“Big Bear” 1979 F700 Firetruck Build

[TheWardenOBS]

Some other engine options I’ve considered:
Detroit 6v53
DT466/360

 

[ExpoMike]

The one thing I consider when looking at engine swaps is parts availability both local and when traveling. Having to find a part in some small town parts store is something that can and does happen. Some of the larger rig engines might be harder to find parts for. Larger truck engine parts might be easy to find on main highways with truck shops around but get off the main highways, it could be hard. Just something to think about.

 

[TheWardenOBS]

Decided to go with the 5.9L cummins ?

 

[TheWardenOBS]

The one thing I consider when looking at engine swaps is parts availability both local and when traveling. Having to find a part in some small town parts store is something that can and does happen. Some of the larger rig engines might be harder to find parts for. Larger truck engine parts might be easy to find on main highways with truck shops around but get off the main highways, it could be hard. Just something to think about.

Definitely something to consider

 

[TheWardenOBS]

I was wondering what everybody’s thoughts were on the best wood to use? I’m going to use different types, as I’ll need a stronger wood in one area, lighter in another, and water resistant in another… I’ll also be using angled aluminum for bracing in some areas.

 

[Tex68w]

Cool to see a truck from a small Texas town survive. I am kinda sad that it isn't 4WD, I'd certainly consider a front axle swap to make it so if you aren't already planning for it. Koenig is now known as Rawson-Koenig or RKI and they are still one of the better service body companies out there. I look forward to seeing where this goes, the 5.9L Cummins was the correct choice as well.

 

[TheWardenOBS]

She’s home, rolling her off the flatbed with no brakes was interesting to say the least!

 

[TheWardenOBS]

45 min of scrubbing and she’s already starting to clean up. This truck is insanely rust free ?

 

[GPurcell01]

Very - very cool. Great find and it does clean up good.

 

[TheWardenOBS]

1 hour of work and the interior is cleaning up nicely. The truck had an old vinyl flooring that ripped apart almost instantly due to being sun faded and having chemicals spill on it. The floor is 100% rust free. I think I’m going to lay down some dynamat and put a nice carpet over that to insulate the cab a little better from noise for those long trips

 

[TheWardenOBS]

I’m going to replace these lock ring 20” wheels with some new 22.5” non lock ring wheels for ease of service. Also found out the transmission is a New Process 542.

 

[TheWardenOBS]

Very - very cool. Great find and it does clean up good.

Doesn’t have moss growing on it anymore lol

 

[TheWardenOBS]

Little engine bay cleanup

 

[TheWardenOBS]

Took some measurements, looks like the camper will be 13’x7’x7’

 

[TheWardenOBS]

Pretty cool sticker on the valve cover, surprised it’s held up all these years