Just to test the waters I should also let you all know my plans. First, I am not going to drop the body on a late model 1/2 ton chassis. . . which may comfort the restorers. But unlike the restorers I will need to use this truck as part of my business (the only way I could justify the expense - and it will sure be cooler than a Mitsubishi Cube Van!!) . . .so I will need to make a few upgrades for safety and serviceability. Other than that I am figuring on taking everything apart, cleaning, re-building, painting and putting it back together again.
I need to keep this a 2-ton truck so the frame and springs will stay but I expect to find that the brakes, rear end, and wiring need to be updated. It seems that the muncie 4-speed and I-6 motor were standard equipment for enough years that I can re-build them and keep that part stock (though slow- but that is o.k.). Am I correct in assuming that brake parts are not in stock at common parts houses anymore? Is there a common later model Chevy 2-ton rear end that I will need to make this a an easily repaired service vehicle? Are there later model spindles or a complete axle assembly that will bolt up to what I have up front? And, surely I need to replace the single reservoir master cylinder with something with dual reservoirs and maybe a power booster. Is there a common swap for this?
