The rounded-line Chevy/GMC trucks are extremely popular as stock restorations, fast street trucks, and off-road-duty trucks. But before you can build a specialty truck, you need to have a solid, reliable, restored truck. This book provides the invaluable information and step-by-step instruction to return these trucks to their original glory. An authoritative and comprehensive restoration guide for the 1973-1987 Chevy/GMC trucks has not been available until now.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Chapter 1: Finding a Project Squarebody
- Overview of the 1973–1987 Chevrolet Pickup
- Year-by-Year Changes
- Trim Levels
- Special Editions
- VIN Decoding
- The Right Truck for You
- Ownership Documents
- Customized Versus Stock Trucks
- Rust Versus No Rust
- Engine and Transmission
- Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes
- Beater Options
- Determining Your Skill Level
Chapter 2: Getting Started
- Organizing Your Process
- Choosing the Level of Restoration
- Setting a Budget
- Preparing Your Workspace
- NOS Versus Reproduction Versus Aftermarket Parts
- Purchasing a Parts Vehicle
- Organizing and Cataloging Your Parts
- Tools and Equipment
- Welding and Metalwork
- Consumable Materials and Supplies
- Making Your Own Tools
Chapter 3: Bodywork
- Installing New Cab Mounts
- Body Trim
- Stripping the Finish
- Inspecting for Rust
- Panel Replacement Procedures
- Repairing Bed Rust Damage
- Repairing Cab Rust Damage
- Repairing Dents and Dings
- Applying Body Filler
- Gapping the Panels
- Fixing Factory Issues
- Prep for Paint
Chapter 4: Paint
- DIY Versus Paying a Professional
- Equipment
- Paint Types
- Paint Colors
- Priming
- Sealing
- Painting Basics
Chapter 5: Engine
- Analysis of Work Required
- Engine Removal
- Engine Installation
- Rebuilding Basics
Chapter 6: Transmission
- Transmission Types
- Tools and Equipment
- Removing the Transmission
- Disassembling the Transmission
- Rebuilding Basics
Chapter 7: Drivetrain
- Axle Identification
- Gearing
- Rebuilding an Axle
Chapter 8: Brakes
- Remove or Replace
- Brake Lines
- Front Disc Brakes
- Wheel Bearings
- Rear Drum Brakes
- Bleeding the Brakes
Chapter 9: Suspension
- DIY Versus Paying a Professional
- Removal and Installation
- Rebuilding Basics
Chapter 10: Electrics
- Tools and Equipment
- Full-Chassis Harness
Chapter 11: Interior
- DIY Versus Paying a Professional
- Trim Removal
- Interior Disassembly
- Interior Reassembly and Refurbishment
Chapter 12: Miscellaneous Mechanicals
- Fuel System
- Badge and Emblems
- Long-Bed to Short-Bed Conversion
A GOOGLE AD IS SHOWN BELOW-IT IS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH THE PRODUCT ABOVE
