Thanks A Lot, Guys

[Jaymez]

I found this site while doing some research for my upcoming project. I had planned to start work on it in the spring, after the snow thawed and the concrete wasn't so cold. You jerks threw that plan right out the window.

I've got the bug and I can't wait any longer. I ordered my inner fenders last night. I rearranged my garage this morning. My Nova is on a battery charger so it can be moved out of the way. You bums got me wanting to work on my truck now, in the cold.

As soon as I get home from work tonight I plan to start the automotive shuffle. I have four bays, all of which are full. My Silverado is getting parked outside. My Nova is getting moved into the Silverado's parking spot inside my smaller garage. The GTO is getting tucked into the corner. The C10 is getting moved into the bigger garage bay and I plan to start ripping it apart tonight.

Plans have changed since I first joined up. I wanted to lower it, but, I can't because it's a 4x4. Instead, I'm going to make it look big and mean with lots of chrome.

The treatment includes:
Replace rusted inner fenders.
Repair mild surface rust around a few scratches.
Fill one rust hole in the driver side rocker.
Weld up some scars from the truck's life as a work truck.
Shave body side emblems.
Replace body side moldings.
Stuff the biggest possible tires under the truck without lifting it.
Spray the whole truck, currently a dark navy blue, Figi Blue Pearl (2008 Honda Civic SI color).
Possibly make it two tone, adding a bright silver.
Replace interior plastics with bright, polished aluminum.
New wheels.
Mild cam.
Intake.
Edelbrock Carb.
Bull bar.
Roll bar.
Cowl Hood.
Monster-sized rear bumper.
Headers.

Target date for completion: August 14th, 2008.

Hopefully, hanging out here will inspire me to take lots and lots of photos.

[BowTieOgre]

Sounds like youve got a good plan and a realistic date in mind. While you are poking around the rockers you might want to consider just replacing them and he cab mounts unless it is just going to be a trail rig. Make sure you share some before, during and after pics...truck pics are our porn around here!:D

[87classic]

Sounds like a great plan. But you know you will never be "officially" done. There will always be something to add. Well that has always been the case for me... Good luck man and can't wait to see the pics

[Ivan D.]

I found this site while doing some research for my upcoming project. I had planned to start work on it in the spring, after the snow thawed and the concrete wasn't so cold. You jerks threw that plan right out the window.

Haha, yah, internet forums have that effect on people - works all the time, every time :D

Plans have changed since I first joined up. I wanted to lower it, but, I can't because it's a 4x4. Instead, I'm going to make it look big and mean with lots of chrome.
Your '87 while a 4x4 should still have IFS, which unlike a solid-axle front can indeed be very easily lowered - essentially the only difference between a 2wd and your 4x4 is that you got two acle-shafts the the 2wd ain't got, but that's about it. When lowering that you'll wanna watch out for extreme CV-joints angles, which really ain't nothing different than what the lifted guys have to deal with, just in the opposite direction.

Also, even a solid-axle 4x4 truck can be lowered, there is a guy over at 67-72.com who has a late-'60s K20 with airbags, he can go as low as a regular 2wd truck or as high as a 4x4 with a slight lift - he does that by using 4-links and Panhard bars both in the front and in the rear, which really is no different that what any new Dodge Ram 2500 and up uses.

[FordeatinZ71]

uh, no. the '87 should still be a solid front axle. '88-up was the IFS front ends.

sounds like a really cool project...you'll have fun with it...post pics!

:nopics:

[Ivan D.]

well then, 4-link and bag it like that old K20 :D

[Ivan D.]

By the way, for the cool factor, how about that front bumper?

http://www.supermotors.net/getfile/596053/fullsize/mini-monster-double_bumper.jpg

Also, a big no-no on the monster rear bumper, they look pretty retarded on anything that ain't a dually.

[Jaymez]

Nawh, I want something big, chrome, and smooth.

[FordeatinZ71]

lol, Ivan, is that two front bumpers merged together?

[Ivan D.]

yeps, totally doable too, just gotta be careful when cutting 'em

[FordeatinZ71]

it looks alright...but those bumpers are so fragile...did you do anything to beef them up?

[Ivan D.]

man, that's a photochop, lol

[FordeatinZ71]

lol, you did a damn good job! but i'm glad it's a p'chop...i'm not really too fond of it...

[Ivan D.]

Haha, thanks, but if my truck was a crewcab dually I'd so do it, it'd fit just perfect!

[Jaymez]

A little background on my project.

My dad bought the truck brand new in late '87 and drove the truck daily until '92. From that point on, the truck was only used when needed. He selected the '87 instead of the '88 because he was a smoker at the time and liked the vent window. He could let the smoke out of the cab without getting wet.

In May of 2005, I went shopping for my first new vehicle. I was dead set on getting a truck. I'd been pining for one since I got my license in '98. When I found out the extended cab, short box, that I wanted was out of my budget, I looked at my father and said, "If I could find one just like yours, for $20,000, I'd be perfectly happy."

I ended up buying a 2005 Silverado WT RCLB 4x4. I paid $18,000 for mine. Eighteen years earlier, he bought an identical truck for $17,000. The only difference between the two, his came with a plow and mine didn't.

Fast forward to August 14th, 2007 at 9:35PM. After not seeing my father in two days, I checked on him. (We lived together.) I found him in his bed, dead. It turned out he suffered a coronary. His arteries were clogged 99.99%. He was 53 years old.

His funeral hadn't even taken place when it became clear to me. I had to rebuild his truck. He always used to say, "That's *MY* truck, not yours. *MY* truck."

The truck is clean, but, it's been neglected over the years. It sat in the driveway for most of its life. He's drive it in bad weather, but, he never took it out in the rain. The salt and sand from New England winters did a number on the underside. Thankfully, it's just rust scale and the frame is still in good shape.

I had planned to start the project in the spring, but, between reading this site and helping a friend with his Blazer, the urge to work on my rolling tribute to my father became too much. I am proud to say the project has begun.

The following is a cross post from my blog on another site. Most of the readers on that site are not gear heads. It was written so they would understand what is being done.

I woke up at the ass crack of noon today and went outside almost immediately to start moving stuff around. I got the Nova started and moved it into the house garage. The GTO was put on casters and shoved to the far corner of the rear garage. My cousin's bike was put as close to the Goat as possible. Some tools were rearranged and I was ready to begin.

That garage is a hell of a lot smaller with a full sized truck in there. I don't have as much room as I thought I had to work on it, but, it'll do.

With the truck in the garage, all the tools gathered, and some tunes on the stereo, I got to work. First I took some before pictures.

Front Clip 1. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/Before1.jpg)
Front Clip 2 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/Before.jpg).
Driver side 1. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/Before3.jpg)
Driver side 2. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/Before2.jpg)

Next, I pulled the upright portions of the plow assembly off. The extra headlights, the hydraulic cylinder for the plow lift, and the front frame. I also removed the grill. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/GrillAndPlowGone1.jpg) (Grill Gone 2.) (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/GrillAndPlowGone.jpg)

I wanted to remove the lower plow mounts, where the plow and the truck make the physical connection, but, I couldn't find the bolts. There's a lot of rust under that front end. Thankfully, it's all surface rust. I actually called a friend to find out if that portion is welded to the frame and he said it was bolted up. Once I get some more of the front end cleared up, I'll dig around some more to find those bolts.

Supposedly, it's illegal to mount the old style plows on new trucks. The connection is too solid and there's no give. Get into a wreck with that kind of plow and you'll be almost guaranteed to walk away. Can't say the same for whoever you hit. In a situation like that, I can honestly say I wouldn't care if they walked away, but, oh well.

Next, I removed the plow's hydraulic lines followed by the pump. I had a little surprise while removing the pump. I broke down in tears. I haven't cried since the funeral. Four and a half months later and it hasn't gotten any easier. Miss ya, Dad.

With the lines and the pump out of the way, it was time to try and remove the bracket (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/PlowControls.jpg) that the controls for the plow's hydraulics sit on. That was a pain, to say the least. Ever heard the phrase "I felt like a money fu*king a football"? I never knew what that meant until it was time to remove that damn bracket. I finally said the hell with it and broke out the cutting wheel. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/MonkeyFinFootball.jpg)

I'm not going to bother putting the plow stuff back on anyway. I plan to sell the whole assembly. So the buyer had to fab up one small bracket. Everything is still in great condition.

That bracket is mounted on the driver's side inner fender, inside the engine bay. While my arms were long enough to reach inside the wheel well and inside the engine bay to reach the bolts, I wasn't in the best position to put the right pressure on the nut and bolt to remove it. That's why I broke out the cutting wheel.

By the time I got all that done, it was a little after 8. I hadn't eaten since 3am, so I was a bit hungry. Tomorrow, I plan to try and remove the inner fender.

