Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Those are nice wheels for them also Rian and will hold up better than the Cragars. I do love Cragars, but they sure to deteriorate quicker than what I remember in my youth. Another wheel that looks good are the Camaro IROC or IROC clone wheels. I believe depending on the year they are 16s or 17s

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Second set would get my vote Bill.

And yes, chrome chrome smoothies do the same deterioration if not looked after.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

MOT Station pics, as expected

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(51).JPG

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(52).JPG

Happy

Happy.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

We are a bit behind on the updates, as I have been busy dealing with other stuff, sorry.


So I bought the truck recently.


Happy so far, 90 miles later ;)


27mpg at 70mph from a 4.3 V6 makes me happy too.


Any build code readers on here?


What have I bought? Rixtrix reckons I may have lucked out a bit on spec sheet.


I do not read these things or know how to interpret them.



https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...akpix/001.heic


Feedback so far..........

G80 and ZQ8 are posi track rear and sport suspension
G80 is the LSD, nice.
ZQ8 is a code and a trim package, so your truck is a ‘ZQ8’
They had a factory lowering kit, around 2in or so, springs and leafs. A tighter steering box and some other nice things. The Xtremes got the same setup but got a body kit and some badges.
This is kind of an aside since you're curious about rpo codes, but the guys who have the super sport S10’s look for the B4U code. SS trucks were the first to receive the ZQ8 suspension in 96 until they stopped the SS in 98. The ZQ8 then became its own trim package so to speak
That is the rear end. I think the codes that start with G are the gears for the rear. Not 100% but I think that's what it means. And G80 is a locking or semi locking rear end if I remember right.


Thanks for the help.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

This link gives you the info and access to the complete list of RPO codes

https://www.newgmparts.com/decoding-...tors-rpo-codes

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Thanks Bill,

I have managed to find a few more bits.

May copy and paste later.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

HIT AND RUN TRUCK COLLECTION.

In the end, I capitulated and decided to just pay the road tax and not mess the seller around, risking my deposit.

So off we went.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(209).HEIC

And on and on the road went.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(210).HEIC

Made it to the sellers place, played a pretty good game of remote hand over, electronic fund transfer etc, then two old guy from the same area of South London touched base, comparing notes.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(68).JPG

Good byes said, Mickey headed home on his own, I headed for the local gas station with a thirsty truck with empty tank.

55 liters meant there was some distance left in it after the previous owner had put some gas in for the test drive.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(208).HEIC

On the way home I did a detour to drop off some air tools for @pauly to use on Woody his C10 that he is quietly getting on with.

Paul took a happy new owner pic for me.

Freezing cold out there.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(67).JPG

Then headed home.

Stopped at my local gas station, and missed out taking a pic of the signs on the gas pumps that say: “DO NOT TOUCH OUR PUMPS”

But the ladies who fill the cars and trucks soon make you forget that, with their friendly approach and service.

Real old skool

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(206).HEIC

So 85 miles and the consumption at presto much mostly motorway speeds around 70mph.

27mpg or 10km/l

Happy for sure.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(204).HEIC

Sunset outside at the gas station.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(203).HEIC


https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(205).HEIC

Then back home, 2’C outside meant I just reversed up the drive, locked up and went indoors.

Grinning.

Happy yes.


.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

WOW, Rian your truck is so much nicer than I thought it was. All the factory upgrades make this S-10 a very desirable ride.

Congrats. again on your purchase. Enjoy and "Keep on Truckin"

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Thanks so much Vince.

I have coveted these for years, wanted one, but only in a very specific line up of features.

I honestly feel very fortunate and lucky, but also happy to have found this truck to buy.

It is far from perfect, but nothing is unsurpassable on it.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

.

So the video, taken. By @PaulY after I delivered some air tools to him en-route after collecting the truck.


Paul sent me an accompanying message which read something like “Nice Truck, but you get 1/10 for effort, not even an attempt to smoke they tyres”

So here is my limp attempt at joining the traffic on a wet, cold road.

https://youtu.be/ZppLk-f7nBs

Maybe a better attempt next time.

No need to break it.


HAPPY NEW YEAR ALL.

.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

.

So this is a repeat.

But I want to draw a baseline.

The truck was brought into the U.K. like new, by a US serviceman in 2001 who sold it when he returned back to base after finishing his service here.

