good project car/truck for father/son project

[lloyd3]

It's something I've been pondering for several years and my boy is now finally getting old enough to consider it a bit more seriously. I certainly have my preferences but I was wondering what has worked well for you folks.  I have had good experiences with Ramblers, Mopar stuff (obviously), Ford trucks, even early Jeep stuff.  I'd prefer a straight six motor (or a slant) and probably American made, but I'm open to suggestions.

[JB400]

mid to late 80's Dodge truck.  Parts are available through LMC.  Drove one as my first drivable vehicle.  I would definitely recommend a truck.  He can haul a lawnmower if needed for extra cash.

[Bad B-rad]

I am in the same boat, and I wanted to get my son a Mopar car for us to do.(I am doing a 1969 Charger, and he can help,I would love that, but that is DAD,S car!!!!!)
I had found a 1973 Plymouth Road Runner, and I really liked the car, a 400/ 4 Speed , anyway, I think I liked the car more then my son!!!
So ultimately I passed, as It seamed I was way more into getting him the car then he was about getting that car.(Maybe 40 year old cars just aren't cool anymore???)
I ended up getting him/ us a 1989 Jeep Wrangler.
I have had a few so I know them well, Its a 4.2, auto.(so there is your straight six)It has turned out to be a very good,choice, as he can drive it on the trails behind our house, and get used to operating it, they are very dependable, not to expensive  to  repair/ maintain.
And TONS of parts on the aftermarket to modify the vehicle for his/our likening.
Its still a Mopar, and it seams maybe a better choice then big block 4- speed for a first car for my son!!!!
As he has really started to enjoy this Jeep, and it is getting in into wrenching more then I had thought he would.
Maybe one day he will get into the MOPAR muscle, and we can get that Road Runner (68/69/or 70 HOPEFULLY!!!!)
but for now the Jeep was a great pick!!!

You may also be able to find a nice Duster or Dodge pick up with the leaning tower of power slant six, for your son if a Jeep is not a good fit for you two.
Anyway you go, good luck and, have a good time with your son!!!





 

[BDF]

What type of activities/hobbys does your son like? If he's 'outdoorsy' I'd go with a nice older Jeep!
If he like imports/drifting get a rear wheel drive ricer...LOTS of parts & upgrades available for something like these and good to learn on. 

[garner7555]

If your son likes trucks, then do some looking at putting a truck body on a crown vic frame.   It's a relatively easy swap and fairly inexpensive as well.  The end result is a truck that drives great and is reliable.   

[41husk]

I have a 1950 Dodge pilot house truck with flat 6.  I would sell reasonable.  where are you located?

[lloyd3]

I'm in Denver. I'm actually considering a 1978 Ramcharger at the moment. Saw it the other day while on a short field trip with my boy.  I'm guessing it's a 318 auto, but need to take the next step.  I used to drive these during a short stint with the Federal Government in the early 80s.  Simple but effective, and if properly equipped...it could work.  Big and fairly safe, good visibility, & minimal technology that I might actually understand. Didn't see much rust or signs of abuse. I know the owner, and while he's hard to connect with, he's always good to his stuff (even when they're not being driven any more).  We'll see...

[birdsandbees]

Don't get carried away with it...   Mine (77) has a 400 x 2 barrel in it. Father in laws was a '78 with a 360 in it.

[lloyd3]

That's way-more than I could tackle. I'd be much happier with a Valiant or a Dart but they seem to be hot property these days.  Older trucks are even pretty popular but the early SUVs are mostly unloved. I hope to find a suitable project that teaches some good skills and then provides a fun, practical and useful mode of transport.