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Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
I have had a weird fascination with the older “New Beetles” for a while.
So here is what a bit of imagination, some work and cheap (£350.00) New Beetle can get to look like. But keep in mind, it is a specific style, ethos, group and person who likes and drives it. Static lowering is pretty hardcore in many cases, in order to get the look. https://youtu.be/W7tW2-PyefY It may not be everyone’s pint of bitter. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
So Sunday came and went, weather was again a bit iffy.
Bits of rain, just enough to support my overall loss of my normal MoJo. So eventually I made it out the house by 12.00, where are the days when I would be in the garage by 04.00 to work three hours on the teardrop build before breakfast, a shower and heading out for work. Today was the rear door, a job I approached with anticipation of failure, based on the job so far. I now had a “door handle” diagonally across the frame and a lock and opening mechanism to work around. So I photographed the door mechanism and removed it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Also removed the number plate light fitting. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Then started cutting in the bottom and side pieces, nothing is straight or simple…… https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Many curves later, side pieces fit. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And then glued in place. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Followed by measurements for the flat surface and a piece cut off the roll. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After some fighting, it was glued in place to a standard that is aligned with the quality of the car. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Looking at it along with the drivers side interior….. a lot of brown. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Shutting the door, you have even more brown. But it was starting to look like a unit, if you could even dare say that. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds While I was playing with my car, Sally was at home working on her glass pictures. She collects the glass and pottery shards when walking the dog. These pictures are sold on Etsy and Vinted (not by her) for £25-35 and if you look at the whole process, it’s actually not a lot of money for what does into it. Proud of her for sure. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And later in the evening, mate Matt, @pegasus sent a pic of his son, who saw the Vanta, and wanted one too…… So he built his son a Canta. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And before you could blink, the weekend was over again. Time does fly. VIDEO: https://youtu.be/tT5XAqROwrE Doors next I guess. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Well……
Dreams come true. I so wanted to see this little car as a burned out wreck. So..…. Do wishes come true? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds This was a Dutch Canta LX, set alight by vandals. A bit of a busy weekend, mainly avoiding any kind of work on the Canta. We had wind storms as well, and the wind does not go with contact adhesive and flapping strips of vinyl. Sunday afternoon by 3.00pm I had done some yard work nd the wind was more of an irritating breeze. So I opened up and got going. Passenger door….. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And of course the intended one piece cover did not work. So I did two strips on the curved sides and then the big surface, followed by the raised section which I had to dismantle partly in order to tuck the vinyl in and get is tightened down. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Starting to look half decent. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And then the final piece, wrapping it up. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I was really pleased with the way this all came out. Way better than I expected. Video: https://youtu.be/60kbzRIMeI0 Remember the burned out Canta? Last week this was what it looked like. I am really sorry for the owner, many owners have no other form of mobility or independence. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Back to work. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Austin 1800 Landcrab…….. Ever heard of them over in the USA?
VR Landcrab Not VR as in Virtual Reality, but as in Verkürzt Reihenmotor A VW VR6 engine in a Landcrab. How about that eh? In a way it's kind of an obvious choice, big capacity six cylinder designed to fit in to small FWD engine bays. Just seen this elsewhere, thought a share was worthy. So if ever there was a true sleeper, this has to be one of them. And listen to the engine note toward the end. https://youtu.be/kaSwRBZWCjc Yes, I believe that I could live with it. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
This is probably due to today's times, nobody has respect for other people's property, you can form an opinion about this vehicle, for some it is everything to be mobile. But lighting it up, no.
You do this with great patience and it looks good. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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Thank you. My problem mostly is that if I start something I need to finish it, even if it ends up frustrating or in this case, actually kinda boring me. What? Saturday after 10.00am Here goes part 2 of the doors. Rain forecast today, but it seems I won’t be able to use it as an excuse not to get more done to the Canta. Coffee first, then head down to the garage and give it a go. Seem to have run out of excuses now. https://youtu.be/YbY-lxCH34I |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
So door number two.
