Need advice on project

[Chris]

I have a 72 swb 2wd pick-up that needs to be running, not sitting as it currently is. I'm not sure if I should simply get it running so it can at least be pulled in the shop, or go ahead and tear it down to the frame. The engine is a 390 with about 1000 miles on a rebuild. It has a c6, I think, and a 9 inch. The wiring needs to be re-done and the paint is original and rough. The body has some surface rust but is very straight. I suppose it could be made streetable as is but it really needs to be dissambled and done correctly. Maybe lower it or somehow fill the big wheelwells with weel and tire. I have a 302 that makes more power than the 390 but not sure there either. I would appreciate everyones input because this truck deserves better and I would like to do something for it.

[70 ranger]

I would get it running in whatever configuration you want the most. (302/390) Then tear into it for the paint. That way you can move it around when you are painting it. It is always nicer to be able to drive it into the booth and around the shop. If you are getting someone else to do the work they will probably appreciate it a lot more.

[elgemcdlf]

I find it best to keep a vehicle running as much as possible. Depending on what you desire for the truck much of the rough work can be done while still maintaining a driving vehicle. This keeps down time to a minimum when that point comes.

[Chris]

Thanks, can you suggest a good magazine I could find some ideas for the truck in?

[67mann]

Thanks, can you suggest a good magazine I could find some ideas for the truck in?

Project Threads at Fordification.......these people are sick

[elgemcdlf]

Not a magazine but as stated you will find quite a few trucks here. There is even at least one cover truck here. Hunt project updates. You might also hit the photos section. There is something like 76 pages of pics of trucks there under your fav pics. The suspension area has a lowered with attitude thread full of pics. Don't know if you want lowered or not but they are there. Ok now the shameless plug

http://www.fordification.com/forum/view ... 22&t=54398

This is my truck. It has a few minor mods.

[Bob]

If the 390 that's in it only has about 1,000 miles on it, I'd run it while you fart around with the rest of the thing. Why add more unnecessary work / cost to the restore right out of the chute. You can always go back and swap out motors after you've made it road worthy. Start out spending your money on things that will make it mechanically sound and then worry about the extras. You don't need a race engine or chrome wheels to install new brakes or get all your wiring straightened out.

If you swap motors then you still have a truck that will sit due to wiring issues and whatever else it needs. If you fix what makes it not go... you can drive it...!