Howdy Sara.
Welcome to the site with the best information for the repair and preservation of older Chev. trucks.
Your photos show that you have a great piece of family history that will not take much work to enjoy and share.
The axle swap out as John says is quite simple but is heavy work. I found a 4:56 ratio rather than a 4:11 to replace my 5:17 and that works well.
But mine is a bit heaver one ton that has a larger diameter tire. Just remember that traveling with modern vehicles also requires good steering and stopping.
Yours will do that with some attention to detail. It does appear to be well looked after.
The 3/4 & 1 ton trucks have a unique nich on this site and we all watch out for each other and the enjoyment of the special trucks.
The panel and surburban crowd have the same thinking.
Again welcome.
Howie