Made one small cutting error, thankfully on a 50mm by 700mm strip, so easy to cut another. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Got as far as this, when rain stopped play outright. A great excuse to put everything away. Next few hours rain, but at least I got this far. Only the smaller, complex section to engineer in. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Later, the rain kinda let up for a while and dragged myself away from YouTube where I have been binge watching Peter Santenello travelling the world. His style is travel/people/documentary and the great thing is that he lets people talk and tell their stories, getting into many lesser known communities. So I opened up shop, pulled the Canta halfway out the carport, turned on some lights as the clouds obviously darken things. And proceeded to cut and fit the last piece on the door. Happy with that. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And completed with both doors open. It is coming together now that all the interior surfaces have the same hue of rusty patina brown. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Closed up shop, and my helpful assistant, QA agent was thankful because it meant dinner for him. He had been hanging around all day. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Came in, fed George and chatted with Craig in Shropshire while preparing some handmade meatballs that I cooked and took to Sallys for a spaghetti and Bolognaise sauce dinner. Sat there and did a quick edit of the stuff I recorded, including dropping 47 minutes of getting the big section glued in. Today I am going to attempt doing the roof lining. ALONE….. Wish me luck. Video Link: https://youtu.be/Tl7Z33e5t8Q Sun is out at least, so should be a good day. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
OUT EARLIER THAN USUAL ON SUNDAY.
Started by 9.30, thinking this will be a quicky…….. Errrrrmmmm… NOPE. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds As usual, not calculating the three steps forward and two steps back nature of this job, it took a lot longer. So I added a 50mm or 2” strip around all the stepped edges. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Completed the rear door close in, hopefully wont need to go back in there. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Better. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Next up, measure, cut and start on the central part. Managed to get the radio aerial removed, no intention of fitting one again, but may as well leave it there. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Then taped the vinyl to the front edge and started with a 100mm strip of glue to get it to stick to the roof. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds WELL….. That was a complete failure. Too many curved in the inverted roof meant bunching and eventually I tore it off, much swearing done. So I had some coffee, custard creamer and watched a bit of YouTube travel video while I rethought it all. Decided to go back, cut it in half down the length and start at the front….. Another fail. So I tried starting in the centre and working outward. Something like this. Not perfect. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And for all of you who zoom in….. unless you were helping me fit the vinyl, which would have improved the look and finish, keep the criticism to yourself. This was as good as I could get it, including a strip along the join. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Next job, after another coffee and cleaning the inside out, was to get the seatbelts and also the grab rails refitted. Amazing how these bits being refitted changes the look because they do manage to some extent to cover up some of the joints etc. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Grab handles look so much tidier as well with the new paint. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Next job will be to figure out where the screws for the sun visor and broken rear view mirror are, and refit them. Followed by refitting the seats. Maybe a new steering wheel too, from the stash. Lastly VIDEO LINK: https://youtu.be/VXEV6t1qjx8 Have a great week Thanks for checking in. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Ticket bought.
International driving licence done. Looks like 2023 USA road trip will be happening. Unfortunately I will be without my sidekick @craigrk this time. Poor guy is off to a Spanish holiday island with his kids and sons in-laws Possible plan for week one……. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I have also been offered this camper on the banks of the Mississippi River by Eve, my buddy Ray’s widow, to use as a base for further exploring and travels. RIP buddy. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds There may be food again……. A lot of food, for those interested in food. https://img.retro-rides.org/i/v/grizz/81c8e9e9da5f.jpg It is parked at McGregor Iowa, but puts Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana in reach on the return leg. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds This could turn into a killer run as far as distance goes, but more importantly for me is actually seeing and learning more. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Looks like a great plan to me. You have a lot of folks wanting to see you again.
It's funny how many people I feel like I know through your posts on here, even though some I've neer met. Happy motoring through the states!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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But as you say, many people become part of our extended family. I am hoping to expand my horizons this year. New roads, new people. Road trip dedicated thread link here: https://forum.retro-rides.org/thread...023-road-again Youtube reports later. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
My younger brother “Dozer” retired in February after more than 41 years in the military.
So being a pensioner means he has lots of time to create random stuff. Todays creation was a flower and bug, after servicing his motorcycle. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds As a first time for something like this, he says most of the time was spent swearing and 25% of it making up and welding it. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
I really like your brother's art project. That is my favorite kind of art, welded sculptures.
