OK guys; I have always wanted a fullsize w/ a beefy v8 but have never made my mind up on which fullsize to start out with. I am looking for the most affordable way to make a mud rig running between 37''-44'' tires. What year chevy would hold up to this task. In other words, I am looking for the year where chevy had the best drivetrain and most reliable parts. If you could be specific as to what tranny, engine, transfercase, etc. that would be great. thanx

IMO, ideal would be 80-87 K30 SRW (single rear wheel 1 ton) or 88-91 V30 SRW (same thing, rebadged). Obviously 454, TH400 and 205 is the ultimate. However, some of the later models came with a 208. Probably best if you find the 205. You'll also get a Dana 60 front and a Corp 14 rear, that's as bullet proof as it gets in a factory rig. If you do like me and get a CUCV (military K30) you'll get a rear Detroit and 4.56 gears which are ideal for a Mud truck with big tires. Some even had the Power-Lock limited slip front diff, but they are relatively rare. My rock rig really needs lower gears (I'll probably will do a doubler because really low gears weaken the pinion) but it would work well with a big block in the mud where you need tire speed.

I agree, any year K30 should be the ticket.

Only reason I said 80 up is that somewhere in there (I think 80, maybe 81) was when they quit using the necked down D60 shafts. Easy enough to upgrade if the price is right for the truck but, all things being equal, get the one with the stronger shafts already in it. I also prefer the straight line body style. :D

BadDog has is exactly right, the only thing I'd add is from' '87 up the motors are fuel injected.............might not be a big deal to you but FI is nice to have.

make sure it has a big block :beer: