Air Force '69

[Johnny Blaze]

Figured, since this is what I am working on now, I would do a project update.

This is my Daily Driver pickup. I call it air force '69, becuase it is a 1969 C10, that was bought new by the Air Force, and was stationed at a local Air Port as the mechanics truck all it life till about 4 years ago.

It was a 250 3 on the tree, added a clifford intake 4 barral and headers, but the old 6 was tired.

Currently I am cleaning the underhood area, to repaint,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

The six is out.
I am also swapping the front to the 74-87 a arms, and disc brakes.

Once it is cleaned up under the hood, this is going in,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Backed by a M-20 4 speed.

I have a couple weeks to get it done and back on the road.

Will update.

[1971CHEVELLE]

good looking motor keep us posted

[Johnny Blaze]

Thanks.

Got the underhood area striped and painted with some black epoxy primer.

Tommorrow, I install they stainless steel brake lines, and mate the 350 to the muncie 4 speed.

[srh3trinity]

Please tell me it has some nice Air Force/military patina. Any pics of the body?

[Johnny Blaze]

Not much really. It is air force blue with white bumpers and wheels.
It does still have the us government asset tag on the glove box.

Will get pics this weekend.

[Johnny Blaze]

Not a whole lot to update. Been raining so have not been able to do much work, other than some cleaning and spray bombing.

Here is my Munice that will replace the 3 on tha tree,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/loserstuff030-1.jpg

Stock bellhousing after a lot of elbow grease, and paint,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/loserstuff029-1.jpg

Underhood after coat of epoxy primer(going to replace pass inner fender so didnt waste paint on it)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/loserstuff028-1.jpg

New Ebay aluminum Radiator, painted to look factory,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/03/loserstuff027-1.jpg

[Johnny Blaze]

Well, its been awhile since I updated this.

During the project, we ended up buying another house, and I just got the truck moved there.

Engine and trans are now in, and the last few items are being hooked up.

I ran into a few minoer issues with the swap and will detail them as soon as I get my picks uploaded.

It should be on the road soon though!

[Johnny Blaze]

Time for a big long update.

First, when swapping from t he 6 to the v8 I heard a lot of conflicting reports, of using stock mounts, clutch linkage, etc.

I put the V8 in the stock 6 cylinder mounts.
It fit. I used the stock 6 cyl clutch linkage, it fit.
I had to use straight dump rams horn manifolds instead of the angled rams horns to clear the clutch linkage.

Big cap HEI cleared firewall with plenty of room to spare.

The muncie 4 speed bolted right up in place of the 3.I am using the hurst shifter for this application, but due to the engine sitting farther back it is going to be real close to the bench seat.
In a quest for milage and drivability, I swaped the holley for a rebuilt 1969 Quadrajet.

In keeping with stock appearnce, but pro touring advancements, I picked up these wheels,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/e7890fff-1.jpg

They are 17x7.5. I am unsure if I am going to leave them black, paint them white, or ralley silver, thoughts?

I stripped the underside and painted it all with the black expoy primer,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/a31b5161-1.jpg

Then reassembled it all.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/f4fdd5ec-1.jpg

I converted it to 74-87 parts, with poly bushings, and all new parts.

[Johnny Blaze]

I am using CPP 3" drop springs in the front.

The difference between the 69 a arms and the newer style is amazing. Much bigger, much bigger bushings,
here are the uppers,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/3186e1f9-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/a115c0c6-1.jpg

[Johnny Blaze]

Engine installed, with the holley carb,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/4f773f36-1.jpg

Government Asset tag,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/cba273f1-1.jpg

Old school style Moon tach,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/b5637585-1.jpg

[Johnny Blaze]

This is cool, not sure if its a dealer add on, or a custom made deal, I call it a saddle bag.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/e4b2865f-1.jpg

[Johnny Blaze]

Here you can see how close the shifter is,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/84f51f01-1.jpg

[Johnny Blaze]

I just realized there were no full truck shots,

here it is after the v8 install, it actually sat the same as it did with the inline 6. Of course this is on cut stock springs.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/94eba024-1.jpg

[69X22]

Looks cool, I wouldn't even paint it, just drive it like it is.

[Johnny Blaze]

Paint is the last thing on the list. I was driving it like this daily, til the engine swap began.