My plan was to restore my truck and take care of my other vechicles when I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Then this past Feb. I started passing out for no reason. After many doctors and a couple of hospital stays they implanted a pacemaker on June 9. Since then everything is better but the heart surgen said no welding and being around altenaters on running engines. So now I have a new wire welder that may not get used and a new plasma cutter that may not get used. Anyway all of that is to say I'm still going to do shop stuff that I can, but probably not any welded sculpters like I planned, and all these old parts to sculpt. with. I'm getting other opinions what I can and can't do with a pacemaker. Also I've gone old school and will learn the weld and cut with oxyaceylene. There is hope for some art anyway. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
A beautiful piece of art,
I also like these welded pieces of art. I'm sorry about your illness, but if the medical art gets you back on your feet, that's also a chance to start something new, you have the ideas. One of my friends died of a heart attack at the age of 62 last week, and he still had big plans. Everyone stay healthy and enjoy life. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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I was not aware you had more than the average bucket of issues to deal with. I guess there are no medically proven ways to circumnavigate the welding threat. Quote:
I have passed your message to Deon. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Canta was short changed and gets no video today.
I heard a collective sigh of relief there. Spent some time doing yard work, throwing balls and took the Rezin Rockit for a decent drive. Yard work included weeding, mowing lawns and chatting with this guy. I always feel so privileged to have a variety of creatures in the garden. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Headed out in the Rezin Rockit…….. Then came home by 3.00pm. Checked the Rezin Rockit over to see if anything had fallen off on the drive. All there. Then found my left over window tinting from the S10 truck side glass, or Not a Project Blazer, or Prozac the Berlingo, I cannot recall. But there was enough to measure and cut for the Canta side small glass. The doors have horribly worn Perspex sliding screens. Cut to size, and also cut a strip that I will try to fit as a sun screen on the front glass. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Before. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After. Faaaar from perfect, but somehow fools the eyes when you look inside past the badly fitting body panels and glass. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds The hairy bum Supervisor on standby of course. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And the other side done. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds This is miles from spectacular, but it is another minor improvement, maybe. More tomorrow. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Today was a “Me day” with grass cut, weeding done etc, the took the Rezin Rockit out for a drive.
Not done this for a few weeks. Popped in to check up on @fordDan68 . Found him on the drive. Always busy. Then around to Sally’s place to throw balls for Bonnie for half an hour. After that I went for a further drive, popped in to see UncleBob the Hoarder, but he was away helping Mr Hunt the farmer. So I carried on driving, enjoying the briskness and acceleration of the car while recording some of the trip. I will try to make up a short video of the drive tomorrow. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Eventually made I home and checked the whole car over, top and bottom, because I am still looking out for anything that may have been missed. Not had the hood open in anger in months. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Found nothing scary, coolant, oil etc all correct. So I parked it up and got onto the Canta to get the rear side glass tinted. Must I sell the car to make space for something bigger? |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
First preamble or even preemptive post on the trip.
Most of you know Dennis by now, a selfless, funny man and friend, closer family than my own brother, whom I love and have a load of time for. But as Dennis’ partner told me in 2016 when I met her the first time, Dennis has never met a stranger. And this friendship has evolved over time. We chat pretty much every day, and then it is 2, 3, 4 or more times a day. This morning Dennis, who is 6 hours behind me was chatting, he was headed to a local car show and would have liked me there to see the stuff on display. A few pics sent: https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds When at the show, he sent a message…… The number is 1457 In my name. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds The prize…….. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So who knows….. Road trip in a rough as hell Ratrod? I know I am stupid enough to take the challenge on head first. Of course one needs to win first. ROAD TRIP 2023 LINK https://forum.retro-rides.org/thread...023-road-again Video: https://youtu.be/GnwIMS87dSw A while to go before heading out, but yes….. excited already. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
A good friend, Bob Heine, in Florida found these…….
He suggested the following Rian, the Canta has come so far. I know you mentioned alloy rims a while back but have you considered wheel spinners? While on your road trip, you might be able to source a set. These are meant for a VW but the description sounds like it might work: https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Simple Photoshop and it does change the look somewhat. I do like it enough. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds No more Canta action this weekend. But the Rezin Rockit had more than its fair share of attention and use. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
So this weekend saw little,Canta action.
