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Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Congratulations on the new van,
it looks really great, I'm curious what you make of it. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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Thank you. It needs a ton of TLC, like most 33 year old commercial vehicles. Just did my first possible “repair” on the van. When I got back on Tuesday evening, and later tried to start it for @forddan68 and my neighbour who is a fan of American cars, there were a few clicks and then it took. After dinner at Sallys, she had to jump start me as well, and the same thing happened, but once the jumper cables were on, it started instantly. Last night, due to a huge truck fire on the A2/M2 the roads where I had planned to go buy a battery, we’re gridlocked as people seemed alternative routes home. So in the end I turned around, still 1.9 miles from my destination. Came home and went to look at the battery again and take a few pics of the engine bay. So I wriggled the terminals, and the earth which is tucked away under the fender, was loose enough that a bit of wriggling would see it come off. So this morning I grabbed a very small 13mm socket and tightened it, and it took quite a lot of tightening. Tried the ignition and instantly fired up. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Could the clicking start up be solved? No idea, until it happens again and something else proves to be the issue. Fingers crossed as always with a new toy. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
So when I collected the car, the seller said only one key.
Kinda disappointing as it means a £10.00 key purchase adding to the cost of buying and fetching the car. Remember, all the peripheral costs are costs, not magic. So train, a potential key cut, a day off work are real costs I add to the purchase price calculations, then of course there are these, insurance, road tax, recovery insurance adding up to about £800.00 yes, really, the cost of reversing off the driveway at home for the first time. These are yearly costs, so you could split them by 12 bringing you to about £67.00 per month, or £2.00 per day excluding fuel and repairs/service costs. So a pleasant surprise when I was driving down the motorway was a spare set of keys falling from the sun visor, onto the floor by my feet, £10.00 reduced. When I got home I noticed a Haynes Manual and original owners manual on the floor. So more moneys saved as I had intended to go buy these. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Last night I did a quick video and also got a couple of engine bay pics. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Quick video: https://youtu.be/9WubHv51_gE Tonight after work I washed the S10 as I want to park it on the sidewalk with a for sale sign on the screen, and clean sells. The Astro was pretty dirty when I took it, well….. it was no worse than the S10 or my company car tbh, but washed and vacuumed made a difference. I was standing looking at this in the back yard earlier…… even before I washed it, and it really made me smile. This is a good looking car for sure. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So pleased I got lucky to find it. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Right…..
Back to our normal transmission. Time to clean out the inside, vacuum the interior, and wash the outside. So reversed down my reasonably narrow alleyway. Parked up and cleaned the interior, well, first phase. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Grubby as heck and after removing all the junk from inside, as per video, it was clear this is a mess. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds At some point, the van, which started life as a white commercial vehicle, became yellow. Look at the old colour sticking out on the rear door. I need to make up a strip to cover and close that all. I do wonder if the yellow phase was associated with when it was lowered and the interior all done out, including the “pink and blue” graphics. Anyway….. another job to get to. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Little jobs. Like finding and replacing the fuel filler door release. Currently an old pair of pliers. Surely, some sort of improved version of the pliers cannot be that hard to make. Think hand grenade pin and slip over the nipple in some non return way type design. Not that hard to make and fit. Another job to get to. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After vacuuming the interior, I needed to,was the van, because I like them,clean, and had driven at least an hour on the motorway in the rain. This pic was taken, still dirty. Possibly one of my favourite photos so far. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Not sure if one can see the difference afterwards…… I had moved it back, down into the garden a bit. But it is cleaner. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Then I brought themS10 through and washed it as well. Mickey had told me off for parking it out front, FOR SALE but dirty, covered in spiders cobwebs. So it was cleaned as well. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Next job on the van will be to try get the rear loadbed floor carper a bit cleaner. Rust, grease, and whatever else after 30 years must be able to get changed. Wet vacuum job to get to next. Thanks for checking in and all those who take the time to post a reply or response. It is the weekend. Cheers. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds .BONUS VIDEO. https://youtu.be/y7V5X01h7Oc ENJOY. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
[quote author="@93fxdl" source="/post/2792671/thread" timestamp="1691783556"]Currently enjoying the video on the tv, a suggestion for he front sidelights, since you intend to fit clear indicators, why not pair them with switchback leds, white for sidelight, but flashes yellow
Ttfn Glenn [/quote] Very good thinking Glenn. I will certainly investigate that. One of my clever mates can possibly help, and prevent me spending days figuring it all out, like I did on the S10. https://youtu.be/jdIu7KdpWs0 That was a great modification to remove the amber front indicator lenses. If the clear indicators for the Astro allows it, that would be the best way to remove those horns from the front. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Nice find on the S10, good color and overall condition seems good also. I was never a fan of the Astro van but this one looks cool with the modifications.
