My first build. 1955 Chevy Panel Truck Bagged

I sort of did an intro earlier, but I guess I do a quick summary here before I start the thread. I have been on the HAMB for a long time, I love traditional hotrods, and I really like the guys there, but my current build may be getting a little O/T for them, so I thought I'd start one here. Most of this will be copy/paste from the HAMB.




1955 First Series Chevy Panel Truck

I have been working on this truck for a few years now, but the sites that I have been using so far either provide me very little feedback or the feedback I get is useless because I know more than everyone else on that particular site. Truth be told, I don't know jack. This is my first build; I've never done anything this extreme. I have made a million mistakes already and have a few million more to make.

The reason I am posting here is because I want ideas, suggestions, and even warnings. I'm posting what I have done so far and I'll keep posting on this thread as I keep working on the truck.

I'll post pictures in order if at all possible. Other pictures are at http://www.cardomain.com/ride/314556...nel-van/page-3


Feel free to ask questions and throw advice at me!


The day I "found" it. Paid $500.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0001_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0002_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0003_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0004_large.jpg


I knew I wanted it bagged but I had very little money to spend. So, I decided to use an S10 frame.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0030_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0059_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0070_large.jpg



Then I tore the truck to hell:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0087_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0081_large.jpg
http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_i...0098_large.jpg



Got the truck on top of the frame and lined everything up before making mounts:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0104_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0108_large.jpg



I eventually got an engine out of an 86 Chevy (turned out it was worthless), but it let me cut up the floor and firewall and put a new one in:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0138_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0139_large.jpg



I cut out the flooring that was no good anymore. Here's what I had left:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0146_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...0142_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4646_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4221_large.jpg

Almost finished firewall:

http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4012_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4010_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4006_large.jpg



I didn't want a super pretty firewall. I plan on this being my daily driver, and I'm sure the engine will get pulled at least 20 more times before I'm happy with it, so I decided to go with a Gator Guard II coat.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4005_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4017_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4021_large.jpg




The engine out of the 86 had bad crank bearings and want worth the rebuild. I got an 89 TBI 350 from a friend of mine for $300. Came with computer, harness, all accessories, fuel tank, and fuel pump. He's a good friend.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4023_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4024_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4026_large.jpg



The gas tank I got was way too big, so I had to chop it up a little. Thanks to the H.A.M.B. I was able to get some advice on how to take care of that.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4034_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4032_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4029_large.jpg



Ok, here I ran into a problem with the new engine. The position on the power steering pump majorly interfered with the lines coming from the steering box.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4035_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4036_large.jpg


I found a smaller pulley that worked perfect. If anyone else needs to know, it's for a 91 Grand Prix 3.1 engine.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4039_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4038_large.jpg

Here are a few videos of the truck:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKhoVu_p2IY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPs__u95Cxw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmNlg-8wMgg

Fuel tank is sealed and in place. I'm going in town in a little while to get some straps for it. Fuel lines are almost run all the way, just a little more to go.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4045_large.jpg



I've been messing with this engine for a while and haven't had much luck. I figure since I was trying to use a computer I wired something up wrong when I installed everything. Just yesterday I decided to look under the distributor cap... the pickup coil was destroyed. Instead of messing with it piece by piece, I decided to go ahead and replace the whole thing. No point in putting good parts on crappy equipment.

Bad pickup coil:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4051_large.jpg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3bwp7TcQfo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86g87Ri1yYA




I solved and created a few new problems. First off, I picked up a new exhaust manifold from a junk yard for my driver side. This one stays out of the way for my steering shaft, so I'm thrilled with it.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4054_large.jpg



Next, I traded an old engine block for a tilt steering column. It even has the same plugs as my wire harness, so it's literally plug and play. Again, couldn't be happier with it.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4052_large.jpg


Now on to my new/old problem. I've started picking up some steering shaft parts but I'm at a bit of a loss right now. My new steering column sits a little lower than the previous one, so now my angle is even more extreme than before.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4053_large.jpg

I finished the steering (I think), but I'd like you guys to look at it for flaws. I raised my column up 3 inches to keep the angle from being so extreme and then I was able to use my steering shaft that I had, it just needed to be lengthened a little. So here's that and a video of it working:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4055_large.jpg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lybenguquJI


I also finished the throttle pedal. It looks sloppy, but it works. I'll make everything look pretty eventually.
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4056_large.jpg

It's ALIVE! Sort of... found out good and bad. For some reason the transmission does not shift properly, and I never even heard it get past 1st gear and reverse.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhjnMWK2-Uo



