97 3500 454 4x4 project

[83GMCK2500]

Good looking project. I drive a 3500 w/454 for a daily as well, but 80+ miles a day. While you've got the front end torn apart, I would recommend a brake upgrade, it takes some parts scrounging, but it's sooooo worth it. My 7,400# truck stops WAY better. I've got it in my thread if you're curious, see signature.

When I did bushings & ball joints I had to get creative with the bench vise and the press to get everything seated/installed properly. The struggle is real when you work on fullsize stuff.

[mingoman]

Originally Posted by 83GMCK2500

Good looking project. I drive a 3500 w/454 for a daily as well, but 80+ miles a day. While you've got the front end torn apart, I would recommend a brake upgrade, it takes some parts scrounging, but it's sooooo worth it. My 7,400# truck stops WAY better. I've got it in my thread if you're curious, see signature.

When I did bushings & ball joints I had to get creative with the bench vise and the press to get everything seated/installed properly. The struggle is real when you work on fullsize stuff.

Just read your thread and loved what you did with your truck, though I hate it got wrecked. You almost make me want to keep this a dually. I like the standard trans too. My work truck now is a 93 k2500 454 with a manual trans. We'll see how I do with the auto lol.

[mingoman]

Here's before pic. I ended up changing everything except the drive axles and hub bearings though I gave the later a good shot of grease. Went with new rotors as well since the old ones are shot too.

[mingoman]

Here's a pic with it together again. Took about two seconds to find my oil leak, I need new oil cooler lines, and I drained the front gear box today, going with synthetic.