The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot '60-'66 Trucks renewing my 66 C10

hello - i am the second owner of a 1966 custom C10.
its been setting covered for many years. i have uncovered it and it looks not bad. it has its original 283 and automatic and split rims. its yellow with white top.
i want to get it in driveable condition to enjoy it once more.
my question is should i have the 283 and powerglide rebuilt -
or
should i think about a crate 350.
if i go with the crate what trans should i think of ?
about what would be the cost comparisons of each approach ?
your thoughts appreciated.

thanks.
paul

A C10 with split rims? How many lug nuts does each wheel have?
Scott

if it was a c10, then it would be 6. there was a 15" split rim
ron

Does the engine in it not run? I'd suggest getting what you have into operating condition and go from there. It's cheaper by far to start with what you already have. Perhaps the engine is worn out. But you won't know that until you can get a compression test, maybe a leak down test. Maybe it just needs an oil change and a tuneup. Maybe some head gaskets and a re-ring job is all. Who knows until you find out what you have. Same for the Powerglide. Until the engine runs, who's to know if anything is wrong with the trans. In this economy, use what you've got until you can't anymore.

Congratulations! The C10 I found had been sitting five years uncovered in Tallahassee Florida. The powerglide was in great condition - but I replaced the 250cu in six with a long block. Wish I had used a small block V8 like you have. I agree with those above - use what you have. Get it running and see what you have. Good luck!

thanks for the advice.
the last time i got it going the tranny slipped bad, even with fluid topped up. it has never been adjusted or rebuilt.
i will check the fuel tank , clean the dirt off the motor and replace the plugs wires points oil.
probable will stand to have the 2 barrel rebuilt.
maybe if i can get the motor tuned and then find some place that could adjust the trans (asking for a lot now i know)i might be able to fly........
you are right i think that is the best approach.

yes those are 6 lug split rims.

thanks
paul

If your PG ends up not being able to hack it, you may be able to find a Turbo 200r of the same length. It is an overdrive trans. Many of the G vans came with the 200. Didn't see any in Wash. but plenty in Cali on Craigslist.

really .
the 200 4R 's are same length !
these would also be the trans used in the 80's regals, pontiac , and other mid size gm !
thanks
paul

I used a 200R4 when I built my 66 Caprice a few years ago. Worked well and was very easy to do. I think you can even get the gear slector bezel from someone like Classic Industries, or one of the other restoraton houses. I think they make a kit for the wiring to turn on/off the OD also. If you were going to change anything that would be a good thing to do.

could you drop the 200r4 behind a 235 i6? currently i'm running a three speed column shift, how much changing would there be to my steering column?
anyone done this?