I have a lot of things I'm throwing around in my head on where to start with the truck. I figured I'd post my more immediate list here mainly to keep everything straight. Part of the priority right now is to have it winter ready. If anyone has any suggestions on what I've picked out/plan to do, please feel free to chime in! I know my way around vehicles quite well but I've never had a truck this old before!
I'll start off by saying I probably missed something in this list and may edit something else in. Anyway, here we go!
1. First off, ALL fluids need changed (minus maybe one). That will be a nice Saturday morning project! I'll put on the new differential covers as well when I do this.
1.5.
[Edited In:] I've found I need a new Power Brake Booster and Master Cylinder so obviously, that goes to the top of the list!
2. I need to install the plugs, wires, distributor, intake manifold, and carb soon to get her purring.
3. Next, I think I'm going to have the mud tires siped to aid in traction this winter. I know mud tires can do pretty well in deep snow but I have also heard they don't excel in packed snow/ice.
4. Following that, I'll probably install the twin stick that's laying on the work bench. It could be handy in snow!
5. I NEED to install a hitch on the truck, especially since I'm going to use this to haul wood on my little trailer. I found BJ's Off-Road sells a new hitch with hardware included for $325 shipped. That doesn't seem too bad!
http://www.bjsoffroad.com/prod-1098.htm
6. The next step would probably be installing all the new window and door seals that are also laying on the work bench.
7.
[Edited In:] I want to put in some bed liner to protect the bed. I'm actually considering cheap rattle can bed liner. I've used the roll on stuff before and wasn't too fond of the outcome. A friend of mine used rattle can bed liner and wow did that look good. It's easy to touch up as well!
These last four aren't quite as necessary as the above projects but they're something I want to do sooner than later - not necessarily in this order either.
8. The carpet is stained and has a rip or two in it so that will need replaced. I considered getting a vinyl kit as that will stay clean better but also like the idea of using carpet. Does anyone have any preference or reasons to go one way or another? Just curious.
9. Same as the carpet, the seats are worn out and torn. They currently have covers on them so that helps but I believe as the holiday season nears, I'm going to have my Mom reupholster the seats. As stated above, fabric or vinyl? I think I know which way I'm going for both the flooring and seat but I'm curious if someone has good reasons for one option over the other.
10. Exhaust - I was thinking 3" to a dual out muffler but I honestly haven't committed to anything yet. In fact, I don't even know what muffler I want or where I'd want the exhaust to dump. I want a 'muscle' type sound without it being too loud. I've never been a fan of obnoxiously loud exhaust. I'm not terribly concerned about a little drone in the cab though.
11.
[Edited In:] CB and Antenna
Anyway, that's what I initially have planned!