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Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So today was a rough one from a work point of view.
Busy Started by 07.30 with online training. Then from 09.00 more Teams based clinical trial review. I also had a business review booked for 13.00 This stuff does my head in. So my lunch hour was committed to my own mental health. Based on looking under the hood on Sunday, I knew there were a few bits to be done. K&N air cleaner, divides opinions https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(17).PNG I discovered a long crack that had been partly repaired in the radiator cowl. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(283).HEIC I was fortunate to be offered an upper half of one , price to be confirmed, same seller who has the steering wheel. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(61).jpg Screwdriver to the fore. K&N filter undone and removed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(281).HEIC Can you say FILTHY DIRTY. And rather large. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(282).HEIC I also opened the other end to see if the throttle plate needed any attention. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(280).HEIC Clean as a whistle. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(279).HEIC I was also having advice from my good friend Ric Grassmick who lives in Arizona, and dailies and Autocrosses one of these trucks. His day job is as an auto mechanic, so the right guy to speak to. He also advised I look up the connector tube toward the MAF sensor at the divider plate, tooling for two potential caterpillars These are a pair of very small resistor coils that may need cleaning. He even sent a drawn diagram of what I needed to look for. Looking up from the airflow straightener https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(286).HEIC I will get to these tomorrow in daylight, https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(78).JPG Then back into the house. Using Mr Muscle oven and grease cleaner to loosen the oil and grime the water ended up pretty soup-like. Three repeats and some Fairy liquid, dishwashing soap and a couple of kettles of hot water saw it a lot cleaner and the water pretty murky. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(284).HEIC Then put out to dry. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(62).jpg I got a K&N cleaning and oiling set, known as a “Recharger kit” from Euro car parts, and delivered to the local mechanics a mile from home.for £10.00 which was cheaper than anywhere else. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(287).HEIC I will oil the filter tomorrow and reassemble the cold air induction kit. Finally on my way home from picking up the oil, I saw a nice sunset. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(285).HEIC More tomorrow. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Cleaned my K&N air filter setup yesterday and oiled it today.
Made a quick random YouTube clip as I thought it may be helpful to people like me who have not done it before. https://youtu.be/Y1MNY0ibuiY Hope its useful to some. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
Couple more from my car. Exactly the same spot. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(288).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(289).HEIC |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Postman rang today.......
Delivery of my pair of used, £25.00 or $34.00 clear indicator lenses and bodies. When buying, I had to choose between paying £50.00 or $68.00 for a pair, showing out of stock in many places, or buying a used pair, that nobody would care about in a day or two after I fitted them. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(290).HEIC Into the kitchen, grab a vegetable Knife and pry apart the one lense that showed old glue on the join. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(63).jpg Cleaned up the body and the lense, removing the old glue and general muckyness. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(291).HEIC Then onto some rubbing compound, just to refresh the plastics. And yes, you could see the difference between them. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(79).JPG One on the left was already done, one on the right, not done. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(293).HEIC Once both are done, there is not much difference to be seen, but I know it is done, which makes me happy. Washed them, will glue the lense in place later. Fit them over the weekend some time....... https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(292).HEIC Happy ? Me? Of course. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Rain
Rain Rain Outside the house people continued to drive like idiots, loads of surface water. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(294).HEIC So not much progress outside. However, I did go digging for something, and ended up with some other things https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(64).jpg Also discovered that this will be the right product for resealing the lense to the body of the indicator. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(30).PNG Lunch was a cuppa soup and some of my home made Beef Biltong (not quite Jerky) https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(297).HEIC Doorbell rang, postman with a hand full of small parcels Included were these from @rich Thank you. Chromed light bulbs to go into the new indicator lenses in order for them not to look like fried eggs with the yellow regular bulbs. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(296).HEIC Also included were the clear side repeaters and a third parcel with flea poison, I did not realise it was not for me, just opened it, then realised I did not have a dog, not had one for 25 years. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(298).HEIC Lastly, had to go grab some food and came upon these guys........ https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(295).HEIC Hopefully there will be a break in the weather by the weekend so that I can refit the air intake, and change out the lights. Easy peasy. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Rain seems to have dried up overnight, with much more predicted along with possibly some snow and cold for the weekend.
So this morning it was dry and not too cold, so by 07.30 I was outside to grab the opportunity to refit the air filter and check a few more bits out. I was also chatting with Dennis in Missouri as he could not sleep, getting tips on the things to look out for and little things to touch on while getting this truck to an even better place than it already is. Big old hole where the filter and ducting goes, it is also isolated to keep the truck getting cold air, rather than warm air from the engines heat. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(299).HEIC Refitted and mounted in a way that has it hanging loose, rather than chafing against any of the body or engine parts. Looks better, hopefully the clean will benefit the engine. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(301).HEIC While I was there, I thought getting a record of these stickers that do not come off, would be sensible, as I will be fitting a replacement radiator cowl. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(66).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(65).jpg And identified another weekend job........ Can you guess. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(300).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(302).HEIC Yup, drain the radiator, flush it well, and refill with fresh green stuff. Along with the other jobs lined up for it, as long as I get some gaps in the weather. PS. It is Friday after all. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So the rain has set in for the weekend it seems.
I had hoped to get some jobs done today and tomorrow, but that’s not happening. So I reassembled the drivers indicator lense using this claimed to be special, adhesive. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(303).HEIC Assembled, cleaned and put aside to dry. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(304).HEIC Then went out to try get the side repeaters fitted..... Very different, went to motor factors, no luck in finding amber bayonet fitting type bulbs as the fittings are not pinch type. Also the actual stalk fitting on the new oval ones are thicker, and on receiving them I realised I don’t really like them, neither size nor design. So ordered a new set of fittings for pinch type bulbs to be soldered in place next week........ https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(306).HEIC And once I got home, sitting chatting with @craigrk decided to get a different set of lenses as I preferred these much more, they also suit the crystal style of the front end more. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(67).jpg While in the parts store, also bought 5 liters of concentrated antifreeze, as I am going to drain the cooling system and the heater channels and refresh all of the fluids. Did I mention the truck was a keeper? Bought the long life stuff. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(305).HEIC Waiting for the weather to change. Lastly.......... Question time: 16” wheels fitted with 195/55 tyres. Any ideas as to what they are etc. Terrible advertising on FB marketplace gives no more information. Not on this BMW wheels site afaik http://www.bmwstylewheels.com/ https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(31).PNG Thanks. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
[quote author="@tineca" source="/post/2653307/thread" timestamp="1610753749"]Just for interest
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DROF-JEEP...edirect=mobile [/quote] Made me chuckle. Ever seen a Ford reverse really fast? Becomes a DROF https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(35).PNG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(32).PNG This is less finessed and refined than the Jago or Eagle though. Will be a bargain for someone. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So today was my birthday
Yesterday was Sally’s and my 100 weeks anniversary How this girl has not killed me, nobody knows She had to work from 07.00 which meant being up by 05.00 It may not be apparent, but we do live separately in different homes. What this meant though, was that I got to spend my day in a way that I really love to spend special days....... Alone, at home, and working on something I either want to or love to work on. Sally came around after work at about 5.00pm so I cooked us a quick butter chicken curry on 2 minute rice. Desert was a 1/4 of a magnificent Maltese’s chocolate cake, and a nice cuppa coffee. A good day indeed. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So doing stuff on your birthday that makes you happy?
In my case, today was started off with a quick 6.45 minute School of YouTube lesson on how to remove the headlights, indicators and grille on an S10 Truck in 4’C or 40’F temperature without breaking anything, especially mounting tabs. Reflection on the iPad screen is the very rough, English style Pebble Dash plaster on my 1921 built home. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(331).HEIC Thought I would start with the passenger headlight as its fastening tabs are stuck between the battery and radiator core support and kinda tight for my large hands. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(329).HEIC Good start...... bodgeworks always a good place to start. The indicators, position lights etc may have been changed when the truck had its first UK MOT road test in 2006 where I know it failed due to the lack of side repeater lamps amongst other things. I will fix these things as I discover them. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(328).HEIC Lights out.... Followed by indicators. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(330).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(327).HEIC Old and new indicator lenses. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(323).HEIC And then BURGER !!!! Indicator bulbs are “pinch pull” or whatever they are called, so the chrome bayonet items @rich had sent were not going to get used here. Need to get some from the local motor factors. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(322).HEIC Grille off and headed for the garage to take apart https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(334).HEIC So with the grille removed, the next job was to disassemble it it to its final component form for cleaning and processing. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(324).HEIC 20 years of life as we know it, on the grille that was apparently originally painted body colour in a matte finish has left it looking pretty sorry for itself. Closer up. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(321).HEIC As I kept disassembling, I found more and more bits I did not like. To that needed bits of attention to get to a look I preferred. More in a bit. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
After removing the grille, I noticed just how grubby and greasy the centre support was.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(326).HEIC The bonnet/hood release cable looked like a challenge for about 15 seconds. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(70).jpg A 13mm socket and 3 bolts later...... https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(69).jpg Wire brush, white spirit wipe down, two coats of black primer, two coats of Stealth Black Wheel paint, JOB DONE. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(325).HEIC Once the paint had dried, I generously applied some spray on White Lithium grease, which once reassembled clearly made the hood release work much more smoothly. I also put some on the threads of the bolts before returning them to where they came from. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(318).HEIC Refitted, release cable reconnected, looked loads better. You will also notice just how clean the front slam panel actually is, almost no rust, just a bit of staining which could be polished away. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(317).HEIC Interesting way the light and house shadow fell at the drivers door. Making the rear look distinctly grey and insipid https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(311).HEIC Another job that I decided to do today was to “FIX” the front grille badge, at least until I get around to ordering one from the USA or if I can get @craigrk to do a clever 3D print for me. It had delamination of the gold leaf in the badge, as well as a crack. Any fix would be an improvement imho. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(320).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(316).HEIC Final result after about 5 coats. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(307).HEIC Happy so far. It is way past my bedtime. A few more bits tomorrow for those following closely. Weekend over too, thanks for checking in. Later. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Final post for yesterdays work done.