[Jaymez]

Rather than start a whole bunch of threads about my truck, I'm going to try keeping most of my questions in this thread.

Is the pump to the left in this picture my A/C pump? There hasn't been a belt on it in years. If it is, I'd like to delete this pump since it's obviously not needed. I haven't traced the hoses yet. Where do they run?

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/Before7.jpg

Next question. What is this cylinder for? It mounts to the front of my driver's side inner fender.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/WhatIsTheRoundThing.jpg

[FordeatinZ71]

let me start off by saying that is one nice K10! the pump you are referring to is your A/C compressor, although it's a mighty weird one to have in an '87. it looks like an old-school one.

not sure about that cylinder. where do those hoses lead to? looks like it might be part of that hokey A/C system. that can't be the factory A/C system, it looks way too rigged.

but that really is a nice truck man, you are doing right by your dad bringing it back. i'm sorry for your loss, may your dad R.I.P.

[Jaymez]

I'm fairly certain the A/C system is some kind of aftermarket job. Any idea what the hoses on the pump would run to? If I go out and look now, I'll be out there until 4 in the morning, playing and pissing off the neighbors.

I want to delete as much of the stuff under the hood as I can. I've been going to car shows for years and I love the look of the minimalist engine bay.

I plan to remove all the sheet metal from the front end. That way I can fix the rust on the bottom of the fenders and edge the panels with the Figi Blue Pearl. While I have the front end cleared, I might delete anything that isn't needed on the firewall.

I know the stuff that is on there is there for a reason, but, the truck shouldn't have any computers controlling the engine. If a '34 Street Rod can have a smooth, minimalist, firewall this truck should be able to have the same.<hr>
Here are some shots of my dad's other toys that he left me.

First up is the unrestored '71 NOVA. 6 Cylinder, Powerglide, Dog-legger. This belonged to my great-grandfather who was murdered back in '74. When he died, my dad inherited the car. It meant the world to him, thus it means the world to me. My goal is to build up my body working skills to the point that I can do a full restoration on this car.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/1971%20Chevy%20Nova/NovaSide2.jpg http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/1971%20Chevy%20Nova/NovaFront2.jpg http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/1971%20Chevy%20Nova/NovaMotor.jpg

The other toy is a 1968 Pontiac GTO. 400, 4bbl, 4 speed, 4.11 posi rear.

Dad's first car, at 16 years old was a similar GTO. A few years a go, he decided he wanted to have that car back. He found this one on eBay, mostly complete, and set out to rebuild his first car. It's not a number matcher, but, it is a GTO. He added the hidden head lights, had it painted black (it was olive green when he bought it), and changed the gears in the rearend.

Personally, I never liked the car. I think the Chevelles of that era look much better. This car needs chrome on the front end. I've been waffling as to rather or not I should sell the car or not. If I keep it, I need to make a few changes. The car runs and drives great, but, you can't see anything at night with those old sealed beam headlights. I'll upgrade those to halogens. Also, I think the car has too much gear in it for cruising. I want to switch the 4.11's out for something more reasonable. A set of 3.55's or 3.73's would suit my needs. I'll never race the car.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/1968%20Pontiac%20GTO/GTOBlack007.jpg

As if I don't have enough in my garage, I recently had an idea for my next project, too. I just found out that my uncle is shipping off to Iraq in a few months for the second time. I'd really like restore his '70 Mach 1 Mustang for him while he's gone. I don't know if I'd have the time do it with my dad's project under way. If I don't get to build that car, I might look for a last generation Sonomoa stepside.

[FordeatinZ71]

man those are some nice cars! i love how mint that Nova is! it's a shame about your grandpa though.

i'm not sure what the hoses could be running to. i mean, there should be some going to a condensor, then an accumulator/evaporator...

[Ivan D.]

i'm not sure what the hoses could be running to. i mean, there should be some going to a condensor, then an accumulator/evaporator...
Correct - one of the hoses should come from the condenser (the A/C radiator in front of the engine radiator), the other hose goes to the dryer then to the evaporator core inside the air plenum. The cylinder on the inner fender looks like it could be said dryer. IIRC both the condenser and evaporator connections are on the passenger side of the engine bay, so you have two pretty fat hoses running all the way across and over your engine.

Oh yah, removing stuff - just disconnect the A/C hoses from the evaporator core (near the blower fan motor), then rip out everything - compressor, condenser, drier, all 'em hoses. If you feel ambitious you can also pull the plenum out and yank the evaporator core, then block off the holes for the hoses with a thin aluminum plate or something similar.

[Jaymez]

Stupidity loves company.

My buddy came over to work on his Blazer tonight. When he was done, I suckered him into working on my truck. All I was looking to do was pull the cables for the plow controls through the firewall. We got that done pretty quick.

That's when things got entertaining. "Hey, wanna take the hood off", he says. Sure. Got to rip the whole front end apart anyway. Might as well do it now. We grabbed a couple ratchets and went to opposites side of the truck.

Scary when someone else has the same thought process as you, isn't it? We cracked all the bolts loose and then went to town removing the hinges. You should have seen the shocked look on our faces when the hood fell on our heads right after the support springs fell free. Yeah. we removed the springs that hold the weight of the hood without supporting the hood first.

We must be borderline retarded or something. How much schooling have we had? How many cars have we worked on? Did we learn *nothing*? Apparently so.

With the hood off, we might as well pull a fender. That was fun. Given that it is a twenty year old New England truck, it wasn't too bad. Busted a few knuckles and bolts in the process.

I was shocked to see the shape of the fenders, though. The outside skin was fine, but, the structure behind the skin is pretty shot. The rot worked in my favor when it came to removing some stubborn bolts, but, I'm going to have to get some new fenders. LMC seems to be a pretty good source for sheet metal. I'd rather avoid looking for donor trucks. I want to know everything I'm putting on the beast is solid.

Looks like I'll spend NYE working on the other side of the truck. I'm going to try getting as much as I can off the front of the truck before I start tackling the lower plow mounts. The less rust that I inhale the better.

The rust scale has me a bit nervous. Of course, I want to build a magazine quality show truck. I can't ignore the scale or just paint it black without doing *something* to treat it. At this point, I'm almost scared to take things apart to clean them. The parts are solid, they just look rough.

No pictures today. I didn't think to grab the camera until I was elbow deep in grease and muck. I'll shoot some tomorrow before I start working..

One parting thought. They say you never really learn to swear until you start driving. Horse sh!t. You learn it when you work on these damn machines. No wonder I never took on one of these projects before!

[44gmcnewf]

That truck looks realy clean And very awesome shape for a area that requires a blade. Good luck With the project we need more pictures.

[FordeatinZ71]

yea but one day you'll laugh when you look back at all this. all the blood, sweat, tears and money will be worth it in the end when you look at/drive the finished product...unless of course you are working on a F*rd, then you'll just be pissed off...ask me how i know...:mad:

[Ivan D.]

Well that's what you get for dieseling the hell outta innocent passer-bys, if you drove that F350 nicer you'd be a much happier person :p

[FordeatinZ71]

naa, if i had got a Dodge with a Cummins or a Chevy/GMC with a DMax i'd be a much happier person...SCREW FORD TRUCKS!

[Ivan D.]

DuraMax = evil stuff, I hate the one in the new GMT900s (by new I mean the 2009 models, not current production), every single one I've driven has been a bit of a dog, and the slushbox tranny controls/response are so retarded (literally) it ain't even funny. The Powerstroke feels a bit better, but not by much, tis probably all in the PCM programming anyways. Now I'm yet to drive a Cummins that don't just haul a$$ when you get into it. And don't even get me started on the IFS in the 4x4 HD Chevy trucks... By the way rumor has it Ford will be offering small Cummins diesels in their trucks starting 2009 or 2010, forgot which models tho, but not in the F350s and not huge diesel engines.

[FordeatinZ71]

oh yea man, i really dislike the new trucks (i mean '07 up). i just think they are generally (with a FEW exceptions on this site) ugly and are WAY too car-like.

when i said DMax i was talkin in the NBS trucks...02-07.

but honestly, my heart still yearns for a '98.5-'02 Ram 2500 QC 4x4 with a CTD and a 5 or 6 speed manual (dictated by having the Cummins HO or the standard output...)

[Ivan D.]

I'd actually go for a Cummins-equipped 6-spd '03-up Ram 3500 Dually 4x4, those are awesome! I have no respect whatsoever for the latest Chevy trucks, they look way too ugly... unlike 'em Tahoes, now those are just evil-looking, especially the police-specs ones, with the wider low-profile tires and all black and no badges - mean I tell ya, mean as mean gets! Would love to get my hands on one, too bad the heavy-duty (3/4-ton) package comes only on the Suburbans and not on Tahoes.

