Build 6T5 LV Barn Rescue

[Pics45]

Some more LV progress. Spent some time this week mocking up some stuff. Installed and adjusted doors, 33" tires, mounted the 55 mirrors with m8 nut-serts. The rear is bit raked even with a leaf taking out. Going to adjust with different shackles front and rear. going to try and finish up some sanding and priming next week, maybe install the newly freshened up gas tank. Gave the the bumpers a coat of paint before install. Starting to look like an LV more and more.

 

[Pics45]

Well, got the refurbished tank installed with a 40 sender unit. Redrilled/clocked to work with the original studs. The aftermarket tank straps work pretty well. Also got the factory battery box re-positioned. Today, I'm working on the radiator mock-up, (looking for a V8 fan shroud), the tank skid plate and rear tow hitch receiver.

 

[Bill6840]

Excellent work, Pete! Can’t wait to take a spin when it’s complete!

 

[Pics45]

Tank skid plate and fuel lines installed. Started fabbing up the 2 in receiver hitch should finish it up next week.

 

[Pics45]

Well, I figured it was time for another update and some good news. She runs...Woohoo. We got the Howell 350 TBI engine harness, the factory LV harness and the Dakota Gauges all talking to each other. But, no go on the fuel gauge yet. I've read this is an issue..UGH. Ideas??? I got most of the dash back in, restored the knobs--trying to keep the factory look. Got the custom 2" receiver hitch mounted up along with all door handles and strikers. Doors open and close--need to do some fine adjustments. Also, even though the roof gutter was in good shape, I cleaned it up and decided to give it 2 coats of some marine grade gray paint. Just got the drive-line back from the shop and hoping to have it moving and driving on it's own next week. Exciting stuff happening. Been at this thing for almost 18 months now, lot's of time, sweat and money but she's almost to the finish line. Haven't decided on paint just yet.

 

[Pics45]

A few more progress pics...

 

[Pics45]

Once this thing is on the road and the bugs are worked out, I should have a few extra LV goodies up for trade, etc. Door parts, regulators and opening mechanisms, striker plates, etc.....

 

[Pics45]

Well well......It was a good day for the LV. After 18 months or so of hard work, sweat and sourcing parts, it moved. I drove it out of the shop for a quick test drive. I was sitting on a box, but hey. I couldn't wait to install the front bench. All things operating as they should. Brakes, clutch, lights, turns, tails, even the dome works. Fingers crossed. Plenty of the things still to do on the list but we are approaching the finish line. Almost done with the hood. Glass being cut. Very rewarding to see it come alive and move. Thanks again to everyone involved for the help, recommendations, parts, advice, sourcing of the rare parts, etc....

 

[Half Wacked aka Split Pea]

I’ve seen this 45 in pieces when it was in the barn thought it would never come together, Pete you have come a long way with this, Great Work

 

[Pics45]

Thanks Dale----appreciate that. I've learned that unless you jump in head first and stay consistent, the projects never get done. Hence, my 45 SWB. Which is next on the chopping block. I added a few more things, along with some OG clear lenses, and final coat of gray on the floor. Hoping to get the front bench, shift boots, hatch, and tailgate handle installed today.