New guy with an old truck

[Cainam]

Hello all -

Started lurking the forum a while ago. I know which end of a hammer to hold, but you guys know where to hit the thing.

I picked up a '66 F250 a few months ago, 30k original miles. Thought it would make an awesome work truck. The engine block was cracked (I knew about that.) Turns out that coolant is also called antifreeze for a reason. Truck was sitting since early 70s, but it started right up and drove 25 miles to my house.

New 390, change trans and rear end fluids, and I thought I was in business.

Not even close. With less than 500 miles on the new engine:

Carrier bearing. Ok, no big deal.

Rear axle spun the bearings and destroyed. Opened up 4 more with the same problem before I found one out of a '63 4X4 that was rebuildable. I thought Dana 60s were supposed to be indestructible.

Some springs in the left front drum brakes broke, and within a few hundred yards the pieces destroyed the drum, so all new brake drums, wheel cylinders, flex hoses, shoes, and master cylinder.

This is going to be the rustiest brand new truck on the planet by the time I am done with it.

[1970FordTK]

Welcome from North Carolina.

[Dave Severson]

Sounds like you're off to a good start on the project! Old parts do like to break, but when you're all done it's worth the effort!

[Mancar1]

Welcome aboard from Gerber, Ca.
Keep on Trucking.....John

[lennyp]

from Massachusetts.

[fireguywtc]

from Texas!

[Madman]

Colorado!