[FordeatinZ71]

yea, but i'll tell ya...you'll lose all faith in the newer GM trucks if you saw what i saw...i was embarassed to be a GM fan...my friend in his '95 NISSAN 4x4 got rear-ended at 40 (Tahoe driver's claim) by a '07 Tahoe...Tahoe was fcuked...Nissan drove away...

friggin embarassing...the Nissan had a bent bumper and a small dent on the tailgate...the tailgate still worked!

[Ivan D.]

Having seen the Tahoe's frame naked (remember, those are teh trucks I was working on when in TX), I'd really love to see the Nissan's condition with the accident roles reversed :aniteef:

[FordeatinZ71]

yea, i know, a lot of it had to do with crumple zones...i get that...it just LOOKED bad to people who didn't know about cars...it just looked like the "weak-ass" GM got taken out by a Nissan...

[Jaymez]

I can't say anything about light duty Cummings motors, but, the heavy duty one I had in my semi sucked ass. That thing had no power at all. While pulling a 35,000lb load up I-270 going into Ohio, I had to drop 8 gears and was reduced to a slow crawl while going up the mountain.

I had to drop 4 gears with a 10,000lb load in Connecticut, while climbing a light, rolling, hill. Those two pulls have soured me on Cummings for life. I'd never buy anything with one of their motors in it. Then again, living in the snow belt, I'd never buy a diesel just for the requirement to plug 'em in to keep the fuel from gelling.

[GreaseDog]

so now that we know your opinion on Cummings, how do you feel about Cummins?

[Jaymez]

I never claimed to know how to spell!

[44gmcnewf]

i dont like diesel's They have that weird knocking sound to them where there cold they tank a long time to warm up, and they stink. PLus why would you want a diesel when you could have the nice grunt from a big block :rocking:

[FordeatinZ71]

because while that big block is grunting good and getting 4-6 mpg, that diesel will be purring right along with 10,000 more pounds on it's back and will get 20+ mpg.

it's kinda common sense. most people who don't want a diesel don't know crap about them and their power potential. most guys who've actually OWNED a newer diesel (not an old 6.2/6.5/6.9/7.3) don't ever wanna go back to a gasser.

as for heavier duty trucks, nothing climbs like a Cat!

[Jaymez]

Everybody know what time it is? (pauses for the smartasses) It's update time!

Let's start with the photos that were missing from last time.
Missing fender, grill, and hood. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/1230.jpg)
Easy access to that ugly motor. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/1230-1.jpg) One day it'll look purdy.
Rusty suspension and hydraulic fluid mess. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/1230-2.jpg)
Left side inner fender ready for the scrap heap. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/1230-3.jpg) Look at that cancer.
Cancer everywhere! (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/1230-4.jpg)
Look at that shiny fender. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/1230-6.jpg) If only what is on the outside only matters.
Inside of that same fender. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/1230-7.jpg)
Still the same fender (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/1230-8.jpg).

With that out of the way, I can get on to today's update.

I pulled the other fender off today. I found more (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0101-12.jpg) of the same (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0101-11.jpg) on the right side. Looks like I'm ordering two new fenders from LMC. I'm not going to try and patch that mess. It's just not worth it.

I did get a surprise when working on that fender. I found my favorite screw driver! (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0101-9.jpg). OK, it's not my favorite. I just wonder how long it's been sitting inside that fender.

Once the fenders were off, I realized I didn't know where any of my tools were so I did a quick clean up and moved the fenders and a few other parts into the shed. I should have gotten some shots of my clean garage, but, I didn't.

Once everything was cleaned up, I took a wire brush to some suspension and steering parts while trying to decide what to do next. I figured it was time to pull the radiator support and started draining the radiator. That was when my buddy Rich showed up.

We pulled the three radiators out and got ready to remove the lower plow mounts, but, found we didn't have the access to everything yet. A few more things had to go. OK, move on to the radiator support.

Couldn't remove that, either. The bumper brackets were in the way. That was a bitch and a half to get off. GM designed that whole front end to discourage DIY mechanics, I swear. Every possible bolt I needed to access was blocked by something else.

I did have to take a cut off wheel to two of them. One of 'em, the edges of the carriage bolt had rounded and I couldn't keep the bolt from spinning while taking the nut off. The other one, I got the nut off the bolt, but, there was an upright support for the plow blocking the bolt from coming out. Stupid design.

This red bar (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0101-7.jpg) is becoming my new best friend. It's the top part of the jack handle, but, it works great as a breaker bar.

Radiators, bumper, fenders, hood, all MIA. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0101-5.jpg)

By that point, it was getting cold in the garage and I packed it in. My plan for tomorrow, after work is to borrow an electric impact gun and remove that damn radiator support. It's going to be pretty difficult.

Rich suggested we pull the motor to clean it up easier. With it out of the truck, I can clean the frame and firewall, too. I'll hose the frame, radiator support, and firewall with some chassis black within the next few weeks.

If all goes as planned, the motor will come out this weekend. Depending on the temps, of course.

I'm really glad I started this project now. Yeah, it gets cold in the garage, but, if I keep moving I warm right up. The best part, of course, is not sweating while working.

There is a plus side to this whole thing, too. I've packed on a bit more weight since I started desk duty. I'm getting plenty of exercise on this project. I did something I haven't done in years, tonight. I actually managed to do a pull-up while under the truck. The damn bolt was that stubborn. No wonder I have two stripped ratchets.

[55chevyman]

First I want to say sorry for your loss. I recently lost my mom, dad, grandma and grandpa to a drunk driver. I miss them dearly.

First donot seel the cars if you can help it. I inherited a 64 falcon with a 351 w, a 65 ford with a 351 c, a 55 chevy bel aire and a 75 c-20.They were all frame off restores. I sold falcon and the 65 and i kept the 55 and the 75. I regret it . I will never see them again. Please take my advice. They mean alot and are nice cars.


[QUOTE=Jaymez]

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/1968%20Pontiac%20GTO/GTOBlack007.jpg

QUOTE]


Your rebuild man is awesom. I am doing mine in spring. I will be tearing mine down to and i cant wait. Your thread here is awesome, great detail and pics. i will definatly be watching this so i can learn a few things for mine. Keep up the good work. :10: :10:

[FordeatinZ71]

First I want to say sorry for your loss. I recently lost my mom, dad, grandma and grandpa to a drunk driver. I miss them dearly.

First donot seel the cars if you can help it. I inherited a 64 falcon with a 351 w, a 65 ford with a 351 c, a 55 chevy bel aire and a 75 c-20.They were all frame off restores. I sold falcon and the 65 and i kept the 55 and the 75. I regret it . I will never see them again. Please take my advice. They mean alot and are nice cars.




http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/1968%20Pontiac%20GTO/GTOBlack007.jpg




Your rebuild man is awesom. I am doing mine in spring. I will be tearing mine down to and i cant wait. Your thread here is awesome, great detail and pics. i will definatly be watching this so i can learn a few things for mine. Keep up the good work. :10: :10:

i fixed your quote...i had no idea about your family. i am so sorry to hear of your loss. i can't even imagine losing so much of my family in "one fell swoop". i wish there was something i could say that would make it easier but i'm at a loss for words...i will keep you in my thoughts...

now, back onto the topic...you are kickin butt on that K10! that's a shame that it can look so damn pretty on the outside, and so ugly inside...proves that beauty is only skin deep, right?

[55chevyman]

[QUOTE=FordeatinZ71]i fixed your quote...i had no idea about your family. i am so sorry to hear of your loss. i can't even imagine losing so much of my family in "one fell swoop". i wish there was something i could say that would make it easier but i'm at a loss for words...i will keep you in my thoughts...

QUOTE]


thanks for the qoute fix and thinking of me. Its been a rough yr I lost my folks and granperants a yr ago this month and my son less then a month ago thats why i hadnt been on here. Thats why i feel so strong about him keeping his cars. I regret selling mine everyday. only good thing is i know where they are and I can buy them back if i strike the lotto...

but this build is awesome, this is also why i am rebuilding my 75 but for my grandpa.


Your making great proggress. I want to start mine now to but cant i still need to drive it.

[Jaymez]

Thanks.

This is my first complete rebuild. I've been wanting a custom truck ever since I first laid eyes on an issue of Sport Truck when I was 12 years old. I had planned to trick out my Silverado once the warranty expires, but, this truck clearly needs work.

I'm not entirely sure if I'm doing a complete frame off or not. Everything under the cab looks good. The bed has to come off for the color change, though. This will be the third time I've taken that damn bed off. Ugh. It never gets any lighter.

I am amazed at how well this build is going so far and I've only just begun. The rot inside the fenders has been the only surprise so far. Once I get the front clip done, I'll move onto the cab.