You have an eye for a bargain and the vision to make the right improvements in all you do. Wish I had half your energy. The heat in the states is brutal right now so be prepared on your visit, that last pic of the liquid refreshment will be a necessity. See you soon... |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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S10 is almost 3 years in my care. It was my not to be sold car. However, it is perfect, too perfect and I need to send it to a new keeper to enjoy. The van is a bit of a change in direction, but not in my personal ethos and pursuits. Yes, a bargain, yes, subtle improvements, and most importantly, my smile back on my face. I look forward to seeing you guys, may try drag Dennis along too. Next job after the vacuum cleaner was to get the carpet cleaned. Even small jobs take time. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So I started with Vanish, clothing bleach type stuff. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Wet the carpet and worked it into all the stains and marks. Then left it to react for a while. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Followed by the wet dry VAX cleaner. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Resulting in this. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds This morning I opened all the doors by 06.30 for it all to dry out some more. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Happy with the improvement. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds The 6 litres of water I used probably only returned 2 litres of very dirty water. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And for those who do not read words,…….. VIDEO HERE. https://youtu.be/80Uv9CkK5l0 This morning once I opened the van to dry out the carpets. I had a QC inspection. Passed the security muster as well. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds George suggested another road trip. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
So……….
The front end, lights etc. I had a suggestion from a friend to get an ally grille, to go with the clear side repeaters. Not sure about that. Had it on the 79 Blazer and replaced with a new old stock original, which I preferred Also, need to see if there are smoothed/closed in headlight bezels out there, that could work too. Along with a clear lens side repeater and possibly deleting the current side lights, followed by installing switchback LED bulbs as suggested by a few guys and @westbay. @zeberdeewesty did a couple of photoshop deletes….. I like that, compared to the current look. 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 Yesterday, Mate John, the driving school instructor was over for a few hours to look at the van. We checked all the lights and found one bright lamp out, and also the reverse lights had been replaced with yellow bulbs as indicators, a great idea IMHO as red indicators are often not seen clearly on American cars. So I need to go find a correct light bulb, either in the garage or shop. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Took a quick pic of the rear view mirror, trying to show the black with blue metal flake paint on there.
Kinda lost unless you look for it, in bright sunlight. Still, pretty too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Busy weekend.
The van has a ton of things to address and keep me busy. And as I have gotten to know it more and more while washing, cleaning and touching and feeling it, I am realising that I lucked out again. Keep in mind, there could still be 101 surprises hiding out of sight somewhere. Mate John, one of my old lodgers and driving instructor, who helped with the electrics of the Rezin Rockit, came around yesterday. He is a tech fan and bit of a guru. He really liked the van, casting a critical eye over it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Also got straight into tuning the intergalactic radio for me https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds One of the jobs I had identified after washing the van at first, was the Center Line billet alloy wheels that needed to be brought back to life and shine. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Up close they looked really tired. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So I got some Autosol metal polish and some rags to just try it out…… John had the camera. Test spot looked much better. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And 35 minutes later…. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Autosol all the way round. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And then a lovely pic, possibly my favourite so far. 140 plus minutes well spent. Another hour to be spent today. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So that was a great result. Overnight I remembered how the Poorboys wheel sealant added to the S10 wheels I had refurbished. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So this morning I got the tub, some rags and started again. Clearly this sealant polish was still improving the work as it took more ally from the surfaces. Elbow grease time. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And the RESULT IS AWESOME. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds It really is rewarding when you see the changes, day to day. And the photos allow you to look back and SMILE. Again, video for the lazy traveler . https://youtu.be/uBvvhqyndCk More tomorrow for those who still want to see what is changing. Weekend over. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
You put your arm wax to good use, this turned out to be a head turner. Good work.
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Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
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I knew it would be improved, but the second polishing with the Poorboys really made the wheels sparkle even more. The before and after is proof. 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!
Another weekend gone.
Got loads of bits done, had a few visitors as well. Drove the S10 around and went food shopping in it on Sunday. Got stopped by a young guy and his lady in Morrisons Carpark to tell me he really liked the truck. He was driving a 22 year Old Ford Puma on nice wheels, fitted with ST170 brakes and a few other modifications. Nice when younger guys know what you are talking about. He also knows his endurance racing cars, right down to the model numbers etc. Also showed him a pic of the Rezin Rockit, and he instantly recognised the RX7 seats and liked the fact it was MX5 in there. My old lodger, John who is a driving instructor, came over on his full power Yamaha V-Max powered Trike on Saturday. He wanted to see the van of course, and had helped a lot with morale boosting when I built the RR as well as sorting some wiring issues out for me. One of the jobs I was doing just when he got here, was making a little temporary release handle for the fuel filler door which had long since lost its tab. Being replaced with a small pair of side cutters the seller showed me how to poke it into the hole, pull the cable and release the filler door. What a terrible solution. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So I took some welding wire, made a finger sized loop and a small tab to crimp onto the nipple on the release cable. This is temporary until I can find a correct part to purchase either online or on my road trip to the USA. STORY HERE: https://forum.retro-rides.org/thread...023-road-again Shaping it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Fitted and crimped in place. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds John is like a Magpie, not much goes unnoticed or misses his scrutiny, so it was a pleasure having him there. Rear door stop, one missing off the drivers side door. Anyone got one to sell or donate? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Aircon/blower controls missing a small button. Got one? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds We also tested out some Autosol on the alloy wheels, that was reported before, so John cost me 3-4 hours of my life. For the better though. I crawled, well, poked my head under the van, as it has been professionally lowered when “The Drop Shop” built it originally. I will just post a bunch of photos of the undersides. The lack of rust, and even just minimal surface rust attests to the fact that this was a show van, and pampered for most of its life. Removable tow hitch is a huge bonus as one can use the van as a real tool. Also never seen a leaf spring quite like these…….. 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 https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Looking at the sills as well……. Starting to feel at this point, like I may have got lucky again, like the S10, only 78k miles, and a body that is hard to believe the condition of. Yes, it was a Texas van before it came here, but it is good. IMMACULATE SILLS TOO. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Last task for yesterday was to use some Auto Glym bumper and plastic restorer gel on the small lower lip/spoiler. Result was again even better than expected. Before. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Result shows in the video. VIDEO HERE: https://youtu.be/JF-kFzSQlFs Thanks for checking in. Now back to work. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Well………
Any road trip sees me “IN” This time…… I was the destination. As David Bowie sang…….. Ch-Ch-Changes. Today part of a multi vehicle churn started. @glenanderson , @craigrk and I were initiating a multi vehicle trade and swap around. Todays phase was Glen returning a lawn tractor that came though here a few years ago, that his son has used to earn his Duke of Edinburg award. The Lawn tractor, along with the one I fetched from @frankenhealey last year, or was it this year, will be headed to Craigs home in Shropshire. He originally wanted the Canta, and had first refusal on it, but also realised that his wife has a glass jar on the kitchen window sill that is reserved for his testicles. So choosing to not walk like John Wayne, he let Glen take the Canta on as a new father and son build, continuing with what I started (I just cleaned it up a bit) Mate Fil, “Sparkplug” had to step out of the race, having had second refusal as his Sprinter camper van blew up its engine. So Glen and son Fin have a Canta, and Craigs collection of lawn tractors continues to grow. I have gained a bit of space. Which will increase once the Rezin Rockit is sold. And then the Blue Van will be stored in the carport as it is in such good condition. Hopefully the S10 finds a good home as well. Video to be edited later and uploaded even later. But suffice it to say that as always, having Glen pop over was a great pleasure. His,Son Finlay was very taken wit the S10 and Rezin Rockit, as he should be. But the Canta had both of them laughing like madmen when they saw it, got in it and drove it. This little car really does bring a load of joy for what it is. So the tractor as delivered, used to be red…….. Perfect name too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds While,Glen looked the van over, he remembers the rear door stay, opened it and poked a finger in the hole……. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Producing a door stop…… Like magic. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And of course Fin was taken with the van as well, I let him start it and rev it on the driveway, though, given a choice I suspect he would have the truck. Happy chappie .https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds All too soon it was time For them to head home…… Glen to face Mrs Anderson, who is not impressed. But I am sure she prefers him tinkering, rather than drinking or doing silly stuff. Happy team, headed out. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Looking forward to seeing how Glen and Fin progress and proceed with the Canta. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Cool find on the rear door stop.
