Some nice looking trucks guys!!!!!
I called a shop in CO that is a chain store that sells and installs lift kits. The guy told me that with 200,000 miles on my truck that I should replace the front end parts on my truck at a cost of $1500 before I even lift the truck, because the parts are probably due to be replaced; especially if I am going with a lift. He then said it would be approx $2,500 to $3,000 to lift the truck for the kit and labor. He said that I should replace the front driveshaft too with one that allows me to drive down the road in 4 wheel drive at high speeds like I can and do now, and this was put into the cost. He recommended pro comp lifts as the best for chevy IFS. He told me that every 50,000 to 60,000 miles my front end will probably need serviced after driving with the lift kit and 35" tires.
I have decided to not lift this truck, I would have $5,000 into it and not even have wheels and tires bought yet. He recommended a pre 1988 solid axle chevy pickup and lift it to the sky if I want. He said IFS's are expensive and will never be as durable as a solid axle. He said that he has had some solid axle swaps prices go as high as $10,000 to $15,000. I have always really like the 1969-1972 chevy body style and am looking for one of these in a 3/4 ton. I am also entertaining a late 70's early 80's one ton 4x4 if I can find a rust free one too. I am sticking with a solid axle front end as my truck to lift and restore. Thanks again for all of the advice.