This is the trucks “build sheet” showing its whole DNA. What was put together to create it.

It seems to be pretty special, and I am both pleased and thankful to have been able to tick a box on my lust list.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...akpix/001.heic

Read and interpreted by some clever people out there

G80 and ZQ8 are posi track rear and sport suspension
G80 is the LSD, nice.
ZQ8 is a code and a trim package, so your truck is a ‘ZQ8’
They had a factory lowering kit, around 2in or so, springs and leafs. A tighter steering box and some other nice things. The Xtremes got the same setup but got a body kit and some badges.
This is kind of an aside since you're curious about rpo codes, but the guys who have the super sport S10’s look for the B4U code. SS trucks were the first to receive the ZQ8 suspension in 96 until they stopped the SS in 98. The ZQ8 then became its own trim package so to speak
That is the rear end. I think the codes that start with G are the gears for the rear. Not 100% but I think that's what it means. And G80 is a locking or semi locking rear end if I remember right.

GU6 = 3.42 gears
G80 = POSI limited slip
L35 = v6 4.3l vortec
M30 = 4spd overdrive transmission
ZQ8 = Sports suspension package


So having brought the truck home it was time to start looking at what all was added to the truck that adds value or cost.

Originally supplied in Missouri by Molle Chevrolet of Blue Springs.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(213).HEIC

An Extang BlackMax retractable vinyl tonneau cover has been fitted from new.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(1).heic

The truck benefitted from a Raptor bed liner applied in the USA before delivery.

Unfortunately, if you look on the outside, it carries a pair of metal FLEETSIDE badges, correct for what it is, versus a Stepside, but not original.
If it were not for the holes in the bedsides, they would be long gone (personal preference) but they will stay.

The bed has also never carried a load either, and is unmarked and indented after 20 years and 38k miles.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(212).HEIC

It has also, unlike so many truck, never towed or been used as a towing vehicle. Though I want to change that slightly.

Really interesting, is the fact that the rear bumper is ready to fit a tow ball once you remove the rear step rubber and find a hole, ready to receive.

Lift the rubber cover and away you go.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(196).HEIC

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(49).jpg

The original steering wheel was replaced with Grant item, personally, I prefer the idea of original there, so hope to find one and fit it back where it belongs.
Another Marmite “Love it or Hate it” addition to the interior is this fake wood dash overlay.
The quality and fir of it is actually really good, and may even have been a dealer fit option, along with the rear lights, wheels, bed liner and protection.
I actually like it more at this point, than disliking it, so it will stay.
Different strokes for different folks ehh...?
Also visible is the occasional bench seat once the armrest and cubby are flipped back to form a backrest.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(226).HEIC

Up closer in daylight.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(222).HEIC

My friend JB Matthews in Oklahoma mentioned that he never seemed to buy a truck with the emergency Jack and wheel spinner.

Looks like I got lucky.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(218).HEIC

Also, unused is the 4th seat, behind the passenger seat, what is not apparent, is the fact the front bucket seats are actually a bench seat for occasional use of three, with safety belt.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(216).HEIC

As we know, the truck runs on two piece 17 inch Cragar SS wheels, shod in 255/45ZR17 98W Nankang tyres. There is also a full size spare Cragar wheel that came with the truck.

Included in the sale was a set of lowering springs and blocks. Some matching paint and two spare handles for the third door.

Seems the bump stops were removed and not refitted when the lowering kit was removed before I bought the truck.

I would love to see what my truck would look like with another 2” or 50mm drop, once it gets cold, I am sure @pauly will pop over..

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(225).HEIC

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(50).jpg

In the engine bay, the only change affected was a change to K&N air filter system which in itself seems to be controversial.

So there you have it.

Baseline extras fitted to the truck, worth a few Dollars.

Next up, broken bits and bits needing replacement or fine tuning.

Changes that need to be made.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Looking at this truck, it certainly is a shape changer.

Frontal area, through shaping and design is quite small and aerodynamic.

Maybe what delivered the 27mpg in part.

Facing the 020 Ford Focus, 20 years difference in design

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(224).HEIC

Much easier to get up the alleyway than some of the wide stuff I have had in there before.

The rear tail light was actually about 50mm from the concrete fence post in this pic.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(219).HEIC

Pretty obvious that the wheels need a good seeing to.

