1979 GMC Caballero Diablo

[airboatgreg]

Rare car for sure. I would leave exterior alone and put a fun motor in it

 

[airboatgreg]

On the radio I left my mint original one in, added speakers, an amp and blue tooth

 

[Doug Chahoy]

I’d get rid of those rust causing bed trim bars. Fix the rust for now. That will give you time to do the other improvements and to decide just how far YOU want to go

 

[1980s]

I purchased a one owner 1980 Caballero several years ago. I assumed it was equiped with a 305 but was surprised when I swapped the engine for a 355 that the original engine was a 267. They look the same but the 267 isn't worth rebuilding.

 

[DocG G-edi Master]

Hey there Diablo> I agree with most of the rest of the guys here. You have a Nice example of a cool truck/car etc. I would spend some time and $$$ on the paint flaws. A good quality shop can treat the surface rust and spray the quarter panels with blending before the doors and it should look great. I would look into the hood decal if it really bothers you although the term Patina comes to mind. As for the drive train I would build a 355 you can make 400+ HP with 400LBft torque with the right cam and heads, and couple it with a 2004R . You then run a 3.42 to 3.55 rear gearset and still highway cruise at under 2000RPM. I am building that motor as we speak. What ever you decide "Enjoy Your Ride !! "
Doc

 

[ssn696]

I have that radio, ready to go back into the car. 30 years ago, I used to have that amp as well! Get on that rust before it gets worse.

 

[1979GMCDi@blo]

I’d get rid of those rust causing bed trim bars. Fix the rust for now. That will give you time to do the other improvements and to decide just how far YOU want to go

They Definitely have to come off for the repair but I don't think i could ever remove them permanently.

 

[1979GMCDi@blo]

On the radio I left my mint original one in, added speakers, an amp and blue tooth

You saved a bit of money, I will also have to add bluetooth at some point.

 

[1979GMCDi@blo]

As for the Engine. I'm thinking about a budget 350, painted GM Blue, original looking as possible.

Nothing too crazy, 1996-1999 GMC 5.7 Vortec, Rebuild original th350, aftermarket Crossmember, Headers and dual exhaust.

Thoughts?

 

[Doug Chahoy]

They Definitely have to come off for the repair but I don't think i could ever remove them permanently.

Unless it’s a love thing, weld the holes closeed