When I bought the truck, the bonnet/hood was standing proud on the passenger side by about 8-10mm The previous owner had told me he had repainted the drivers fender and hood, due to some paint damage and lacquer peeling. This was not a problem for me, at 20 years old, the truck still looks better than may 3 year olds. Dennis who has his body shop in St Louis, Missouri has worked on many of these S10 trucks back in the day, had told me these trucks had very little room for adjustment of panel gaps if disassembled or found not to be aligned. So it was with trepidation I decided to give it a go, to see if I could improve the alignment. Started with this. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(333).HEIC Played with these. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(314).HEIC You can see this side fender has been loosened and refitted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(313).HEIC This side got to go down a bit. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(310).HEIC And this side keeps me happy for now...... https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(308).HEIC Result. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(311).HEIC Happy with that for now. While cleaning up the stainless steel front grille embellishers I saw these markings on the rear. The other one showed “top” to define which one fits where. I am guessing an enthusiast at some point made these up for the truck. They came up lovely with steel polish as well. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(319).HEIC And finally, I had a few challenges from various people about the position of the K&N filter, with people freaking out that it was going to suck up tons of surface water. So overdrawn on the pic, is where the filter actually sits inside the engine bay. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(68).jpg Not sure if I mentioned, the grille was delivered in a carpark last night, socially distanced and all that. More as it happens. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Thank you @PhilA for grabbing these Chrome Amber bulbs in Louisiana, USA.
Looking forward to getting them into the truck too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(336).HEIC Was in the garage today because I needed a bit of time after they announced redundancies to be effective mid February, and get is a waste of energy, so I went to remove some lights from the wall that will go into the carport until I get the planned LED units up. Found this claxon style hooter in one of the C10 parts boxes. It may be fun in the S10 https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(340).HEIC I also reassembled the front grille badge. Looks OK like this. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(336).HEIC Closer up. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(335).HEIC Absolutely pleased with the outcome so far. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Cannot seem to be able to edit the previous posting, as one pic was wrongly loaded.
Thank you @PhilA for grabbing these Chrome Amber bulbs in Louisiana, USA. Looking forward to getting them into the truck too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(82).JPG Was in the garage today because I needed a bit of time after they announced redundancies to be effective mid February, and get is a waste of energy, so I went to remove some lights from the wall that will go into the carport until I get the planned LED units up. Found this claxon style hooter in one of the C10 parts boxes. It may be fun in the S10 https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(340).HEIC I also reassembled the front grille badge. Looks OK like this. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(336).HEIC Closer up. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(335).HEIC Absolutely pleased with the outcome so far. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Only one small thing done to the truck today.
It will split opinions, do I care?? Errrrmmm..... Nope. Proud. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(341).HEIC |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Love the little parcels.
New side repeater lenses landed. Too big again, do I drill the holes bigger or modify the lenses...... https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(344).HEIC Indicator light bulbs landed too. These amber units were ordered before @phila got me the chrome ones for the truck. Can you see what is wrong. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(343).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(345).HEIC Currently a big thing.... Showing asss. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(346).HEIC Another thing I have looked forward to for over a year was to fit one of my custom cast gas pedals. These will possibly split opinion. 50 years ago guys made these in shop, they were everywhere. I always loved them, and to me this one, custom cast by my good friend Andy Martin in Terlton near Tulsa Oklahoma is even more valued as it reminds me of my road trips, friends here in theUK and also in America. A certain nod to great memories. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(347).HEIC Life is good, remember that gang. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
[quote author="@mk3rob" source="/post/2650641/thread" timestamp="1609660940"]Definitely get some rust protection on the underside. You can pretty much watch S10s rust!