Which left me with a load of guilt to be processed, in the shape of using the RR. I really do enjoy driving it. The lowered suspension can be jarring on the terrible roads and potholes, but I wanted a lowered plastic car I guess. Today I went to Asda (Walmart) to buy some groceries and a bottle of Fireball in case I needed it. When I came out, there was a note (card) on the windscreen, so someone must have clocked that it is not a 4x4 https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I did quite a lot more driving, went to Sallys place to upload the Rezin Rockit video I edited after midnight last night. My internet at home sucks big time. Then I drove over to The Isle of Grain to look at the fruit trees I usually get my plums from, almost nothing, guess it’s been too dry. Took a couple of photos of the car as well. Eventually came home, having thoroughly enjoyed the day. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Still enjoy seeing the silly thing. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Video https://youtu.be/QG8nZMs8DZE Almost Monday. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
I’m was chatting with Dennis Over the weekend about a load of stuff.
He has just sold off his whole sprint car racing setup, a load of engines, frames, trailers, specialist tools, race cars etc. And it reminded me, before I had my “New YouTube Channel “ I had a channel where I loaded some stuff. This is mainly just for some of you guys, girls who have not seen these clips for Lake of the Ozarks racieway. Startup and preparation. A typical Missouri Friday night. https://youtu.be/BDuAjh1JQ1s At the track. https://youtu.be/rlbJoXj-BVM https://youtu.be/p70y8zpR628 https://youtu.be/LfrF0c4FZh4 https://youtu.be/tH1LVazhdMo https://youtu.be/0jUTFGEGSJM . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
I remember those vids. Been a little while. Never even paid attention it wasn't on your current channel.
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Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Yes, that's really great
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Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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So I am interested in a 1990 Chevy Astro shorty van. Currently for sale over here, they seem to be rare. This one seems to also have had its interior done by “THE DROP SHOP” (one registered business in Mission, Texas) Looks like the air bag steering wheel is changed. Old corvette bucket seats and homemade interior. It seems to be pretty in the photos. Details: 1990 model, 4.3 V6, alloy wheels, repainted. 77k recorded miles. Temperature gauge fitted under dash. Any opinions on this specific model, year and engine that I could or should know? Thank you. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
I know many people love them, but I am not a big fan. Rather it be minimal in the back and useful for hauling stuff if I had one.
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Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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Thanks for the reply. Other than front crossmember/core support rust, they seem to be reasonably well regarded. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
So this is a winters weekend.
Rain most of the day. But I did refit the seats, as well as sun visor, rear view mirror. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And sun visor, rear view mirror. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Video: https://youtu.be/5akhii7KPDw Who knows, tomorrow has more rain forecast. Maybe I can figure out the missing ignition barrel and anything else. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Been doing what I usually do…..
Researching, lusting after a load of stuff. Missed out (sort of) on that red SAAB last week, or was it two weeks ago. So tomorrow I will ask the contracts boss for a day off on Tuesday to do a short road trip. £68.00 for a one way train ticket via London and then up country. The road route coming back registered as 200 miles. So hopefully a decent run to show it is good. With this new arrival, the S10 with 40k miles will be for sale. RULEZ IS RULEZ. One out, one in to keep balance. Though I still have to shift another. Destination: S****HORPE Excited. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So this weekend very little was done other than much telephone and internet time. Oh, and cut the grass. Weekend gone. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Good luck and have a fun train ride
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Just need to make space for the new Chevy now. Chevrolet S10 pickup. Colour: Sandalwood metallic Extra-cab 4.3 liter V6 2WD not 4x4 Decent condition MOT 23 December 2023 Mileage today: 40319 miles. That can change as in use. Registration Y853WJE Personal plate getting removed. You know that saying: “FIND ANOTHER ONE LIKE THAT” This may be one of those. I would like to see £6800.00 for it. Truck is in Rochester, Kent. PM please. [https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(205).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(545).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(655).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(709).HEIC Personal plate will be removed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(912).HEIC Little bit over 40k miles now. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Can work as well. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Price is firm, if you want to pay more, let me know. Please PM if interested. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Well, insurance to get sorted for a day.
A week is £75.00 which is steep just to drive 200 miles. In the mean time…… The very important road trip snacks have been bought, a few bottles of beer water/soda to be added. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Oh, and we have a toll crossing over the Thames river at Dartford, collection and management recently went to a new company, so it is a total cluster$£€# as nobody seems to be able to get payments and admin done. I have tried repeatedly to get the new car registered and failed, despite it recognising it by brand, colour and model. Modern times, modern tech ehhh. |
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Any build sheet readers….?
