Hello
I always been intrigued by old pickups, but so far the only restorations I’ve (well, almost) completed are two Farmall tractors I use in conjunction with an old farm I’m renovating. My 17 yr old son’s interest in restoring an old pickup sounds like an opportunity (excuse?) for a project together.
These are totally uncharted waters for me. I've got mechanical background but restoring a truck is totally different than a tractor. I have to ask a few novice questions. There’s a guy locally looking to sell a 54 Chevy 3/4 ton pickup. I’ve seen it quickly, and it looks like it’s been sitting outside for many years, lot’s of surface rust, cracked windows. Beyond that I don’t know anything more yet. I know there are a hundred variables, but as a starting point, can someone help me with a range of reasonable prices? What are some really critical things to look at? I'll have another look at it, and post some photos.
The intention would be to restore the body and frame, put in an updated engine, and use it as a daily driver. How difficult is it these days to register such an older vehicle in terms of emissions, safety, etc? I live in New Jersey.
Looking thru this site is certainly getting my interest up! It is comforting to know there is so much expertise here to turn to. Just like the forums I found when I began restoring tractors.
I can see there may be no turning back. Thanks!
