Slow S10 build

[Not That Bob]

OK, couple years back I picked up someone's not finished project, 88 S10 4x4 pick up.

They had swapped in a replacement junkyard 4.3 that barely ran.

After fixing 30 little things ,from loose connections, vacuum leaks,bent brackets, etc. the truck runs pretty good.

I had really wanted a extended cab but they were/are hard to find.

Over the last few years did some mods to it with the idea that if I find a extended cab I can change everything over.

A couple weeks ago saw an ad for a 85 extended cab 4x4 with a 350.

Checked it out, seemed good but the owner said he could not fix the leaking Holley.

I bought o rings for the bowl bolts , fixed it right up. He was kinda annoyed!

Towed it home and got it ready for Pa inspection.

So far have done following:
Since the trans pan leaked, changed it and serviced the trans.
Swapped wheels/tire from my 88.
Swapped rear, has 4.10z and tru-trac 
Replaced leaking master cylinder/proportioning valve
New aluminum radiator

To do:
Have a front diff with custom posi (not a gov-lock) 4.10z for the front
Swap cap with RTT rack
Basically if it can be unbolted from the 88,it's going on the 85.

Long term plan it to build a rig that can been driven daily, tow, get outta dodge, stay outta doge for a few day all in relative comfort.

 

[Rugster]

Looks like you're definitely on the way to your goal! Looks good.

 

[Not That Bob]

Well, the 85 is fighting me.

Found the cooling fans were unhooked, started to overheat and the radiator let go.

Summit Racing makes a nice aluminum radiator just for this swap. It is installed.

Finally went for a test drive and the line to the rear brakes popped.

May end up with a whole new brake system at this point.

Taking it all in stride since it is 30+years old and don't mind spending on safety!

Hope to be on the road by weeks end.

 

[Not That Bob]

Well slow became glacial progress!  

Ended with a new brake line front to back.

Also found someone had tried to heli-coil one of the holes for the r/f brake caliper.

Notice I said 'tried', the caliper was pivoting when applied. All fixed now.

The rebuilt front diff is in. The custom posi works great, does not effect driveability when 4x4 not engaged.

I was concerned since we welded up the collar on the r/f axle to eliminate the stupid vacuum actuator that always fails.

With the new posi up front and the Tru-Trac in the rear, she will be able to handle any on road situation and 95% of "offroad situations"!

Gonna switch over to the winter tires, can't wait to play in the snow!



Need to wire a temp switch for the fan, runs off a toggle now.

 

[jimindenver]

Playing in the snow with my 4x4's is one of the few things I'll miss about winter, well that and taking pictures of the snowflakes.