I was interested in knowing what this van started life as. Not sure if the pics are clear enough. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
You can plug that vin (1Gcdm15z4mb143790) into a vin decoder, like here:
[URL unfurl="true"]https://vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov/decoder/Decoder[/URL] And see some info: Engine Engine Configuration V-Shaped General Plant Country UNITED STATES (USA) General Vehicle Type TRUCK Engine Fuel Delivery / Fuel Injection Type Throttle Body Fuel Injection (TBI) General Series Small Van General Plant Company Name NA - Truck Platform General Plant State MARYLAND Mechanical / Brake Brake System Type Hydraulic General Manufacturer Name GENERAL MOTORS LLC Engine Fuel Type - Primary Gasoline Engine Engine Manufacturer CPC Exterior / Dimension Gross Vehicle Weight Rating From Class 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg) General Make CHEVROLET Exterior / Body Body Class Cargo Van General Plant City BALTIMORE General Model Astro Van Engine Other Engine Info 90 Degree Engine Engine Number of Cylinders 6 Mechanical / Drivetrain Drive Type 4x2 Engine Displacement (CC) 4300.0 Engine Displacement (L) 4.3 Engine Displacement (CI) 262.40209960734 Vehicle Descriptor 1GCDM15Z*MB General Model Year 1991 General Trim2 1/2 ton nominal From Garagejournal.com |
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Sally will be taking me to the station in a bit for the 3.5 hr trains ordeal.
Let’s hope no cancellations. Last night she came over for dinner and predictably in her usual dry way just said: “YOU WILL BE NEEDING THIS” Presenting the VAX Wet/Dry vacuum cleaner. Included a new bottle of shampoo, which it will be needing. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds From the very very limited information at hand, I know one of the first stops will be a serious deep clean. Then the usual new car investigation to make a list of broken, worn, missing bits. And then the fun starts. Again. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
So I saw the van advertised a while ago on the tightly run ship that is “Unusual cars for sale”
I have always been kinda into Commercial vehicles, trucks, vans, anything practical. And this was the ad. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds But of course I already had the Rumblegrizzkin Chevy S10 in ZQ8 spec with its 4.3l V6 auto and extra cab. This is an amazing car/truck. Small, for an American, and actually has 4 seats, the front buckets are also a bench, when you lift the armrest, and the midget seat in the rear folds down for a skinny 10 year old. But as much as the truck is a great thing, at times my butt itches for a change, and weirdly, with work insecurities etc, the best fix is to buy more cars. IYKWIM So I got my head around to deciding to reduce the fleet significantly, including the Rezin Rockit should I get approached randomly (which has happened) The van is well known in certain circles and everyone wanted it, but nobody bought it. So I did my research and found out what I could, based on a few photos, and later a short start up video. I also approached a complete random stranger on GarageJournal.com whose avatar showed he lives in S****horpe (10 miles from the van) and after a long, enjoyable conversation with Vaughan, who turns out to be 70, just recovering from cancer surgery, and still rides a KTM 990, he agreed to go take a look at the van, and go for a short drive in it. This all happened last Sunday, and when he called me later in the day, there were no punches pulled, and his feedback was that is was a 33 year old van, and it had the bones of a good car. It needed a few bits tidied up ( I like to polish turds) and that if faced with the dilemma of buying or not, at the stated price, he would buy it. So I called the seller ( who was going to buy the truck off me, but ended up buying a 1972 Toyota Crown wagon on Saturday) and asked if there was any movement on price, which there was not. So I asked if I could still have a go at squeezing his bits, and he asked what I wanted, which I said was taking delivery of the van with a full tank of fuel. Monday was spent insuring, getting recovery sorted and generally trying to fit the day job into my schedule. By 3.00pm I had Green Flag recovery switched from the S10 for a total increase of premium of £2.48 Here is a video of my total motivation, and information on the van before buying it. https://youtu.be/ewf60bR00k8 I will add a few more pics and observations of the van later for those morbidly interested. In the mean time, having been an underused, 78k mile van, the battery gave me a load of solenoid clicks after I got back home last night. I went to Sallys place for dinner and to show her the van, which of course needed a jump start. So a battery is first on the list of items. I see that as a longer term wear and tear item if a car is not used much. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
So on having bought the van and setting off with it, a few random observations of the first hour, well, 5 hours really.