Thanks for the compliment!

[ill steez]

looks really cool. i'd go with silver or white for the wheels.

[brans72]

Jonny what are you doing with old engine by chance? I could use a few parts from it no doubt. Brandon

[Johnny Blaze]

Old engine is long gone. Just sold the chrome valve cover and side covers on ebay.

I am leaning towards ralley silver for the wheels.
When the time does come for paint( after interior) it will get a coat of Lemans Blue Metallic.

I have tried to keep it looking stock while making improvements.

The engine has an aluminum high flow water pump ( painted orange) Aftermarket HEI, black moroso plug wires, routed under manifolds.

Intake is a Performer.

The only major deviation is the electric fan, but I just love the thermostat controlled fans.

Looiing for a big sway bar for the front too.

[srh3trinity]

Throw the wheels on there and see what they look like in black. With the look of the truck and the white bumpers, I think they would look pretty cool in white. Especially if there is some type of center cap going on them. Maybe throw some of these on there too. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/5-1978-1989-Chevrolet-Truck-4x4-Dog-Dish-HUBCAPS-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem45f3e4a7b9QQitemZ30044 4592057QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccesso ries

[Johnny Blaze]

Unfortunatly dog dish caps will not work with those wheels.

I wish they did, I used to have the dog dish caps off my 61 belair on the truck, before I sold the belair.

This style of late model cap will work,
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1988-98-Chevy-4x4-Black-Center-Caps-6-lug-w-nut-covers-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem53e1d721cdQQitemZ36027 1258061QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccesso ries

Which are avalible in chrome as well.

[srh3trinity]

Those would look cool too. Again, I think you should mock one up in black, see what it looks like, but white would look pretty cool with the patina and the white bumpers. Rally Silver might look good with the black center caps.

[Johnny Blaze]

Well I got home from work last night and sprayed one of the wheels silver. It just didn't look right. I am going to pick up some white, I think that's the way to go. I think white with those caps in chrome will look good.
Waiting for payday to order the 6 lug rotors, shocks, and a few other odds and ends.

I got a heart throb dual exhaust waiting to be installed as well. It is going to require some mods to work with my non stock engine location as well.
Also got a pair of thrush welded mufflers(flowmaster rip offs) not sure if I will be happy with them on a stock motor but we will see.

By the way the engine is a 260hp gm goodwrench crate motor I got from jets. Painted orange to look stock of course.

[PT_79_TA_461]

lol ill be honest, when i saw the first pic without scrolling down....i was expecting a Turbo conversion to the I6.

the stance looks good. keap it up.

[Johnny Blaze]

Oh I have thought about it! I was running a Clifford intake with a 450 holley and long tube headers with NASCAR style side exit exhaust.
I had upgraded to an hei ad well. With it dialed in as best as I could I wad averaging 12mpg, with more city driving than highway.

With it being my daily driver, I wanted something simple, cost effective and efficent.
I have always wanted something restored or stock appearing, and figured this would be a good one to do.

[Johnny Blaze]

Finally got my six lug rotors! Painted the wheels white as well. Looks great. Getting it buttoned up, so close to hitting the road, can't wait! Got a special trip planed for it as well, next fall. New pic tommorrow.

[Vegas69]

Always liked the look of a small block under the hood of a C10. You could swim around in that engine compartment. It's lookin great under the hood.

[Johnny Blaze]

Couple pics!

Wheels painted white,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/5ac25d82-1.jpg

Front end assembled,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/1751d25f-1.jpg

My new 6 lug rotors, Toxic shocks, and shock mount reinforceing brackets.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/0f2dd0a7-1.jpg

I ordered a prebent stainless fuel line from pump to carb and they sent me a 2 barrel version, so I had to ship it back.

Still got to get the exhaust installed, and finished up the front end parts, and she will be back on the road!

[AintQik]

Ha! I'm in the AF and love this. That pouch is where we would have stored the "paperwork" for each vehicle. We inspect and sign each one off everyday before we drive them. If you are going to keep it and want a blank form for giggles let me know. Hell you could probably google one. Its an AF Form 1800.

[randywyatt2000]

nice truck

[130fe]

Ha! I'm in the AF and love this. That pouch is where we would have stored the "paperwork" for each vehicle. We inspect and sign each one off everyday before we drive them. If you are going to keep it and want a blank form for giggles let me know. Hell you could probably google one. Its an AF Form 1800.

RJ, I was trying to remember what the form number was (to sign the vehicle out everyday). I knew the pouch was a little too small for a FOD pouch. I hated getting harassed by either QA or Trans when you forgot to sign it out for that day. BTW, the bluw paint, the data plate and the cb radio mic holder are dead give aways for an ex AF truck. Just don't paint the yellow numbers on the side LOL

[ArtosDracon]

Looks great with the white wheels, good choice on going back to the original look.

[Johnny Blaze]

Thanks for the comments! Installing the brakes tommorrow. I do plan to install saddle interior soon, should still look stock. So the numbers would have been yellow? I have thought about some sort of lettering that may spell out something.

[130fe]

Johnny, here's a picture that shows you what the lettering would have looked like- http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.hankstruckpictures.com/pix/trucks/macneil/vintage/frm_prints/p7a/travis_afb_ford_stake_truck.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.hankstruckpictures.com/macneil_p7a1.htm&usg=__jnmpmjiR0rKLw5b3ZW3kOCDZbjE=&h=612&w=795&sz=77&hl=en&start=49&sig2=ciR_DYXSvadR9TG3vHsMYg&itbs=1&tbnid=ThuGwrcyRsQ4LM:&tbnh=110&tbnw=143&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dold%2Bair%2Bforce%2Btrucks%26start%3D 40%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26gbv%3D2%26ndsp%3D20%26tbs% 3Disch:1&ei=ABZeTN72LMSclgeChdyPCQ

[srh3trinity]

You could go with a Ground Force theme with the lettering. Nice choice on the white wheels. I think that will fit the truck.

[Johnny Blaze]

This was being used to cover a hole in the bed floor!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/08/cbbdf5fd-1.jpg

[Johnny Blaze]

I was able to mock up the brakes, and the stock wheels actually clear the discs on the front. I had read the would not clear.
This will get me on the road sooner, as I won't have to wait till I can gett the 17" tires.

It sits about 1" higher in the front now with the cpp springs. But still looks good. If it does not settle anymore soon, I will probably cut 1/2 coil off.

Its getting close, and I can't wait. I really want to get the 3rd gen back in the garage and start on it.

[navyflyer72]

Sweet, I love it when these workhorses get the overhaul they deserve! Can't wait to see her progress through your build!

[twosaturns]

was surprised to see 6 lug wheels on a c/10, thought they were all 5, or is that just on the later trucks?
cool 17" wheels you found, are they from a current GM truck?

[Johnny Blaze]

70 or 71 was when they went to 5 lug. I wish it was 5 lug. I had 5 lug rotors for it, but rear axles are about$300 to go 5 lug.

Wheels are off a 2007 Toyota fj landcruiser. They are 7.5" wide.

[srh3trinity]

Have you weighed the wheels? Just curious what a bigger diameter steel wheel weighs.

[96t/acj]

Very nice i did an airport build not to long ago, it was a great truck never ever registered with dmv. GOOD LUCK!

[Johnny Blaze]

Wheels are 34 lbs each.

[Johnny Blaze]

Sorry for the long delay if anyone cares.

Its getting close to being ready.

Got tires mounted. 235/60/17

Added a CPP 1 1/4" front swaybar. 5" drop rear CPP springs.
Just ordered a blazer gas tank conversion.

Trying to finish routing the exhuast.

Got a roll or Fat mat to line the cab with.

Will get some new pics soon!

[Defender67]

As stated before, that pouch/saddle bag definitely looks like the AF Form 1800 holder. The CAP sticker is an interesting find! Very cool.

[srh3trinity]

Get some more pics up!

[David Sloan]

Sound's good! Let's see it.

[Johnny Blaze]

Will try and get some progess pics this weekend, if weather permits.

[Johnny Blaze]

Here it is with the 17"s, they look bigger than I thought they would. Still have to stock torched springs in the rear, but have the 5" drop cpp springs in waiting.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/f0c94bec-1.jpg

Had to take out the seat, and redrill the mounting holes to move it back 2 9/16" in order for the shifter to go into 2nd and 4th gear.
Also, I took the chance to line the cab with fatmat sound deadner.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/03/8827fe6b-1.jpg

I removed the stock gas tank, from behind the seat, and am waiting on a blazer tank to intsall in the rear.