Mine had 2 rear seats and I have to say you can ride with 3 people in proper comfort! I rode in the rear seat a couple of times after concerts etc when our lass drove and it was really comfy! The ZQ8 stuff is really sought after and at times not so easy to get hold of so hold onto that! [/quote] 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 living here in England poses it’s own challenges when owning a 20 year old American pickup truck. Parts for one, and even maintenance as you cannot just drop it off at a local dealer to get things serviced or repaired. Part of the pleasure than becomes figuring stuff out, researching, asking questions or guys like @pauly over for a coffee pretending you do not need their technical or physical expertise ( just how hard to hit a control arm, or whatever with a 5 pound hammer in winter) Finding hard to get bits, gets harder when it is a slightly less common model too. So my truck came with a set of Cragar S/S 2 piece, 17” in 8J wheels, including a spare, 255/45 17 Nankang tyres, all with almost full tread etc. Perfect wheels for daily use. But I did not like them, and always coveted the LQ8 5 spoke 16” 8J alloys some trucks came fitted with. Actually do not recall seeing any in the uK on trucks, ever. So I was looking out for alternatives, and had kinda settle and made peace with getting thick adapters and going with a set of Range Rover Mondials in 18” or a full set of 17” 7J BMW steels. I was on an American FB S10 group, asking about tyre choice for the 7J wheels when I got a message from a U.K. based GMC S15 Sonoma owner...... Surprise ! He had owned his for some time, but during the whole 2020 COVID-19 shut down, had stripped it down and was doing a 1939 Willys shark nose truck rebody, he had sold all the body panels except the rear bed and still had a set of 4 LQ8 wheels, with some tyres fitted, tyres could be fried though. Would I be interested in those as an alternative to the Mondials and BMW steels? He had not realised these were my personal Holy Grail of wheels, as I was trying to do the truck justice as it is in such good condition. Adding originality as far as I could, with a few cosmetic tweaks, We have spent about two hours on FB Messenger video (a first for him, he is 67 and not a techie) getting to know each other. And of course agreed to me buying the wheels from him, not cheaply, but certainly a fair price I was prepared to pay. Collection based on current lockdown uncertainty to be in the next three years or more. Stock photos from Google. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(83).JPG And what my truck would look like. I am super pleased, yes there are other options, other lols, and prettier wheels, but it’s what I wanted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(84).JPG Looking at these in the USA, even the price per one, wheel plus tax, duty, real world shipping etc makes for an expensive transaction. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(37).PNG Even just the centre caps would not be cheap from eBay and once you get stung with tax and import duties on top of shipping, this was not the route I planned on going. Just to give an idea of their cost to me. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(72).jpg And an afterthought, speaking of COVID-19 https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(71).jpg Later guys, back to day job stuff, Friday today..... Weekend soon. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
I asked for a few pics on one of the S10 groups, great response and chats ensued.
Wanting to see just how much dish they show. I was not disappointed https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(91).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(90).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(89).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(88).JPG MARMITE See it for what it is. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(87).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(86).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(85).JPG And lastly, this one, I like. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(94).JPG Yup..... looking forward to these wheels. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Next bit of crazy, on the back burner for the moment, but it is on simmer.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(95).JPG Look again..... https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(96).JPG Horney Horney Horney https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(97).JPG What those are attached to. So can I make one up myself, just need 15mm rebar or solid rid and an Oxy-Acetelyne flame to warm and bend to shape, then drill, tap and fit in place of the original. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(93).JPG And then...... My shifter, knob is part of a cast in place plastic rubber unit. Stanley Knife, cut off, fit the new aluminium shifter knob https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(350).HEIC Another random posting that surfaced after someone in the USA saw my dash and enquired. Thats expensive.in my book, but personally, I like it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(92).JPG |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Carport news.
This morning after trying unsuccessfully to contact some clients, I put on the kettle for a coffee. Then thought that while that came to the boil, I would take the 6 steering wheels, boss’s and a quick release that I have brought up to the house last night, for the wheels guy to look at, back to where they live, Got there, packed them away, and then looked up...... Still need to gutter the woodwork shed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(348).HEIC Was given a length of rain gutter by the guy I bought the S10 from as he had a pile of offcusts and I needed a bit. So blocked the end with half a margarine tub lid (It is going under cover completely, and also strapped it with Ducktape after glueingit in place. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(349).HEIC Then created some pretty horrible, underslung wooden supports to rest it, and my length that I already had, glued the overlapped, down tilted join and tested it. Works a charm. Next job will be to create a 30th offshoot to carry the water back into the garden behind the compressor room. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(351).HEIC More dry workspace guaranteed |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Happy birthday to you and Sally. I like the wheels you got for your truck, good grab. The previous owner was trying to work a theme with some of the custom things he did along with those Cragars. While I like the Cragars, I think they look better on earlier vehicles.
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Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
Morning mate Thank you very much. Yes, agreed on the theme of mods. I also absolutely agree on older style stuff on Cragars, they are fine on the truck, but I needed a change. Also, the Cragars are tired, some chrome damage etc. Anyone remember this....l? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(80).jpg Got collected in the dark two weeks ago. Ross runs a custom/insurance repair body shop. I had asked him how much and if he would paint the trucks grille to Cody colour for me. When he fetched the little caravan, he said he would paint the grille for me, free of charge. So when I had disassembled the grille, he got it and some paint and said he would get onto it ASAP. Pretty pleased he was doing it, as he has all the kit and materials on site, and could do it on the side. Last night a bunch of pics landed, along with a message. Prepped it. Primer. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(76).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(79).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(78).jpg Then some colour coats. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(73).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(74).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(77).jpg First clear coat went on. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(75).jpg A few more clear coats to go on and some decent drying. Then back to me. Reassembled and Refitted. Looking forward to the front end coming together, cleat lenses and side repeaters included. So what can I do today to keep busy? |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Messed around with the truck, and in the garage today
Tried to find the two original hooters so that I could reroute the power to the Klaxon. Failed on that as it seems they are obscured behind the inner arch and wheel arch liner. I could be very wrong. So plan B will be to find a sensible, safe, dry mounting point for the horn and to route the power into the truck. Get a decent push button and add it to this little blanking plate. Also move the toggle switch for the rear fog light from below the dash to this area. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(354).HEIC So I want to find another one of these s a spare for the truck in case someone wants to -it it back to standard one day. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(353).HEIC Fog light, works but body is rotten. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(355).HEIC Something I was not aware of when buying the ZQ8 wheels, was that they come with locking nuts ( I hate them) and the seller wanted to keep them for himself. Not sure Iever worked with nuts like these before. Outside thread locks the centre cap in place. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(82).jpg And then of course, just to make it more interesting, they have covering caps to find too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(81).jpg I think I have sourced some wheel nuts from the guy selling me the airbag steering wheel. So, bit by bit the truck is coming together. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Chilly day outside today.
