Quote:
Originally Posted by willem445
Looks like a really clean rig to start with. Rockers are really common to rust out, I'm in the process of repairing mine on my truck, so far not so bad.
As for the VIN: https://www.usa1industries.com/1973-...der-chart.html
Chevrolet
2 wheel drive
305 V8
10 (half ton)
Did the 9 and F get out of order? If I swap them
9 = 1979
F = assembled in Flint, MI
The 6 in the body type must mean suburban.
"Heavy Halfs" did exist but given yours came from the factory with a 305 and as a 2WD, which yours obviously is not anymore, i'd guess it might be frame swapped with a K20 (or maybe just axle swapped).
From what I can tell, the 203 shifter should look like this
205 looks like this:
I'd be somewhat surprised if your rear axle was actually an 8-lug 10 bolt. Usually the 3/4 ton axles were 14 bolt semi or full float rears. Dana 44 or 10 bolt in front is common though.
Hard to diagnose the transmission issue without experiencing it. The SM465 is only 3 speed but I can drive 65-70 without issue in 3rd gear.
I think the 1/2 ton springs are usually 2-3 leaf in rear from what I've seen. A 3/4 ton was commonly 3 spring in front and anywhere from 6-9 leafs in rear.
How does the engine run?
I would personally start with replacing every fluid, differentials, transmission, transfer case and engine. Inspect oil for metal.
From my experience, NV4500s are fairly difficult to come buy these days and if you do find one, expect to pay $1000-2000 for it. |
It's not to beat up and anyhow. Just mostly wore out and rusty.
I did a little research on rockers. I think you're right. Doesn't seem too bad.
Yeah, the Vin is a head scratch-er. Sorry that picture is upside down.
Maybe someone could help me insert pictures where I want them instead of all together like they are.
I guess I'll have to get under this rig or drop the case and tranny to find out what they are for sure. My other 79 burbn (which is original 3/4 ton, 400SB, TH400 and 203) has the same shifter knob as your picture of the 203, but Frankenstein here seems to have 205 boot plate indicator and an I don't know what kinda knob. I've never seen either before. I hope it's still all Chevy stuff, wherever those Frankenstein parts came from.
You are correct! It does have an 8 lug 14 bolt and 6 leafs with the helper rear but 8 lug 10 bolt and 3 leaf front. I guess that means it's a 1/2 ton suspension in front and a 3/4 ton suspension rear? I don't know for sure if it was a frame swap or leaf swap yet.
It runs pretty good alright, but I think I hear the beginning of a rod knock or cracked flywheel or something else like that.
Clutch pedal is super sloppy like the tranny shifter too. I really like the idea of a manny tranny for tooling up and down the logging roads though, so I guess I'll stick with that.