[Vinz68]

Cool truck! I like it the way it is, I wouldn't paint it.

[srh3trinity]

Cool truck! I like it the way it is, I wouldn't paint it.

Me either, that looks pretty awesome. Down the road you could widen the wheels and get some more width, but I like the diameter of the wheels.

[monteboy84]

Wow, love it with the new wheels, I hope you stick with them.

-matt

[Johnny Blaze]

Thanks. Paint is a year or two away probably anyway.

Yep, keeping the rolling stock as is!

Have a delima. I have 1/4" spacers are the rear to make the wheels clear, but the lug studs are not long enough.

The stock stud has a .472 knurl, and the only aftermarket ones are .480. Have read a few people say they went in without a problem.

It is either this, or 1" adapters, which most people say no.


Think I'll order some studs.

Also still waiting on my blazer tank.

[Bryce]

cool build, nice truck!

[67blacklist]

looks good, its nice to see something completely different from time to time.

[Johnny Blaze]

Thanks! Hope to make some real progress in the next week and get this thing going.

[Johnny Blaze]

Took the last two days off work to help my dad finish welding the body on the 55 so I can get the welder back to my shop and finish my exhaust.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/f35c40bf-1.jpg

Got my blazer conversion tank, need to figure out what to do with all the nipples on it!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/2eae8844-1.jpg

Patch for old filler,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/4faefd35-1.jpg

Seat moved back for shifter clearance.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/faf57792-1.jpg

[Johnny Blaze]

SO, progress has been slow as of late. Been helping dad get the 55 Smooth enough for paint. Have made progress though!

Romoved the bed from the truck to allow easier access to install the blazer tank, exhuast and work on rear.

I finally got the old track bar off after fighting with bolts, have installed 5" drop springs in rear, cleaning up the frame to paint.

Installing a CPP track bar that is about 2ft longer than the stocker, and much stouter. Should help in the handling department. Next is the shock relocators, and finsihing up the exhaust and fuel system, then the bed goes back on, and hopefully, its drive time!

[Johnny Blaze]

OH, and I was able to get the .480" knurl studs to go in the rear!

[Johnny Blaze]

And here it is with the 5" drop springs in the rear, and 3" in the front, with 1/2 coil cut!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/bdf6b9c8-1.jpg

Underhood in the sun!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/157f6479-1.jpg

[SS PUNISHER]

Truck looks awesome man! My girlfriends grandpa has 1 just like that sittin in the yard in texas, If we only had a way to go get it before it's comsumed by the fires! Her aunt and cousin already lost their homes to the fires!

[srh3trinity]

very nice!

[Johnny Blaze]

Thanks for the kind words! Getting a thumbs up form the guys here, amonsgt these many great hardcore projects certianly makes me feel better, and encouraged to get out there and work on this old truck. As soon as its on the road, I can turn my attention back to the camaro.

[brownz]

Very nice! I would lnot paint the truck... I really want to get a truck like this and make a parts runner out of it.

[Johnny Blaze]

Well it went for 100 F out to 60f so I will be spending some more time in the garage in the next few days!

[David Sloan]

Cool!
Truck is looking good!
Keep them updates coming.

[sr73bu]

really cool truck! Nice job!

-Sean

[Johnny Blaze]

Pulled the bed off to sandblast, and for easier access to mounting exhaust, blazer gas tank, etc...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/b9cc37e3-1.jpg

Being a COPO truck it has a very odd spid, which did not list any paint code.

After pulling off the bed, I noticed this,

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/97be5f7b-1.jpg



Here is my box of exhaust parts!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/b4f89a7b-1.jpg

[Johnny Blaze]

Stopped by the paint shop to get a quart of expoy for the frame, well, they were out of quarts so I got talked into a gallon. But I gotta use it. I think I'm going to go ahead, and paint the inside of the cab and such while I got it.

The interior is blue, but I am slowly changing it to black. I have new black carpet, just ordered black arm rests and dash pad.