If I get the motor out this weekend, I'll clean up the frame and paint everything in front of the firewall in chassis black. Once that is done, I'll work on prettying up the motor so I can get that back into place and hang the front sheet metal.

I want to spray the outside of the cab all in one shot. Unless the quote from my paint supplier is too shocking, I'm planning on spraying it a Honda color, Figi Blue Pearl. I've had too many dark vehicles and I want something a bit brighter and more vibrant.

Spraying inside the cab is going to be a challenge. It's a stock interior, so aside from plastic textured door panels and a dash pad there is no trim. All steel everywhere. Thankfully, there's no rust that I know of. Haven't pulled the rubber floor mat, yet. I have no idea how to spray the inside all in one shot. After all, you need to lean in to paint parts and I'm not exactly balanced.

[Jaymez]

55chevyman, dude, sorry to hear about your losses. Holy sh!t. Losing my dad wasn't as hard as I would have expected. I mean, it sucked but, I only felt sorry for myself for a few days.

However, I almost lost my grandmother as a result of losing my dad. She didn't take to burying her youngest son too well and started messing with her meds. The thought of losing her sent me for a loop. My whole family is shocked she made it through Christmas, that day marked my dad's 54th birthday. I feel most of your pain. I can't relate to losing a child.

My Nova is my only true keeper. That car meant the world to my dad because it belonged to his grandfather. His grandfather was murdered in '74 and while they had some suspects, they never caught the killer(s). If only they had today's crime scene tech back then. I will live on the streets before I sell that car.

I hope to get my metal working skills up to the point where I can do a full and proper restoration on that car. Everyone keeps trying to talk me into dropping a big block and a four speed into that car. Not going to happen. I've only seen one other Nova done like mine and that one had the impact bumpers on it, so I'm assuming it was at least a '74.

The GTO is just a car to me. I hated it from the day dad brought it home. Once he bought that car he sold his 70 Chevelle SS 396. I'd rather have that over the goat. I do have to admit, though, the goat sure does drive nice. I need to get used to the tighter gearbox, thought. I'm used to driving big trucks with sloppy gearboxes. If my ex was as tight as the gearbox in that car, we'd still be together.

[FordeatinZ71]

lol at the ex/gearbox statement. you have quite the collection Jaymez, i know you probably don't like the way you came to inherit it, but nice rides nonetheless. i'm happy to hear you are keepin that Nova stock...i love seeing old cars 100% stock sometimes...it's nice

[55chevyman]

55chevyman, dude, sorry to hear about your losses. Holy sh!t. If my ex was as tight as the gearbox in that car, we'd still be together.


Lmao :aniteef: :aniteef:

Hey thanks man. my son was a real hard hit. I never thought id out live him. I am actually doing ok. 12 yrs in the army, and not beeing aloud to feel the pain of a loss has stayed with me. I miss him something fierce but I am alright



I hope you keep the nova stock its an eye catcher and a great piece of history.


As for the goat id love to have it sitting next to my 55...gorgeous car man

[Jaymez]

If you don't mind me asking, what happened to your son?

Oh, and you are allowed to feel the pain of your loss. I understand that in the military you have to keep fighting. However, this is different. I mentioned in one of the first posts in this thread, I broke down and cried while taking a wrench to that truck for the first time.

I don't care how big and strong you may be. Even the strongest man is allowed to cry. I nearly collapsed at my dad's viewing. I'm 6'2" and a solid 300lbs. My mother and my aunt had to hold me up. I'd kick the $hit out of anyone who busted my balls for that reaction.

If you need to, let it out. Screw protocol.

[FordeatinZ71]

there's nothing wrong with showing emotion from time-to-time. my grandpa who raised me passed on my wife's b'day in '06. it's bittersweet on her birthday for me, but she understands.

i was in the Army for 7 years myself, so i know what you mean about having to "suck it up", but sometimes ya gotta let it out...

[55chevyman]

Well short version....wife and me divorced. She divorced me before i returned back from Iraq. So she had custody. Took her to court and lost because i am disabled and court felt he was better off with her ( yea they were wrong) She took my boy to the mall with her, he is 6, and the were returning to the car after shopping and she was unlocking the car and putting packages in the back seat, her cell rang and she answered it. Blabbing away she said afterwards that she forgot he was there at the rear of the car and he wandered into the main part were there are cars, well some frickin kid was showing off for some girl and lost control and ran my son over dragging him 75 ft. he actually survived till the hospital and was in a comma for a week, but the internal bleeding couldnt be stopped. and he passed on.he was my reason to keep fighting and make it back alive. I have a rough time with his loss.

What i meant about the army comment was they trained us death was a distraction and to not think about it. Im human i think about it.

Im not a huge guy and size doesnt matter when a child dies, it makes you feel about an inch tall...

Im sorry to jack your thread man...

[FordeatinZ71]

oh man, that is horrible. i hope that :jackass: who was showing off got the book thrown at him...

[Jaymez]

No worries. Man, holy crap. I hope the kid who killed your boy is punished beyond the fullest extent of the law. By that, I mean shanked accidentally on purpose. There's no excuse for that.

[55chevyman]

See thats what makes my skin crawl and makes me want to kill again. The punk was 16 had his liscense for 2 months, driving daddys car. He is only looking at 2 yrs in a kidde prison and 2 yrs probation. But I will not let that happen. this lil punk will get more . i wont rest until he does, accident or not.

[Jaymez]

Damn. Just make it look like an accident, or find a hog farm. They eat everything but the teeth.

One more thought before I pack it in for the night: Thank you for your service, man. Thank you for defending my home and my life.

[55chevyman]

Thanks , thats nice to hear once in awhile.

[GreaseDog]

One more thought before I pack it in for the night: Thank you for your service, man. Thank you for defending my home and my life.:word:

[Ivan D.]

But I will not let that happen. this lil punk will get more . i wont rest until he does, accident or not.
Before you go and do something like that, think about this - this kid is also someone's son, are you sure you can live with yourself after causing his folks the same pain you're experiencing now? If you can, is it going to bring your son back? My high-school sweetheart went to a better place when I was 19 as a result of a drunk kid's actions, I had the connections and means to make him "disappear" and get away with it, the only thing that stopped me was my girl's dad asking me the same questions I just asked you. I know it ain't even close to what you're going through now, but still, just think about it.

[FordeatinZ71]

yea man, i can imagine the thoughts going through your head...but at the same time...don't ruin your future just in the name of revenge. just drag his sorry ass through the legal system...

[GreaseDog]

after the criminal suit is a done deal... civil suit...

[Jaymez]

Not to derail the derail but, if I can redirect and ask a question about my beast, that'd be great. I'm looking to clean the firewall up a bit. Would my truck, running a 305 with a throttle body have any computers controlling the motor? It's balls-gone-into-hiding cold outside and I don't want to crawl under the dash right now to find out.

[55chevyman]

sorry to derail your thread man cuz its a good one.

( Ivan your a wise man, always thought so, but no worrys, ill let our great legeal system screw his life up. I couldnt and wouldnt harm a child even after what he done)

sorry about your balls freezing today...i had mine in shorts out washing my 55 today :rocking:

[Jaymez]

Like I said, no worries about derailing, man. If there was ever a good reason to derail, you've got it.

[FordeatinZ71]

Not to derail the derail but, if I can redirect and ask a question about my beast, that'd be great. I'm looking to clean the firewall up a bit. Would my truck, running a 305 with a throttle body have any computers controlling the motor? It's balls-gone-into-hiding cold outside and I don't want to crawl under the dash right now to find out.


yea, your TBI 305 does have a computer. it should be under the dash on the passenger side. if you are gonna retain the TBI system you can clean your firewall some but you'll have to retain some things or relocate them elsewhere...

[Jaymez]

I may ditch the TBI and go for a carb instead. I work on computers all day, I don't want any in my truck. I need to find out if I have to go through emissions ever again, too. I want to ditch all my smog equipment.

[55chevyman]

I envy you...i have smog laws that are crazy tight here in ca....but i drive pre smog cars and trucks so i dont have a problem, except that 77 i just bought isnt smog exempt...but i like the truck so what the hay....I dont think their are any computer anythings on my k5, my 55, or my 75 chevy . My 69 wont have anyeither....I hear you computers need to be on a desk not in my truck

[FordeatinZ71]

hold up, what did i miss...the '77 you just bought? post a link or post info...i missed that totally!

[Ivan D.]

TBI actually works more consistently than a carb as far as daily-driver use goes. Also a TBI350 usually gets better fuel economy than a carbed 350.

[FordeatinZ71]

yep, Toilet Bowl Injection is a LOT more efficient than a carb ever will be...

[Jaymez]

The truck won't be a daily driver. Shows, weekends, and trips to Home Depot. I'll run my Grand Prix for the back and forth to work.