I had an Astro van around 91 or so it was about a year old when I got. It had widows and seats, more of a family thing. I liked everything about that van but alas and alack I lost custody of it in a divorce. :lol: |
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The only people who really score are lawyers and greedy wives. I was relatively lucky that Nicola wanted to protect all of her pensions and left my crap alone. But I have paid dearly before. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Speaking of paint……
Another 75 minutes of my life, taken by the van. With Amazing results. @braaap had done some pointers toward the worst damage, done by someone removing songwriting and not completing the job. I love washing cars and sometimes just sitting next to them in the sun and shade, to identify damage, marks, things that you miss on photos, or even when excited to make a purchase. Once washed and dried, I saw more marks all the way around the van. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Looking at the drivers side with the sun behind me. Clearly not a good thing. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And from the other side, looking toward the sun. Part of the van was in the shade,,so it also shows how well this paint reacts with light. Damage https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I have two bottles of polishing compound. Went with the G3 as I have used it a few times before. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Then Started to polish by hand, again a two finger job, much repeating, back and forth. First section looking a load better. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Took my time and got many many passes over the damage, also broadened my strokes so as to blend with existing paint. Passenger side has been painted over, the masking lines wire never buffed back or blended, so I did that as much as I could, and the improvement was vast, though one will always be able to see that there is a line, fortunately, being high up, it misses most scrutiny. I also did the lower side on both sides were careless box moving, driving, parking too close to whatever caused scuffs, left marks, which now are gone. Side panels both look a lot better. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Drivers side front fender seems to have had some wet and dry over it, but not cut back and polished either, so I gave that a go with great results. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Final result. BOOOOOOMMM…!! https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After dinner the sunset was amazing, and I wished the van was out front. It plus have made a great photo. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And for those following on YOUTUBE VIDEO. https://youtu.be/BKX3Q-QOJMA Thanks for checking in. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Sometimes the camera does not quite capture the changes.
Went out after work last night for a few minutes. Polished the indicators and side repeaters with some G3 as I was on a roll. Both actually showed an improvement. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And after of course. Still convinced I need a pair of clear lenses. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds More small jobs waiting. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Just how small has the world become.
My buddy Stas in Siberia sent mr this pic. He was watching my youtube channel. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds A friend, JB Math in Oklahoma gave me what I regard as a lovely compliment yesterday, saying that I have an innate ability to find those little imperfections that when corrected, make a nice impact. To me, some of the bodges and repairs I see, make me wonder why people did not just do it right in the first place, as the effort is the same as doing it right. Yesterday’s small jobs would have @nickwheeler rubbing his hands together in glee. The black gloss paint came out……. A few small jobs to do, necessitated some masking up, and also dismantling weather seals in the door frames, but with a nice impact. First job, mask up the cut and shut Recarro seat bases. Welded, ground and left like that…… Nice job mr Craftsman. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Masked and painted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Surely looks better already. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Next job was the A-Pillars, weirdly missed when painted blue and so obvious. After poking and prodding, realised I could remove the door seals on both sides, passenger side is a long one including the sliding door. Then washed many years of accumulated dirt and muck from there. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Cleaned up. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Painted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds At the same time I prepped the rear door, that is missing some trim. The other door needs its upholstery to be fixed back neatly as well, maybe a weekend job. But plans include driving and enjoying the van, and making up for forgetting Sally’s birthday. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Left the masking tape in place till this morning and was pleasantly surprised at the changes. Looks much better imho. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Doors…. I had to look twice at where the yellow was sticking out so obviously before. Really pleased with the result. Seals back in place. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And the rear door needs me to make up a piece of trim, probably in black, or dark grey to go with the upholstery trim. For all the zoomers, yes there is damage to the rear glass tinting and some genius sprayed some black aerosol paint on it. Not ideal, but a good solution, especially looking from the outside, until,I get to replacing the tint. Possibly both sides at the same time. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds As I get the small jobs done, I am getting to like the van more and more. Realising that it has essentially had a very good life to date. Friday…….. last day of the week. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
After work a quick few small jobs.
