|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Well.
Christmas came and went. Zero stress, thanks to Sally cooking us a leg of lamb based roast dinner that had me making weird noises with every mouthful. It was spectacular. With her cars engine expiring in April, costing her £2000, then her boiler went for £1800 and some other crisis I cannot recall, but all culminating in a pretty bad 2020 So we decided no presents, no frivolous washing, which is not really her way. All of this meant that she spent time at her place sewing, and I worked on fine tuning the carport some more. Weather has been chilly the last few days, with a keen breeze, but 4 top layers and some long John’s under my tricky pants, and a woolly hat and garage gloves..... toasty. First thing was to complete the frame at the rear, stabilising the sheets. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(193).HEIC Then the back corner where I plan to have a door or curtain to keep the last of the weather out, needed a bit of clear conservatory roofing . https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(55).JPG Screwed into place. Chuffed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(54).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(192).HEIC Then called Sally out of the warm house to help me unload and move the tall cabinets under the roof. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(191).HEIC All four in, and about 20mm short of getting the right hand unit, slid in behind the steel upright post, so quick dismantle of the sheets against the shed, a spacer fitted and screwed in place. You will notice the right hand side still had a small gap where you can see the hedge. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(190).HEIC Then moved them and the small units into position. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(189).HEIC Looking in just as light failed, I felt pretty chuffed with what I have managed to achieve the last few months with help from various friends, some for minutes, some for longer. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(188).HEIC Once again thanks to all who had and have a hand in this build. It will keep a lot of the weather out and afford me a dry place to work on the Rezin Rockit and other builds, including the 66 C10 patiently wair]ting its turn. Tonight it seems we have a storm and possibly snow by tomorrow. Life is good, yes, really. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
The last time I used the term Bucket List, this was what I bought 6.5 years ago.
https://forum.retro-rides.org/thread...hort-fleetside Subsequently I chose not to have bucket lists, in fact not even lists. But there has always been a LUST LIST. Prozac the Berlingo was such a revelation on so many levels, and to be honest, it again underscored how much fun smaller capacity cars have. Add into that the amazing functionality it proceeded to unfold in my ownership. Sold to Mickey next door for his son to use for school run and DIY work, it continues unabated to impress and work daily. Replaced it with the 2001 Galaxy 2.3 Auto. Valeted it Removed the seats Added a rubber mat Used it. Replaced the battery. Failed MOT for welding and a couple of lightbulbs. Sorted and passed test 2.0 Towed a trailer twice for stuff Again...... super reliable car, huge capacity. But sooooo BLAND, it just goes on and on, doing its job. I ended up not even lowering it. I have always loved trucks, commercial vehicles and functional equipment So my eye continued to always be open for certain Cars. I had a specific, rigid wish list for these. Chevrolet S10 pickup. A Mk 2 truck, despite series one popularity Colour: Sandalwood metallic Extra-cab 4.3 liter V6 2WD not 4x4 Decent condition Tow bar Colour options https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(47).jpg I was looking around Europe for years on various German, Dutch, Italian and Spanish websites, plus had a few guys help me. Notably @Mk3rob in Germany. Not one came up that was aligned with my want list though. Then two weeks ago. BINGO !!! Saw an ad for a 2000 Chevrolet Trax for sale. Contacted the advertiser who was selling for a friend....... usually these peee me off before I even contact them as they are often just infuriating deals to see through. Andy took his time getting back to me, but of course he has a day job. Then a garbled text message, typed with a pair of safety gloves. At this point I was ready to walk away, but I persevered as the truck specs and what was described, suited me and ticked the list. Eventually managed to get an appointment set up for 11.00 and contacted @pauly to see if he would come do the fine tooth comb checks for me. He knows stuff. But he could not do 11.00, so I contacted the advertiser to see if we could view at 09.00 , within minutes he got back to me and agreed to 09.00 Got an address and description of how to get on the turkey farm, sudden, hidden turning off the motorway. So Thursday morning 06.00 I was up, left home by 07.00 all excited, and drove over to our meeting point in 4’C weather. In the mean time I went into the history online. Confirming the advertised mileage and what appears to have been reasonable maintenance or lack of use. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(196).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(183).HEIC So the motor K&N air cleaner, divides opinions https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(17).PNG As mentioned, an extra cab was a prerequisite https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(11).PNG I have seen a few of these trucks for sale and the interior was really tidy and intact. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(14).PNG Space for beer. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(15).PNG Fleetside badging, rear step bumper may hide a tow ball fitting space. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(18).PNG Cragar wheels fitted, they will be gone ASAP. Truck comes with a set of lowering springs as well. Stripes are also opinion dividers. I am not yet certain.maybe remove and replace with ghosted type stripes https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(16).PNG Front end is nice, orange indicators will be going and getting replaced with clear units. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(13).PNG So after PaulY and I spent time on our knees and crawling around in the wet, thanks Paul, it was time for a run down the motorway, grab some fuel and return via the local village, which gave me a feel for it in all conditions. Even the load bed, which comes with a cover, has actually never been used. The Raptor liner was applied in Missouri, and is still unmarked, no dents, scratches etc. So I bought it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(182).HEIC I decided not to pay the government for a months road tax for five days of use, which would be about 100 miles. So collection agreed for 01012021 Nice way to start the new year. Happy yes. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
.
