72 f250 4x4 old blue

[Jsimon]

Figure I'll get myself on the board. Picked up a truck that sat in a field for 20 years. Not sure exactly what I'm in for. 1st project, 1st body work, 1st welding, the list goes on. I've pulled the body, blasted and por-15 on the frame. Debating on pulling transmission and doing clutch (1st time) and maybe seal? Check out photo, what do you think? I was able to get the motor fired up for a second but with no radiator or gas tank I only let it run a few seconds on starting fluid. The cab is pretty far gone, I'm piecing things in but dont like how the aftermarket inner and outer rockers line up with originals. Keeping my eye out for a donor cab but around here (ohio) most have the same issues.

[AlleyCat]

Welcome to the realities of restoration. From what I can see I'd suggest looking for a better cab. You might want to check the salvage outfits in your area. Some of them buy trucks in states where rust isn't such an issue and haul them back to part out.

[sargentrs]

from Georgia!

[69Highboy]

I'd say that's the tailshaft seal that's leaking which as I recall is the same as the rear hub seals. The truck looks like a fun project and a great learning experience. My truck has taught me that carburetors can backfire through the intake, hood hinges only fail around 7:50 p.m. on Wednesdays, PB B'laster, breaker bars, cutoff wheels, cutting torches, and cranes are all your friend (in that order), and brakes can sit for 50 years without issues and then seize over the course of a week.

[Jsimon]

Before and after pics of the frame. Used someone's trick of drilling holes in the por-15 lid and sealing it up with a screw for a metal roof . 1 quart almost covered the frame. Parking brake cables should arrive soon, got a spring kit, adjusters, and wheel cylinders. That will be next. I'm chipping away on the chassis while keeping my eyes open for a cab.

[stpackard]

Looking good jsimon! Sounds like you know what you’re in for. Be on the lookout for new or used brake drums for your Dana 44hd. Check with idahocowboy on a power steering alternative if you’re not doing the 78-79 3/4 ton steering box. I rewelded/repaired spring perches then put new springs on from general spring kc. Rebuild your column while you’re at it. I’ve been through this let me know if you have questions, glad to help! Torque king will have a lot of stuff for your drivetrain but they might be a little higher priced.

[Jsimon]

Did a little work on the cab today, here's before:

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And after:

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Little more fitting to do before it gets welded

[hfdco4]

Nice work

[Jsimon]

Few things I've learned so far...measure twice, cut once then grind 100 times. A harbor freight face shield is cheaper than an emergency room bill. Plug welds look a lot better and don't rain as much fire down on you if you clean off your weld through primer with a drill bit with the point ground off. Label all your parts really well, it may be years between when you remove them and time to install them again. I'm making slow but steady progress on my cab, hope to have more pictures soon.

[hfdco4]

It has been said many times here, work at the speed of right! As for your earlier question, pull the engine and go through all the gaskets. Check compression to verify how good the engine is. As for the clutch, replace it as soon as you can! You will want to replace all the u-joints and go through that front axle. Do you know if it has a dana 44hd front axle? If it does I have a bunch of new parts I want to get rid of cheap.

[hfdco4]

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I also have wheel cylinders for the front.

[Jsimon]

Good advice. I pulled the tranny and ordered new gaskets and seals. Got new u-joints too. Clutch will never be easier than it is right now so its next on the list, also ordered oil pan gasket and rear main seal. I had done a compression check and leakdown test and didn't have any red flags. Front axle is a 44hd and it already has new brake hardware and lines. Hubs were froze up but they are all cleaned up now. I've been trying to get as much body work done as I can while it's still warm enough to paint. Deer season is taking priority and before you know it it will be cold. Message me on the seals, I dont have any leaks now but if the price is right it's a good thing to have on the shelf.

[1browski]

Nice project. I have a 72 f250 4x4 sitting for 4 or 5 months waiting to get started on. How well do you have to clean for por15? So far all I have done is pulled the bad engine that it had out. I have one large honey-do project I have to do in next 2 to 3 weeks, then I can get started on the truck project. Good luck on your hunt for the season. Im done hunting big game, just birds left. Keep up the good work and I will stay tuned in.

[sargentrs]

How well do you have to clean for por15?

I media blasted everything before coating on mine but a good wire brushing, degreasing and washing is enough.

[Jsimon]

I sandblasted down to shiny metal then used metal prep. Looking back I could have saved time (and my compressor) by just using a wire wheel and knot cup brush on the grinder. I'll probably go this route under the bed, I just scored a gallon of por-15 on the scratch and dent rack at summit for $50.