The Stovebolt Site Forums Welcome! Welcome Centre Do It Yourself (DITY) Gallery 1954 GMC 150-25 - The "Collective" helps with frame-off restore

1954 GMC 150-25
First time classic project. Looking for tips and or tricks on tackling this job. Don't want to do something I don't want to be doing and damage or make something worse. Especially alignment issues with doors, fenders, hood, etc. No truck bed as it was a flatbed, might go flatbed or might go full size bed?

More little repairs I am getting into seems like it's taking longer or I am running into another issue. Decided it would be best to do a frame off restore since the parts I pull will have to be repaired or replaced.

Figured it'll be easier to redo brake lines, drivetrain, etc. after I wire wheel or sandblast frame, etc.

Only visible issue on the cab is the floor behind the fenders at the corner, I can see light and a tear behind driver cab (probably weld it back together). Open to ideas or suggestions.

What do I need for paint info if I decide I want to keep the stock color, unsure what the original color was on the outside, looks like it was brushed on.

Starting a logbook, photos and records of all parts bought or replaced.

So far I got started on was the rear brakes but did not do the hydraulics yet till lines get replaced. More I look at something else, I think darn, that needs to be fixed. At least I know the engine runs, but the wiring is shot.

Sorry for the rant. Anxious to get this started. Already looking for storage boxes for the parts, etc. Doing the work at my work as I'll have access to most tools and equipment, but cannot leave the truck in the shop. Sitting on my flatbed trailer while I am working on it. Should be able to put cab on a dolly and push under shelf out of the way.

Starting from the beginning:

Before doing anything, you want to layout a realistic work plan with timetable and budget. You want time to enjoy the fruits of your labor and not leave the project for your heir to deal with.

Taking in suggestions from others on how to fix-up your truck may be helpful but could also lead down the wrong path.

Going 100% original is difficult, expensive and involves a lot of research. Adding your personal taste (customizing) can reduce resale value.

Sometimes it is much less expensive to purchase someone else's unfinished project or find a completed truck that is selling at a bargain.

Before you spend any $$ on the truck, you want to verify that the VIN tag matches the title and that you have a clear proof of ownership, registration and title in your state (NDAK).
If you don't do this, someone else can claim ownership and take it away from you.

It's too soon to think about paint and bodywork. You want to start determining the trucks condition. Any past history.
If you are able to drive the truck, then the #1 priority is good steering and brakes.

To be continued.

Welcome, these forums will provide a lot of information to help with your project.

If you look at my Project Journal you will see that I have been working on mine for almost a year and I have a long way to go. Getting the frame cleaned and painted is a great first step as everything else is going to build on it. I find myself working on several different sub-projects at the same time and trying to prioritize things can be a challenge everyone here will provide guidance on specific subjects as you work your way through the specific areas you are working on.

You'll need to find what process will work for you. I have no budget or timetable. I don't care about budget because I never plan to sell my project. It will always be something that will keep me busy or will evolve from what state it's in to a different version.

At the same time, I hate spending money because I know I can make what I need out of raw materials and it is more rewarding for me to do so. This isn't to say I don't have a clear picture of what I want it to be when complete, if ever.

I'll still laugh at the "shoulds" I continue to get. Like "You should paint it yellow." Yeah, THAT ain't gonna happen. What works for me is working on and completing sub-sections of the vehicle. Like building/rebuilding the brake system. Or completing the body and paint portion.

I bought my project in 2006 and started enjoying the driving part by 2012. I might have the exterior paint done by early 2023. Also, if you feel something is way beyond your capabilities, do a little online research (Stovebolt is a great resource) and see if it really is an insurmountable thing to do. None of us were born knowing how to do everything! We all had to learn somewhere.

So I would say, having a clear picture of how you want that thing to be when complete, would be pretty important. Then work on a section at a time until you reach that complete picture. And if one job frustrates you, move to another part until you are inspired or hit with the solution to revisit the original problem. Plan on it being a marathon and not a sprint. Not all of us will "need to get it done in the next half hour, OR WE COULD LOSE THE SHOP!!"

