The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk rebuilding priorities

My '58 half ton apache is now fairly sound mechanically. There are some things I'm considering to make my truck complete. Complete rewiring, engine rebuild, replacement/repair of most of the body and painting. I'm not experiencing any real problems so what sounds like the most logical way to prioritize these tasks?

Since I'm trying to do as much of the work on my truck as my skills, tools, and time allows, I'm doing everything 1 step at a time. All of the mechanical upgrades/repairs are 1st. This way, I'm able to use my truck during the intervals. I've been at it for about 4 years now. All I have left is the motor (caddy 261 in progress) and the suspension. When that is complete and the truck is performing as desired, I will take it apart and paint and powdercoat everything that hasn't been done already. First I did the brakes and all the old rubber parts. Then the cooling system, then headers and dual exhaust, added an O.D. and rebuilt the SM420, had wheels built and switched to radials, converted to HEI, and just installed new gauges. It's important to know that everything will fit and work before the whole thing gets taken apart. At least thats my opinion.

I vote for brakes first.

I an like cletis brakes first. The thing is if it won't run well you can still drive it, if it won't stop don't drive it. Then moving on to steering, engine/transmission, diff. assy. and body work to end it all.

safety first... electrical... then cosmetics.

I agree with Rusty Rod SAFETY FIRST brakes first!! If it won't stop don't even think of driving it, DO NOT cut corners in this area it may well save you life, or someone elses. Make it run well so you can depend on it. Make it look pretty last. Remember the better it looks the more someone else will want to have it.

Brakes first, then rewiring.

I'll second, or third, or fourth brakes, but then recommend a thorough check of steering box, king pins (?), tie rod ends, drag link, spring bushings, shocks, wheel bearings,u-joints, and brake lights that can be seen in the daylight. Confirmation that these components are at close to 100% will keep you between the white lines and help to guarantee getting your truck home safely.

You don't need wipers until it rains, or snows, but it's comforting to know that they function as intended. All hoses and belts should also be a priority. If your plastic coated wiring isn't a fire hazard I'd hold off until you start on the body work....easier access.

I personally recommend 3 point belts....they're a booger to install correctly but if you've ever seen a driver impalled on a steering column, you'll make it a priority.

Once you've got these items checked out and repaired you can tackle the cosmetics. In the meantime you might stumble on a later model engine, priced right, that someone else has poured a bundle into.

With a little more info on your truck the list might change, but you'll have to be the judge of that! Hope this helps.