Maybe I should do a project truck

[kevm14]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=uXrwRohOfjg

I'm not really a truck guy but this really has me thinking.

They got an 07 reg cab 2WD 2500HD with 250k for like $2000. Has the strong rods (it may actually be an LQ4 - checking). Has a 4L80E already. Has a beefy rear end already. Bone stock it picked up 37 rwhp on the dyno from just a tune. This might be the cheapest practical way to speed with way less effort than something like a Fairmont where you replace the entire drivetrain. It won't be as fast and certainly won't handle but as a fun street machine to terrorize the unsuspecting...man I like this.

[kevm14]

Yeah 07 was a transition year. Last year for the LQ4 I think. Next was the LY6 with variable valve timing (also available in 07 on the new body style). I think they got the right truck.

[Bob]

Could be a good ranger replacement for not much extra cash.

[kevm14]

Other people's Sloppy Builds: http://sloppymechanics.freeforums.net/b ... ilds-board

[kevm14]

This may be his original 2500HD build: http://sloppymechanics.freeforums.net/t ... ah-edition

[kevm14]

The funny part is, this would qualify as "Ranger replacement" as opposed to "Caprice replacement." On the other hand, without doing real mods, the truck even with a tune is probably going to be stuck in the 15s. So if I want something that is actually fast, I have to do stuff. But it seems like it would be an easy way to get experience with LS stuff since the truck already comes swapped and ruggedized.

[kevm14]

I am going to keep my eyes out for a good one. I'd like 4WD but with these trucks, it's pretty much going to be a rust bucket unless it was really cared for (and got new brake lines, frame paint, rocker panels and all that stuff). So I really like the idea of a lighter, cheaper, cleaner 2WD one. Or I could travel and get a cleaner one.

[kevm14]

2001, 4WD, extended cab, utility body (commercial use). 348k!! $2,998. In Iowa. Is that the rust belt?
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale ... 3363&Log=0

2004, 2WD, regular cab. 384k!! $1,950. In Georgia. More commercial use. Pretty well used.
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale ... 6525&Log=0

1999, 4WD, extended cab with cap (ooooh). 313k! In Minnesota. Comes with an obviously swapped tan leather driver's seat (cloth interior), since I'm sure it was beat. $2,195.
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale ... 4316&Log=0

2005 (should be a big rod LQ4), I think 2WD, regular cab with T-box. Crank windows but dual zone manual climate control (probably standard). Torn driver's seat. Smashed rear bumper. 187k. $2,799.
http://www.autotrader.com/cars-for-sale ... 2764&Log=0

Most of these seem to be crank windows. That's one thing I hate about my Ranger. Although there's a certain "muscle truck" vibe with no options, just strong mechanicals.

[kevm14]

I think this is Sloppy's first 2500. 80mm single.

https://youtu.be/CbWULZFtNVI
https://youtu.be/LNRa8Z_Rc8M
https://youtu.be/h4lzMbeADFo
https://youtu.be/t8Od-Rvwfaw

Seems like fun...

[kevm14]

So the other thing a 3/4 ton would give me is significant towing capacity. For example, a 2003 Silverado/Sierra 2500 with RWD LQ4 and regular cab can tow 10,600 lbs with 4.10 gears. I don't have any specific plans though anything I did tow would tow 1000% easier and safer than the Ranger. An 8 foot bed with significant load carrying (like 2500lbs or more) could also be useful.