Realize that your work can be a distraction. Yeah, you got the tools there, but there is always somebody around who will need your attention. I was trying to make a simple steel fence post recently at work. Something that should take no more than 2 hours from cutting, drilling, welding and spray paint. Took me about 2 weeks with all the distractions, quickie jobs and honey-do's.

You have a great start! Just keep at it and never give up!

Your 1954 GMC project will be of great interest to our forum participants. I'm really looking forward to watching your progress. Be sure to ask your questions in the appropriate forum(s). There's a wealth of knowledge here on the SB.

Welcome. You're gonna love it here!

So much info just from the above posts. Thank you for the encouragement.

As for budget, time and location. I'll be working on the truck at work on my own time and does need to be moved out of the shop during working hours, there have been times I leave it in the shop to work on for an hour in morning or evenings, few hours on weekends depending on my "Honey do List" or grand-kids. Good thing the shop is a few blocks away from home, very convenient (luxury) as well as having equipment to use such as fab shop, so/so paint booth, forklifts, etc. And a boss who is also a classic car nut, has 3 or 4 of them plus his wife's 2 cars.

As for the title and vin, just got them done and in my name, yes I agree to not work on anything till I actually have the paperwork on hand. Have a 39 Mercury Fordor that's been chopped into a Ute, that is a future project after I get title on hand, truck gets done first. Eyeing a 49 Dodge truck, unsure what the plan is yet.

On the 54 GMC 150-24 Truck. I'd like to keep things as original with some upgrades as needed. Right now, going to study and take any info I can get from the group what can be done, etc. Decided to tear down the truck to frame and bare body since I am already going to have to pull stuff out anyways, hate to have to do it twice. Searching for pallet wood boxes from customers to store large parts and working on shelving to keep organized (my worst trait is organizing). Funny how I am more organized with my truck than anything else. Wife doesn't even know whether she wants to be upset or proud. LOL Just see it in her eyes and she won't admit it.

I'll do my best to post photos as this will be a slow ongoing project. Just no plan to where or how to get started, I just look at it and plan on doing whatever I feel that needs to be started on. Maybe one day I am not in the mood to pull the axle, but feel like removing the wiring, or just get some parts and sandblast, clean and paint, etc.
I am thinking once body is off the truck with drivetrain still on frame, engine be easier to work with. Unsure if I should take the front clip off as one assembly or tear down completely? My thinking is being able to store the front clip as one piece until I am ready to work on that section, same with the body/doors.

As always, open to suggestions and ideas.

Cool project. I always kept my front end clip together until the last possible moment to tear it down before paint work. I find it easier to hammer and dolly on an assembly that is heavy and solid versus a single fender that can flop around/move while you try to manipulate 70 year steel into its original shape.

I agree with the body off for engine drivetrain work, but then again I am a “go deep” kind of fixer.


Tips:
1. Have a plan. Plan the work and work the plan. You’ll be glad you did. Do it a little bit at a time. Jumping around on things can lead to confusion and delay. Ask me about it sometime!
2. Have a budget.
3. Have a timeframe.
4. Have a supportive spouse. (Perhaps this should be number 1? 🤔)
5. Walk away if you’re frustrated and regroup. It will happen.
6. Ask for help when needed.

Good luck!

Another tip. Bag and tag EVERYTHING, including where nuts and bolts come from.

Also keep a record of parts you've bought and where you stashed them. It'll help keep you from buying the same thing again (don't ask how I know this. )

Like Fox said, if you get frustrated on one thing, there will be other things to work on.

What Kevin said: I second that one. Been there done that.

Makes me nervous to start tearing down things as I do not know what the future brings. But I am still going to go forward with the complete teardown as my original plan was to get it running and drive it, Just getting tired of going back and redoing things the second time. Besides there are a lot of things that will take time and extra effort just to get it running.