Later guys, out in the cold now.

.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Bought and collected another puzzle piece that will need a bit of machining to make work properly.

Adapters were £30.00 for the pair.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(228).HEIC

Pretty pleased to have found them.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Seem to have kinda got Photobucket back to working again.


Only owned this truck a week and a half and it really is feeing like this is a keeper, possibly why it was on my bucket list, and being as it took this long to get the right basic specs for my personal preference list, it makes me happy.

So we start with some of the “needs fixing” items.

Came with only one ignition key.
Went to Timpson and helpful guy says yup, I cam Mel one, it’s £75.00 of course I bite my tongue not to laugh, saying it does not have a chip, just need to open the door, Ohhh he says, that will be £15.00
So I walked out, I will find a half a brick when I need it.
Got to be a cheaper option somewhere.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(52).jpg

So I headed home planning on watching something random on the telly and drinking by lunch time.

First I had to add this little aerial topper like a football player, silly but satisfying.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(233).HEIC

The Marmite dash in fake wood, it’s staying.
So why post it in the faults section?

No heating, no aircon, just a blower. So that needs to be investigated and repaired.

Maybe the unit in the Blazer from the same era will work as an easy repair, once we figure what has died.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(234).HEIC

As possibly not yet mentioned, the front seat setup acts as an occasional three seater, along with a lap belt for that passenger.
The armrest is also a storage space, and flips out the way when in use.
They are known to be fragile.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(235).HEIC

When you open it, the whole top is cracked up, but that’s an easy one to replicate in aluminium and fit in there to retain support.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(232).HEIC

Next problem is the rear tailgate handle.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(230).HEIC

Plastic inner to the chrome has a broken tab(s) a $5.00 part, hopefully I will order one to replace it.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(229).HEIC

So when I got home, I ended up deciding to go it and wash one wheel and tyre. Just to calm my conscience.

I also decided to wash the suspension lowering bits that came with the truck, clean is good.

Before.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(236).HEIC

After

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(231).HEIC

Of course typically, wash one wheel, became maybe wash the truck first and then do the wheels, one by one.

Sally took a pic as she popped over to watch some recorded telly.

Thanks I am mad, washing the car in 4’C weather with intermittent rain nd wind.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(51).jpg

So the car washing took about an hour, because I was giving it some attention.

I did not realise that I was actually going to wash it again on Sunday, as I realised the door rubbers, undersides and some hidden grooves needed some pressure cleaning and a brush or two.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

GALAXY: Great service.

Paid for itself, and saved me some cash.

Cost me £700.00 in maintenance to run for 14 months excluding,tax and insurance. Got £150 of that plus purchase price back.

Now on its way to be broken for parts and shipped to Nigeria.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(237).HEIC


Would I recommend it to anyone else.

Absolutely.

Remove the rear seats and you have a cavernous van with capability and comfort well beyond what it deserves.

BLAND, BLAND, BLAND BUT FUNCTIONAL.

Want some fun? Go out and buy a 1.4 petrol Berlingo like Prozac and fold the seats down.



Roll on S10 Truck.






PS:


Though this is mostly a USA site, thought it worth mentioning.



.

I feel it justified to give ESURE Insurance a punt on here today.

They came in as the lowest sensible quote by over £200.-0 for the same service when I insured the Galaxy.

And their renewal this year, dropped another £20.00 plus off that.

So I called to cancel and spoke to a lovely lady called Caitlin who cancelled the policy, informing me that my refund would be £151.00 as there was a £35.00 cancellation fee (I feel it’s a pits take from insurance companies) but we agree to that in the fine print.

I said I tried online and telephonically to insure the S10 with them, but failed.

Then she asked me to hold on while she spoke to her supervisor, three minutes later she was back.

ESURE could not insure the truck, therefore my cancellation was not my fault, and they wanted to waive the cancellation fee.

I have to say, that was a surprise and will have me go back to them first for any future insurance first.

Customer care.

Simple really.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

.

So back to phase one of the S10 ownership.

Still on the first cleanup, finding flaws, surprises the good stuff.

After washing the truck, it was onto the wheels, I know they are kinda well past their best by date.

Still good at 5 yards, and the tyres need replacing, despite having loads of life in them.