So today I spent some time outside, it was 3.5’C Yes, I know there are colder places in the world, but there are also warmer places. First I removed everything that did not belong to the Galaxy, from it. Rolled up the bloody heavy rubber mat that was on the floor.it will go into the S10 truck Ed. The I vacuum cleaned it, wiped every surface and cleaned it all with various products. Then unpacked the rear seats from storage, removing their wrappings and refitted them all. Various configuration available of course. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(200).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(201).HEIC Inside front cleaned up nicely. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(199).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(198).HEIC On 17 November we were here. https://i294.photobucket.com/albums/...ps7mbiwjqc.jpg And of course where we stand now. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(197).HEIC So once I remove the personal plate, it will be put to the market. I still have the lowering springs as well as the set of Mercedes Benz wheels and new tyres to move on. But it’s bedtime now. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Wheels.
A very personal choice. I am still in two minds, both are my minds and opinions about the Cragar wheels currently fitted to the truck. They are 17’s and need to be cleaned for me to really form an opinion, the whole truck needs a decent valet to get it up to scratch. It comes with a full lowering setup, so the wheel arch gaps on the 17’s can be closed in, tyre sidewalls are 45 profile, and possibly could be increased a bit to change the illusion. The ride on the 17’s as they are is actually really comfortable, unlike some low profile setups. As it stands. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(182).HEIC What’s in the bag, well, loadbed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(58).JPG I saw these wheels a few times before on S10 trucks and like them, they are 15’s with a 65 profile. https://www.need-a-wheel.com/rim-sho...v=3e8d115eb4b3 https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(56).JPG Available to me. I think that they would look good on the truck, and allow it to function as well as the Cragars. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(64).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(63).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(61).JPG Same seller also has an original steering wheel available at sensible money. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(60).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(59).JPG Complete with connectors and cancellation gubbins as they would be removed when the sports steering was fitted in the past. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(65).JPG I am also hoping to find someone breaking a 2000-2002 model S10 Blazer for the front grille, which is actually chrome. Could look good. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(4).WEBP . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
.
Ps. I do have a video as well. Not sure if i should post ? . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
.
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Happy New Year Grizz. The carport is really coming together, I'm jealous. I like your new truck and I'm not sure if you were really soliciting opinions so much as making up your own mind. Someone tried to outfit that to bring it into a retro hot rod era. To me, it doesn't really fit. I like the Cragars, just not on that vehicle. Those other wheels you showed would be more appropriate as would removing the fleetside badges and the stripes, but that's all just opinion stuff. Good luck and God bless going into the new year.
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Happy New Year Grizz, I've not been on any forums for ages. I've had a Dodge Dart for a while but just sold that and looking forward to get for 59 Apache ready for this year that has sat neglected for a few years. Do you still have your C10? PSI had a 99 S10 ss step side a few years ago, great little truck.
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
Happy New Year to you and yours too. Thank you, the carport had come out well, better than expected. Credit to you and all the guys who had input and kept the standard so high. I absolutely love Cragars, but more so maybe on some muscle cars out there. The Fleetside badges are drilled and fixed through the bedside. So staying. Stripes have kinda grown on me the last week, fortunately they are removable . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
Great to see you here. I kept an eye on you on R&S, but stopped posting on there due to some dickwads on there. I absolutely still have the C10, and it will get done. Nicola left me, and it killed my head and spirit, and soul tbh, so I left it alone, nice thing about these cars and trucks is that they do wait for you. I wanted this for so long. Be nice to have both in the garage. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
.
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Your absolutely right they do wait for you and its like having a new project and you forget all the good work you'd done previously. So far mines been to Le Mans classic 3 times with no breakdowns, that's a 1200 mile round trip each time. I've just been on rock autos and order some service parts.
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Nice score! Only minimal tlc and personal touches needed to keep that one cool and fun for years to come.
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
1200 miles is reliable for sure. Quote:
Absolutely agree that only fine tuning is needed. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
.
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
It's a neat truck. I hope it serves you well.
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
The more I touch it, the more I like it. I feel fortunate to have found it, all in it was a good spec ex-factory, nd then the extras added over the years have made it a very neat truck. Still a few things to do. And enjoy it when the weather turns a bit. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
.
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
You have room to move about now, the carport looks really good. I keep checking the gas pump to see the new globe on. :lol:
The Cragars cleaned up really good. Nice work. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
Gas pump will happen, still need to get power outside of the garage, till that happens....... Cragars need a new home :mm: |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Did you find out what the switch powered?
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
But it turns off everything in the dash. Gear selection indicator and mileage as well as gauges. But engine keeps going. 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 ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Good call on turning loose of the trailer, or caravan. Now you have lots of space in your carport. Lots of detail there, coming together nicely. If you decide you want to get rid of the fleetside badges on the S10, you could get plastic ”automotive trim plugs”, I think if you search that or trim retainers you will see what I mean, and pop those into the holes. With a little touch up paint I think they would be unobtrusive. I'm having to do that all along my pickup box where the previous owner screwed in cargo tie down anchors. Big ones. The kind of thing you could tie a boat to.
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
Yes, caravan took up a lot of real estate Friend who took is does accident repair and custom bodywork I asked him how much to repaint the front grill, he offered to do it in exchange for the caravan I had already given him I will rather leave the badges, despite not liking them, the holes are random, and unless its a flawless removal, I wont do it. My C10 had a tonneau cover and all the stud holes need welding up. |
| All times are GMT -4. The time now is 04:13 PM. |
Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.
Copyright 1997-2022 67-72chevytrucks.com