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Posted by Desoto61 [138.162.0.43] on Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at 08:05:05 :
In Reply to: For what it's worth as a reply. posted by Tom in Indiana [32.136.2.212] on Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at 03:42:21 :
I have no problem with your modifications, I thought long and hard about changing the axles under my truck while I was at it. Someday I may decide to go back and do it, so I look forward to seeing your progress.
My only comment is that even with the biggest brakes and the best power steering that truck will NEVER be as safe as a more modern car/truck. One of the primary reasons they stopped selling them in the US was they didn't meet crash standards.
3-point belts will help, and a cage might even get you close, but truth is the structure of a modern vehicle is designed to absorb and transfer energy around the passenger compartment. Calculations and capabilities that just weren't possible when these trucks were built. Not to mention all the technology like airbags and ABS.
By all means, build the truck you want and use it however makes you happy. Just want to be clear that if you're doing this for your safety or the safety of your wife and child the money would be better spent on a more modern used vehicle with airbags and crumple zones. See the attached link, or:
http://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DcJrXViFfMGk&sa=U&ei=wuOXT9j7D6Lm0gGB7an_Bg&ved=0CBsQtwIwAQ&usg=AFQjCNGBv8jvfD-XOz-fY-43ik4_w1Rtkw
I love old iron as much as the next guy and I understand your desire and motivation, I want similar for myself and my truck, I just think it's important to be honest with ourselves about our motivations.