I am going to paint the sheetmetal inside with the blakc epoxy. I will paint the metel inside body color, at some point. Should I do it now, or wait till I paint the exterior?

When I do repaint the exterior I am going with Lemans Blue. So, I can leave the interior metal in a satin black epoxy or go ahead with the Lemans blue. Thoughts?

[Johnny Blaze]

Even though I have the Lemans Blue already, I had another idea for paint.

Considering the history of this truck spending its live in the Air Force, I thought it may be cool to pay homage to that.

I am thinking about going to the paint shop, and seeing if they can mix up some correct "Air Force blue" and add some metallic to it, to flash it up a little.

Thoughts?

[chunger]

I like your idea of paying homage to the trucks history. Stop by the paint shop and see what they can mix up for you!

[Johnny Blaze]

Frame painted, and began assemly of shock relocators, panhard, etc...
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/6c26c41f-1.jpg

[SOM1969]

sweet project

[Johnny Blaze]

SOM1969, thanks!

So, yesterday, I was able to get the rear suspension done, Shock relocators, shorter shocks, and custom full length adjustabel panhard bar.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/09/a0755d1e-1.jpg

Tonight, I'll get the gas tank mounted and line run, then its exhaust time!

[Johnny Blaze]

Gas tank is mounted.

Grinding the rivits out of the control arm mounts, so I can flip them to get a better angle on the rear control arms.

Its getting real close! Just in time for winter :(. But at least when it is drivable again, I will be able to turn my attention back the the IROCZ.

[joeko23]

Great progress. That inline 6 looked so puny in there

[406 Q-ship]

Johnny are you on 67-72chevytrucks.com? There are a few Air Force C10's on there. Very nice daily driver, I really like my 67 C10 SWB stepside as my driver.

[Johnny Blaze]

Yes, I am on there as oj1988.

[armourmark]

Not sure if you used black paint top coat or just epoxy, but if you are going with just epoxy, make sure you clear it for UV protection or it will not last nearly as long

[Johnny Blaze]

Made lots of little progess and a major set bat over the last week.

First the progress,

I Removed 12 rivets holding the rear trailing arm mounts on to the cross member,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/fce9a223-1.jpg

I hate removing rivets! I did this so I can flip the mounts which raises the front mounting location, for improved traction and such.

Added some bumpstops, I opted not to use the pancake ones on the frame and instead used these trim to fit ones in the factory location,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/e727423d-1.jpg

Alos tidied up some other odds and ends.

Now for the bad,

Even though I added antifreeze to the engine, the motor had less than 2 minuts of run time and apparently that was not enough to get it mixed in well.
I found my front two freeze plugs ( the ones behind the motor mounts) had popped out, hoping that was the worst of it. After all if the freeze plugs came out, then they surely would have failed before the block.
Luckily the oil looked great and appeared to have no water in it.
Then I saw this,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/b1bf95e4-1.jpg

That is one severe crack in my brand new GM crate engine!

So at this point, I am looking around for a good standard bore block that I can swap all the stuff over too.

On the bright side, I may take this time to upgrade the cam!

[chunger]

How does a brand new block crack like that?

[Johnny Blaze]

Apparently I did not get the antifreeze mixed well enough with the water. There must have been pure water in the block. It got cold out, the water frooze, and cracked the block.

[John Wright]

Ah man, that stinks....sorry about the motor. Truck looks good though.

[Johnny Blaze]

Yeah, its a real buzz kill for sure!
Thanks, I can't wait to see how it performs. I drove it with stock suspension and cut coils,drum brakes, and 250/3 on the tree. Can't wait to see how the suspension responds. The 4 speed should be more fun as well.

[Johnny Blaze]

Time for an update!

The crack slowed my progress. Here is a pic of the crack I found.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/11/b1bf95e4-1.jpg

I was going to have it welded and be done with it, but after pulling the intake, I found this,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/6c93b867-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/4b545b9e-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/bb271839-1.jpg

And after pulling the heads I found this,
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/c5eb05cd-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/3aefc5fa-1.jpg


I searched for months to find a 2 piece rear main that did not need bored so I could reuse all my internals.
Well finally I gave up.

Got a 1978 010/020 block from a truck. 4 bolt main.
Had it bored .030"
Installed, Crank Rods and bearings from crate motor.
Reused Oil pump.

Added Speed Pro hyperutectic flat top pistons in hopes of a little more compression.

Added a Comp Cams Xtreme Energy cam
2-234-12
Intake Duration at 050 inch Lift 212
Exhaust Duration at 050 inch Lift 218
Duration at 050 inch Lift 212 int./218 exh.
Advertised Intake Duration 256
Advertised Exhaust Duration 268
Advertised Duration 256 int./268 exh.
Intake Valve Lift with Factory Rocker Arm Ratio 0.447 in.
Exhaust Valve Lift with Factory Rocker Arm Ratio 0.454 in.
Valve Lift with Factory Rocker Arm Ratio 0.447 int./0.454 exh.
Lobe Separation (degrees) 110
Howards Lifters
Comp Cams Magnum Timing Set.

Put crate motor heads back on with fel pro thin shim head gaskets in hopes of more comprerssion.

Had to buy a new oil pan as the one off the crate motor had provisions for both side dipsticks and would not seal.
Used Fel Pro one piece oil pan gasket.
Added studs to timing cover and valve covers.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/24abda1b-1.jpg


Using Brad Penn Break in oil.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/5eebbc1f-1.jpg

Got the engine fired up! 70psi oil prerssure and no leaks!

[Johnny Blaze]

Got Rear mounted Blazer tank install finished.

All that is left now is building my exhaust and reinstalling the bed. Hope to get some new wood for the bed soon, then its done for now.

One It is drivable, my focus returns to the Orange Iroc. When it returns to the road, the truck will get paint!

[acegto]

Love your truck. Keep up the good work.

[Johnny Blaze]

Got the exhaust cut, and welded up Sunday, just need to do the tips, but waiting till the bed is back on.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/3c181af9-1.jpg

[SickSpeedMonte]

I love this truck, I'd love to daily drive something this cool! Especially with the military background.

On the block cracks, if the 'stat never opened, it won't mix what's in the block with the anitfreeze in the radiator. IDK if it was warm enough after 2 minutes to open the thermostat.

[Johnny Blaze]

Thanks.

I can't wait to start driving it again. Got to get a stereo, and maybe AC some day as well!

[Johnny Blaze]

Your Monte looks pretty slick too!

[SparkyRnD]

I love the look of that truck, and always wanted one (missed buying two stepsides years ago by minutes, still kicking myself over those).

[SickSpeedMonte]

Your Monte looks pretty slick too!

Thanks! And likewise with your 3rd gen! Mine is a "never ending project" as well...

[chunger]

Wow, I have NEVER seen a block do that before, but I guess it gets pretty cold there? Dunno, I just have known 3 ppl personally that have had issues of one sort or another with crate motors.

Anyway - glad to see you overcoming the challenge and keep working to get this thing on the road!

[Johnny Blaze]

Wow, I have NEVER seen a block do that before, but I guess it gets pretty cold there? Dunno, I just have known 3 ppl personally that have had issues of one sort or another with crate motors.

Anyway - glad to see you overcoming the challenge and keep working to get this thing on the road!

Actually, it never got 'that cold'. I am in Southern Indiana, and I bet it never got colder than, 20F. Not too mention it was in a concrete block garage.

I really think it was more due to the poor casting of the made in mexico block. It is noticably thinner than the old block I got to rebuild. If it had been an old block, I don't think it would have cracked, esp. this bad.

Gotta keep moving forward though, I got too much in the truck to give up now, and would not have been able to sell it for any real money.

It should be on the road by next month. I'll get some good shots of it then to post here as well.

[Johnny Blaze]

Ordered a DDM Tuning HID headlight conversion kit, with their conversion housings. Also ordered a wiring harness upgrade from LMC. Since this is my driver, I figured I might as well get some better lights on it!

Had issues with the carb dumping fuel when I tried to start it. Asked the guy that rebuilt the carb about it before I tore into it as I am not to familiar with quadrajets, and he said 'send it to me and I'll go through it." Pretty good considering I bought it from him 2 years ago. Aslo sent him the cam specs and such, just gotta wait for it to get back to me.

Its almost on the road! Can't wait!

