Truck Restoration Process

Discussion in 'Peterbilt Forum' started by AgtruckinMatt, Jan 22, 2025.

  1. AgtruckinMatt

    AgtruckinMatt Bobtail Member

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    Jan 22, 2025
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    Hey Gang,

    Needing opinions. I've acquired a 1999 379 short hood with the 63" flat-top sleeper. 3406E / 10spd. I would like to spruce this truck up to look good. May never get it to show quality, Just want it to look good. My question is, where do I start? I've got the stuff to sand and polish all of the aluminum. Would prefer to have a reputable shop do the frame paint / hood,cab, and sleeper paint. Would it be better to have them do all of that together in one trip to the shop or could this be done in stages? I'm not against putting the money into the rejuvenating but if it's gonna cost that much I'll just run the truck and save my cash until I'm at a good spot to send it off to have this done.
     
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  3. Oldman83

    Oldman83 Light Load Member

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    Drive it for awhile and see what it needs mechanically, and address that first.
    Don’t spend much money on non essential cosmetics until you know where it’s at mechanically.
     
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  4. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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  5. AModelCat

    AModelCat Road Train Member

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    Personally, making it look pretty would be the last thing I'd do. I'd prioritize making sure it was mechanically sound first. JMO.
     
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  6. pavrom

    pavrom Road Train Member

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    ...short hood not worth making pretty..just mechanically sound to keep making money
     
  7. RustyBolt

    RustyBolt Road Train Member

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    I personally know a fella that just had his truck done. 2000 Pete. Frame rails replaced. Larger used sleeper installed. And fresh paint. He had a small shop near him do the work and he's into it for just over $30,000 so far. Then add in the $28,000 engine rebuild. And the $7000 reman 13 speed trans. I have no idea how much he has in all new suspension and rears.

    It's a sharp looking daily driver that I doubt you could buy for what he has in it. But it's not cheap to do.

    If the one you have is your only truck, just do like others are saying and work on making it mechanically sound. Then, if money is still there, make it look good. It's a months long process and you'll need a lot in reserve to pay your daily bills
     
  8. Rideandrepair

    Rideandrepair Road Train Member

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    I suggest running it, getting to know the Truck and what’s needed. Meanwhile make plans and work towards the rest. Spend accordingly.
     
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