For illustration, I will post only pics of the drivers side front wheel. It was possibly the worst.

Before washing.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(245).HEIC

After washing

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(251).HEIC

And after a few hours on the set.

Polished, detailed, done.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(238).HEIC

Also note, there is a full sized Cragar S/S wheel with like new Kumho tyre.

Needs to be washed, polished, detailed.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(242).HEIC

Can you say Hovercraft?

Truck on blocks

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(239).HEIC

Front view of the UFO

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(240).HEIC

Working in the cold is kinda less fun than summer, but getting my hands on this truck and getting to know it, seeing flaws, possible issues to address in future, priceless.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(53).jpg

Coffee time.

.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Hey Rian, I wish you were closer so I could try to buy or trade those Cragar S/S rims off of you.
Those are some of the coolest rims going. They look better on your truck than any you have shown so far, again to me.
I had a set on a 1966 GTO back in the day.

Like some have said, "To each his own"

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Thanks Vince,

Thing is, they are past their best by date, and need to be changed to make the truck both mine and a bit more together.

As driver quality they are fine, but I want them better than that.



More about getting to know the S10

On Sunday I spent another couple of hours getting even deeper into the grooves, under rubber seals, and behind stuff, lifting, probing, brushing and washing the whole truck again.

This was quite interesting as I found so much more grime, moss, green mould to remove.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(255).HEIC

After the wheels and going over the whole truck a second time, it was on to the tonneau cover.

It looked good as it was.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(249).HEIC

But using the Auto Glym product to revive and feed the vinyl gave decent results.

Midway through polishing and buffing.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(244).HEIC

Job done.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(254).HEIC

And nicely showing the result the next morning.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(252).HEIC

After all this I reversed down the drive in order to get the Galaxy in for a quick wheel wash as it was parked over the road in some mud.

So a few cleaned up pics.

Front end, obviously.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(241).HEIC

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(247).HEIC

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(246).HEIC

This is possibly my favourite angle or view of the truck.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(243).HEIC

Lastly, went food shopping yesterday, and stopped at the independent locksmiths en-route to have a spare key cut for the truck.

Ouch...... £14.50 which I think is steep, but needed to just get on with it, as it is a brand specific blank, and driving around to find a saving on that, costs money too.

These guys know me well though as they have cut spare keys for all my American vehicles.

Never understand why people lose keys, especially spare keys, surely you store them in a safe place.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(253).HEIC


Need to start marketing the wheels and tyres and finding replacements.

.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Rian, I had the same problem with the console on my 98 S10. I bought some thick lexan from a Lumber yard and cut it to fit then glued it to the top. It was still holding up good when I sold my truck.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

S10 look nice, should get plenty of use with all the hauling of misc. stuff you do over there...

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Hi Ray, I am going to get something, aluminium or Lexan and use it to reinforce and support the console.

I will haul ass hopefully too.

I love this little truck.

And it needs to work too.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

So after a few days of serious rain, cold and wind, today dawned with rain.

Eventually by 10.30 I managed to get out and start on cleaning up the load bed of the truck, as well as the spare wheel.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(242).HEIC

The tyres tread, like new.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(261).HEIC

Once I got going, the info exposed showed these are ream American made wheels.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(264).HEIC

Cleaned up nicely

Rear end.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(263).HEIC

Still bloody cold out at 3’C but no rain or wind at this point.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(69).JPG

And done.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(262).HEIC

Coffee, followed by getting onto the external plastics, using Auto Glym products, opinions will differ, progress continued.

Bumper before.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(258).HEIC

After

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(256).HEIC

Front end, sorry for the sun glare.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(259).HEIC

Discovered another added extra, the chrome grille inserts are also non standard. More value? Maybe.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(257).HEIC

And after cleaning and polishing the interior plastics, I was really happy.

Suicide door?

Only one.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(260).HEIC

Last job for the day was to get back to the carport and garge.

Been a few days of not getting down there.

Managed to do a load of little connected jobs, including packing some stuff in some of the cabinets after sorting the shelves and identifying the load of keys.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(265).HEIC

More packing and sorting down there tomorrow.

.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

What have I bought? Rixtrix reckons I may have lucked out a bit on spec sheet.

Feedback so far..........