[Ivan D.]

then go spreadbore carb so T-quad or Q-jet or Holley, but NO EDELBROCKS!!! lol

[Jaymez]

Mind if I ask why no Edelbrocks? My buddy who I'm most likely going to let do most of the motor work, at least the planning, recommended those over Holley. He's built more motors than I have.

Speaking of motors, where can I get a nice trim kit for it? Yeah, I want chrome everywhere. While I'm at it, I need one for my 250 as well. My Nova's motor is uglier than the truck's!

[Ivan D.]

cause Edelbrock ain't got no spreadbore models

[GreaseDog]

first off, if you're going Holley, stay away from spreadbores.

second, the Edelbrocks are great if you want your grandma to rebuild them, and your prissy little sister to tune them. they are a BREEZE to work on... however what they give up in performance and economy over a Quadrajet isnt worth the ease of their use.

personally, if i have to run a carb, its going to be a Quadrajet. my '77 and my '80 are both slated for TBI swaps though.

[Jaymez]

If you've paid any attention to my postings, you know I have no love for any form of religion. Not only does it not make any sense to me, but, I never had any use for it. I reexamine my views on the subject all the tie. I mean, that many billion people can't be wrong, can they? I always return to the same conclusion, though. It is complete and utter crap.

I've never had any use for the invisible man living in the sky, but, in the last few weeks I've really wished I could believe like so many others. I really wish Dad could see what I am doing to his truck. I wish he could see what I'm trying to do for him. I wish he could see the finished product and think "My boy built that! That's my truck and HE built it!"

I know he can't, though. Deep, deep, deep down inside, I know he can't see what I'm doing. He hasn't seen anything since he laid down in his bed for the last time. He'll never see what I can do when I make up my mind. That, my friends, really sucks.

Anyway, enough of that. Time for the latest update on the project.

I didn't get anywhere near as much done as I'd hope to do last week. We had a cold weather snap that kept me out of the garage most of the week. Saturday, I let my buddy use my spare bay to work on his Blazer.

I did eventually get the radiator support (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/107-4.jpg) off (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/107-3.jpg).

I've been accused of not knowing my own strength (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/107.jpg) a few times. Too bad I didn't know it with some Craftsman tools. I've made good use of their no questions ask replacement warranty on hand tools. I had to replace two 3/8's ratchets last week.

These bags (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/107-2.jpg) are a life saver on this damn project. Great for holding all those bolts I'm removing. I just hope the labels don't come off the bags.

I've ordered some new steering parts (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/107-5.jpg), too. What I have works, but, it looks bad. I do want this truck to be a show truck, so it's gotta be cleaned up as much as possible.

I also need to find a radiator support mounting kit. I kinda accidentally broke the bolts that hold it onto the truck and the rubber bushings are shot. Those bolts, in spite of hosed with Liquid Wrench, broke as soon as I got a socket with some pressure on them.

Me Igor. Me dumb like Ox. Me use grunt when finesse is needed. Me get job done, though.

Next, I start working on removing the motor. That should be... interesting at least.

[Jaymez]

Question: Where would be the best place to find a complete radiator support mounting kit? LMC has the complete kit for $90. That seems just a little excessive to me. Maybe my expectations are high. I just can't see the stuff I broke tonight costing $90.

[FordeatinZ71]

ehh, have you tried your local parts house? i mean, usually they are good for little stuff like that...other than that, maybe brother's or classic industries...

[Jaymez]

I checked my local parts suppliers and they kept trying to sell me the radiator support instead of the mounting kit. I've got one more place to check before sending more money to LMC.

I made a little bit of progress today.

I started out by removing the starter. I've never been so glad this truck is four wheel drive. While it made it difficult to remove the bolts, once the bolts were out I had a place to set the starter while I removed the wires.

I thought for sure I was going to drop that damn thing on my head while trying to remove it. Those things are heavy and they aren't exactly balanced well to make putting it in place with one hand easy.

While I was removing the starter, my buddy started taking some crap off the motor to make pulling it easier. First to go were the emission controls. I really hope that thing never has to go through emissions again. I want to ditch that eco ****.

With some pumps and pulleys out of the way, we were finally able to remove the lower plow mounts. I am so glad that freakin' thing is off the truck. I kept tripping over the front horns. Now, I can trip over the frame. :)

We spent maybe two, two and a half, hours pulling stuff off the truck before hunger took over and we called it a night. I have to either borrow an oxy acetylene torch or find out how much one costs. I was going to unbolt the exhaust pipes from the manifolds, but decided to wait until I can apply heat to the bolts. See? I'm learning.

Actually, what stopped me was noticing that the studs must be pressed into the manifolds because there's no nut on the flanges. I want a set of headers, but, I don't have any yet. I don't want to break the studs and need to press new ones and not have anything to do the pressing.

I am so thrilled that everything associated with the plow is off the truck. I need to figure out what a reasonable asking price for the plow set up is and post it on to Craigslist. Everything is in great shape and the buyer would only have to replace two bolts. I hope to use the money from the plow sale to buy my paint.

No progress pictures today. We took some for reference, so we could figure out how all this stuff goes back together, but, nothing to detail the progress.

[FordeatinZ71]

nice progress again! BTW, you think that starter is hard to replace? try replacing one off a 6.2 diesel...weighs about TWICE that much...and if the rear support bracket isn't tight or breaks...they like to bust off bolts in the block...or worse yet, crack that part of the block off...

really nice to see ya really gettin down on this truck. can't wait to start doing that to mine. i think i've decided despite it being in such good original shape i'm still gonna separate the body from the frame and redo the frame and replace all body mounts. if i'm gonna be putting money into it i might as well not half-ass it, right? not to mention, replacing body mounts on a 25 year old truck (as of this May :biggrin:) is a cheap way to get a little lift :aniteef:

[Jaymez]

I know what you mean about not half-assing the job. I've ordered all new steering components, with the exception of the steering box and pump, just because everything looks nasty and I'm sure it'll have to be replaced sooner or later.

I don't plan on taking my cab off the frame only because everything looks good under there. I'll spray under there with some chassis black for a little extra protection.

I wish I had more time to work on this thing. I'm at a point where I need help and my schedule doesn't allow for much time after work, roughly 2 hours, because of local noise ordnances. By the time my buddy gets here to help, we've got less than an hour to work. It's a true weekend project.

I hope to get the motor out soon. I want to start cleaning that up and change some gaskets.

[55chevyman]

Just thought id drop in and see how your build is going. I havent been around I had some virus wipeout my hard drive and fry a video and someother card.. been down two weeks ..finally got it all together and reformatting...So anyways hows progress? Your inspiring my to get busy on mine....so i started today sorta... expect a teardown rebuild thread shortly....



And that 77 with the 454....didnt pan out for me, it had a hefty lein on the title and it just isnt the right timing for it. Meaning i barley had the funds to buy it....so Im just focusing on my 75......


Good luck and I will be waitin gfor more pics ,lol

[Jaymez]

I haven't worked on the truck in the last few days. We're in the middle of a nice little cold snap right now and I don't have much heat in my garage. I'm in the middle of trying to find someone with an oxy-acetylene torch that I can borrow so I can unbolt my exhaust.

I have to work this Saturday and I might be going out of town next weekend, so I am temporarily stalled. As long as I get the hard parts done before the weather warms up and I start dripping sweat everywhere, I'll be on track.

[Jaymez]

Figures, I finally get a torch to work on the exhaust bolts and it's too cold outside to lay on my garage floor. I'm a fair weather biker and a fair weather mechanic. If I don't *need* to make myself miserable to do some repairs, I won't. The exhaust can wait a few more days.

Anyway, I've got a quick question. What function does the cowl panel server? My buddy is thinking about shaving his on his Blazer and I'm giving some thought to doing the same with mine. I'm curious as to what function those vents serve, though. I know they're not there just for looks.

[55chevyman]

[QUOTE=Jaymez]Figures, I finally get a torch to work on the exhaust bolts and it's too cold outside to lay on my garage floor. I'm a fair weather biker and a fair weather mechanic. If I don't *need* to make myself miserable to do some repairs, I won't. The exhaust can wait a few more days.
QUOTE]


I was out in shorts yesterday tearing down the front end on my 75....although we are having a heat wave i think...lots of sun and no cold...

laying on cold arse concrete goes straight to the old bones...i know...it was only 50 in the gararge this morning...heater time....

I am also interested in the cowl panel...i know someone knows...wake up guys.....j/k

[GreaseDog]

it feeds fresh air to the kick panel vents. when you open them up, the rush of air you're feeling is coming straight from the back of the hood. also feeds the HVAC system IIRC, but its been a while since i've had one apart far enough to see how it all works.

[Jaymez]

I have kick panel vents? I never knew that. Sounds like I can shave that panel and not notice a difference. Sweet!

