Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

It is like everything. If you have the tools, equipment, and space it isn't that bad. My biggest hassle is the two car garage I'm building this thing in. Having a buddy that owns a body shop makes it possible for me. Just a big pain to haul it all back and forth. If I could do all this work at his shop I would be done with it by now, but I don't want to get in the way of his production. I will be putting off the blocking for awhile and just keep trying to assemble the truck. Need to wait until his shop is a little slower to get back in there.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Looks like we're both at about the same stage in bodywork, but you're a little ahead of me on filler work. Are you using epoxy as your surfacer for blocking or are you laying down a urethane surfacer over the epoxy?

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

I'm using the PPG CRE epoxy. It is like spraying a thin filler coat and dries fairly hard and I'm told blocks out really well. I will block it and then do another round of this epoxy. Block again and then go with a urethane primer prior to paint.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Looking awesome stepside! I loved seeing my cab go to a single color. Great progress!

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

It feels like a truck again! Spent all day Saturday in the garage. Panel alignment is fair, but I want to keep working on it. Overall, I am pleased with the outcome. Ready for the new wheels and tires for sure.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Worked on the bed a little too. The rear cross sill and tailgate parts came on Saturday.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

What a difference some primer and pre-assembly makes! That has to be very motivating.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Looking great!

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Looking good, truck is taking shape again, body seams look right, epoxy is great stuff....Even with a respirator your face eyes absorb some solvent. I found the same problem you discribed, solvent sensitive, Better to have a full mask if you can stand it, makes it harder to work with.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Looks like your making good progress.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Thanks for all the positive comments. I worked on the tailgate link assemblies on Saturday. Then I tested them out. Work pretty nicely.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

So, I originally was planning to not run side marker lights. I changed my mind now and am having to weld this back in. Before I finished it up I noticed the original army green inside the light bucket. She started life in the Air Force as an airman just like me. Bought from DoD Scott, AFB and then I bought her from that owner.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

That's just cool history right there. Maybe you should paint the inside of some panels army green :thumbs:

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Very cool, just got through the whole thread today.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Sneak peek ;)

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

That is awesome.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

I've been working on the bed a little. Finishing up the welding and filling. So many pinch welds to fill. Lots of sanding in my future. Hoping to get in primer before it gets too cold.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Project has really slowed down as the fall schedule as been very busy. I ordered the wheels and tires this morning, so I am pretty excited about having the biggest expense of the build behind me. I worked on the bed a little yesterday, a project that I thought wouldn't take too much time. I was wrong.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

I know the feeling. Some days it feels like body work will never end. But then, one day, things are painted and it's a huge relief. You just have to keep pushing through it. Are you going to give us a sneak peek on the wheels?

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

If I were a gambler I would bet you will get to see the ramblers...oops, I just let the cat out of the bag :)

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Those would be a great choice! I'd like to get a set of Vision 143's eventually.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

I wanted a set of Polished Schott wheels, but I just couldn't see spending 5k on wheels. Maybe after it is all done and on the road I will upgrade to something more expensive, but the Ramblers are nice and very affordable.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

Well, to say I am happy is an understatement! I was amazed at how new wheels and tires make the whole project seem so much cooler. I highly recommend it. :) I'll post more pics once the rain stops and I can roll her outside.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

They look great! I bet you felt like a kid on Christmas morning.

Re: 1971 Stepside LS Build
 

They look great!!