G80 and ZQ8 are posi track rear and sport suspension
G80 is the LSD, nice.
ZQ8 is a code and a trim package, so your truck is a ‘ZQ8’
They had a factory lowering kit, around 2in or so, springs and leafs. A tighter steering box and some other nice things. The Xtremes got the same setup but got a body kit and some badges.
This is kind of an aside since you're curious about rpo codes, but the guys who have the super sport S10’s look for the B4U code. SS trucks were the first to receive the ZQ8 suspension in 96 until they stopped the SS in 98. The ZQ8 then became its own trim package so to speak
That is the rear end. I think the codes that start with G are the gears for the rear. Not 100% but I think that's what it means. And G80 is a locking or semi locking rear end if I remember right.

More

GU6 = 3.42 gears
G80 = POSI limited slip
L35 = v6 4.3l vortec
M30 = 4spd overdrive transmission
ZQ8 = Sports suspension package


Thanks for the help.




YES..........


I know it is a repeat quote.


Just found this information, further to what we know.


Seems the S10 fans out there call this a ZQ8 truck.



Chevrolet S-10 and GMC Sonoma

The ZQ8 option suspension package comes standard on the 1999-2003 S-10 Xtreme and 1996-1998 S-10 SS models, but was also available as a sports package on either the S-10 or GMC Sonoma. The package included a total lowered ride height of approximately 2" over stock (1.5" from suspension, ~0.5" from shorter tire diameter), thicker front sway bar (33mm), rear sway bar (23mm), quicker ratio (12:1) steering box, upgraded Decarbon or Bilstein gas shock absorbers, and a frame brace. Some ZQ8 models were also equipped with a frame to axle "anti-hop" shock.
The lowered stance was achieved using front coils with a different spring rate, and a 3-leaf rear spring pack.
Wheels and tires were also upgraded to 16" x 8" cast aluminum rim with 235/55/16 Goodyear Eagle GA tires. The Xtreme package used a different style rim than a standard truck equipped with the ZQ8 option. There are 2 versions of "ZQ8" wheels - 1996-2000 (also standard on 1996-1998 SS trucks), similar in design to 3rd generation Camaro wheels, and 2001-2003 (also used on Blazer Xtremes from 2004-2005), which bear a resemblance to an IROC Z28 wheel. Another variation among different models was in the center caps. S-10s and Sonomas used a grey center cap with the exception of the 2002-2003 S-10s, which featured a chrome center cap.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

I would help her make any set of keys she wants!! LOL

Nice little truck there..
By the way, damn does the sun ever come out and say Hi there... lol

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Yup, she would need some help.

Sun, naaaahhhh, rarely.

Truck I am happy too.


Have a snow player video.

[quote author="@joem83" source="/post/2651747/thread" timestamp="1610054322"]Well, as it's snowing up here (oop North)
Have a S10 in snow :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIQ7Xs0LvKw
[/quote]

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Some more useless information......

Whenever I buy cars one of the first things I do is to check the MOT status, followed by the MOT history.

When the S10 (as yet unnamed) came up for sale, and ticked all the boxes, with the added bonus of being an extremely low mileage example, I was intrigued.

So on getting the registration number from the advertiser, as it was actually blanked out, I got straight online to check the history.

Below is its whole life, laid out in MOT tests, and confirming mileage.

To be honest, on inspection things like the gas and brake pedals show almost no wear, upholstery is complete, intact, clean as are floor carpeting, dash and interior.
The underside, shown before, again shows not much more than a few surface rust stains, possibly indicating a cosseted life and dry storage when not in use.


Some years there was not even a MOT test done and the mileage between tests was limited to 100’s and 2013 to 2015 it did 78 miles.


Looking at advisories, and reasons for Failing the test, most were either based around being an Import or small things like a fog lamp not working, tyres rubbing the chassis (lowering possibly to blame?)

Reading needs to be done bottom up, to get chronology right.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(54).jpg

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(55).jpg

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(56).jpg

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(57).jpg


Had an interesting observation from a Facebook group about the door handles on my truck, Chrome vs most in black plastic.

Did a previous owner have=ve a chrome and bling thing going?

No idea, but happy to benefit from it.

So yesterday I refitted the rubber mats I got from mate Ricky for the Blazer

I like that a lot. Functional Rubber.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(270).HEIC

I also remembered to take a pic of this little switch on the side of the dash, marked fuse box.