[GreaseDog]

it also feeds the hvac system. i wouldnt totally fill it if i were you. maybe every other vent, or just leave a smaller section of them in the middle.

[FordeatinZ71]

yea, that was GM's "standard" flow-through ventilation system...it was there whether you wanted it or not, lol...

[55chevyman]

Ok so what does shaving it accomplish. I am curious.....

[Jaymez]

I'm looking at it in terms of a smoother look. The truck no longer has AC because I'm not putting the aftermarket pump back on. As long as I don't hit some sort of major financial hardship and need to sell my other truck, the 87 won't be used when heat is needed, either.

[GreaseDog]

dont get caught in a rain storm, your defroster wont like to work either. its kind of a necessary evil.

[55chevyman]

kinda need the defrost....No shaving for me....

[FordeatinZ71]

yea, i'm not a big fan of shaving things...and definitely not something that major. i want the truck's basic functions to still operate...

[Jaymez]

Well, nuts. Defrosters are kinda important around here. Guess the panel stays.

[Jaymez]

Friday night, my buddy and I went to a strip club to see some porn star dance, Courtney Cummz, I think was her name. The club itself was horrible. It was missing something and we couldn't figure out what it was. Just as the porn star went up on stage, we bailed to head off to another strip club that usually doesn't disappoint.

Walking back to my car, I saw it. There, sitting in the parking lot, was my truck. Sort of. This truck had the right stance, the billet grill, the ugly ass clearance lights, elephant man mirrors, basic interior, chrome rear bumper, and the figi blue paint. It had the exact look I'm going for, minus the cowl hood.

I couldn't believe it. Of course, this truck also had some of the crappiest bodywork I'd ever seen. The paint looked as though it had been applied using a vacuum cleaner on reverse. Even at 11PM in a poorly lit parking lot, I could see orange peel, unfinished bondo, fish eyes, and sagging pearl. That was all from 5 feet away.

I was thrilled when I saw the truck. Now I know that mine is going to look good, I mean great, when it's done.

That was the highlight of my night. I had a fuggin porn star in my lap, face buried in titties, and seeing the truck was my highlight. Yeah, the strippers were a let down that night.

After some work yesterday that needed to be done around the house, I went out back, braving the cold, and started working again. I unbolted the passenger side exhaust without any problems. Even using heat on the driver side, I still broke a bolt. Exactly what I didn't want to do. I stopped working at that point because I was so pissed off. I'll go back out there today after I buy some food.

[Jaymez]

Made some more progress on the Truck today.

My buddy came over to work on his truck and when we were done we went outback to work on mine. The exhaust manifolds are now out of the way. That was nerve-wracking. Even with heat, those bolts were stubborn as hell. I was sure something was going to break. Sometimes, it's good to be wrong.

After the manifolds were removed, it was time to unbolt the shield covering the flywheel and separated the flywheel from the torque converter. Once the motor and the bell housing part ways, we can pull that out and I can really get to work.

We had the bright idea to slide the bed back, unbolt the front body mounts, and raise the front of the cab a few inches to make access to the bell housing bolts easier. Unbolting the bed was so easy it was like working on a new truck. It helps that the bed was removed two summers ago.

Holy crap is there a lot of rust on that frame. It's just surface rust, so I'm not worried about anything on the truck. I really am a dumbass, though. I still haven't bought safety glasses or dust masks for working under the truck. I'm getting plenty of iron in my diet.

With the bed unbolted, we tried to take it off ourselves. I have no idea what we were thinking. I've taken that bed off twice already. I *know* it's heavy. I *know* we need four bodies to carry it. We tried it anyway. It didn't take long for reality to hit. We put the bed back in it's place.

I have to swing by Home Depot and get a sheet of plywood. I'll set some saw horses on the plywood and get a few bodies to help lift the bed off and set it on the saw horses, next to the garage.

It'll probably be two weeks before I can get the bed off. I need to track down two more bodies and find a time that the four of us can get together. I'm going to Maine next weekend to surprise mom for her 50th. The weekend after I need to work a Saturday, too. It'd be a whole lot easier if I had a driveway leading to that garage. I'd be able to use the engine hoist to pull the bed off. I'll make due, though. If I were really looking for an easy alternative, I'd have someone else do all the work.

With any luck, I'll get out there this week and get those front body mounts unbolted - using plenty of heat this time. That's one lesson learned the hard way.

As a bonus, I brought home a couple Hookers today. Hooker Headers, that is. $50 for a set of small block long tubes. They need resurfacing, but, that's easy.

As we were finishing up the Blazer, my neighbor fired up his project. He's been doing a frame off resto on his 65 Chevelle clone for the last 15 years. He's finally got a rolling chassis and recently mated his .030 327 to the frame. He's been amusing himself with the glorious thundering sounds of an unmuffled small block for a week now. We had to go check it out.

After shooting the bull for a while and enjoying the small block rumble, I asked about his tubes. I've been looking for a deal and wondered where he got his. That's when he handed me a set he took off his FSC and said I could have them for $50. They're not exactly what I wanted, but, I'll be happy with them.
The headers I want would probably cost me $400 because they're made of stainless steel and feature a ceramic coating. The ones I got are rusty steel. A few minutes with a sand blaster and either some powder coating or high temp paint and they'll be good to rumble.

[jim_in_dorris]

Jaymez, I really am enjoying your project, I have an 87 4x4 chevy 305 stepside, and have a quick piece of advice and a request. First the advice; pull your steering box and carefully check the frame behind it for cracks. chevy 4x4's are notorious for that, and when I bought my truck it had been okie repaired. When I took it apart to do a real fix, there was less that 1 inch holding that side of the frame together. The request is when you pull the ECM out from behind the glove box, would you post the Bcc for the prom, I am trying to collect some 87 305 bins to do a federal/ california comparison and would really appreciate it.

[Jaymez]

I'd post it if I knew what "the Bcc for the prom" was.

[toad29]

bitchen goat

[jim_in_dorris]

Sorry, Thats the broadcast code, Its a series of 4 letters something like ABTT. The tag on the ECM will read something like;

serv. no. 1227747 ABTT

thats the code I need

[55chevyman]

Im jealous, you got hookers and I dont!

[Jaymez]

Who is Phillips and why does he have all my screwdrivers?

I was productive today. That's a weird feeling.

I had enough people show up to lift the bed off the truck that I didn't have to touch the thing. I didn't plan it that way, just how it worked out.

Bed Outside the garage with the hood and both bumpers sitting in it. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-13.jpg)
Bed rust 1. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223.jpg)
Bed Rust 2 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-1.jpg)
Bed Rust 3 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-2.jpg)
Bed rist 4 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-3.jpg)

With the bed off the frame, I'm able to do a little more work on the frame without ingesting more iron. The frame looks as ugly as I expected. I'll need to borrow my buddy's sand blaster and find a bigger compressor so I can clean it up.

Frame (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-12.jpg)
Frame (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-11.jpg)
Frame (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-9.jpg)
Frame (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-6.jpg)
Frame (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-5.jpg)
Frame (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/0223-4.jpg)

It looks rough, but, it should clean up fairly well.

I also managed to get the front body mounts unbolted without breaking anything. With a torch in one hand and an impact gun in the other, it made for easy work. I did managed to break another ratchet in the process, but, it was a Craftsman with the unlimited warranty. I'll replace that after work one night.

The rear bumper removal went surprisingly smooth. I'm sure it had a lot to do with the trailer hitch being in place so as the bumper had a place to rest as I removed the bolts. Again, that torch was a life saver. I can't believe I was such a dumbass that I didn't have one on hand when I started this project.

The mounts were removed because my buddy said it would make pulling the motor out that much easier. Tilt the body back and it'll be easier to get to a few of the transmission bolts. I may undo the rear mounts as well and slide the whole cab back to clean up the frame under it. I'm not going to go nuts with the frame off, I just want to blast the rust off get a good coat of paint on it. Maybe if I had the money, I'd look at getting the whole frame powder coated. I don't have the money for that, though. That's OK. I'll still have a kick ass truck when it's done.

I think I've found a few more body panels I need to pick up. I need both lower quarter pieces for the bed, behind the wheels. At least one rocker panel patch piece and the lower door skin for the passenger door.

So far, the truck is worse off than I expected, but, it hasn't managed to scare me yet. I do what I can when I can and ask for help when needed. I am smart enough to know what it is that I don't know.

Just for the hell of it, an updated shot of the Silverado (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/2005%20Chevrolet%20Silverado/Silverado.jpg). The chrome door handles are coming off this summer. Probably ditching the wheel well trim, too, once I get the chrome wheels on it.

[Jaymez]

This is going to sound like a stupid question, I'm sure. I'm going to ask it anyway.

