1987 GMC Sierra – Joe E.

I bought this 1987 GMC Sierra Classic brand new in 1987. I’m the original owner. I drove it for 26 years. In 2014 I decided to start a restoration project. So, with no experience, my journey began. The disassembly of body parts wasn’t too bad. It was actually fun. Then came the work. Chassis Saver frame paint job laying on the ground using a paint brush, new cab corners, rockers, cutting and welding bed parts in place. I created the worst booger welds you ever saw. But, with advice and practice, I got pretty good at it. I found some original doors and a fender from a trucker who travels to Colorado and has a Chevy passion. He was a great find. I also enlisted a fella who works at a dealer to do the paint job, spray in the bed liner and get the fenders and doors lined up (in his spare time). I was done with the restoration about a year into it. I was proud to drive her, but something kept bothering me. I realized that I hated that wimpy 305 motor since the day I brought her home. So I stared another project with a 1989 Chevy 350 block I found on Craigslist for $50. The picture is of the 383 Stroker (I built, with help) that now resides under the hood. I have no engine lift, so I used a hoist to lift the engines, and pushed the truck in and out of position. It pulled 376 HP and 460 ft Lbs of torque on the dino. One piece of advise for you engine swappers. Take care setting up your Throttle Kick Down cable. It cost me a transmission rebuild.

Anyway, the project was awesome, and I can say I did it. But, I can also say that there are motorheads all around you who are more than willing to share parts, tools, and experience. So just go do it.