Like I said, first time around went great... now to tattle on myself... The reason my second attempt around the block failed was because my 2 link perches were not welded in place yet.... I wanted to do it later when I made up my mind about my rear end. Anyway, second trip when I took the RPM's up enough to engage 1st gear, it caught pretty hard and rotated the rear axle a little. That caused my U joint to break. I put a patch on it and got it back into the garage after about an hour.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fqvz089YUS8

http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4065_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4061_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4060_large.jpg




Ok, so here's the short list of what I got done today; I replaced the water pump, I got the radiaitor installed on it's side, I hooked up the tranny cooler, and I made the front of the s10 frame look a little prettier. For those that were wondering if my radiator was going to fit, well it did, but holy hell it was close! And for anyone that thinks I'm being a cheap ass for doing it this way, you're damn right! And that's actually not the worst of it.... I forced my existing radiator hoses to work.... The top one got chopped and turned around, the lower one got cut in half and then reconnected with a pipe to make it fit.... Oh yeah, I'm cheap. Anyway, I'll replace the crap stuff later, but it'll work great for my next test drive.

Starting with the pump:
Old:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4073_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4076_large.jpg



My new radiator mount:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4083_large.jpg



And the mount with the radiator installed:
It's ghetto with a hint of class... Sort of like a hobo with a top hat...
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4077_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4081_large.jpg



Oh yes, it sit VERY low:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4082_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4080_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_...4079_large.jpg




I ordered a couple of cheap gauges from Speedway Motors so I can keep an eye on oil pressure and engine temp for my next test drive. If I didn't have the oil pressure gauge, I know I would have had a bad oil pump; that'd be just my luck.

Why yes, that is the coolest gauge panel you have ever seen! The gauge panel is just a temporary fix. I plan to get much nicer gauges as well, I just couldn't justify the money on the ones I want until I'm actually ready for them.
http://carphotos3.cardomain.com/imag...0434_large.jpg



I had to clear out the garage the other day to work on my dad's "new" 81 Corvette. I'm pretty sure I gave my neighbors a whole new reason to hate me. I left the truck outside most of the day. I was pretty excited when the guy driving by in his Prius was glaring at me.
http://carphotos2.cardomain.com/imag...6661_large.jpg

My semester just ended, so I've done a few things over the last week. I cleaned up my firewall engine harness. I have everything, including battery, starter, and alternator, going through the firewall by two harnesses. I'm excited about this because it will make pulling the motor in and out a breeze. Wiring on the inside of the cab is still pretty sloppy; I haven't decided how I want to mount my fuse box.


Before:
http://carphotos3.cardomain.com/imag...5498_large.jpg



Three hours, two rolls of electrical tape, and one roll of solder later, my firewall looks... slightly less crappy...
After:
http://carphotos4.cardomain.com/imag...5490_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/image...5491_large.jpg




I also built my battery box tonight. I still need to make a lid for it, but it can wait...
http://carphotos4.cardomain.com/imag...5493_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/image...5492_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/image...5495_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/image...5496_large.jpg


I have a few projects this month for some customers, so I moved the truck off to the side of the garage. I realized that it hadn't been there in about 3 years, so I took a before and after shot:
http://carphotos2.cardomain.com/imag...5497_large.jpg


In other news, I should have my new transmission next month. I have no idea what is wrong with mine, and I'm out of ideas. The truck stalls out in first and reverse, whether I'm on the gas or not. It makes moving the truck a royal pain. I'll be putting in a TH350, so I'll have to redo my tranny mount and get a new driveshaft... all of which I'm thrilled about.





Alright well, that puts me up to date with my HAMB build thread. I'm looking forward to getting to know you guys and seeing what all this site has to offer!

I just kind of skimmed thru it but for a first build I think you are doing pretty darn good.

Nice job on the panel

i don't understand the radiator ??????

Hahaha, yeah... that radiator... you missed a good story on another forum. There was a huge debate about whether or not I could run it on it's side. I really didn't want to buy a new one, and I had one from a 90 Chevy. There is an inline fill at the top now, I didn't post that picture here yet, but you can kinda see it in a picture of the firewall harness. So far I've only run the temp up to 225. I didn't think that was too bad since I'm just running water for right now.

"...... you missed a good story on another forum. There was a huge debate about whether or not I could run it on it's side....."

That should have been interesting. I had some scoffers PI (Pre Internet) when I did the same thing with a brass/copper radiator cross flow I built for a 58 Chevy sedan. They use a tall narrow radiator and finding one to fit that that was useable was not working out. Worked great for 15 years and 75,000 miles.