[Johnny Blaze]

Carb is on it's way back home.
Here is what the guy did to it to match my engine set up
"went clear through the carb dismantled every part installed bigger jets 2 sizes*larger ,enlarged the air mixture ports for more intake vacuum to the power piston*changed*the secondary air valve tension install new power piston bushing,enlarged the primary choke pull off port *and added a new finish i wanted it to look good on that good looking engine "

don't know much about quadrajets, do the mods sound good?

[Johnny Blaze]

Success!

After a trip to the emergancy room forum, and some investigation, the truck is alive!

Good the engine running last night, broke in the CSM, adjusted timing and idle, rowed the M-20 through all the gears, and it's all good!

The Muncie came from craigslist, so I wasn't really sure how got it was, so that's why I went through all the gears.

No master cylinder on yet, so it didn't leave the driveway.

Foot get the master cylinder on and bleed the brakes.

Tach isn't reading much, so I gotta figure that out as well. Needle barely moves off 0. Ground seems good, and connection at tach seems good. Lights up well. Only thing left to check is power wire. I did switch it from 6 to 8 cylinder.
Sounds pretty good. Revs good etc...

Guy did great work on carb, highly recommend him, Dlataa in Ebay.

[Johnny Blaze]

Finally got exhaust finished today. Sounds good and real aggresive, a bit louder then I expected. Thrush welded 2 chamber mufflers, I used oddest in and out as they are supposed to be a little quieter then other setups. Pipes are 2 1/4", has and h pipe as well.Tips are from a 2010 camaro.Can't wait to hear it at cruise speed, hope it doesn't drone too much.

[rodriguez69]

What year of blazer is that gas tank you have rear mounted ? I have been looking for a efi tank to fit thr rear and this looks awesome

[Johnny Blaze]

67-72 blazer

[Johnny Blaze]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/08/d8349e779a56e647ddb755be86fd8f6a-1.jpg

bleeding brakes tonight then hit the street for a shakedown run!

[Johnny Blaze]

Put 25 miles on it today. No problems! With the wide ratio Muncie and 3:73 gears, it'll pull a stump! Combo pulls out of the hole really well. Gonna be fun. I pushed a few turns a little and it shot right through them.
It will need to see an alignment shop. I'm just about on the pancake bumpstops on the front, so taller springs and drop spindles are next on the list.
The manual brakes feel great. Seems yo stop well, though I haven't pushed them
yet.
Just ordered that quadrajet book everyone says to get. Hope to tune this one to an effecient beast!

To do list:
1. Spindles and springs
2. Finish interior
3. Power steering

wishlist:
1. Wider wheels and tires. I want to have the wheels widened to 9.5". And go with a 275 tire, at least in the rear.
2.Tpi. I have a stock tpi setup, just need a harness and a fuel pump. I would lije to swap for milage gain. Not sure if can would work with it's 110 lsa.
3. Overdrive. I'd like to swap to a 5 speed. To help with milage and the 3:73 rear
4. Posi. Obviously

[darkgable79]

Looks great. I have my eye on a '70 C10. It's going to be nice when it's done.

[srh3trinity]

Looks great. I stopped and asked a guy about a black GMC the other day with a 327 and the right amount of patina. It was a classic fail, "no that belongs to ole so and so and I have been after him for years to sell it to me, but he bought it new and it has been sitting here at my shop for some time now"

[Johnny Blaze]

Put 100 miles on it since Thursday! No problems! Running good.

[Johnny Blaze]

Almost at 400 miles on the new set up! Driving it everyday and loving it!

[chunger]

Nice, man. This is what it's all about. Enjoy.

[Johnny Blaze]

Loving it! 1000 miles and going!

[Sneke_Eyez]

This truck is awesome and has inspired me to "look around" for a good classic style hauler to do a similar treatment to... I love the simplicity of it, its perfect for a truck.

[Johnny Blaze]

This truck is awesome and has inspired me to "look around" for a good classic style hauler to do a similar treatment to... I love the simplicity of it, its perfect for a truck.

Thanks! Getting approval from the people here means a lot! Had it to two cruises already. Some dig it, others walk right by.

[Black93GT]

I love what you're doing with the truck!! I've though about doing something like that but I only ever see the camo blazers and box vans.