Anyone got any idea what it could be for, before I flip it and destroy something?

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(269).HEIC

Chilly outside the last week or two.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(58).jpg

Anyway, I carried on sorting the carport storage out, three areas created to empty the storage caravan into.

1966 Chevy C10 stuff
Rezin Rockit stuff
Italjet 50cc scooter stuff.
Miscellaneous stuff.

Like steering wheels and columns

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(267).HEIC

Rediscovered the rubber mat from the C10 on the caravan floor.

Going to cut and trim this to fit in the rear of the S10 to aid protection.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(268).HEIC

Eventually called it a day at some point when light started to fail.

Few more bits to unpack and identify today.

Caravan found a new home within 5 minutes of offering it to mate Darren, as another ,ate, Ross is restoring a Bedford CF Camper that needs stuff like refrigerator and Porta-Potty.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(266).HEIC


Last day of vacation today, got stuff done, just not as much as I would have liked to, due to really miserable weather.


.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

.

School of YouTube


I will be changing the yellow indicator lenses for clear as soon as I can get hold of a pair.

Amazon is out of stock currently.

Looking at the front end of the truck it was not immediately apparent how to remove the lights

So following the masters advice ( @pauly ) I headed for YouTube to see how to do it.

https://youtu.be/x1Eyr_UVktA


I do love technology at times, makes life. Lot easier.


.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Time for a laugh......

This was just one of many dipchits trying it on when I sold the Galaxy.

Worth a laugh, or if it was you....... 🖕


https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(28).PNG

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Got a parcel this week from “Doc” on UKGSER with another ally lampshade and some other switches and this wall mount handle.......

I think that with a bit of editing, it would work nicely on the front bumper, just to butch it up a bit.

Yes, I am cutting the tow ball tab off on the underside.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(274).HEIC

.Thanks Doc.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Well......

What a way to end your week.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(73).JPG

This was in America, not the U.K.

Absolutely sucks

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

And so the carport has almost come to completion.

Stuff like the lighting still needs to be done, but it is a dry working space.

Also unpacked the storage caravan and moved all the stuff into the cabinets, and got rid of some stuff.

Next trick getting the caravan ready for collection included this.

Zero miles, but a lifetime out in the elements.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(70).JPG

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(272).HEIC

Ultimately resulting in this.

Space.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(271).HEIC

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(273).HEIC


At the point where I walked away from this in the late afternoon chill, I felt really pleased with the result.

It has exceeded all my expectations.

.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

So...


Good news.


Whatcha think gang?


https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(72).JPG



.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

So back to the white truck posted earlier.

It seems to be an American spec model Extreme.

Side repeaters on mine, are not on it.

It is also the donor of the clear lenses I have wanted from day one.

And yes, clear side repeaters may be a problem, it’s a European thing and the conversion kits are made for the American market.

So the solution will be to find a set of clear side repeaters from something European that will fit the hole.

Challenge? Yes, possibly.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(275).HEIC
.

I have bought the clear indicator lenses off the owner who is going with smoked front lights and lenses.

£25.00 included postage which sounded like a sweet deal to me vs finding and importing a set from the USA, getting posted tomorrow so hopefully fitted by next weekend.

The one has a small scratch that I will tackle with a bit of rubbing compound to clear off.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(76).JPG

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(74).JPG

Pretty chuffed today.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Needs clear side repeaters not orange though.

[quote author="@zeberdee" source="/post/2652217/thread" timestamp="1610290715"]Hard to tell from your pics , but the side repeaters look like they could be ford ?
MK3 Escort , MK4 Transit kind of era ??

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/322533049013[/quote]


Spot on.


I Think.....


30mm base

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(60).jpg

Hole drilled is about 20mm to maybe 22mm to let fitting through.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(276).HEIC


I th9nk it is very muchm80’s Ford.

Need to find a pair of replacements.

Ideally oval items.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Went out early to just check the fittings as there are so many different types and tabs.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(278).HEIC

Opened one to see what the bulb looked like.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(277).HEIC

Then ordered a set of “London Taxi” side repeater lenses.
I will have to edit or trim the fitting tabs though to ensure a flush fit
(They are Ford Transit items)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(29).PNG

Back to work today.....

Hmmmmmm....