View from London this morning, photo credit to Aaron French. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(98).JPG Sally was working all day from 07.00 so it was up to me to entertain myself. Had a long chat with @craigrk about travel, cars and other things including the snow that started falling, quickly adding a lovely blanket on amongst others, Lil his 47 Chevrolet https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(83).jpg Once we were done, I showered and headed out to fill the car up and get some food. Then home, watched a bit of recoded telly, got very bored very quickly. Also surfed the web, and dug around on EBay.com to look for wind deflectors for the truck. I have never had them, or wanted them on a car, but these trucks actually seem to suit them. Got to look closely. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(88).JPG Hardly visible on the truck that looks like mine. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(84).JPG Finding some for sale, I realised that I would be doing without them for the foreseeable future, based on the price of shipping. Take a look at the fine print. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(38).PNG So thought what could I do, as it was raining intermittently and playing outside was not ideal. Ahhh yes, we have a Chevy S10 , still waiting for its front grille to be completed and returned. Patience needed there. Truck is on the driveway, so what can be done, that won’t have me wet in a hurry. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Cuppa coffee, cookies.
Out of the house, brrrrr... chilly fresh. So the key to keeping busy. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(367).HEIC Every time I look up under the truck, I am amazed at how clean it is. Keyway. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(360).HEIC Not too impressive https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(361).HEIC I had been warned that the underslung spare wheel on these trucks could have a failure of their wind up, hanging mechanism. So I decided that was a dry job I could do today. 20 years under the load bed would make most of us look a bit tired. Wonder where this gravel could be from, Missouri, Norwich...... https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(369).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(368).HEIC Washed and scrubbed. Amazing, as a 16” wheel, how tall it actually is against the wheelarch. [https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(359).HEIC Cold and wet, carried down to the garage and used a heat gun to dry it and warm up the steel. Quick bit of a sanding and a wipe down, followed by primer, more drying with the heat gun. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(362).HEIC Inside of the rim painted, did not bother with masking this side. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(356).HEIC While waiting for the paint to dry naturally, I went up and crawled around again and greased up the cable, spring and mechanism with lithium grease. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(366).HEIC After a coffee, I went to check the pressure, certain to be low. Correct. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(358).HEIC Pumped up to prescribed pressure. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(357).HEIC And back to the truck. Much better. Fitted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(363).HEIC At least this made me feel that my day was not completely wasted. Weekend over, again. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Post man dropped by today.
Small parcel. After all the various opinions and input on here and elsewhere, I decided that a white front placement lamp and an amber indicator would satisfy the jobsworth, anal and anyone else whose farts don’t smell. So I ordered a set of “Switchback” lamps on Friday evening. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(370).HEIC Tried them out, and impressed no end. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(371).HEIC Once the colour matched grille is back, I will reassemble it and the clear lenses. Should look good. In the mean time I have also investigated colours for the ZQ8 wheels, they are often Silver, Anthracite and rarely gold with machined faces. I really like this look. Not sure how it will look on the truck I have. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(99).JPG Think about it. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
When I bought the truck, there were a few little things I wanted to change.
Not one of them was necessary, just a personal itch to scratch. Aesthetically I really wanted to get rid of the amber position/indicator lights. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(259).HEIC So I mentioned that I was looking for a set of clear indicator lenses to buy, preferably not in the USA Next thing, Simon Mayes from Essex offered the set from his truck as he was going to convert his to smoked lenses. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(72).JPG So these arrived, £25.00 posted. Pleased as punch. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(74).JPG Also on the cards were the amber side repeaters, to be done once the light fittings get delivered. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(275).HEIC After much thinking and consideration due to all the various opinions being raised, I bought set no 3 of lamps, LED Switchbacks, clear driving lights most of the time, and amber indicators when needed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(371).HEIC I was getting quite excited at the thought of reassembling the front end. In other news, I need to get a tow ball to fit the rear step. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(86).jpg I may have one in the garage. Photo from 8 years ago when I fitted this one to the C10, which has subsequently removed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(5).WEBP It may just still be in my garage somewhere to be found, if it fits the hole, we are sorted on this. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So part two of the new smile on the S10’s face reported.