Already working on finding crate boxed for parts, building a cab dolly and figuring out what and where to put the frame after it is cleaned and painted, etc. Unsure how I'll do the front clip, someone mentioned it's easier to work on when fully assembled as there are a few dents and rust spots in it. Will see after the frame and cab is done. Drivetrain will have to wait till next year or so.
So much on my mind, not enough time.

Take pictures and more pictures and good luck.

It's like eating an elephant. Just take one bite at a time.

Going to start on the rear end section and get the axle/springs off, order parts, clean up and paint. Then maybe start removing all of the wiring and electrical, switches, etc. so I can make a new harness for it (snow day project). And see what other parts to add to the parts order list. Looking for any other surprises? I'm picking up a couple wood boxes from customer so I can store safely out of the way.
Noticed some plates welded onto the frame, probably for holding something onto truck? Will be grinding those off and make smooth, other side shows no cracks or anything. When I took the wood bed off, it wasn't mounted on there, just bolts welded together to make u bolts to hold the bed down.

I really like the look of this old workhorse.

This may also sound ridiculous, but if you can manage it a second truck can really help you out. I have done 1 truck, am working on a second, and have been helping my pa in law do his 47 Stylemaster. On each project we have purchased a complete parts vehicle. One that is assembled but usually beat to snot. These old scrappers have been an amazing resource. It is like a puzzle's box lid to see how your truck goes together. It may also provide the odd piece here and there, a measurement, or a place for kids/grandkids to play in. I have NEVER regretted buying one of them. The only problem I've had so far is that they are still around. 😀 My kids overheard me talking about selling the parts C20 truck when I finish my C10 and grew quite concerned. "You're not selling our truck, are you?!"

Oh boy, they're calling it "theirs"!

I'm outta here.

Wife will not allow me to get another truck, but I do have 1, possibly 2 trucks I can get my hands on. A 49 Dodge 1 ton grain truck and a mid 50's Chevy panel service truck or whatever they are called. Eyeing more towards the service truck or suburban, no windows on rear section other than rear. Need to look for the pics.
Right now going to stick with my 54 GMC and go from there. Maybe wife will let me get the other truck.

If you're thinking about the panel truck or a suburban, consider that the road visibility (to either side) from the driver's seat is quite bad with the panel truck. Huge blind spots.

The burb has windows on the side which enhances the visibility tremendously.

Also, the burb is more family friendly (more seats) and therefore might be more appealing to the boss. ;-)

Cheers, Dean

Just an update. With as much snow as we have gotten, the truck has been on hold as I am supposed to have it outside the work shop at work during business hours. Even though I have ignored the request of getting it back out. But when the cold weather hits, we get more units on trailers and at times need the work space. Have been researching places to buy parts here and there and hopefully be ready for when I pull the axle to clean and repair (weld) the shock mount, reassemble the brakes and lines and of course the wiring. Hopefully be able to reuse the old dash componets. Makes me nervous getting that far into the truck, but it always makes me finish what I have started. Talking to my boss about the truck, he said that I am known not to leave anything half assed. Especially my jobs too, lol.

I have decided to start doing what I mentioned above and hoping the engine is a good runner, even though it ran for few seconds. Unsure where to start on the truck as I just am going to work it a little at a time and at least have a daily driver to and from work which is a short mile away and a small town. I can at least have fun driving it.

Need to find a radiator (stock), tires and seat covers. Might just use duct tape and a blanket for now till I decide on colors.

Need to get back in this thread as I am still doing little here and there. Now my main goal is to get it running and drivable, to see how it drives as well as any changes I may need. I know my mind is all over the place, one minute I want to do a complete teardown, the next I want to drive it as is. Reading a lot of threads where it has taken 5-10 years for some to complete and my worry is that if I do tear it apart, it'll probably never get done.

