DATSUN Truck Build: Your Input/Opinions Wanted!

[Jake616]

:idea: I purchased 2 1968/1969 Datsun 520 pickup trucks about a year and a half ago and have been gathering parts since towards a full custom build, but am at kind of a snag in how to approach the next step, what parts needed next, or what route to follow... :confused:

* I have gathered everything for a 5 lug conversion, a 396 big block w/ LT1 t56, a 383 stroker w/ built 700r4, random sbc and bbc performance parts, air ride suspension items,interior parts,etc

* As for a rear end....I would love to run IRS.... but I have heard pros/cons on this so Id like to be able to hold up to 5-650(more if can?) horsepower or so. Any input here?


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/101_2633-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/101_2619-1.jpg

* I want to avoid an engine sticking out of the hood, because if it does...I am going to want a power adder! :yum: Sheetmetal intake/carb bonnets to keep low profile? Options wanted please?

* Other concerns are... finding a lighter weight 18x10+ wheel(12's ideally?), having a nice firm frame for weekend driving and track fun), finding a "universal" big brake kit, and anythign else I may need? Advice?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/930200721858PM46201-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/elliott3-1.jpg
THANKS IN ADVANCE! :idea:
-JAKE

[BritishGreen68]

Thats badass sir. I would just do a narrowed 9" ford to keep it simple and it will handle all the power you want. I have found the order of build is to set ride height, get the wheels and tires your going to run, build the rearend and figure out what front suspension your going to use and start building the frame around the suspension and wheels and engine. It s way harder and costs more to build the frame first and then have to change it up because of wheels and things that you change your mind on. I am building a 4 link for my camaro right now and i had it all setup then found wheels i wanted and had to renarrow the rearend and redesign the whole suspension because i had to minitub it and it cost me about an extra $500 just in parts and material i bought and didnt need/use.. also for the LT1 tranny you need to do some research on that. The best way to do it is an LS1 T56 or you can put the LS1 input shaft in yours, but you will need some adapters and stuff to make it work. If you use the LT1 trans you have to buy a custom flywheel and all kinds of stuff and its more expensive..

[BritishGreen68]

Also lol.. i have heard alot of people adapt toyota pickup front suspension to the front of the datsun, i guess its alot better and narrower. I would probably go small block and T56 route if it were me, it will never get enough traction anyway and big block is just overkill for that thing if not just in added weight it doesnt need in the front.. light weight wheels that are 18x12 are going to be $$$ so better get an extra credit card or 2:yum:

[Jake616]

I picked up the LT1 t56 because I was told that was the one to use with a old style chevy small block, as well as if I wanted to adapt to a big block to avoid hassle/higher costs...:confused:

As for the Toyota suspension.... I have the whole front clip (pre 95 tacoma) from firewall forward to be used in the build instead of the factory Datsun stuff. :) Now I need to locate a big brake kit for that front setup though.... :hand:

I have a narrowed 9" Ford rearend I was goign to use until I decided I would like to use an IRS.... So I am trying to see my options there, while still beign fairly budget friendly. :fingersx:

[BritishGreen68]

well the main issue with the IRS is going to be finding a narrow enough one. you can get a jag one for a decent price but they are going to be too wide. The T56 deal i have just been looking into recently and there are several ways to go about it but from what i have read the LS1 tranny will save you money on the swap. Here is a good link, which has some good build links to other threads in it as well..
http://www.nastyz28.com/forum/showthread.php?t=146801

[joemac]

Ford has several factory options for irs that are pretty cost effective. The 99 up cobras use irs, 89-97 tbirds and the new explorers also use them. The mustang irs is your best bet for the power level you are looking for. There are irs cobras running sub 10sec ets. The tbirds have several parts that swap over from the cobra unit, but control arms are not available for it. The tbird irs could be built to handle the power you want and are very common in the junkyards. The explorer irs is probably closer to the width you are looking for but have little to no aftermarket support. I think the irs would be really cool in that little pickup.

[Jake616]

Thats cool, we need to build custom control arms for the rear anyways when we do this frame, and thats what I have kind of been looking for is a Tbird IRS if I can find large brakes and such for it. Any recomendations on wahts needed to build its strength up?

Thanks for the input/links!

