Intro 1965 GMC K1502

[1965GMCK1502]

Originally Posted by POWERSTROKE

I've always read that front lift blocks are not a good idea. They typically have more stresses from turning and are more prone to loosening, And all kinds of bad things happen if they fall out.

Plus I like trucks with a little Rake to them, a little higher in back than in the front. Then if you haul something the truck levels out. Nothing worse in my opinion than a truck with it's tail sagging or dragging.

My truck is not a GMC but is a stock 3/4 ton 4wd long box, 8 ft., rear sits about 4-5 inches higher than the front. It takes over a Ton sitting on the back half of the box to get it sitting level. I does have over-load springs, an extra short spring on top of the normal 4-5 leaf pack that catch "L" shaped spring perches. With your short box the rear about 3 inches higher would look nice.

I still like that Orange paint! And the clearance lights!

Thanks! I like the rake as well just think this current set-up is a bit off. Will remove front block entirely and reduce rear to 2", maybe 3". Totally agree with you re orange paint and lights! Considering a black cab roof and black step rails...
Current rear-end whine is taking precedence though. Need to figure that one out.

[POWERSTROKE]

Milwakee Railroad Intermodal Trucking used a LOT of Mack trucks, orange with black frames, wheels, and front fenders, front bumper too. Sharp looking paint scheme. But that was the way trucks got painted back in the early days, -Teens, -'20's, '30's, '40's. Hood and cab a color, front fenders black.

I've seen Orange and White work really great too. Depends on how much brightwork you want. I'm NOT a fan of these "Murdered Out" cars & trucks.

[James]

Originally Posted by 1965GMCK1502

Current rear-end whine is taking precedence though. Need to figure that one out.

Have you check the rear end oil? Could also be bearings/gears noise. In my truck before I drove it I check it and found it only had a 1/4 cup of oil in it. When I removed the cover I discovered the gears and bearings were shot. Fortunately I was planning on removing the 4.11 and installing the 3.54. With the new parts I can only hear the wind blowing in my hair.

[1965GMCK1502]

Originally Posted by James

Have you check the rear end oil? Could also be bearings/gears noise. In my truck before I drove it I check it and found it only had a 1/4 cup of oil in it. When I removed the cover I discovered the gears and bearings were shot. Fortunately I was planning on removing the 4.11 and installing the 3.54. With the new parts I can only hear the wind blowing in my hair.

Thanks, James. Planning on getting in there in the next few days. 3.54's must be a pleasure to cruise in!
Started scraping the exhaust manifold to get ready for paint last night and wondered about original manifold color? Found some press pics from when engine debuted on the 6066 info sight and looks like all red? But some others show silver or black. Deciding on which way to go.....?

[bigblockv6]

Why some press photos show the manifolds red is because the engines were painted with the manifolds on but after running the engines the red would burn off revealing the actual color which is yellow. When my father took delivery of the brand new KM-2500 back in March 1, 1968 I clearly remember the exhaust s being yellow. A 1960 GMC tilt cab commercial confirms that, you can find it on youtube. I painted the exhaust manifold on my 478 yellow as well

[1965GMCK1502]

Originally Posted by bigblockv6

Why some press photos show the manifolds red is because the engines were painted with the manifolds on but after running the engines the red would burn off revealing the actual color which is yellow. When my father took delivery of the brand new KM-2500 back in March 1, 1968 I clearly remember the exhaust s being yellow. A 1960 GMC tilt cab commercial confirms that, you can find it on youtube. I painted the exhaust manifold on my 478 yellow as well

Looks great! Thanks for the research and reply.

[1965GMCK1502]

Originally Posted by POWERSTROKE

Oh, Former firetrucks are great values! very well maintained, usually very low miles, and good drivetrains, meaning good power and durability. Will normally be a couple holes in the body to patch from lights and sirens, but normally no rust.

I actually like the Orange paint, readymix concrete company I worked for between my Jr. and Senior year in College and after I graduated had everything painted the same shade of orange, even the D100 Dodge shop truck.

With the miles and condition of that truck you should enjoy it for another 20-30 years!

I’ve been driving her around as much as possible the last month or so and have really enjoyed learning the history behind these old GMC’s. A month in and that 305e has really grown on me! Here are some recent pics....still haven’t gotten around to lowering the rear end. Next on list! After that looking to bolster the interior support on bench seat. Has anyone had any luck with aftermarket benches or sport seats that they could recommend? Thx in advance.

[BillT]

Beautiful truck.

Same color as my old Lumber Trucks.

(The 6500 and 9500 listed below)

[1965GMCK1502]

Originally Posted by BillT

Beautiful truck.

Same color as my old Lumber Trucks.

(The 6500 and 9500 listed below)

Thanks, Bill! Any pics to share?

[Ed Snyder]

Originally Posted by 1965GMCK1502

Curious about the original stance on a 3/4 ton 4 wheel drive.....the current setup I inherited from the prior owner has a 1" block on the front and a 6" block in rear....pics attached....would like to return more to original....any pics/experience out there? Keeping in mind the current Short wheel base.
Thank you!

Your truck appears to be lifted by a couple inches or so. Here are photos of the factory lift block on the rear end of my '62 Suburban, and the front end showing no block.