Ross took the grille and the paint that the seller had supplied when I bought it to go paint it to body colour for me. This morning I had to be in a shopping centre, so we met in the carpark and he responsibly handed it to me, before heading to work. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(372).HEIC Massive improvement on where we started with the 20 year old grille. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(373).HEIC Stainless central bars refitted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(375).HEIC So from this when removed.......... https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(334).HEIC To this finish today. Centre bar refitted, and looking at it outside, I was again pleased. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(374).HEIC Grille refitted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(379).HEIC Clear indicator lenses fitted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(378).HEIC Headlights fitted. BUT.......... Wrongly placed, will need to go redo them tomorrow. Missed a side tab that would seat them fully squarely. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(377).HEIC 1/4 front view. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(376).HEIC |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Sleepless nights.........
Usually work or backache causes it. Not last night. Observation within minutes of posting on an S10 group on FB and showing mate @craigrk summarised below. Had me wonder whether I would get it sorted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(40).PNG Woke to this.... Photo taken while @pauly and I spoke with him herding his wild bunch over a muddy field https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(380).HEIC Day job kept me busy from before 08.00 Been thinking also where would I find a low level canopy to fit the truck.... something like this. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(101).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(100).JPG Around 11.00 I made a coffee and took it out to the truck. Headlights fitted. BUT.......... Wrongly placed, will need to go redo them tomorrow. Missed a side tab that would seat them fully squarely. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(377).HEIC So with the drivers side light refitted and the passenger side still to be done, it became obvious how wrong it was. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(381).HEIC Challenge if course was to get too lower tabs in, and push the two tabs through the holes in the front panel and slide home the two sliding retainers Note the space, battery clamped in place...... So how do you get dozen into this slot without removing the battery? Using the handle of a long steel fork, I twisted it so push/force the wiring and its sheath away, then gripping in a death grip with some extra long rat nosed pliers, I slipped the hole over the pin and then slid the slot down it. Home dry. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(87).jpg Job done, much happier, I think. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(382).HEIC So I had to wait for the new battery to be delivered, then I could test the lights up front. I also got onto another small repair job. Specifically a redneck repair. Unlikely to be guessed. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Remember this.....??
Armrest come backrest when you go three up front. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(235).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(232).HEIC So I removed it today. Removed all the old manky, sticky foam and backing sticker in the kitchen. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(391).HEIC This truck was originally a Missouri truck, so rather than use some flat sheet metal, I thought one of the license plates from Dennis seemed a better idea. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(389).HEIC Cut and bent to fit the interior, and this will support the inside of the armrest. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(390).HEIC And then glued in place using a couple of G-clamps, backing plates to keep it all in place a 5 litre jug of water, earmarked for the radiator flush and recharge, but perfect to keep it all tight while the glue dries overnight. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(386).HEIC I am sure that this will make the armrest feel solid, rather than squidgy when I do use it, either as a rest or as a pivot when getting in or out the car. Refit some time tomorrow when it is well dried. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Perfectly timed delivery when I walked up to the house.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(387).HEIC Unbolted the old battery. Removed it....... Found a puddle, and a small rubber mat. Not good. Anyone got a good battery tray to sell, or am I making my own ? Done it before for the C10 relocated battery https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(388).HEIC Plan is to remove the battery and tray sometime, clean up, weld up and seal and paint the tray. After fitting the new battery of course the best part was starting the engine up, and testing the lights, and indicators. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(385).HEIC Happy to say that they really look much better in real life. Money and time so well spent. Indicator. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(384).HEIC After 11.00pm methinks its bedtime. Thanks for checking in and all your comments. Later. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Went shopping in it today.
Big grin all the way. Bought some resistors. Fitting tomorrow if weather and Sally permits. Also got a toot and thumbs up on the way home. Perfect. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Marmite.
