should be able to find performance motor parts from Summit Racing, but youll have to actually get in to the motor and at least do the top end of it (ie cams, intake, carb, maybe heads). As far as restoration, I have an '89 with the 360 that Im restoring as well, good news is there's a lot of interchangeable parts on all year first gens. As stated above junk yards and craigslist are good sources. Also I have found quite a few parts that I plan to order through Rock Auto. There isn't a huge aftermarket for these things, but there is some stuff here and there, it just takes a lot of research.
As far as where to start it really just depends on what condition its in. For example does it run and drive? Is it your daily driver? How bad is the body as far as damage and rust? These are the questions you need to ask yourself so you know where to start.
On mine it runs and drives, but not really well... The motor has a really bad timing knock, intake gasket and rear main seal are leaking, and it smokes bad. On top of that the steering box needs rebuilt and front end gone through because there's a huge amount of play in the front end. Also Im sure the brakes need service and the parking brake cable needs to be adjusted.
When it comes to the body I have some surface rust that has start to pit on the bottom of the passenger door, which I just fixed. I also have some small pencil sized cancer in the bottom bed corners under the bumper. The body does have some good dents and dings, but a day with a dolly hammer set will have it straight.
With all this said I have a 2012 cummins that is my DD so my '89 isn't a dire need to get it perfect right now. however, I did buy is so me and the Fiance' have a second vehicle. So for me I have a block, crank, and heads at a local performance shop getting cleaned up and the machine work done (although its the middle of race season so itll take a couple weeks). And while Im waiting on those things Im getting the electrical, some interior and some body taken care of. Once those motor pieces are done I will focus and getting that 2nd motor built and get it in the truck. Once that is done Ill do the steering, then brakes.
I will then have a solid running truck, at which point I can focus on getting the interior done, then get the body done. Then I can do the suspension.
so for you it is important to ask yourself those questions, sit down go through the truck, make a list of what needs to be done... Broken down in to categories then prioritize those tasks based on your needs whether its a DD or just a project etc. Then as you complete stuff check it off that way your seeing progress and you have somewhat of a plan so its less over whelming
