1996 Ford F350 OBS Part 1: Introduction, Restore, Cummins 12V Swap, Overland Work Truck Build

This is an introduction to our 1996 Ford OBS (Old Body Style) F350 crew cab long bed 4x4 truck. We have plans to semi-restore this truck, make it reliable, and put it to work. Unfortunately, we started the build before we started our channel, so we don't have too much early footage. Enjoy as we restore this truck and make it into our ultimate family work truck and overland vehicle.
Planned Specs:
Engine: Cummins 12V
Trans: 2WD Getrag 360
Transfer Case: Divorced Ford NP205
Front Axle: Ford Ball Joint Dana 60
Rear Axle: Sterling 10.25 (for now)
More details to come!
Our Website: turtlelaborato...
Facebook: / turtlelabs
Instagram: / turtle_laboratories

[@j.c.smithprojects]

i use rustoleum with acetone as a thinner. i also add a hardner. made a big difference. i have done countless trucks like this with great results. obs and a cummins will be a tough truck to beat. great choice.

[@turtlelaboratories]

I wanted to add hardener, too, but I could not located any locally and had a small window of time where I could paint the frame, so I went ahead without it. I definitely will look into it for future paint jobs, though! Thanks for the feedback, and advice!

[@speedfreak7371]

I am in the middle of doing a 12v swap on my 97 crewcab dually long bed OBS. Can't wait to see your progress.

[@ging3rboi]

Beautiful truck! About to pick up a 96 f350. Planning on doing a 12v conversion myself. Excited for part two.

[@nathankoroush7918]

Glad I found this, it should be fun to watch the build.

[@turtlelaboratories]

Thanks man! I hope it will be as fun to do the build!

[@Golgi-Gyges]

You speak with a lot of knowledge. You are good at explaining your reasoning also. Very good video!

[@turtlelaboratories]

I appreciate that!

[@jbaldy1327]

Bad ass truck, one day my tundra will be as awesome. Also just bought some 318ti door panels can't wait!!

[@turtlelaboratories]

Just keep at it man! Thank you so much for your purchase and your support!

[@cadenrodddavis2124]

You should look into reverse shackle kits

[@slimshady8408]

FUCK YEAH

[@greenrancher350]

I see you have the stock 16 gallon tank in the back. I don't know if you're aware or not but there's a factory 38 gallon tank you can put in its place, you just want be able to have a spare tire anymore. Will be a awesome truck for sure.

[@turtlelabs]

Thank you for the tip! I am planning to make a custom fuel tank from aluminum. I noticed the 38 gallon options, but I wanted to make one that tailored exactly to my build.

[@greenrancher350]

@@turtlelabs Kool. I got the 38gal in the back and the stock 19 gal in the front in my 97 7.3 I love being able to drive from FL to Tennessee without having to stop for fuel. Good luck with your build, can't wait to see it done!

[@turtlelaboratories]

That sounds amazing! I can't believe how small the factory tanks were to begin with!

[@zourdiesel8579]

💯👌🏾

[@kennethhubbard7438]

When are you going to post part 2?

[@turtlelabs]

I have almost finished recording part 2, and then I need to edit. I have been waiting on parts for a while, and they are all in now!

[@kennethhubbard7438]

Is it going to be up soon?

[@turtlelaboratories]

Sorry for taking so long! Part 2 is now up!

[@yousefalmalki6199]

Music is so loud and noise 👎

[@turtlelaboratories]

Thanks man!