[ADaughen]

As for the Toyota suspension.... I have the whole front clip (pre 95 tacoma) from firewall forward to be used in the build instead of the factory Datsun stuff. :) Now I need to locate a big brake kit for that front setup though.... :hand:


According to a yotatech forum:

4Runners and T-100's (4x4) use the same front brakes. They are larger than any of the 4x4 pickup brakes, even V6. SR-5 or DX, it doesn't matter. Basically, anyone with a 4x4 truck w/ifs (86 to 94) can do a stage 1 factory upgrade to their front brakes by using front brake rotors/calipers/pads from a 90-95 4Runner or 94(?)-98 T-100 truck, which might even be found in junkyards.


Make sure your rotors match the calipers (4x4 are different/wider than 2wd).

However, the Toyota brakes you have with the clip should work fine, with good pads.


Have you thought of checking out Nissan's 240SX front suspension/brake parts? There are many BBK options and I know a few tuners/drifters that would have spare clips for reasonable prices.

[tymbom]

I used to have a 75 Chevy LUV with a 400 sbc in it. I would stick to the small block and T56. A good 3 or 4 link with a 9in will work really good in the back. I think because the truck is so small 18in wheels might look a little goofy. You could run some 17's and it wouldn't look too bad.

[novanutcase]

Might want to talk to this kid!

http://www.hotrodders.com/forum/my-rolling-chassis-106664.html?highlight=minitruck

John

[hotrod fozzie]

That rocks my grandpa used to have one like that he hauled firewood in i think it was a 69-70 !!! KICK ASS PROJECT PLEASE UPDATE REGULARLY:jawdrop:

[PonchoJohn]

I had a 77 PL-720 ext. cab. It had the rear seat removed, custom buckets mounted 3/4 of the way rearward (you could actually stretch out in it), P/W,P/B,a 3.8 Buick V6, TH350 and a Datsun 510 IRS. I blew the IRS all to h3ll. Hopefully you'll have better luck w/ a beefier unit.
Looks pretty cool!

[PonchoJohn]

What size are those big-boy steam roller rims in the bed of the first pic? They would look pretty good on my 37 P/U.

[Bruning Auto Design]

Cool build, would love to have another bullet side some day...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[bobbaganoosh]

What size are those big-boy steam roller rims in the bed of the first pic? They would look pretty good on my 37 P/U.
Looks like a Dodge pickup 20" steel spare.

[PonchoJohn]

Looks like a Dodge pickup 20" steel spare.
Awesome! Thanks for the info- I didn't realize they had spares (steelies) in that size.


Cool build, would love to have another bullet side some day...
Yeah, I had a 72 PL-620 Bulletside that I lowered, shaved, custom painted, etc. I have found memories of that truck... ;)

[Jake616]

What size are those big-boy steam roller rims in the bed of the first pic? They would look pretty good on my 37 P/U.

Dodge Ram 20" Spare Wheels (round hole patter, not egg shaped) 5x5.5.... :) Had them with adapters on my 65 Cadillac...


Thanks for the comments guys! Its a project I am excited to focus on finally instead of 50 others. I will create a build page when the time comes but just would like to hear options/input here on ideas....

[joemac]

Thats cool, we need to build custom control arms for the rear anyways when we do this frame, and thats what I have kind of been looking for is a Tbird IRS if I can find large brakes and such for it. Any recomendations on wahts needed to build its strength up?

Thanks for the input/links!

You should use mustang cobra hubs so you can use mustang wheels there are a lot more to choose from the tbirds had a goofy 5x4.25 bolt pattern. Just about any cobra rear brake kit will work, including stock. It will need custom brackets, but I know of a guy making them if you choose to go this route. Depending on how much you want to put in it, you can make cobra halfshafts work with a couple of mods. I would get an aluminum centersection from a lincoln mark viii or from a cobra. There are a couple of good pumpkin covers around now that will strengthen a notorious weak spot. The lower control arms are steel, the lincoln mark viii ones are aluminum though. You might be better off just getting the whole assembly from the mark viii now that i think about it. They are the same except for the differences that I mentioned. There are several braces that you can add check out www.supercoupeperformance.com I think the upper control arms are pretty flimsy and they are not a triangulated design. They only have one mounting point on the body. It wouldn't take much to make a trangulated arm with custom mounting points. I would get some coilovers or airbags are a popular swap item while you are in there. There are also bigger sway bars all the way up to 1.25"

[brrymnvette]

Those are awesome little trucks. I want one now.

[1badchevelle]

wow this looks to be a great project, HMMMM I think I need a new project truck.......

[drflex]

put the big block in the bed

[Jake616]

I have 2 of them :) Only one is going to be built! haha They are definatley neat trucks IMO.

As for the bbc in the back of the bed, it would be a good idea and help with traction for sure but I really want to show the frame and tubework when its complete as well as some customizing of the IRS. :)

[1badchevelle]

I will take the other one. LOL

[Code Red]

cool build just shave those damn tie downs

[Jake616]

cool build just shave those damn tie downs

Haha, I am still undecided on doing that or not...:nopity: Same with the cab drip rails, what do you think????


I am getting ready to purchase my IRS (Thunderbird,Cobra or Toyota Supra....as long as a control arm setup and not a trailing arm setup) as well as my Toyota front clip so after that the frame will soon be into full build :fingersx:

Started losing hope/interest again and wanting other projects before completeing one :machine: but this thread and your guys input has sparked it up again! Thanks! :cheers:


The stock 4banger location and a rim.... GOnna be a tight squeeze for big or small block! :idea:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/DSCN0298-1.jpg



Feel free to photoshop away and help me out with ideas!?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/122005101137AM73551-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/Datsungassertruck-1.jpg

[jackfrost]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/Datsungassertruck-1.jpg

not a big pro street fan, but the chop would look awesome.

[Paul_J]

This is an old picture of my friend's nephew's Chevy Luv. Proof positive a big block will fit!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/LUV1-1.jpg

I've always wanted an old Datsun pickup so keep up the progress and get it done!

[1badchevelle]

a big block would be nice, but a 2jz motor with a turbo or two would be better

[Jake616]

a big block would be nice, but a 2jz motor with a turbo or two would be better
I would do a turbo small block, or maybe a turbo big block! :idea: but I really want to avoid doing any import engine, they can sound amazing but I just want to hear the rumble of a built engine when it fires up and idles!


Decided instead of going with a mustang 2 or a toyota front suspension, I am going to have it all handbuilt instead. :) I know it ups my planned price quite a bit but in the end I think it will look a whole lot better for the ideas I have in mind!

Also.... just picked up a late 80's Toyota Supra independent rear suspension. Larger brakes are easy to find, and upgrades are available to hole 400+ horsepower without breaking as easy.

And yes, the wheels I have pictured are not the final product. They are brand new DIP D62's I have in 20" with new tires so I figure they will be good for some mocking up. I am wanting to run one of the Raceline Forged wheels,because I really like the "Speedster".....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/225-1.jpg
or the "Imperial"... Time will tell on wheels/powdercoats/paints/etc...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/05/362-1.jpg

[brrymnvette]

Those are both badass. I wish they came in 6-lug 5 spoke

[Jake616]

Came across a deal today:

A brand new 454ci Chevrolet crate engine complete from oil pan to top on intake (missing carb/ air cleaner is all)... Still in crate/ zero miles/stock.... $1,000

* Is it a good buy?
* Cheaper option that rebuilding my bare block 396ci?
* Anybody know the estimated stock hp/tq #s that these have?
* What minor mods (cam/exhaust/etc) would you recomend?

[bmjwright]

* Is it a good buy?

yes.

* Cheaper option that rebuilding my bare block 396ci?

yes.

* Anybody know the estimated stock hp/tq #s that these have?

depends on which heads it has, but 250hp/400tq minimum

* What minor mods (cam/exhaust/etc) would you recomend?

dual plane aluminum intake, 750 Holley carb (or EFI), mild 'RV' type low end torque cam (call the manuf..they'll recommend the right cam for you), ceramic coated headers w/ dual 2.5" exhaust. It really depends on what you want out of the engine.

[Jake616]

My deal on the Toyota Supra IRS fell threw (either trading the 15" baby moons for a brand new York Engine Driven Compressor and the IRS/ or a straight $ purchase) because the guy who had it scrapped it! :hand: So I am on the lookout for another one (Thunderbird/Cobra/Supra/Etc) once again but that is okay because I am not in a huge hurry! :)


GRAPHIC RENDERINGS OF DATSUN TO COME!

