LUVTruck.com

I just bought a 1980 luv in very good condition for $500.00. I'm waiting for the seller to clear the taxes on the title so we can make the sale. I'm in a wheelchair now since 1989 due to a farm accident. I'm 35 years old now. My first truck was a 1972 or 1974 makido. I don't remember the year model it was. It did have the tail lights on the bottom though. The year was 1986 and I was a freshman in high school. I had bought it for $500.00 too and it was barely running. I had the fortune that my dad was a paint and body man so he helped me and we took off the bed and got to restoring it. That was great memories for me because he died of cancer about 10 years ago. Well, I just ran into this little truck about 1 mile away from home. I'm very fortunate to have found this one because it is an automatic and I needed that to drive with hand controls. When I get it, I will post pics. I'm kinda in the planning stage now and need advice on a few things. If any of you can offer input on any of these questions, I would be gratefull!!
1. How hard is it to do a complete frame up restoration? Is it hard to remove the cab and wiring and remember how all this goes back together?
2. Should I restore the original engine and drivetrane or do a V6 swap?
3. What is the easiest engine swap to do that falls into place good without too many mods?
4. I definately want to get the factory A/C working again. Will it work with a V6 swap?
5. Would a V6 swap work with my stock automatic transmission or would I need to get one from the engine donor car?
6. Anyone ever do a pontiac quad 4 engine swap before and does an engine swap require you to use the matching fuel pump, alternator, A/C compressor, etc... from the donor car?
7. What rear end from another vehicle would bolt right in without having to be narrowed?
8. I would love it to look like a 4 wheel drive. Lift about 4 inches. Does anyone make a lift kit for a 2wd??
Thanks guys!! Love the site and info! Scott

well i don't know that much but i know a little bit
the v6 swap can be done
and you can do a body lift on it
and the guys on here will tell you what you need to know
they have helped me alot and i am thankful for that cause they got my dream truck running and i found all the information to do a Buick v6 swap on my new truck
So ask questions and answer shall come or a nudge in the right direction for sure

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On the search for another Luv Machine

On the A/C, use the compressor on the donor engine and have an a/c shop or auto parts store fab new lines. The tranny will need to be for the donor engine also. The s10 rear is a tad wider, but works. hope this helps.

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If you think no one cares, try missing a couple of payments...



FIAA!

SFPP!

If you are going to do a frame off restoration, my advice is to be organized and dont get in a hurry. I think most projects that dont get finished are because of people trying to do to many things at the same time. Start with one area and get it completly done before moving the another. BTW take lots of pics along the way, that way you can look back at your progress and keep you motivated. It will be worth it in the end.

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Money can't buy happiness, but it can buy horsepower...and that's kind of the same thing...

I thinkone thing on a body off on a luv the cab and front is all one piece if I rember right. the fenders come off and the grille come out but everything else stays.
Good luck

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Too much to do and not enough time or money!
Courage is the other side of fear!
Pain is the weakness leaving the body!

welcome to the site, there is alot of people that can help you out here.

I agree... TAKE YOUR TIME! I've just started on mine, a 1978... Im also doing a frame off resto. But its more because I enjoy the work and the pay off..
Im planning on a v8 and some other goodies both go fast goodies, fun stuff and some body work.
Some stuff Ive never done, some stuff I'm well experienced in. Thats why we come together, to help others and to learn from others.

I've just about torn everything down to the frame. Ive used lots of zip-lock bags and a marker to label all the nuts and bolts, and a camara to help remember where all the wierd things go.

Welcome to the site!

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I'm still undecided as to using the original engine and kinda pepping it up as much as possible or doing a v6 swap. I also plan on using all new bolts, hoses,etc.... I wonder if ARP makes a complete set of replacement engine bolts? Hmmmmmm!!! Yes I do plan to use many zip locks and also LOTS of digital pictures and video! What is the best frame paint that will look good and last? I think I will stay away from spray cans. I know how to use a gun, I just don't know what is the good paint these days. Also, any of you know a very bright and pretty yellow color that I could use? Thanks! Scott

scott where at in louisiana are you from? welcome to the site these guys are great they are a wealth of knowledge.

I'm from Church Point Louisiana. I'm 30 minutes from LaFayette and about 1 hour 30 minutes from Baton Rouge.