I did get side tracked by the tires, figured you had something to put them on and would be keeping us updated on the progress. I did not realize that the tires were the first step. (they will be my next to last step)
Well,
I doubt you find any one with detailed information on this project, as it has yet to be done.
It sounds like the project is feasible, I think we have all agreed on that part, now comes the work of making it happen.
If you can fabricate stuff, plan ahead, solve mechanical problems, and read a tape measure then all you have to do is get started.
I looked for help and ides while I was planning my project, and did not find much that directly related to my plans.
I did find it helpful to look at other similar trucks, for me that was pickups with 4-53T Detroit Diesels in them. I even bought a 73 Chevy with a 4-53T already installed, examined it, played with it, and sold it. I made friends with other people who have 4-53's in there trucks, crawl around under them, take pictures, and ask lots of questions.
by looking at other trucks I learned not so much what to do, but what not to do. Not that my friends trucks are bad, they are very serviceable and reliable. It's just the way problems present themselves in other peoples trucks is different then the problems I have in my truck, and my solutions are different to fit my application. Some things I did learn directly what not to do, but more because of personal preference then anything else. For example, I don't like hydraulic clutch linkage, so I made mine mechanical. Another thing, I could not see running a vacuum pump just for the brakes, so I went with hydroboost brakes, as I already have a PS pump.
You may find that your friends start imitating your ideas to improve there trucks. You have the benefit of seeing what they did, then you do your own thing, then your friends see what you just did, and go back and re-do what they did to start with, every one learns from each other, round and round in a circle.
You will be able to find help with making the engine run, and other small things, and we can offer input to problems as you approach them. The big part of this project has to be planned and figured out by you, we can't predict what you will need to do.
Hope this helps,
Grigg