* Worked a deal with 2 members on another board to do 2 different renderings to see what direction I want to take this build, and guide myself and others towards an image on paper, and not only in my head! :idea: I will post the graphic vehicle designs as they are completed!


==================================================


The engine is tore apart now, and I am building a wish list to start gathering stuff to put this BBC into the Datsun! :yum: I think I am going to powder coat everything black that I can and go with an industrial type look using fabricated valve covers/ sheet metal intake/ etc, or have a custom sheet metal carb bonnet made that takes up alot of room, and have it painted up real nice. :seizure:

The 1967- 396ci Engine As of Currently:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/img002-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/09/img003-1.jpg

Maybe something like this when complete?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[PonchoJohn]

put the big block in the bed
I know you already addressed this comment, but back in the late 80's, there was a Datsun PU w/ an Olds Toranado (FWD) front subframe section grafted to the rear of the truck-- 455 powered monster!

[Jarcaines]

I think it would look sweet with the mirrors out on the fenders like a Bluebird.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/10/130_0704_03zdatsun_bluebirdfront_view-1.jpg

[Jake616]

And the renderings are in!

I will post more details about each one, and the options I chose later on.

Rendering 1 by: Whataburger @ Whatadesign

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Rendering 2 by: Patrick Koapono @ KP ArtwWerkz

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif




Input and opinions welcome! :)

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

input?

now you got a plan... DO IT!.. START IT!.. GET IT DONE!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Jake616]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/11/68_datsun_rendering_sample4-1.jpg


11/2009: Started the hand built front end. Going to build the front, get the IRS and build the rear, then when time/space allows... join the 2 together and finish the chassis! Thanks to Pneumatic Metal Works in Pryor,OK! Pix will come when I get them :)

[WS6]

I like that. Blends classic American stripe(looks like something off a 50s BelAir maybe) with an old schol import which to me has a lot of styling.

[LowBuckX]

Im always a fan of oddball cars/trucks.. Good luck looks fun

[Supra510]

I like that last rendering, some cool ideas there. Now the work begins! Keep us updated.

[T_Raven]

Cool build, would love to have another bullet side some day...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

I've always liked these little trucks, especially this style ^^^ Reminds me alot of a 67/68 Firebird lol

[Tukn]

looks like it could be a build to watch. Not sure if you guys have noticed but that black one has been uni-bodied, very well done

[Diesel]

looks like it could be a build to watch. Not sure if you guys have noticed but that black one has been uni-bodied, very well done

I pretty sure they came like that in Japan.

[Jake616]

Not sure if you guys have noticed but that black one has been uni-bodied
Another pic of that Datsun 620.
http://image.minitruckinweb.com/f/9899482/0807mt_small+1979_datsun_620+.jpg



1/3/09 Update:


The front end build has begun! It is setup for my 20x8.5 wheels tires and should be able to fit a 25" overall diamater. I am currently waiting on getting some early 90's Toyota balljoints to get this closer to completion. I am not sure yet, but the Big block 396 may be too big! :( I will have to wait and see! Full Chassis Build by Pneumatic Metal Works- Pryor,OK

I am also still parts gathering! I picked up a 1959 Chevrolet Impala/Belair/Biscayne dash to probaly adapt into a custom sheetmetal interior! :smoke: Here is a quick idea of something very similar to what I had in mind!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/717200672009PM81901-1.jpg

Disassembled and to the sandblaster! :idea:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/BiKTfgB2kKGrHqIHDgEsLchdEKBLNWguow-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/Bif4g5BGkKGrHqEHCkEsLWoOi3GBLPRmUG-1.jpg

[capjr]

I pretty sure they came like that in Japan.
NO they did not come that way . I know of guys back in the days,molding beds to cabs and shells also to make sedan delivery like out of them .

[badbu68]

That black datsun with those wheels of the bluebird on the last page would be dead sexy.

[Rudemood521]

Love this build I have the same direction I want to take 521 just not as many ponies. How did the front suspension come along? I'm wanting a big brake kit and IRS and a friend of mine wants me to scrap the whole frame and start fresh I wanted to know what you would suggest??? MORE PICS MORE POSTS LOVE IT!

[Just_Robert]

Good to see another bodydropped project on here lol! Keep the updates coming. Bulletsides are my all-time favorite truck!