When Colin picked me up as S****horpe station, he just came rolling in, and there was other nois in the background that the camera on the phone picked up on. https://youtu.be/WYSLvCNGBO4 But the van was shorter, and stockier than I had expected. ✅ The rumble from the twin side exits - OOOOOFFF ! ✅ Having been built and professionally lowered by THE DROP SHOP in Mission, Texas, the road holding, and drive is amazing for a van, being short and low, it can be thrown into roundabouts with gusto, and never wallowed like a typical American car or truck. The further I drove, the more confident I became and far from pushing it, I was assessing it all the way, and it gets a big ✅ Colin filled the tank as part of the deal, and I doubt he zeroed the trip meter, or filled it to the neck, but even in the most unscientific way possible, it used less than an indicated 1/2 tank on the 200 mile trip home, a mix of motorways and A-Roads, so another apparent ✅ Radio/CD/USB/Starship control desk has been cut in by an angry badger, so I need a new/used original dash filler panel to get back to standard as I could not figure the radio out, YET. So a certain ❌ Driving position in what is believed to be Corvette seats is good, but maybe 150mm or 6” too close for me. I will address that soon. ❌ Cubby hole fitted to the “Dog House” engine cover has someone’s old art airbrushed on it, replace or repaint ❌ Door speakers of unknown origin, vintage, ability, and missing a screen one side needs replacing ❌ Comes with a removable tow hitch, in my world that gets ✅✅✅ Load body has remnants of amplifiers etc cut into it, if they work, reinstate and use, if not, remove and cover holes ✅❌ Getting home was a pleasure, simply because it was an unknown quantity to grab and drive 200 miles ✅ Going down the side of the house down my narrow alley necessitated folding a mirror in, it is that wide @ 77” and driving out, I just folded both in, wound the window down and kept my eye on keeping the drivers side 6 inches or 150mm from the concrete posts of the fence, naturally, the other side would be good enough. So size gets one of each too as I would have it despite the size. ✅❌ Due to overall limited use, the battery made it home, then left me in the lurch a few times in quick succession at home, new battery getting collected later today £60.00 Certainly not a seller problem, but a cost ❌ Service records, despite low mileage non existent so no base to work from doing standard maintenance, so need to get a full fluid, filters and ignition service,,again, part of ownership, so neither good nor bad, but possibly bad due to previous ownership ❌✅ Overall impression, looks, first drive gets ✅✅✅✅✅ of these and ❌of these. Time will tell what else needs doing. THE DROP SHOP lowered it in the 90’s They are also on FB and if you look at their builds, there’s some neat stuff. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Approximate collection miles. I had done 10-20 miles already. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Tow hitch is a massive win in my world of practicality. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Driving position in what is believed to be Corvette seats is good, but maybe 150mm or 6” too close for me. I will address that soon. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After collecting me, the last pic of it in S****horpe with Colin driving. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds When I got home I took some photos. I will do the interior at the weekend with before and after etc. Against the S10 it shows a bit of comparative size, keeping in mind the S10 is a mini truck. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And on its own. Chunky tyres on 15” wheels fill the arches nicely. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Bringing it out, shows a tight fit. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds @forddan68 came around and took these pics for me, https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds A very happy man I guess. Already liking it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Thanks for stopping by and all your comments, advice and input as always. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
My friend Bob Heine in America made a comment and observation on how,clean the rear is, along with the spoiler on top, compared to a more standard van.
And that spoiler really works in this case. And I am not a great spoiler fan, The smoothing, shaving handles, roll pan…… Absolutely improves the look. Did a quick screen grab rear end pic and found another custom van with more original equipment on Google. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Lots to like about this van. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
[quote author="@metalshapes" source="/post/2792437/thread" timestamp="1691608900"]"The smoothing, shaving handles, roll pan…… Absolutely improves the look."
It really does. Big difference. I'd be tempted to do a little smoothing & shaving to the front to complement it... :)[/quote] Your suggestion is honestly at the top of my list, since I saw the van. I did the same to the S10. Clear lenses £65.00 https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Massive improvement to this…… https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Either new or good used will go on there, but I think new will just look better than partially faded. Watch those spaces. |
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