WD40 in the lock barrels, got all three doors to lock. In a secret sequence. Also went back to the garage and fetched the G3 and some cloths. The rear end, roll pan and lights were not as tidy as I would like them. So rear end paint polished, followed by the rear lights that were less than good. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After quite a bit of buffing, the results were satisfactory, or a bit more than that to be honest. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Plan is to go out for a drive with Sally tomorrow. No idea where to go really, and @glenanderson will possibly have advice on Dover and Folkestone, I hope. Not really interested in Dover castle, expensive and done recently.. Any ideas for greater Kent gang? No tight car parks of course. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
The Van has already become a jewel. Hmm... recommending something to an Englishman in his home country, that can only go wrong,
you know every blade of grass in your corner, lol |
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I am actually a real “Go home from work” kind of guy. Off to America for three weeks on Thursday, but at home I tend to be happy doing the stuff I do. A suggestion from Texas was to use Tripadvisor but it is clear from the prices to visit anything here, they are raping the tourists, and locals. So maybe a trip to Aldi and Walmart are in order. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
As a German tourist,
I would have Leeds Castle or Canterbury as sights on my list, or Botany Bay, is certainly more relaxed by the sea with the high temperatures. I envy you for your USA tour and wish you a lot of fun and a great time. |
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The America I see is filled with kind, generous, open, honest and straight people. They remind me of the Africa I grew up in. In Africa, and over here, my door is always open. I have a suspicion that Michael McMurphy and his wife Patricia, both retired soldiers, will be living in my house the first two weeks of September. His build thread here: https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=487100 They stayed here a few years ago as well. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Took the new van and Sally for a ride today.
One of the places we ended up was on the Isle of Sheppey, at good friend Darren’s engineering shop. Always one to look for other avenues of revenue, and also liking a project or two on the side. This is current with great potential. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After making a full round of his newest car, engineering and fun stuff, I searched his massive dumpster/skip in case there were treasures in there…… No luck. But, associated with one of his current engineering projects, was this…….. We got into a quick negotiation and a sensible price was agreed. This may end up being a fart in a wind storm, or it could become real thunder. SO ANY INPUT, PAST EXPERIENCE, PHOTOS, DESIGNS, WARNINGS ( fiscal and H&S) are welcome. At this point Sally just said OMG, Really? And carried on on her Instagram. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So we were discussing me taking ownership of this beauty after it has served its purpose here…… And turning it into a 4 wheeled drivable vehicle. If Barstools, Ammo cases, lawn tractors and mobility scooters can…… then why not a Jetski. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Steering wheel, rear view mirrors, comfy seat. WHAT MORE COULD YOU WANT? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So right now, it is just an idea fuelled by a lot of cannabis and beer. Input welcome. Don’t be negative, get with the madness. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Up early, as usual, then went to fill the van up to its neck, suspect 75 litres or 15 gallons, too lazy to search Google right now.
Local gas station is still running a manned forecourt, so you may not fill your own car/truck. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Likes the Dino-Juice. Let’s see how much it likes it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Once Sally got here, we set off. She took a pic of me because of my silly grin most of the way. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds One of the places we ended up was on the Isle of Sheppey, at good friend Darren’s engineering shop. Always one to look for other avenues of revenue, and also liking a project or two on the side. This is current with great potential. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After making a full round of his newest car, engineering and fun stuff, I searched his massive dumpster/skip in case there were treasures in there…… No luck. But, associated with one of his current engineering projects, was this…….. Check the last two entries https://forum.retro-rides.org/thread...-real?page=179 Once we’re done at Darren’s it was off to some shops. Now we all know the saying, “If you don’t look back at your car when you walk away, you bought the wrong car” Well, I never expected to hear the words from a usually reserved, noncommittal Sally. Half way to the shops, she stopped and looked back, saying “You,did get lucky finding such a nice looking van” High praise indeed from the Queen of Yeah, it’s OK. Coming back, I felt compelled to take another pic of the same blue van, these colours really do love a bit of light. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Lastly, an early morning message from Dennis…… Looks like it is going to continue being hellishly hot in the USA. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I don’t really care, as long as I get there. |
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!
Small jobs.