Useless gee-wiz info..... So thats a forms pouch mostly used to hold the AF Form 1800 which is the operators guide and servicability report.


This is cool, not sure if its a dealer add on, or a custom made deal, I call it a saddle bag.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2010/07/e4b2865f-1.jpg

[Johnny Blaze]

I love what you're doing with the truck!! I've though about doing something like that but I only ever see the camo blazers and box vans.


Useless gee-wiz info..... So thats a forms pouch mostly used to hold the AF Form 1800 which is the operators guide and servicability report.

Someone somewhere else told me that too. Been trying to get one of those forms printed off!

[Black93GT]

I'll hook you up.

[Johnny Blaze]

I'll hook you up.

Tha'd be cool!

E mail me at clownj at yahoo . com

[Sonders]

Awesome truck man. I read all the way through this thread before realizing where you were located; you're not too far from me at all. Hopefully I'll see your truck at a show around sometime! I've been keeping my eye out for a 67-72 C/10 truck or blazer for awhile now, but no luck around here. Also, do you have a build thread on your IROC? Would love to check it out. Love the 3rd gen's; was my first car.

[Johnny Blaze]

Awesome truck man. I read all the way through this thread before realizing where you were located; you're not too far from me at all. Hopefully I'll see your truck at a show around sometime! I've been keeping my eye out for a 67-72 C/10 truck or blazer for awhile now, but no luck around here. Also, do you have a build thread on your IROC? Would love to check it out. Love the 3rd gen's; was my first car.

Yeah man Not too far from you at all! I hit the McDonalds Cruise in Sellersburg, don't make it out to Corydon much, but try to hit as many cruises as I can.

I don't have a build thread on the IROC, but will start a rebuild thread for it here one of these days. It has been robbed of parts over the years and has gone through a few changes. Last engine that was in it was a 700+ hp 427 BBC. It is going to go back on the street someday with an EFI SBC.

Im a Camaro man, owned 8 of them. This is my 4th 3rd gen. Had 2 second gens, 2 4th gens and a 1st gen firebird. This ones a keeper.

[Johnny Blaze]

I have an issue with the Muncie. When its cold, in the morning, cruising in 4th gear, it will pop out of gear, unless I keep my hand on the shifter.

Only does it when its cold.

[Johnny Blaze]

Hauled a Rick of Firewood yesterday.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/10/1fbe0b80e7ff91e9fc52cd4f39b1bed6-1.jpg

[jc70chevy]

hw did it handle that haul. i have a 1972 c10 with cpp 3/5 drop sprigs was wondering if it gunna haul still

[Johnny Blaze]

Did pretty good. It was sitting on the rear bumpstops of course and the front was a little floaty, but nothing rubbed, bent broke or fell off!

[Johnny Blaze]

I decided to try dime Eastwood vintage racing gold wheel
paint on my iroc wheels, I'm pleased with the result!


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/10/1eee0d5fcfefaa46b82f3e2f96823db0-1.jpg


Wondering if I can incorporate thr color into thr engine compartment, or should I?

[srh3trinity]

I like the color of the wheel, but with that bright orange, I think you need more contrast.

[Johnny Blaze]

Thinking about selling the Truck. Starting to tell myself a late model commuter is better than an old school rod. :( Not too mention we are looking at home ownership again and could use some cash.

I got a local guythat keeps bugging me to sell it as a roller too him, but he's waiting on cash, says hes got some ls motors hes selling to get it.

I'll offer it up for sale but I'm gonna be firm on the price, no reason to give it away!

[Johnny Blaze]

Truck is up for sale now :(

If anyone is interested its in the for sale forum.

[craigs73]

i wish i had the$$$ GLWS

[Sneke_Eyez]

Bummer, but good luck with the sale! I still haven't had time to find my own project truck, but I just don't have the cash or the time to pick up yours, despite how badly I'd like to...

[Johnny Blaze]

Thanks guys! Truth be told, I won't be terribly upset if it doesn't sell! I've been getting some trade offers, and a few out of town people interested. A guy from North Carolina and one from michigan seem real interested.

If they don't buy it, and I don't work out a deal with ridetech ;) , I'll put it on Ebay for a week and see what happens. If it doesn't sell then, I'll try and get a T-5 swapped, and keep it!