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

So today was a rough one from a work point of view.
Busy
Started by 07.30 with online training.
Then from 09.00 more Teams based clinical trial review.
I also had a business review booked for 13.00

This stuff does my head in.

So my lunch hour was committed to my own mental health.

Based on looking under the hood on Sunday, I knew there were a few bits to be done.

K&N air cleaner, divides opinions

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(17).PNG

I discovered a long crack that had been partly repaired in the radiator cowl.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(283).HEIC

I was fortunate to be offered an upper half of one , price to be confirmed, same seller who has the steering wheel.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(61).jpg

Screwdriver to the fore.

K&N filter undone and removed.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(281).HEIC

Can you say FILTHY DIRTY.

And rather large.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(282).HEIC

I also opened the other end to see if the throttle plate needed any attention.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(280).HEIC

Clean as a whistle.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(279).HEIC

I was also having advice from my good friend Ric Grassmick who lives in Arizona, and dailies and Autocrosses one of these trucks.
His day job is as an auto mechanic, so the right guy to speak to.

He also advised I look up the connector tube toward the MAF sensor at the divider plate, tooling for two potential caterpillars
These are a pair of very small resistor coils that may need cleaning.

He even sent a drawn diagram of what I needed to look for.

Looking up from the airflow straightener

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(286).HEIC

I will get to these tomorrow in daylight,

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(78).JPG

Then back into the house.

Using Mr Muscle oven and grease cleaner to loosen the oil and grime the water ended up pretty soup-like.
Three repeats and some Fairy liquid, dishwashing soap and a couple of kettles of hot water saw it a lot cleaner and the water pretty murky.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(284).HEIC

Then put out to dry.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(62).jpg

I got a K&N cleaning and oiling set, known as a “Recharger kit” from Euro car parts, and delivered to the local mechanics a mile from home.for £10.00 which was cheaper than anywhere else.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(287).HEIC

I will oil the filter tomorrow and reassemble the cold air induction kit.


Finally on my way home from picking up the oil, I saw a nice sunset.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(285).HEIC


More tomorrow.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Cleaned my K&N air filter setup yesterday and oiled it today.
Made a quick random YouTube clip as I thought it may be helpful to people like me who have not done it before.

https://youtu.be/Y1MNY0ibuiY

Hope its useful to some.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Thank you.

Couple more from my car. Exactly the same spot.


https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(288).HEIC

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(289).HEIC

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Postman rang today.......

Delivery of my pair of used, £25.00 or $34.00 clear indicator lenses and bodies.

When buying, I had to choose between paying £50.00 or $68.00 for a pair, showing out of stock in many places, or buying a used pair, that nobody would care about in a day or two after I fitted them.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(290).HEIC

Into the kitchen, grab a vegetable Knife and pry apart the one lense that showed old glue on the join.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(63).jpg

Cleaned up the body and the lense, removing the old glue and general muckyness.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(291).HEIC

Then onto some rubbing compound, just to refresh the plastics. And yes, you could see the difference between them.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(79).JPG

One on the left was already done, one on the right, not done.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(293).HEIC

Once both are done, there is not much difference to be seen, but I know it is done, which makes me happy.

Washed them, will glue the lense in place later.

Fit them over the weekend some time.......

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(292).HEIC

Happy ? Me?

Of course.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Rain

Rain

Rain

Outside the house people continued to drive like idiots, loads of surface water.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(294).HEIC

So not much progress outside.

However, I did go digging for something, and ended up with some other things

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(64).jpg

Also discovered that this will be the right product for resealing the lense to the body of the indicator.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(30).PNG

Lunch was a cuppa soup and some of my home made Beef Biltong (not quite Jerky)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(297).HEIC

Doorbell rang, postman with a hand full of small parcels

Included were these from @rich Thank you.

Chromed light bulbs to go into the new indicator lenses in order for them not to look like fried eggs with the yellow regular bulbs.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(296).HEIC

Also included were the clear side repeaters and a third parcel with flea poison, I did not realise it was not for me, just opened it, then realised I did not have a dog, not had one for 25 years.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(298).HEIC

Lastly, had to go grab some food and came upon these guys........

https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(295).HEIC

Hopefully there will be a break in the weather by the weekend so that I can refit the air intake, and change out the lights.

Easy peasy.