wish I had it back. I got to ride home in it from the dealership but fell asleep and actually missed the ride. Smile

Thanks for sharing. Keep updating us on progress and how it’s received at the art shows.

55's are way cool. I had a 70 stepside in high school, similar to this one, and it was beautiful. I've longed for another for decades. I literally had dreams about it. No idea why it took me so long, but I finally did something about it. Better late than never.

Joined: 09 Dec 2012 Posts: 729

It is absolutely critical that you get the TV cable adjusted perfectly. My buddy blew up the 700R4 that a shop put in his '69 Corvette restomod. It doesn't take much to adjust it, but it has to be done.