They keep on popping their little grubby heads up. Today, after taking the day off yesterday to do a very belated and apologetic birthday BBQ, Sally went home to clean her already clean house and various other tasks. This made her a lot happier than a fist full of cash I gave her as an apology for forgetting her birthday. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So this morning I got going early because time slips away quietly and quickly. Steering wheel has irked ,e from day one, just the way paint had flaked over time. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So I polished the ally boss, masked the plastic section and flatted the ally section. Then wrapped most of the interior in T-shirts and an old sheet in order to apply some satin black. Result. Improved. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Video. https://youtu.be/GXNDFWaGBW4 Once again, not a 5 minute job, but a small one that makes for the right result. Back to work tomorrow. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Remember the USA Road Trip ?
https://forum.retro-rides.org/thread...023-road-again I am looking forward to three weeks away from work, though I never stop thinking about it. Dennis just sent this, this morning. 40’C when I get there on Friday. Add in some humidity, and it seems I will be flying in shorts and flip flops. I know how the heat hits you in the face as you step out of the buildings. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Luckily even the workshop has air conditioning And beer. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Seems Someone used an angry badger to enlarge the radio hole.
Fitted is a unit I want to remove as I do not understand it, and also the bottom of this dash surround has been cut. I will be in the USA soon, with a very large case. And scrap yards are always included in my road trips. But I was wondering if anyone knew someone who was stripping a Mk1 van, this one is a 1990 short panelvan Astro. Any pointers are much appreciated. . https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
RIGHT
NEXT SMALL JOB, WITH A BIT OF RISK, THAT BUGGED ME FROM THE DAY I COLLECTED THE VAN, WAS THE DOORS. Sorry, caps lock. After all the years the van has been on the road, the fabric used is actually incredibly well preserved. But it is grubby, more so to the naked eye, than the camera lens. So I decided to use some fabric and carpet cleaner, along with a nail scrubbing brush, at the risk of messing it all up. Before. Dirty, dull. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Graphics, faded and dusty. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After, certainly much better. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Another job, one I usually do the day I wash a new car, is to clean the interior surfaces, knobs, stalks, controls and all grooves with an ammonia based cleaner like Jif/Cif/Handy Andy whatever, and then using some form of plastic or leather or even wax based wood polish. This time it was Auto Glym, because I have bottle I bought previously. Result is a distinct improvement. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds VIDEO https://youtu.be/qxjT2TBaXq0 That is where we are up to today. A cleaner van. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Off on my USA road trip in the morning.
George seems to know. That’s last night. Unusual. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Woke this morning, him curled up next to me on the bedside locker. Seriously unusual behaviour. Poor guy. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
The little guy feels that what is different, he will miss you.
I wish you a lot of fun on your USA trip. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Quote:
I hope he managed with the tin opener to get his food every day, and can open the taps to drink. The trip will hopefully be a good one, especially if I can get some footage filmed. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
After Glenn commented about the dash, and after I cleaned it up, I was wondering if there was anything missing here.
It looks like there should be a mesh grille over the 6 holes, but there are no mounting holes, clips or grooves. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds However, I was thinking, if I cut to shape painted some of this scrap plastic mesh I found on a discarded laundry drying rack, and just dropped two long strips into the groove, one each from the centre, it could look factory and be a slight improvement. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Of course I have no clue what the original Mk1 vents looks like up front. Any pics out there? |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
The hive mind that is GarageJournal.com and other forums, has come up trumps.
The dash, radio and blower surround section that I was looking for could be available new. @grenade Found a used one on eBay for $70.00 However, Bob Heine in Florida found this…….. Half the price. https://www.gmpartscorp.com/p/Chevro...oaAkcaEALw_wcB https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Now of course the next trick will be to see if they have one in stock and to get it shipped to Dennis’ in St Louis. Pretty pleased with that. . |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Day one of the American road trip reported……
https://forum.retro-rides.org/thread...023-road-again I still need to edit and upload the Youtube video. So maybe later. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
And the real first episode……
From the 2023 road trip. https://youtu.be/U9reUcSTKT4?si=ksIYZa6vkZ5GgfHt More as I get to upload as Wi-Fi is a bit slow….. Thanks for watching. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Well.
It is way deeper. Up at 4.00am then off on a 480mile trip to collect a pre-breakfast purchase for Dennis. TURN AND BURN 960miles. https://youtu.be/NO70poLpNYY?si=l0Fe12WjRE_whlpP Never boring out here. ‘Merica delivers Again. |
Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
Well, back home, trailer unhooked, unload after work when Dennis gets home tonight.
1000 miles in the end, so a long run. Knackered. I am three days behind on the write up, but it has been kinda nonstop. Update later when I get back from buying a fridge/freezer. Yup….. chores are chores. |
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