Chalk n Cheese. Give and Take. Wheels from other brands. Still have the hots for a set of these, I see they come as low as £120.00 for 4 with or without tyres. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(91).jpg So with the 5x120 size here, a lot of non-GM wheels will be needing spacers to place them right in the arches. Yesterday afternoon around 5.00pm I saw some 5x120 BMW 20mm spacers with a 72mm centre bore on Marketplace for £20.00 including 9 bolts about 10 miles from here. The S10 uses Nuts, not bolts, so missing one was fine, and these can be used for trading again at some point. Contacted the seller to say I was interested but could only collect today if I went out for some hardware, and that he should sell them if another buyer came up. “Where do you live, I am headed out for some food shopping in a few minutes” Told him where I lived, and he said he would run by and just drop them off on the driveway en route to the grocery store. So half an hour later I traded, a pack of Haribo Mix for his kids in the car and some cash for him. Saved me 20 miles driving and specific planning. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(397).HEIC Nice way to end my day........; now to find something interesting to fit for winter wheels. (No, absolutely do not need them, you are right) Went to bed late, woke too early, by 05.00 so sat chatting with Dennis in St Louis about life and the 66 NASCAR C10 Truck build that is progressing. Later he went to bed and I went down for breakfast. Pleasant surprise outside. Rain had stopped, thankfully, as I had a few plans for today. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(396).HEIC Plan one for today was to fit the resistors over the LED indicator wires. One on each side. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(400).HEIC Front end disassembled again, easier every time as you learn your way around this truck. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(399).HEIC Outside was 3’C and shady, plus there was a brisk breeze, cutting through 4 layers, that was less than pleasant. This is the mess I found. Remember the wiring on the Blazer? That was certainly worse, and I got that lot tidied up. Tried to get the soldering iron warm enough to undo the joins the cowboy who did the original wiring “modifications” had done was fun, it actually did not get warm enough. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(398).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(92).jpg Mate Martin had given advice remotely as well, as he speaks electrics in his sleep. But a bit of a struggle for my little brain overall. @craigrk suggested I remove all the mess and use some of these plugs units. So I ordered them off eBay for delivery next weekend.and will solder in new wires and connections. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(42).PNG Reassembled. Amber bulbs fitted temporarily. https://youtu.be/jyv9UAEtv4Q After this I came in to warm up and also had a delivery. One more small job left to do a bit later. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Been a bit busy with the day job.
Small jobs. This one took about 6 minutes in total. . https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(404).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(401).HEIC I hear @pauly clapping now. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(402).HEIC And they are ready to be off to Hampshire https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(403).HEIC And in their place will be a set of original manufacturers specification lights. Personal choice yes. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(43).PNG Remember how pitted my battery tray was, lots of holes rusted through. Reached out to Robert, they guy selling me an original steering wheel, and asked if he maybe had one in better condition. He went through his scrap pile nd found this one, needs a bit of cleaning and painting, but looks better than mine. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(105).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(103).JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(104).JPG Saw this truck for sale on FB today. In case someone needs one. 145k miles and £6750.00 https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(44).PNG And so that is all for today. Bit by bit. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Covid-19 has taught us to work more sensibly, if not cleverly.
Everything done remotely, and with little more concern, circumspection and care. So buying the wheels for the truck....... paid remotely yesterday. Got it all piled up outside a garage at a post code, collection and pickup arranged by someone who happens to be doing a disability conversion for hand controls in a paraplegics car a few houses away. Clever, or blind luck? Got to see what I have bought by messenger video today, terrible video quality, but happy to have seen it anyways. Note the original rear lights, wheel nut caps and centre caps all in the pic as well. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(47).PNG Tyre treads seem to be pretty decent, not needing replacement at this point. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(46).PNG BONUS TIME: Steve the seller is also giving me a GMC Grille and headlights, which could work on my truck with minimal modifications. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(45).PNG He also has a 4.3 V6 and Auto gearbox to sell. PM me for details. Then Steve dropped the bombshell........ Gear-lever came off, and I have left the Torx screw on it, in case you have a problem with yours. He remembered I was looking into changing mine recently and has given me his. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(48).PNG I want to strip the rubbed knob off, and fit this new ally knob. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(106).JPG Somehow the little grub screws are missing, but you get the idea. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(409).HEIC Pretty pleased tonight. Little by Little it is getting together. Chuffed. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
The Fleetside badges on the sides of the truck have been a thorn in my side from day one, mainly because they are both drilled through in 4 places.
I am kinda ambivalent about the aesthetic, but the holes bug the living hell out of me. And I will not be welding them up or closing them, and repainting the whole truck. So making the best of it came together today. Chatting with Fil in Cambridge who fetched the Rezin Rockit, after his offer of a new rear bed mat for the truck, his suggestion of a tongue in cheek name for the truck resonated, and set in motion some work and research Quote:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(408).HEIC 400mm long https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(407).HEIC Wedge shaped and flat faced, pic taken tonight as part of the planning. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(410).HEIC So the attention turned to CraigRK and Andy in Tulsa Oklahoma, both capable 3D printers. Could they print and Cast me a new set of silly custom side badges to fit over the holes with some double sided tape. Something along this style. Of course it may be a divider, but hey, life is interesting. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(49).PNG Let’s see where this goes. .PS: Fill said that he likes the Rumble of the V6, lets see if it can be improved if I can find an electric cutout switch for the exhaust, fitted before the muffler/silencer. Could be a nice sound................... A BIT LIKE THIS https://youtu.be/Fwf1M-irmG0 Another one https://youtu.be/aVbvZmJ82uY Just enough of an antisocial tone. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So many things on this truck, which really was meant to just be a get in and drive it type of ownership project has changed.
