iptman
SILVER Star
I've had my 40 for a few years now and it runs like a top. It's a kali spec 8/77 with all the smog equipment intact and functional. I've replaced a few things on it with OEM parts and the only big thing not factory for this truck is it's rocking a later model Fed spec exhaust manifold since the thermal reactor manifold was cracked beyond repair. I love the patina and original pin striping but the frame needs to be refreshed in order to not get any worse. I don't drive the 40 in winter after the first salting (just happened) but it does live in an open air barn with a dirt floor. I've recently laid down a thick tarp for it to park on and I was shocked at how much condensation was under the tarp after only a few days of dry weather. The frame looks rougher in the pictures IMO but it's clear to me if I don't do anything about it it's only going to get worse.
Is it a dumb idea to consider pulling the body, engine, trans/transfer in order to clean up the rust, seal and paint the frame, axles and suspension? then putting the body back on just as you see it below. I know at some point I'll probably have to deal with the rust issues on the body but for the most part it's in good shape. The majority of the original under coating is still on it and the places where it's starting to peal off the original paint is in great shape. The frame was also coated and you can see the original frame paint peaking out in places..
Anyway, would be interested to hear people's thoughts on this idea.
Is it a dumb idea to consider pulling the body, engine, trans/transfer in order to clean up the rust, seal and paint the frame, axles and suspension? then putting the body back on just as you see it below. I know at some point I'll probably have to deal with the rust issues on the body but for the most part it's in good shape. The majority of the original under coating is still on it and the places where it's starting to peal off the original paint is in great shape. The frame was also coated and you can see the original frame paint peaking out in places..
Anyway, would be interested to hear people's thoughts on this idea.