The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Where to start?

Hello all,

I am currently in the process of getting a '53 3100 5 window. It needs a full redo and I need some help on where to start gathering info.

The main info I want to find are updated engine/drivetrain combos and suspension.

The truck currently has the stock straight 6 and 3speed column shift.

I want to end up putting in a newer fuel injected engine and auto trans. I also want newer suspension and brakes.

For the body I want to convert the 2 piece door glass to a single window, and for the bed, I recently saw a '55 with one of the newer composite flare side beds.

Where can "how-to" style write ups be found and general info on the type of ideas I have.

Thanks in advance.

DB,

Do a search up above on rearend, rear end swap, T-5, clip, mustang II, and a couple of other terms you are interested in. You should get a bunch of returns.

Also, check the links section up above for the parts suppliers. Most of the changes you want to make are in the catalogs for parts to buy.

Your billfold is the limit on what you can/want to do.

Have you thought about keeping your 6 banger?

Also, welcome to the bolt page. Looks like you have been lurking for awhile before your first post!

Thanks for the search terms. I am coming from a FWD car background so I am a "fish outta water" here. I thought it was a time to add something different.

My wallet is rather light for "car mod funds" for awhile so things will have to be done on a "working mans budget".

I haven't really given any thought to keeping the 6. The overall goal is comfort/power/reliability on the build. Without spending alot I don't know if I could get enough reliable power from the 6.

As for the lurking, I signed up awhile back when I came across the truck, but have been side tracked with alot of other stuff since then.

I did most of what you are thinking of doing. I used a Camaro clip rather than Mustang II (I feel the A-arms are too short for a smooth ride, but that is just me). Believe me, the costs can get out of hand, it is not for the light wallet.

DB, A T-5 behind and a "modern" rearend might get you the ride you are looking for until you can afford the rest. I was a V-8 guy until I saw some of the things you can do to a 235, 261 or GMC 6. Dual carbs, headers etc are pretty cool. If you are running a 216, they won't take much high RPM stuff due to the splash oiling on the bottom, but I sure like the sound of my 216.

Does your 53 still have the 216 or has it been swapped out for a 235?

db,
First off, welcome.
Check out the pics I have below.
Is this the route you want to go?

I went a similar yet different route as wilbur. Some of the modifications I made. The list does not include the body mods.

I hope the picture links work.

Engine

Tune Port Injected L98 – rebuilt 0.30 over; Vortec heads – roller rockers; “hot” cam; Doug’s headers with Serma coat; High performance chip from Street & Performance; Street & Performance TPI wiring harness; Polished TPI with Siamese runners; Throttle body enlarged to 52 mm; Custom air filter; Custom stainless fuel injection gas tank with in-tank pump; Cool Craft triple flow radiator with shroud and spal electric fan

Transmission

700 R4 – rebuilt with shift kit; 2100 stall converter;

Third Member

10 bolt – rebuilt; Narrowed; 3.42 gears; T/A rear end support cover

Chassis/Suspension

1973 Firebird front clip; QA1 adjustable coil over shocks; Quick ratio steering box; Slotted rotors front; Rear disc brake kit; Large front anti-sway bar; Rear anti-sway bar; Shackle-less rear leaf suspension (Full Tilt Street Rod slider system); ShockWave 9000 airbags


http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jimbob1957/02_03_5.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jimbob1957/02_03_9.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jimbob1957/02_03_3.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/jimbob1957/03_06_2.jpg

jimbob1957:
I know how easily things can get out of had, I have previously been down that path. I have also learned alot about it taking that route. Sounds like you took that route and ended up with a really nice truck. I am not looking to go near that far.


wilbur:
That is very similar to what I was thinking. This planned to be a few year project. Looks like you took a similar route to buying parts as I will. Find good deals and use what you find.


46 In Progress:
I believe the truck has a 235 out of a '54.

Is there a listing of what suspension parts bolt up and their ease of installation as well as there good/bad traits?

db,
Go to the tech tips section, there is alot of info for swapping rearends and such.