The build does show a lot of creativity....but I'll ask the same question I've asked a lot of first time builders over the years, what's the big hurry??? I still take my time on a build, think each action through, and enjoy the process of the build rather then just hurry through, then come back to do it correct later on... I do understand the urge to get it done and drive it, but with so many good ideas as are shown on the truck, why not take the time and finish them with attention to finish and detail, then enjoy the ride. Just my opinion, I guess.

just curious what you will do about overflow ? i've used crossflow's in several tri5 trucks but had room to set them in.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Dave Severson

what's the big hurry???

---

It's not really that I'm in a big hurry, it really comes down to making this truck as much of a learning experience as possible while spending as little as possible. Some of the things I have learned include a lot of things that I have done wrong from the beginning that aren't worth the time and effort to go back and correct. This truck isn't exactly my dream car, so I plan to continue learning from it and just turn it into a shop truck. Im already planning out my next project (thinking about either a 37 Plymouth or 39 Buick), and I plan to do that one up perfect, or, as close as I can get it.

But I won't lie, I'm also really eager to get it on the road.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by shine

just curious what you will do about overflow?

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The inline fill I have on it has a line for an overflow tank, it's just a matter of adding one.

Any type of radiator mounted in most any position still should have some sort of cushioning so the tanks don't shake loose...Your's appears to be mounted solid, or are my weak eyes missing something....?

I like the bags, just gave up using them on cars because of the horrid suspension geometry when you drop the air... The unequal length a-arms on the majority of suspensions is the problem... I'd like to build one someday with equal length a-arms on the front so the air system and dropped ride height is actually something usable and not just for dropping the car in the weeds at the shows.... Nothing wrong with your setup, just the nature of the beast, I guess.

I've got a '37 Plymouth in the shop now.... a word of caution if you should find one for your next project; beware of skinny cowls when incorporating a lot of electronics, plus air conditioning, plus EFI, plus all the other bells and whistles! It gets to be an extended version of putting 12 pounds of stuff in a 5 pound box.....

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Dave Severson

Any type of radiator mounted in most any position still should have some sort of cushioning so the tanks don't shake loose...Your's appears to be mounted solid, or are my weak eyes missing something....?

I like the bags, just gave up using them on cars because of the horrid suspension geometry when you drop the air...

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Nope, you're not missing anything, it's mounted pretty solid right now. I will be adding rubber mounts for it later though. When I was building it, I didn't really have a plan yet, so I was just working with what I had. As far as geometry goes, I have been very surprised with this s10 frame. It's all stock minus the bags, and everything seems to stay aligned rather well when laid out. Mustang II doesn't even line up that well! Thanks for the heads up on the 37! I may end up staying pretty traditional when I get it, but you know how planning goes; nothing is set in stone until it's done!

You will have problems with it mounted that low , it will get hit, mine is up in the frame rails so it is safe but my lower front sheet metal has taken a beating

Quote:

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Originally Posted by 53 Willys

You will have problems with it mounted that low , it will get hit, mine is up in the frame rails so it is safe but my lower front sheet metal has taken a beating

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I'm thinking I might cover the lower 1/4 of the radiator with some sheet metal, just to protect it. It does sit quite a bit higher once the bags are inflated though. I'm digging the GMC, looks sweet in that color. I always liked that front end, I thought about changing mine over to it since my fenders and hood are so rotted out.

Nothing too new. I picked up a new rear end for the truck. It came out of a 97 Oldsmobile Bravada. It's pretty rough, but it means disc breaks for the back! I also came across another master cylinder, but I don't know if I want to use it. It came out of an 81 Vette, and worked great before hand. It appears to be in better shape than mine, and probably has less miles on it. See any objections? I don't have a proportioning valve.... really wondering if I have to have one....

Rear end:
http://carphotos3.cardomain.com/imag...0893_large.jpg


Master Cylinder:
http://carphotos2.cardomain.com/imag...0908_large.jpg

Alright, I guess it's time for an update, so here's the latest:

I picked up a new rear end. I got it off of a 97 Oldsmobile Bravada. It's a 3.73 and now has disc brakes.

http://carphotos2.cardomain.com/imag...0322_large.jpg

Cleaned it up a little bit:
http://carphotos3.cardomain.com/imag...0324_large.jpg
http://carphotos3.cardomain.com/imag...0325_large.jpg


I pulled the fuel tank and old rear end out:
http://carphotos2.cardomain.com/imag...0327_large.jpg

And threw the new one in:
http://carphotos2.cardomain.com/imag...0328_large.jpg


New brakes:
http://carphotos3.cardomain.com/imag...3722_large.jpg
http://carphotos3.cardomain.com/imag...3720_large.jpg


I also changed out master cylinders. The other one had a leak and this one was free.
http://carphotos2.cardomain.com/imag...3723_large.jpg

