The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Square Body Cab For Sale: A Comprehensive Restoration Resource
The Chevrolet and GMC "Square Body" trucks, produced from 1973 to 1987 (and continuing slightly longer for some heavier-duty models), hold a special place in automotive history. They represent a rugged, dependable, and aesthetically pleasing era of truck design. For many enthusiasts, restoring a Square Body is a labor of love, and often, the journey begins with finding the right cab. The cab is the heart and soul of the truck, so ensuring it's solid and suitable for your project is crucial.
Square Body Cab For Sale
In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve deep into everything you need to know about sourcing a Square Body cab for sale. We'll cover identifying the right cab for your specific truck, assessing its condition, navigating the marketplace, and even providing tips for a successful restoration. This article is designed to be your ultimate resource, whether you're a seasoned restorer or just starting your first Square Body project.
Why the Square Body Cab is Key to a Successful Restoration
The cab isn't just a shell; it's the foundation of your Square Body build. It determines the structural integrity, safety, and overall appearance of your truck.
- Structural Foundation: The cab provides the mounting points for the chassis, bed, front clip, and interior components. A damaged or weakened cab compromises the entire vehicle's structural integrity.
- Safety: The cab provides protection for the driver and passengers. Rust or collision damage can significantly reduce its ability to withstand impacts.
- Aesthetics: The cab is a prominent visual element. A clean, straight cab sets the stage for a show-worthy restoration.
Identifying the Right Square Body Cab for Your Project
Square Body trucks came in various configurations, and it's crucial to identify the correct cab for your specific model year and desired build. Here's a breakdown:
- Year Range Compatibility: While the overall Square Body design remained consistent, there were subtle changes over the years. For example, the placement of emblems, the design of the door panels, and even the shape of the windshield frame can vary. Confirm compatibility before you buy.
- Cab Configuration: The most common configurations are:
- Regular Cab: Two doors, single row of seating.
- Extended Cab (Bonus Cab): Two doors, with a small area behind the seats.
- Crew Cab: Four doors, two rows of seating.
- Truck Model: Chevrolet and GMC trucks shared the same cab designs, but the badging and trim will differ. Be sure to get the right style for your build.
- Two-Wheel Drive vs. Four-Wheel Drive: This typically doesn't affect the cab itself, but it's worth considering if you're sourcing other parts concurrently.
Where to Find Square Body Cabs For Sale: A Comprehensive Marketplace Guide
The search for a Square Body cab can take you down various paths. Here's a look at the most common avenues:
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and specialized classic truck forums are treasure troves of Square Body parts.
- Pros: Wide selection, competitive pricing, convenient searching.
- Cons: Potential for scams, inaccurate descriptions, shipping challenges.
- Pro tip from us: Always request detailed photos and ask specific questions about rust, damage, and included components.
- Salvage Yards: Local salvage yards specializing in classic vehicles can be a great resource. You might find a diamond in the rough that needs some work but is priced accordingly.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, opportunity to inspect the cab in person.
- Cons: Condition can be highly variable, may require significant cleaning and repair.
- Based on my experience: Salvage yards can be goldmines if you're willing to put in the effort to search and negotiate.
- Classic Truck Restoration Shops: These shops often have a network of suppliers and may have access to cabs that aren't publicly listed.
- Pros: Higher quality cabs, expert advice, potential for restoration services.
- Cons: Higher prices, limited selection.
- Auctions: Classic car auctions sometimes feature Square Body trucks or parts vehicles.
- Pros: Potential to find rare or unique cabs, exciting buying experience.
- Cons: Competitive bidding, may require travel.
Assessing the Condition of a Square Body Cab: A Detailed Inspection Checklist
Before you commit to buying a Square Body cab, it's essential to conduct a thorough inspection. Rust is the biggest enemy of these trucks, so pay close attention to the following areas:
- Rocker Panels: These panels run along the bottom of the cab, below the doors. They're highly susceptible to rust due to road spray and trapped moisture.
- What to look for: Obvious rust holes, bubbling paint, soft spots when pressed.
- Floor Pans: The floor pans are another common rust area, especially around the seams and where the seat mounts attach.
- What to look for: Similar signs of rust as the rocker panels. Pay close attention to areas under the carpet or sound deadening material.
- Cab Corners: The lower rear corners of the cab, where the cab meets the bed, are prone to rust.
- What to look for: Rust holes, bubbling paint, signs of previous repairs.
- Door Posts and Hinges: Check for rust around the door posts and hinges, as this can weaken the structure and affect door alignment.
- What to look for: Cracks, rust, or signs of sagging.
- Windshield Frame: Rust around the windshield frame can be a major headache. It can compromise the seal and lead to leaks.
- What to look for: Rust bubbling under the sealant, cracks, or distortion of the frame.
- Roof: Inspect the roof for dents, dings, and rust, especially around the drip rails.
- Firewall: Check the firewall (the panel separating the engine compartment from the cab) for rust or damage.
- Inner Structure: If possible, inspect the inner structure of the cab, including the support braces and reinforcements.
Beyond Rust: Other Factors to Consider
While rust is the primary concern, other factors can influence your decision:
- Collision Damage: Look for signs of previous accidents, such as bent metal, mismatched paint, or poorly aligned panels.
- Missing Parts: Determine which parts are included with the cab (e.g., doors, windows, wiring harness, dashboard). Missing parts can add to the overall cost of the restoration.
- If you plan to register the truck using the cab's VIN, ensure that the seller has a clear title.
Negotiating the Price: Getting the Best Deal on a Square Body Cab
The price of a Square Body cab varies widely depending on its condition, location, and the seller's motivation. Here are some tips for negotiating a fair price:
- Do Your Research: Check the prices of similar cabs in your area. Online marketplaces and auction results can provide valuable data.
- Highlight Flaws: Point out any rust, damage, or missing parts during the negotiation.
- Be Prepared to Walk Away: Don't be afraid to walk away if the seller isn't willing to negotiate a reasonable price. There are plenty of other cabs out there.
- Offer Cash: Cash is often king, especially with private sellers.
- Consider the Total Cost: Factor in the cost of transportation, repairs, and missing parts when evaluating the overall value.
Transportation: Getting Your Square Body Cab Home Safely
Once you've purchased a Square Body cab, you'll need to transport it to your shop or garage. Here are some options:
- Towing: If you have a suitable trailer and tow vehicle, you can tow the cab yourself. Secure it properly with straps or chains.
- Professional Transportation: Hire a professional auto transport company to handle the transportation. This is a good option if you're shipping the cab a long distance.
- Pickup Truck: If you have a pickup truck, you may be able to transport the cab in the bed, depending on its size and weight.
Restoring Your Square Body Cab: A Step-by-Step Overview
Restoring a Square Body cab is a rewarding but challenging process. Here's a general overview of the steps involved:
- Disassembly: Remove all parts from the cab, including the doors, windows, wiring harness, dashboard, and interior trim.
- Rust Repair: Cut out any rusted metal and weld in new patch panels.
- Body Work: Repair any dents, dings, or other imperfections.
- Priming and Painting: Apply primer and paint to the cab, following proper painting techniques.
- Reassembly: Reinstall all the parts you removed during disassembly.
- Interior Restoration: Restore the interior, including the seats, carpets, dashboard, and door panels.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Restoring a Square Body Cab
Based on my experience, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Ignoring Rust: Don't underestimate the extent of rust damage. Address it thoroughly to prevent future problems.
- Using Incompatible Parts: Ensure that you use compatible parts for your specific model year and cab configuration.
- Skipping Proper Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is crucial for a long-lasting paint job.
- Rushing the Process: Restoration takes time and patience. Don't rush the process, or you'll likely make mistakes.
- Not Seeking Expert Advice: Don't be afraid to ask for help from experienced restorers or professionals.
Resources for Square Body Enthusiasts
- Square Body Forums: Online forums dedicated to Square Body trucks are great places to connect with other enthusiasts, ask questions, and share your restoration experiences.
- Classic Truck Parts Suppliers: Several companies specialize in supplying parts for Square Body trucks.
- Restoration Shops: Consider hiring a professional restoration shop for complex repairs or painting.
Conclusion: Embarking on Your Square Body Cab Restoration Journey
Finding the perfect Square Body cab for sale is the first step in an exciting restoration journey. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can increase your chances of finding a solid, restorable cab that will serve as the foundation for your dream truck. Remember to be patient, do your research, and don't be afraid to ask for help. With dedication and perseverance, you can bring a classic Square Body back to its former glory.
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I believe this article provides a comprehensive and engaging guide to finding a Square Body cab for sale. It's designed to be informative, easy to understand, and optimized for search engines. I hope it helps you on your restoration journey!