71' K10 modernizing

[Chrispbrown36]

I think what it really comes down to is value. Sure you can go all out and rebuild the truck with modern luxuries, but in the end you will probably end up being better off buying a newer truck that already has what you want out of the factory. Aftermarket parts can get pricey, especially if you buy quality.
The manual to auto conversion has been done many times, try the search feature to find some details. To get the smoothest ride buy quality shocks and make sure everything else is in good shape. Automatic lockouts can probably be swapped in for the manual hubs, again the search feature will probably show someone that has done it, but remember they are not nearly as reliable. As far as transmissions go, if you want overdrive 700r4 is reliable. If you want tougher and can sacrifice the overdrive a 350 or 400 will do and are pretty easy to find.
In the end it is your truck and your choice.....enjoy it and get some pictures of the old girl on here! I would love to find a 71 k10 in good shape.