The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Getting started . . . .

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!

Paul, First thing to do is check around the windshield and the bottom of the doors for rust. There areas are bad about rusting from the inside out. If there are rust bubbles under the paint, it could mean a lot of work replacing these parts. The doors usually rust from the inside which would mean door replacement or welding in patches at least.

check the bottom of the fenders. These area hold mud and water and they too rust out from the inside out.

Rust is going to be your biggest problem. Sometimes what looks like a good find can turn into a major headache and an unfinished project.

Parts for that vehicle are pretty easy to find and there are a lot of aftermarket parts available.

Frank
Picture

elcome to the 'Bolt! In addition to what Frank mentioned, I'll add to check where the front fenders attach to the cab, just in front of the doors. They're notorious for rusting there. If the truck's solid, it would be a good one to get. Tose 235s are good engines, with a little warming over with performance parts from Langdons or Patricks, they'll run with modern engines with relative ease. The only drawback is the gear that those 3/4 tons run, it's a little low for keeping up with traffic. Swapping in a overdrive can fix that.
These old Chevies aren't too bad to work on. If you can handle an old Binder, you won't have too much trouble with a 'Bolt mechanicly. They're very similar. And if you do have a problem, well, all you gotta do is ask. Someone here either will know the answer or be able to direct you to it.
I wouldn't want to give you a guess on a price without seeing the truck first, but around $3-4000 is the midrange for a '54 3600. That's for a well maintained driver.
And since Frank put up a pic of his, here's mine!
http://rides.webshots.com/photo/2097784960092261295mALOOE

In NJ there are 2 options for older vehicles you can register it as historic no inspection you do need to show a photo when you get the plates. with historic they are only supposed to be for going to shows but I drive my vehicles around and never had a problem. The 2nd option is register as a classic you can only drive 3000 mi per year again and do need to show up one a year to have milage checked below is a link to the njdmv
NJ DMV Historic plates

Now for my 2 cents on a project. I would try to find something with a good body no major rust or cancer and a truck that is running you will pay a little more but it sounds like you already have your hands full. Also kids looks for quick results and minor repairs will keep there attention longer then a 6 month to 1 year restoration

Paul welcome to the "BOLT". Like all the guys have said it's inportant to do your homework. You need to pay attention to the areas like cab corners and door sills, window frames and such. Surface rust is okay just look for pitting and rot through. Something else to concider is your ideas for the engine, if you stay with a 6 the 47-55's are great. If you plan on going with a V8 then you have to think of clearence issues with exhaust and steering, even some firewall. It really pays to look around and see what you like, go to a few shows and ask questions, folks love to talk about their trucks. It will pay off in the end. Good luck.

Agree with all the good advice above but wonder If you should try that ambitious project for your first. I would think you could get a decent truck for less than the 3k mentioned above that would require less major work. Lots of work but loads of fun. (good for the son too)