The project truck sits on 31.5x10xR15s. The Silverado sits on 265/70/R17s. Is the overall diameter of both sets of wheels close to the same? I ask because I might put the Silverado wheels on the Project truck when the time comes.

[55chevyman]

Glad to see your making some progress. I am at a standstill right now. need help with removing the bed. So i am inside out of the rain playing the ps3 :clap:

On another note. I talked my cousin into buying this

http://redding.craigslist.org/car/570817328.html


hes on his way over now with it....



I hope to get the bed and cab off as soon as it stops raining . i have access to a bob cat but with it raining forever here the ground is way to soft for it in my backyard....soon i hope

[Jaymez]

Wow. It's been a while since I updated my progress.

The bed is now sitting on saw horses in my backyard. I am sure that is pissing my neighbor off, but, I don't care. I wanted to set it next to my garage instead of in front of it, but, my hired muscle didn't want to carry it that far. All that matters to me is the bed is off the truck.

I've also removed the rear bumper. I haven't decided what I'm going to replace it with just yet. The current bumper has a few rot holes in the bottom. I don't think a roll pan would work with my existing trailer hitch and I don't want to replace or remove the hitch. Also, because of the hitch I am not sure if I can install one of the bigger step and toe bumpers. I may just go with a stock looking, chrome, step and toe bumper.

What else have I done? The motor is just about ready to come out. Just need to unbolt the bell housing and remove the motor mounts. My buddy let me borrow his engine lift. After I clean up a bit in the garage, I might be able to pull that this weekend.

I removed the front cab mounts to make getting the motor out a little easier. I had planned to remove the rear mounts, too. I ran into a little problem there, though. The bolts turn, but, they don't back out. I am thinking whatever the bolts screw into has broken loose. Now I am going to have to cut part of the cab floor to fix that. Freakin' great. I had planned on not having any kind of carpet or floor mat in there at all.

I pulled all the electrical harnesses out as well. I don't want any computers in my truck at all. I work with computers all day at work. I don't want them in my truck. Sorry, if anyone is interested I am not looking to sell those parts.

I brought home my buddy's air compressor and sand blaster tonight, too. I really need to clean up the frame. Thankfully, under the cab is fairly clean. It's the back half that needs some real attention.

The best part of this update is my latest purchase. My buddy was poking around on Craigslist and found an awesome deal on a set of wheels. I've always liked the design and figured I'd have a set one day, even though they aren't really the style I wanted for this truck.

However, $100 for a set of American Racing Outlaw II's that have never been mounted before is a deal I couldn't pass up. They're 15" and they have a flawless finish on them. The best part? They still look decent with the center caps off the front wheels to accommodate the locking hubs!

Does American Racing, or any company for that matter, make an open ended center cap to accommodate locking hubs that will work with these wheels? I really don't want to have to keep painting the hubs silver.

I got a bonus with the wheels, too. I asked the seller if the wheels needed any special lugs. He said he wasn't sure. He didn't have any lugs and he never mounted them. Turns out, the wheels came with a complete set of lugs, including lockers and a key. It even had chrome valve stems! Sweet! Now to find tires.

Random thought. How hard is it to replace the actual locking part of the hub? The part you actually have to turn to lock the wheels? The chrome plating flaked off the existing ones. If I'm going to spend the money on this project, I am going to do it right.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/V10Wheels.jpg

Do I have to worry about these wheels tarnishing and turning white-ish like the toolbox on the back of my truck? Is there some kind of sealant I can use to prevent this? A clear coat, maybe?

[JaxRhapsody]

If its anything like mine, six allen screws and the knob comes off. I think there s a spring behind it, dont remmeber

[The Wolf]

there shouldnt be no problems

[GreaseDog]

6 or 8 allen head bolts to remove the knob, a snap ring to remove the guts of the lockout.

[JaxRhapsody]

I would just go the whole mile and buy a whole hub. I think its always best to replace old parts, even if they seem good or adequate

[Jaymez]

Happyness is being covered in dirt, grime, and other much.

truck updates:
1 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-1.jpg)
2 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-2.jpg)
3 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-3.jpg)
4 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-4.jpg)
5 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-5.jpg)
6 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-6.jpg)
7 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-7.jpg)
8 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-8.jpg)
9 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-9.jpg)
10 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-10.jpg)
11 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/45-11.jpg)

Today started off with a rude wake up call. Someone trying to sell some kind of service. I think it was home repair or whatever. The weather monkeys had predicted rain and miserable conditions so I had planned on participating in my favorite Saturday morning activity. Sleeping through the AM.

The weather monkeys were wrong. It was beautiful outside! For a fat, lazy, ****er that had just woken up, I moved pretty quick to get started. I wanted to try and get the GTO out of the Project Garage. I can use the room back there.

Damn, it's hard to slide an old muscle car sideways in the garage, even when all four corners are on dolleys. I got it done, though. A quick turn of the battery switch and the car fired right up. I was shocked. I was sure the battery would be dead. After letting it warm up a bit, I backed out of the garage and brought it up top.

It's funny. How many months has it been? I'm still scared to drive that car. My thought process the whole time is, "if I **** up, dad's going to kill me!" It's hard getting used to driving that thing. Maybe it's because I haven't driven it much. I am sure the fact I learned driving on big ass heavy duty trucks is what is throwing me off, too.

Since I am taking the full week after April's party off, I am going to see if I can get some help to swap that rear end in the GTO out. Once I change the gearing, I might try driving it more. Fuel is way too expensive to be running a 400 cubic inch motor with 4:11 gears in the back.

Once the garage was cleaned up a bit, I decided I'd make a mess of it again and try sandblasting my frame. The sandblaster didn't want to cooperate, though. There's too much crap in the sand my buddy gave me for it to pass through the lines easily. I spent two hours trying to find some sand. The two obvious sources were already closed for the day. I'll have to pick some up next week on my way to work. Next Sunday is the swap meet. Woohoo! I hope my new hand truck arrives in time.

Since the sandblaster wasn't cooperating, I figured I would try the grinder. I think the electric grinder overheated. It worked fine for a little while and then it started to stop and start repeatedly. The motor was pretty hot on it. It probably took a half hour to clear a 6 inch section of the top rail at the back of the frame.

The air grinder wasn't much help, either. I lost my backing pad for it and doubling up on discs didn't give enough back pressure so the damn disc was flexing too much to be of any real use. Rather than get frustrated, I walked away. I'll buy some sand next week and see if the blaster works any better.

I could just coat the frame with Kilz or POR15 to seal everything that's on the frame, but, sliding under the truck to do any work is too dangerous with all the scale flaking off. I've gotta do something to clean the frame up.

I am *really* getting antsy right now. All I need is some sheet metal and I can really get crankin on this thing. I *really* hope I can do everything in the next 4 months. August 14th is my target date for completion.

I just hope that when all is said and done, I end up with a truck Dad could have been proud of. I really wish he could see the end result.

I told you, dad. I told you I would one day build myself a cool, custom, classic truck. This Beast is for you.

[GreaseDog]

I would just go the whole mile and buy a whole hub. I think its always best to replace old parts, even if they seem good or adequateconsidering you cant just buy parts for lockouts, and you cant just buy a single one, you dont really have a choice on how much or how many you buy. nice try though.

[ryan_thompson87]

Lol You could buy 4.

[GreaseDog]

i actually need 4 lol

[Jaymez]

My buddy lent me his sandblaster last week so I could get started cleaning up the frame. Unfortunately, the abarasive I bought was too coarse for the nozzle and I'll have to go buy some finer stuff this week.

Today was the start of the local swap meet season at Stafford Motor Speedway. I'd been there a few times before, but, never looking to buy anything. I stopped going when I realized that every year the weather turned to crap while we were there. It always rained, snowed, hailed, or whatever other miserable weather condition you could imagine when we go to that track. Today, surprisingly, was just a little cold. The rain held off until I got back to the truck.

The entire half mile oval, infield, and paddock area gets opened up for vendors, resellers, and rednecks pushing their junk. There are a few miles worth of booths set up. I made it all through the paddock, lapped the track once, and went through half the infield and only came out with sand paper. By that point, my feet were screaming as blisters were forming on my feet. Apparently, my days sitting in an office have made me soft. :( Sad, but, true. I could never do Carlisle with 15 miles worth of walking.

All that walking and I found nothing for my truck. The only thing I found specificly for my truck were ralley wheels. The exact style I am removing because they're ugly as sin. Most of the body parts were either for 73-80 trucks or are available cheaper, even with shipping, from Stylin' Trucks. I'll fully admit, I was a bit lazy as well. It was a LONG walk with sore feet back to the truck.