So far I sandblasted the rear part of the frame to the cab, painted it. Replaced the seals in the axle, going to replace the brake lines and rebuild the brake cylinders. The drums look like new as do the pads, don't seem like they have been used. Next step is to finish up the front bearings and hubs, cleaned them up as the grease was hard. Then I move onto the wiring, radiator and get the engine running. Going to stay with the 6 volt setup for now till I see how things are going. Not worried about bright lights as I'm in ND and the summers sun sets around 11:00.

Will upload some pictures when I get them transferred to new PC. Sure am glad I listened to you all, I have ran into some things that I forgot about. Had to back track into the photos to see what went were and how.

Love this place.

Yes, just get it mechanically sound and drive it around as-is for awhile.

I never do restorations because I KNOW I will never finish a complete teardown. I don't have the patience for it and I like driving my vehicles. I just replace and repair things as needed. I like driving it too much to tie it up in the garage forever.

I've put over 200 miles on this ugly duckling in the last two days. People like it as much as my other, more presentable vehicles.

People will love your truck with it's authentic "age spots". It's a lot better looking than the phony baloney fake "patina" and clear-coated rust you see on a lot of rides these days.

Here is my truck, I actually like it. Already removed the bed and will make another wood flatbed.

Finally getting back into my project. After getting a garage delivered, wiring up the garage, insulating the walls and putting the truck, converting an air compressor from gas to electric, moved my sandblaster inside (most larger things were at work). Still have more to do in the garage and said the heck with it, started on the truck till I run into a stop and I'll get back working on the garage. At least it'll give me more time to thing where I want things placed to work, benches, shelves, TV, fridge, etc.

So far removed the entire wiring harness and looking for a non insulated flag crimper and terminals. removing stiff wire was a chore especially when I was diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Worked thru the pain as I wanted to get this start to finish. Yes, I marked almost everything and will be making a harness.
Looking around for the gauge parts, found the labels, looking for the glass and instructions somewhere on how to tear it down to rebuild (54 gauges are hard to get parts for). Will be pulling the heater and wiper motor to go thru, figure why not. I really need to remove the seat frame as it's very awkward to work in there as I am no longer as limber as I used to be, good thing I have an auto mechanic son to help when needed, LOL. I'll need to pull the gas tank as I have noticed a lot of dust, weeds and crap under it. At least I am getting there and hopefully stick with it thru the summer and maybe winter if the ceiling gets insulated.
Wife wanted recliner out of house so I found a new space for it, Cooper and Thor approves.

Now a work in progress even if I work on it a hour here and there.
Just keeping in touch...

Always good to have a garage to work in. I've seen friends work on their projects under a carport and that does not look fun on cold windy days. How high is your roof? Looks like you could create some storage space up there? Oh wait, I think I see some storage in the back there.

That's the true definition of a Man Cave...

My wife insisted that I get the junk out of the yard meaning my 54 truck and my 1960 MGA roadster so she picked out plans for a 2 story 2 vehicle garage and had it built. Best of luck with it, I sold the MGA 7 years ago and the 54 is no longer in my possession. BTW she is no longer here either but I still have the garage and her brother in law stores his 1960 Corvair there in the winter. If you pull up the pictures on my page with the 54 to the right of it you can get a glimps of the garage in the back ground.

I did build a loft towards the back and thinking of either putting up shelves or another loft above the garage door. Need that section insulated before I start covering it up.
Right now I am working on the wiring harness, so simple and easy. AND a whole lot cheaper than a harness. I have always been good with electrical, just terrible at finding the parts needed. Getting there, slowly but surely. So simple, probably 9 wires or so. Plus I am adding a few more for the future things like reverse lights, etc. Taking my time and writing notes from everywhere I look including here and others suggestions. Forgot to take pictures of the wire harness I took out.
No it's not fun to work on the dirt, especially with the ND winds or the brutal winters. One of the reasons I keep the shop vac plugged in and use it a lot cause even the garage is almost air tight, dust still manages to find it's way in.
Even the wind tends to push the door seals open and I get some snow drifting in.

Just added a couple more shelves as I am having a hard time finding parts that I have scattered all over, work, shed, other shed, garage, office and in house. Trying to get everything all in 1 place. Bought things over time so I wouldn't have to do it at last minute or when I don't have the money. Glad I did though. Watching for sales and free freight deals. Tires are another story, damned near double now (going to keep original). Unless the engine is bad, Yes, I had it running for few seconds and ran great, didn't have the radiator in it but had antifreeze in engine and capped off. Hopefully the block is still in good shape.

Well, back to researching for few parts and to work...
Thank you for your input.

The wife insisted on me getting my truck out of work and ended up getting me a garage. Wanted to build a 2 story garage, she said no cause it would take me forever to build it.
Not complaining as I now have a permanent shop for it and can leave my stuff laying there instead of packing it up when weekend is over.

After pulling the wiring to make a new harness. Noticed the pink ignition wire was pretty much melted all the way to the ignition switch. I am assuming the key was left on causing the wire to melt?
Unless there is something else I need to look at for the reason the wire melted? Otherwise I'll have to reassemble the harness and see what is going on? Figure someone may know why that wire was melted?

I have fuses in other parts of the truck such as the fuse block with foil wrapped fuses, light switch fuse and one I think inline the ammeter meter.
Would love to find a 2 fuse fuse block to match the old one with a cover. No I did not get a fuse block for inside the cab, probably should as it's easily hidden under dash.

Any suggestions, ideas and where I can get parts would be awesome.

RP - You can get a reproduction original style 2 fuse block with cover from ebay seller Bowtie Bits Antique Truck Parts. Classic Parts lists a rebuilt one on their site, but is showing as currently out of stock.

You might want to ask your "melted ignition wire" question in the Electrical Bay forum as you will probably get more visibility and response to your question there.

I don't have a '54 GMC wiring diagram, but my '52 GMC diagram doesn't show a pink wire at the switch. Original wiring was cloth wrapped, so I doubt your "melted" pink wire is original. Either it is undersized or something is causing too much current to flow. Original ('52) wiring had a 14 gauge wire from the ignition switch to a junction connecting voltage regulator "batt" (10 ga wire), headlight switch (10 ga) and ammeter (10 ga). NONE of those devices are fuse protected.

Why do you have foil wrapped fuses? Seems to me that could cause excessive current flow. Was the wire that got melted part of that circuit?

Wouldn't cause excessive current flow, but would allow excessive current flow.

You're right. I misspoke there. I was thinking 'allow', but wrote 'cause'. Sorry about that!

Saw the one on Classic Truck Parts, not in stock. But looking at the other one, I am going to try to order it as i want to retain the original look. Thank you for the link.

Will ask in the electrical page when I get the wires hooked back up and battery in it so I can diagnose it. Figure easier that way than to not know why it burned up?

Looked at 2 wiring wiring diagrams for the 54 GMC and Chevy truck, both do have the 16Ga pink wire. Only cloth covered wire I see goes to the heater from switch.
Still learning the wiring to what's what, etc.

The fuses were wrapped in foil when I got the truck. I am a service mechanic on equipment such as pressure washers, parts washers and compressors. Seen a few places where they use grade 8 bolts as a fuse for the heating elements, one had a set of pliers clamped as a fuse. Some crazy stuff out there.

I was just posting what I saw, looking for advice to what I need to look for. I guess I need to redo the wiring, new fuses, fuse block, etc. Then see what the issues may have been.

Been a busy spring weekend, couldn't even touch my truck. One of the family members moved here for better work in the oilfields, he said he wants to help on my truck which would be awesome.

Have the 3 and 4 terminal strip for the headlights on the truck, 2 of the clips are missing, unsure the condition of the other 2. If I can find these clips, that be great. Otherwise what is the best way to mount the terminal strips? I know it'll be best to wire straight thru, just trying to keep the original looks. Thought about bolts thru with a nut under wheelwell, didn't want it to viberate off or get rusted to where I have to cut the bolt off.
TIA

I used two small nuts and bolts with shoulders threaded 1/4 x20. 7/16" hex head.