[ProMav71]

Another pic of that Datsun 620.
http://image.minitruckinweb.com/f/9899482/0807mt_small+1979_datsun_620+.jpg



1/3/09 Update:


The front end build has begun! It is setup for my 20x8.5 wheels tires and should be able to fit a 25" overall diamater. I am currently waiting on getting some early 90's Toyota balljoints to get this closer to completion. I am not sure yet, but the Big block 396 may be too big! :( I will have to wait and see! Full Chassis Build by Pneumatic Metal Works- Pryor,OK

I am also still parts gathering! I picked up a 1959 Chevrolet Impala/Belair/Biscayne dash to probaly adapt into a custom sheetmetal interior! :smoke: Here is a quick idea of something very similar to what I had in mind!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/717200672009PM81901-1.jpg

Disassembled and to the sandblaster! :idea:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/BiKTfgB2kKGrHqIHDgEsLchdEKBLNWguow-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/01/Bif4g5BGkKGrHqEHCkEsLWoOi3GBLPRmUG-1.jpg



That interior is gonna look sick! Can't wait to see it completed.

[50kta]

those dashes are awsome..... im also putting a 59 dash in my 1980 trans am

[Bryce]

updates?

[nastyn8]

It is essential that the Brake Rotor (http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/brakes_-and-_rotors~pop.html) are compatible to one's driving lifestyle.. If you're into driving performance or if into stressfull driving.. the drilled rotors are not for you. The downside of using drilled rotors on your vehicle is that all of those holes tend to weaken the rotors. After repeated stressful driving, the rotors can even crack.

The rotor/caliper swapping on Toyota's only apply to 6 lug trucks, they won't transfer to the 5 lug components

[mowhawk731]

What happened to this build?

[ccreddell]

Back in the 70s there was a guy in southern California who built a 520 with a SBC right behind the cab into a Corvair transaxle. I would think a modern Porsche 6-speed would work better and there are adapters out there for it. You get mid engine weight balance and independent rear suspension and plenty of room in the engine compartment to put a fuel cell and a good sized subwoofer box.

[andrewb70]

It's a shame that the OP hasn't been to this site since July, 2013...I wonder what happened to these trucks..

Andrew

[Evoix]

too bad.

I wanted to do a similiar build (as one of the many things I wanted to do but never got around to..) - I wanted to use the suspension out of a 240sx (sooo many parts available) with (originally) a syclone v6 turbo than later the 4.0L VQ40DE V6 transmission and computer out of a frontier.....or even just a SR20DET ...

[Jake616]

It's a shame that the OP hasn't been to this site since July, 2013...I wonder what happened to these trucks..

Andrew

Yeah, but I still lurk. I had my first child last February (little boy! My greatest joy that will come before anything else now. Couldnt ask for something greater! :-) ) and purchased my first home in December ( view Jake616 on GarageJournal.com) so things have been hectic! :)

The story with these trucks is both a dream crusher for me and a easy way to raise my blood pressure even thinking about the whole deal. Technically, both these trucks are still mine. The '68 Datsun 520 sits in my storage unit since the day I bought in in 2008 in the exact same condition. The project I was focusing on was tge '69 521 and is what all plans were based on.

I payed cash, traded my '65 Cadillac sedan deville, 20" wheels, 22" tires and misc. Other stuff to have the truck channeled (body dropped) and put on an air suspension on a custom built tube frame running a mustang ii style front suspension and a toyota supra irs. I last saw the truck after a show in Texas (TexMex 2009)
The builder then after back and forth conversation kind of faded away The truck was dropped off in a field an hour from where i delivered it and there it sat for 2 years while I tried to see wtf was going on. The chrome on the new baby moons was rusting and the new tires were shot. The flat black paint was grey. I only saw pix and it was disturbing. I finally contacted the "builder" flipping **** and told him to pick it up before It wss scrapped by owner of field it was on (i knew them but been so busy and no time to drive 6hr to see whats going on). I was informed he picked it up.... but thst was last I heard :-/ I am planning a trip to go check on the 1969 soon. I have a few other orojects now and hopefully csn get this built as I seen it one day but in the mean time I am tinkering on other stuff, working and also trying to get a small business going on the side but most importantly spending time with my family.

Until then... Datsun sleeps in storage awaiting a return. Sorry for lack of updates. One day... ;-)