Why I am here

It was August 10, 2008 that I discovered a burned wire loom under the dashboard of the truck I have owned for over 35 years. To most people, it's just an old truck. To Chevy truck enthusiasts, it's a 1965 Custom Cab, short wheel base, wide window, small block 283 - rare for it's day.
What started out as a wire replacement project has turned into a complete frame-off restoration/modernization that is still continuing after 29 months and unknown hours of labor. It is a labor of love, so I only work on it as the mood strikes me.
To tell the complete story, I must say that prior to this I had no vehicle repair or rebuild experience at all. I would say my knowledge base was less than average and my experience was limited to oil and spark plug changes . But, with the help of the internet, chevy truck forums, periodicals,and friends that know what they are doing; I have been able to amaze myself.  Never forget that God has created something special in each of us and we seldom know all our potential.
When I couldn't figure it out - and I tried to figure it out on my own whenever I could - then I just thought through the situation logically and made a promise to myself.  If I didn't do it right, I would just re-do it or pay to have it done right.
I am far from being an expert, but I have learned so much about mechanics, tooling, physics and logic. I suffered, and still do, from sleepless nights wondering if I did it right, or if what I did will withstand the test of an operating vehicle under load.  I have told friends and family that nobody gets to drive it (or ride in it?) until I put enough miles on the road to give me confidence in my handiwork.
The purpose of this blog is to share this mechanized journey with anyone who might be interested; I think those who know what they are doing and those who wished they knew what they were doing will enjoy it equally.
Special thanks to my loving wife who is as excited about this project as I am.  It was a mutual decision to set a budget that was generous enough to do a worthy project. Thanks is due to Larry Lion and staff of Lion Automotive, Clovis, California for his unequaled expertise, patience and teaching - he is a true friend and mentor, and a fellow believer in the grace of Christ. And thanks are due to the terrific members of the
1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network who have been a tremendous resource to me.
The rest of this blog, as I find time, will consist of the posting of photos (905 as of today) with commentary.  Some of these may have some value to restorers and hobbyists, some will be interesting to most anyone and most will have no real value to anyone - myself included.