1979 GMC Suburban – Brian E.

I purchased this vehicle in 1980 from a local Chevy dealership in Phoenix.  I was the second owner.  I was told by the dealer that it was an “Arizona” car, but when the title came in from Montana, I knew I had work to do.  I rustproofed all of the inside panels and cleaned and painted the frame and under carriage. And being an “Arizona” vehicle for the past 42 years has left all of the metal in excellent condition.

Now 42 years and 680K+ miles later, it has proven to be the best vehicle I have ever owned.  Despite many cross-country, hunting, fishing, boating, and 4-wheeling trips, it never left me stranded.  It came originally with a 400 cu in engine with a TH350 tranny and New Process 203 transfer case.  I added lockout hubs and converted the NP203 transfer case to part-time.  After 3 rebuilds, the 400 had to be bored 40 over so I gave it to a dune buggy builder and installed a GM 350 crate engine.  Too bad since the original setup delivered over 20+ mpg on freeway trips.  The 350 is good for 15+ mpg.  An LS conversion may be in the future if I can’t find a good 400 block.

This vehicle is not a restoration.  Thanks to LMC Truck for making soft parts and plastic parts available, along with wrecking companies in Phoenix for hard parts, I have personally maintained this vehicle in its original condition for 42 years.  However, as Chevy and GM changed the Suburban, I made upgrades to mine converting to power windows, power door locks, factory tinted glass, trim package, etc.  Over the years, I have visited Phoenix wrecking yards stockpiling parts that will outlast me.