Typically things changed. And then, little by little it started to open itself up to me, allowing me to discover its secrets, its quirks, its character, ZQ8 factory build. Things have kinda fallen in place, sure, I made some effort too, in fact I probably made a lot of effort in some cases. And one of the things that happened so randomly was being offered for sale, a 20 year old set of factory ZQ8 wheels with tyres. I never got to see them and still have not looked at them for real, but was told by Steve the seller that they did not have any kerb rash. That I will check out when I get to wash and clean them for inspection possibly tomorrow. With the current restrictions of travel, I had anticipated only getting my hands on them at some point when the house arrest is lifted. Step up mate Martin who is restoring a 1965 C10 truck His day job is working and converting all sorts of cars for disabled people, from paraplegics to amputees and everything inbetween Today he had a job up the street from Steve, so by 09.00 he had already stopped, picked up and driven off with the wheels. Always good to have a mobile job with a van. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(96).jpg Loaded. Steve also sent me a very good GMC S15 Sonoma Grille to use as a garage hanging. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(94).jpg After work I shot out for food shopping and stopped by to pick up my goodies and help Martin lift his 65 hood into place as he is moving house in the next two weeks. Again, sensibly he had prepared it all by the time I got there. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(420).HEIC The hood is LARGE, really lARGE. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(421).HEIC Job done. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(417).HEIC And wheels loaded. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(419).HEIC Looking closer, but not fully inspected, they will need repainting. So QUESTION TIME........ Powder coating, anyone do me shadow chrome on any wheels before ? Please show me and report on durability etc. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(416).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(415).HEIC One for a few of the guys, @pauly included, is the replacement, swapped out, 20 year old rear light lenses. They will be getting some serious attention from G3 rubbing compound to revitalise and shine up the lenses. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(418).HEIC Also in the bag were the good centre caps for the wheels, GMC items, unfortunately, available to trade for good Chevrolet items. A few wheel nut covers in plastic, need another 10 of them, and also 20 special wheel nuts with an external thread for the wheel nut caps, they in turn hold the centre caps in place. Lastly........ The BONUS item A spare gear shift lever from Steve’s truck, which will be a floor shift manual in future. I wanted one that I could modify, while retaining the original for refitting if ever needed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(98).jpg And to close out the day, a nice sunset again. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(414).HEIC Life is good, I may have mentioned this before. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So this morning I went out to see what my £200.00 or $260.00 had bought me.
Tyres, still have some life left in them. (Subject to getting changed at a whim) https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(425).HEIC These wheels will be needing a refurbishment, without doubt. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(101).jpg Lacquer peel and also oxidation on the diamond cut surfaces, in order to get them up to the standard the truck is presenting. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(104).jpg During my lunch hour I used a whole large bottle of Cif/ammonia based scrubbing agent along with two large, hard brushes to clean them one at a time. The two on the left are cleaned. Dirty on the right. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(102).jpg Also done today, at 07.00 when I got up, I cleaned the front and rears of these caps, 20 years worth of brake dust, muck etc took an hour to clean, but result was decent. Unfortunately I only got 11 wheel nut caps when I got the wheels, so will need to find or buy some more. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(99).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(100).jpg And unless I find a trade for some Chevrolet items in the UK, I may fill these debossed GMC logos with a resin based filler and sand them flat, followed by paint. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(424).HEIC What I would like to fit...... https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(111).JPG Hope to have it all done sooner than later. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Another quick job while on a Teams or was it Zoom meeting today, they get so tedious.
Sat with a big knife and my breadboard below the camera angle (my colleagues would be horrified) and cut the existing knob away. Then hit hard times. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(429).HEIC In fact, so hard that I had to go to the garage quickly to grind back the secondary knob as it was not going to let me cut it away. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(427).HEIC Grabbed some magic in a tube, mixed on the back of a pizza box, dribbled into the new ally shift knob, Followed by the shift lever. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(103).jpg Then set it to dry in the vice, brought it into the house later and laid it on the hot water radiator, hopefully to make it react faster to the heat. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(426).HEIC You recall the swapping of rear light units. Well, looking closer, these need some attention, grinder, DA, Compound I guess. Not today though. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(423).HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(422).HEIC Once flatted back, polished etc, they should look just fine. In another great Karma in action turn, I got a PM from @peteh1969 to ask if I was interested in some free 3D design work that @craigrk could print off, in order to create a more interesting cover for the holes in the bedsides of the truck. The print files would also be sent to Andy in Oklahoma to print and then create aluminium castings for the truck. So after sending me various designs and ideas, Pete finalised the one I had in mind. This should be fun, and a massive Thank You to Pete. Imagine these either in chrome paint, or the ally buffed to a nice shine. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/001(110).JPG Been a long day, I guess it is bedtime soon. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So many of the things I have done so far were not needed.
But they do make me feel good about the truck. Ordered a replacement for this manky piece too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(412).HEIC This lot arrived too. Though current weather completely precludes fitting. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(413).HEIC These also landed. Push fit blugs for the side repeaters. Guess we will now be drilling bigger holes in the fenders. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../001(411).HEIC Though......... Looking at the weather forecast it may be a slow week ahead. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...ix/001(50).PNG Still. Its Friday, 10 hours to the weekend. |
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