So I've hit mid life and the obligatory crisis that comes with it. I've decided to build up a 1989 C1500 that I bought from the local school district for $400. The TBI 305 and 700R4 are leaving (305 into a work truck I have and the 700r4 is inop) and a nice little 350/th350 combo is going in. I already have the engine and trans from a previous non-gmt400 project. I'll be doing the project in three stages.
Stage One:
Stage Two:
I named the truck "Lt. Dan" for a couple of reasons. First, "Forrest Gump" is one of my all time favorite movies. Second, my wife's name really is Jenny, and third, the school bus mechanic was the guy who used this truck, and his name was Dan. "Lt. Dan" just seemed fitting, especially since I grew up watching the "Dukes of Hazzard" and the General Lee as a kid.
Stage One:
- Lowering 4/6 with spindles/springs and a flip kit/C notch.
- installing 350/th350
- gutting interior and installing race seats
- adding 15x8 "D" window NASCAR style wheels and 275/60R15 tires
- NASCAR style 3 piece splined sway bars
- replacing all suspension bushings with polyurethane
Stage Two:
- 8 point roll bar
- upgrade engine to better intake, cam, and ignition to get from 360hp to around 420hp
- 3 link the rear axle
- 4.11 gears
- rear disc brakes
- Full roll cage
- re-engineer front suspension, specifically upper control arms.
- Fuel cell
- convert side and rear window to Lexan
- LS/4L80E swap if I kill the 350
I named the truck "Lt. Dan" for a couple of reasons. First, "Forrest Gump" is one of my all time favorite movies. Second, my wife's name really is Jenny, and third, the school bus mechanic was the guy who used this truck, and his name was Dan. "Lt. Dan" just seemed fitting, especially since I grew up watching the "Dukes of Hazzard" and the General Lee as a kid.
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