xXxPARAGONxXx’s 1999 Chevrolet K2500 Crew Cab

[HotWheelsBurban]

I wanted a project truck. As I mentioned a way back, I wanted a truck with a straight frame and decent body. Everything else I was not concerned with because it was getting replaced or rebuilt. I enjoy working on my vehicles.

Would be even better if I had a commercial shop with a lift and a paint booth. Maybe one day.

The great thing about a complete rebuild is you know the vehicle will be rebuilt properly, and you become well acquainted with the vehicle in the process, top to bottom, front to back. It's a feeling of comfort and satisfaction.

Yes indeed, and you just might've learned some new skills too!
I was quite pleased when we made that trip to Lafayette, Louisiana and back, after I rebuilt the front brakes and UBJs. I was confident in my work and in the truck.

 

[xXxPARAGONxXx]

Glad you're ok. Working at AutoZone, I became very familiar with how heavy those buggers are.
Also, how hard was it to get that drum off?

Quite easy but it's been a southern truck for most its life.

 

[xXxPARAGONxXx]

Ok, gotcha...just re-read your first post and that's what you stated.

Nevermind me and carry on!

Are you going to rebuild your transmission at the same time you drop in your engine?

Yeah, rebuilding trans, transfer case, and front diff. Replacing all seals and bearings. Prob transmission bushings too it I feel comfortable enough.

 

[stutaeng]

I think it has been discussed before, but I seem to recall someone here saying the 383 is not a good option for a heavy duty truck (certainly, GM didn't think so, otherwise they would of dropped them in the 2500/3500s series for sure.)

I think, in general, stroking an engine (any engine) will reduce the life of the block. I asked about this when I dropped a block at the machine shop recently and the guy said the exact same thing.

It probably depends how OP intends to use his truck. If a light duty use vehicle with "occasional" heavier work such as an RV towing (383) vs something that's more on par to, or equivalent to a heavy duty workhorse (LQ4). Something to consider.

 

[xXxPARAGONxXx]

Just some parts I will be tossing out soon. If you live in Houston, you're more than welcome to come grab them.

both torsion bars (passenger, driver)
rear brake drums (13" x 2.5") (driver, passenger)
front brake calipers (driver, passenger)
power steering steering gear box
power steering pump (non-hydroboost)
front brake disc/hub assemblies (driver, passenger)

All used. Drums and discs probably have enough "meat" on them for a couple turns on a brake lathe, but I am not certain.

 

[HotWheelsBurban]

I'm definitely interested in the drums and calipers. If my truck was a K I could use the rotors, but it's 2wd. Maybe the steering gear too if no one else needs it? Looking for spares but I'm not sure I don't need calipers (till I get to work on the crew cab and see what it needs). You'll be available tomorrow?
Thanks again!

 

[xXxPARAGONxXx]

I'm definitely interested in the drums and calipers. If my truck was a K I could use the rotors, but it's 2wd. Maybe the steering gear too if no one else needs it? Looking for spares but I'm not sure I don't need calipers (till I get to work on the crew cab and see what it needs). You'll be available tomorrow?
Thanks again!

Yeah, feel free to swing by and grab whatever you need from the pile (inc. alternator and battery).

 

[xXxPARAGONxXx]

The steering wheel arrived today. I am satisfied with the end product.

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[kennythewelder]

The steering wheel arrived today. I am satisfied with the end product.

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Very nice. Where, or who, did you order it from?

 

[xXxPARAGONxXx]

Very nice. Where, or who, did you order it from?

Craft Customs

Craft Customs - Steering Wheel Restoration

Steering Wheel Restoration and Customization, Dashes and Interior Trim. We restore, enhance, or customize any make or model vehicle.

www.craftcustoms.com

(281) 894-0395

When I ordered, I specified that I wanted a leather re-wrap to OEM/factory appearance.

I shipped them my stock steering wheel, and they shipped it back after completing the job.