Builds My 1978 Nut and Bolt Frame Off Restoration

[MScruiser]

Tire carrier is located and mounted.

 

[MScruiser]

Moment of truth: Checking to see is the top still fits, and the body hasn't warped when welding.

Success!!

 

[MScruiser]

Fitting the ambi doors

 

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This is the best I can do as far as fitment. Should be a little more adjustment to do during final assembly.

 

[MScruiser]

Stripping it back down

 

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Body is off!!!

 

[MScruiser]

 

[MScruiser]

Got a TON done this morning.

Removed skid plate, bump stops, battery tray, heat shields, distributor, driveshafts, steering box, rear struts, all remaining wiring harnesses, all remaining brake lines and associated brackets, exhaust, engine mount bolts, and most of the remaining soft and hard fuel lines.

Also gave it a good pressure washing.

The engine is floating on the frame and is ready to be pulled.

 

[MScruiser]

Pittman arm removal was a major PITA!

Done:

 

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Axles and steering linkages disconnected

 

[MScruiser]

Axles and leafs are out. All that's left to do now is pull drivetrain; hopefully in the next few days.

 

[MScruiser]

Engine is out!

 

[MScruiser]

Steering pedestal removed

 

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32 lbs ready for cadmium plating

 

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Fuel pump and power steering parts ready for plating

 

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I blasted and degreased my e-brake drum and gave it a coat of black and then clear coat. This'll be what the engine would look like it I went forward with it:

 

[MScruiser]

Removed tranny and transfer case. Drained oil from both, and filled them with a mixture of diesel fuel and ATF to clean out any deposits.

 

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[MScruiser]

Got the bell housing, flywheel, clutch removed. Sure enough, the rear main looks like it has a small leak. Good thing I've got a new one in order.

My throw out bearing was partially seized; got a new one of them too. Also ordered the spring clips that hold the clutch fork to the throw out bearing, inspection covers and boots for the bell housing, new gaskets for thermostat housing, water pump, timing cover, fuel pump, and oil filter housing.

I've found a number of after market bolts; it obvious this truck has had clutch job sometime in the past. Those will be replaced with cadmium JIS harware. I also noticed a lot of missing bolts; those will also be replaced with CAD JIS hardware.

The flywheel looks nice. I'll just clean it up well, and give the outside a fresh coat of paint (not the mating surface obviously).

Oh and good news; my pot blaster comes in today. I'll be going to Tractor Supply to pick up about 400lbs of blasting media later this morning.

 

[MScruiser]

Got an engine stand