Well I sold my Powerstroke in December, had too much lift to be practical. So instead of being smart and buying another truck I decided to build something. So, I went truck hunting but had to limit my search since I didnt have a truck to tow anything back from super long distance. So a 53 Chevy 5 window popped up about 5 miles from me, picked it up for a grand and started the project.
Started the project by buying an 79 chevy heavy halfton for the frame and suspension. Took the 53 down to the frame and the 79 down to the frame, took the front and rear out of the 79 and cut up the frame to use it to box in the 53 frame. Then widened the front side of the frame by two inches so the independent front would bolt directly to the frame. Then we put the 79 leafs and 12 bolt in, had to relocate the mounts on the 12 bolt, and make mounts on the frame. Then took the scrap 79 frame and boxed in the 53 frame. Next the cab went on, and the mock up the the 12v cummins started. right off the bat we noticed that the firewall was gonna have to go. Anyway we got the motor where it needed to be, which was about 8 inches in the cab. Built a doghouse, built it as close to the motor as practical cause wanted as much leg room as possible. Next we put in a telescopic/tilt steering column out of a 80s caddy, had to make our own steering rod with joints, no real issue there though, also installed pedals that are adjustable out of a 02 F150. Then we cut the bed out of the 79 chevy and installed it in the 53 bed, I like the look of wood beds but its not practical for what I want. (If you haven't noticed, this is basically a junk yard build). Now I am in the process of building the intercooler piping and fenderwells.
I'll try to post some pics
Day I brought it home, everything was located in the bed
53 Frame stock
independent front
installed
mock up, before the firewall was cut, fan was at the end of the frame
79 bed, or whats left of it
Bed in the 53 box
12 bolt and relocated tank
Roll pan to hide the tank