So, to put it VERY nicely... I totally botched the old transmission install. I had no idea what I was doing and probably ruined what was a perfectly good transmission. Anyway, I bought a new one. I'm changing out to a TH350 and I just had a friend replace the front and rear seals and also the filter, so it's good to go. I pulled out the old one last night and I'm getting the new one back this weekend.

http://carphotos4.cardomain.com/imag...3724_large.jpg
http://carphotos3.cardomain.com/imag...3719_large.jpg

Oh, and I didn't have a transmission jack... so I made my own...
http://carphotos2.cardomain.com/imag...3725_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/image...3726_large.jpg



Anyways, here's how it's sitting right now, waiting for the new transmission:
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/image...3728_large.jpg
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/image...3727_large.jpg



Hoping to get the TH350 in soon. I want to take this to the Lonestar Round Up in Austin (by trailer of course), so wish me luck!



Here's a quick video I made last night for anyone interested:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3UskJ_2OdY

I've been watching this thread from a far as it's a whole lot different than anything I've ever done and to be honest, a bit intimidating as there's a lot of work going on here!

I must complement you on your creativity, initiative and the enthusiasm with which you have embraced this project. You started with a somewhat "non-traditional" vehicle and have taken a fantastic approach in terms of wanting to learn and being completely transparent in the manner in which you've progressed. We all make mistakes in our builds (I know I've made more than my share) but you have really stuck with this project and I'm thinking you'll have this beast on the road and looking real good before too long!

Your willingness to tackle all aspects of the build and try different things is commendable - it's what makes hot rodding a fun past time! I'm looking forward to continuing to watch your progress and see the finished product!

Regards,
Glenn

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by glennsexton

I've been watching this thread from a far as it's a whole lot different than anything I've ever done and to be honest, a bit intimidating as there's a lot of work going on here!

I must complement you on your creativity, initiative and the enthusiasm with which you have embraced this project. You started with a somewhat "non-traditional" vehicle and have taken a fantastic approach in terms of wanting to learn and being completely transparent in the manner in which you've progressed. We all make mistakes in our builds (I know I've made more than my share) but you have really stuck with this project and I'm thinking you'll have this beast on the road and looking real good before too long!

Your willingness to tackle all aspects of the build and try different things is commendable - it's what makes hot rodding a fun past time! I'm looking forward to continuing to watch your progress and see the finished product!

Regards,
Glenn

---

Thanks for your kind words, it really means a lot to me. I don't see any reason to hide my mistakes, I have no reputation to live up to; I may as well fess up and learn what I can from them.

Thanks again.

The Truck is coming along great! I like it because it looks like the truck from the movie "jeepers creepers"

On your transmission issue. The torque converter comes to mind. On a TH 350 you have to spin it in. It will 'drop' three times to fully seat. A good 'tell' if you have it right- you'll have to pull it forward a quarter inch or so to bolt it up to the flexplate.

I made a similar plate for my floor jack then use a 1 1/2 wedge to give it the angle to position it . Makes it easy with a one man operation . Good work on the Chevy by the way , I too am a first time builder and have received all the learning I need right here .

I don't know who welded your drive shaft but from all the pictures I could see its welded wrong. The cups should be inline. yours look to be off.

Looks like your're right about the driveshaft, good eye. That'll make some Nasty harmonics.

Thanks for the input guys! I'm certain the driveshaft is wrong and probably waaaaay out of balance. I cut and welded it myself with no clue what I was doing. The only reason I did it at all was so I could have the truck mobile. I have no intention of doing any driving above 30mph until it has been replaced or fixed.

Also, the problems with the old transmission were due to many things. Partially to incorrect installation and also to some other stuff.

Quick update, I have the new transmission in, and everything is running great (now...). I had a few issues, but again, until I get some pictures and video up, there's not much reason to go into it.

This is still behind, but this can give you some idea of what I have been up to:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QO6LOLYNA8o

Just a quick update: I have the truck running and driving now. It still looks like crap, but I get to take it to the Lonestar Round Up in Austin this year, and that really means a lot to me. I have rushed a lot of things for this show, so I'm going to end up spending a lot of time redoing things afterwards.

The last video I posted showed the engine not running well at all. Turns out I had a weak fuel pump. It's amazing what a few PSI can do to an engine. The new transmission shifts really well and the engine is running strong once again. It's still running rich, but it makes for a sweet little exhaust flame.... :D

My exhaust is one of the many things that I threw together in a rush. It's made up of my childhood trampoline tubing... The tubing is small so there is quite a bit of restriction, but short tubing and no mufflers makes for a pretty decent sound.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNuhb_2sw1U


I'm probably going to throw a For Sale sign in it at the Round Up. I'm not serious about selling it, but it'll be interesting to see if anyone is interested in it. The sign will probably include "ran when parked..."