The day wasn't a complete washout, though. My buddy, who is working on a S-10 4x4, found two sets of 16x8 IROC wheels for his project. He actually didn't bring any money with him, so I bought the wheels. He paid me for one set when we got home, I'm going to sell the other four. He needs four rear IROC's for his truck, so I am going to sell the fronts locally. The two sets only cost $175 and so far I am only out $75 and I know I can get more than that for scrap if I really want. The finish on the wheels isn't all that good. They have clearly been abused, but, he is convinced a little blasting and powder coating will get them looking good.

When I got home, we crashed. Sunrise is only meant to be seen as you're going to bed, not the other way around. After a quick nap, we test fitted the wheels on the Blazer. The fronts, because of the off set, stick out way too far. Good thing I bought that second set.

Since I didn't buy my needed sheet metal today and the local metal suppliers cannot beat the deal Stylin Trucks has, I just placed my order. Assuming I ordered everything correctly, the only piece of metal still left to order is a battery tray. Once I get that finer abrasive, I'll be able to get cracking on every thing.

Item # Qty Item Name Price Expected Ship Date
C9254 1 Rocker Panel - Passenger Side $19.99 2-3 weeks
C9255 1 Rocker Panel - Driver $19.99 2-3 weeks
C9248 1 Lower Outer Door Skin - Passenger Side $19.99 04/15/08
C9282 1 Quarter Panel with Complete Wheel Opening - Passenger Side
$64.99 04/15/08
C9283 1 Quarter Panel with Complete Wheel Opening - Driver Side
$64.99 04/15/08
GM1240131 1 Front Fender - Driver Side $79.99 04/15/08
GM1241131 1 Front Fender - Passenger Side $79.99 04/15/08
Subtotal: $349.93
Shipping: $10.95
Insurance: $4.00
Total Payment: $364.88

The first Sunday in May will be the next swap meet at Lake Compounce, right across from ESPN.

[Swearingsailor6]

Sounds like a great project!! Can't wait to get some spare time and start fixing up my 86 Scottsdale. It may be a long while, but I will do it eventually. I am learning things as you go, so keep up the detail!!
Thanks!

[Jaymez]

There hasn't been much to update on the project lately.

First, I hit a brick wall trying to sand blast. Nothing was going right. The sand blaster kept clogging and I wasn't getting anything accomplished other than raising my blood pressure. It took a while, but, I finally got to the point where I can pick up some rust encapsulator and paint the frame. It's not going to be a show quality frame, but, it'll be cleaner than it was.

When the really nice weather hit, I briefly lost interest in working on the truck because it ate into motorcycle riding time. When you only have two days a week when you can play, deciding what to do can be difficult. For at least a little while the Harley won out. I hope that bike sells soon.

Two weekends ago my buddy and I started on the passenger door's lower skin. We got the rusted metal cut off and the new steel tacked on, but, finishing the weld was a PITA. Every once in a while he'd burn through, raising frustrations.

I went to a VoTech High School. My shop of choice was Auto Body Repair. I haven't done any real body work, aside from a little painting here and there, since about a month before I graduated. That was 8 years ago. I've forgotten a whole lot since then.

It seems I've completely forgotten how to weld. I never had a chance to learn stick welding in school. The rusted out Honda project cars I mainly worked on wouldn't hold up to the heat. My MIG welding skills were passable at best.

Today, since my buddy was sick, I decided I was going to give finishing the welding on the door a shot. I managed to flash burn my right eye, singe the hair off my forehead (what little was left), and burn my forehead with the UV light. At my rate, it'll probably take me another two hours to finish up that patch. I am simply amazed at how much I have forgotten about basic body repair in 8 years.

Hopefully, the welding on the door will be finished by next weekend. I hope to start on the drivers site rocker box. I could patch the rot holes with some tiger hair and bondo, but, that's just going to mean I'll have to fix it again in a few more years. I'll replace the rocker box while the truck is torn a part and then I can get jamming on the actual body work.

I'm not a huge fan of the debadged look on trucks, but, I am going to plug the holes in the fenders for the emblems. The numbs on my "Custom Deluxe 10" moldings are broken off, anyway. Some double sided tape can be used if I ever choose to reuse them.

Since I am taking the rest of the week after my little trip to Kansas off next month, I hope to get the bulk of the body work on the cab complete. I think I am going to miss my August 14th target date for completion, but, that is OK. If I can get the inside of the cab, the back of the cab, the roof, and all the jams done by the end of the summer I will be happy.

Even though it'd been a while, I am sure it'll be easier to paint the majority of the truck all at once. It's a big ass beast when it's all put together and you need to buff or wet sand it.

If I were doing the truck in a solid color, I'd probably paint the truck in three pieces. The front clip. The cab. The bed. However, right now I am set on that Figi Blue Pearl. While I don't remember a whole lot from my painting days, I do remember that air pressure and distance between the gun and the body can greatly impact the finial color of pearl paints.

Depending on the cost of the paint, I think Arrival Blue from the '03 and '04 Silverados will be my second choice. That's the color I wanted for my '05 Silvy but it wasn't available. Perhaps Arrival Blue with a purple translucent?

That reminds me, I need to find a price on some chrome bumpers. Something big, obnoxious, and in your face.

[Jaymez]

Well, it's been a while since I got any work done on the truck. Between the nice weather making me want to ride the bike instead of work and helping my buddy work on his truck, I just haven't gotten a whole lot done this summer. I finally got the patch on the passenger door skin welded on, just need to seal it up with some glass and smooth it with cheese.

Door 1. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-087.jpg) Door 2. (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-083.jpg)

Unfortunately, there is a fairly noticable ridge where the weld is that I'm not quite sure how to deal with. It's hard to notice in the pics, but, it feels almost as pronounced as the upper body line. It's bad.

I've got a little more work to do on the inside patch (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-084.jpg), but, I need to get a new grinder first. My air compressor won't power my air grinders at all and my electric one is dying. Yes, I know my welding sucks. That is why I don't do it for a living.

The next big part of the cab work is the driver side rocker. I have a replacement patch, but, I'm wondering if I should simply weld in patches where it rusted through instead of replacing the whole thing. What do you think? 1 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-087.jpg) 2 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-088.jpg) 3 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-0810.jpg)

Once I get the rocker taken care of, I can quickly bang out the rest of the body work, mainly sanding, on the cab and get it primed and ready for paint. I don't think I'm gonna paint it until Spring. If I get motovated enough, maybe I'll spray the back of the cab and inside the cab this fall. I won't paint in the winter. My heater is a propane tank with what amounts to a grill burner attached to it. I do a lot of stupid things, painting around an open flame will NOT be one of them.

Passenger side (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-08.jpg), Back (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-0811.jpg), Driver side (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-0812.jpg).

The primary plan for this winter is to get the motor rebuilt and converted to carb.

I had origionally planned to weld in patches on the bed side 1 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-0813.jpg), 2 (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/08-23-0814.jpg), but now I am debating if I should just replace the bed with something from craigslist. I wonder if I can find a cleaner bed for a 20 year old truck in New England?

[Jaymez]

Every single time I go out to the garage, regardless of the type of music playing on the stereo, rather I'm working on the truck or not, the same song pops into my head. It's Kenny Wayne Shepherd's In 2 Deep (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFLrNQOk8lE) (Skip to about 2 minutes for the song to start). I am in way too deep on that project. Way over my head. It's well beyond my skill level. It's amazing that I don't regret diving in head first. In addition to the sentimental value the truck has, it needs the work. BAD. I firmly believe that the old blue beast is nicer than any new luxury truck out there. It's built the way a real truck should be built. Thick steel. No interior. No options. All power. It was built to be a work horse and it served as one for many years. Once the build is done, it will resume life as a work horse. Hopefully, it'll come back to life with a little more muscle if I can find a deal on a big block.

Anyway, today I had planned to cut the driver's side outer rocker off and replace it. I had HOPED to at least get it tacked in place. Once I get the rocker on, I can start on the light bodywork on the cab. There's a reason I don't often plan ahead with an optimistic goal. As usual, it looks like I bit off more than I could chew.

I swept the floor around my work area when I started. When I came inside to make this post, it looked like this (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/Cancer09-20-085.jpg). Cutting the outer rocker off went fairly smooth. As I started pulling it off the truck I got a nasty surprise. The inner rocker box was pretty much gone (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/Cancer09-20-087.jpg) (2) (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/Cancer09-20-088.jpg). This (http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/jlowe82/Project%20Truck/Cancer09-20-084.jpg) is what I ended up with. Looks like I need to order more parts. Hope is not lost, though. After all, the cab corner I put on the truck 10 years a go is still solid.

I think I've found the right name for this project. Project Money Pit.

I still wish Dad could see it when I'm done.

[55chevyman]

Hey your making progress atleast.. You know after its all said and done, after the blood, sweat and money.You'll look back at it and it will all be worth it, and im sure your dad would love it...


keep up the good work