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Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Cool tools are always useful.
Cleaned off the primer where the welds will go. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7490.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...C57289CA7B.jpg Ready. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7492.HEIC Go………. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7494.HEIC And David took a couple of pics and a short clip of the welding when I was not swearing. Surprisingly easy welding when all the settings are right. https://youtu.be/DLXXg7dA-gw Next job, clean up welds, burned primer and paint work with primer. Hammerite later today hopefully. Colour…….? . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Half a field today.
Slim pickings. Screwdriver 50p Old pump 50p Stool £4.00 Bird nest 50p Leggings £1.00 each Nylock nuts n bolts £3.00 the lot https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7538.HEIC Todays technical question…… What do the numbers on these signify? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7539.HEIC Thanks. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Bought a few random bolts and Nyloc nuts this morning, £3.00 the lot, so replace some of the bolts on the car, may be that they are too big or thick to be honest, but then they can be added to the Quality Street tin of random fasteners.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(19).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7539.HEIC Responses already received on application. [quote author="@grizz" source="/post/2698096/thread" timestamp="1632044050"][quote author="@johnthesparky" source="/post/2698087/thread" timestamp="1632042539"]Not a straightforward answer to that I think. Mostly suspension uses 10.9 and 12.9 normally. This is stronger along the bolt but weaker in shear. This is the tricky bit for me, as when I think suspension I imagine all the extra weird forces when you go through a pothole and up a kerb that would potentially add a shear force to it. That’s why personally, because I don’t know better and am too lazy to work anything out, I’d match the original grade (but I think it would have been imperial? So the grades are different too, grade 5 and 7 normally I believe) my reasoning is that if it’s still on the road after 20 or 30 years it probably was about right. Other bolts will work but what happens when they actually fail [/quote][quote timestamp="1632043687" source="/post/2698093/thread" author="@westbay"]No, bumpers, engine brackets (not engine mounts), seats but not seat belts, 'low' stress items ... 10.9 , steering, brakes, suspension, basically anything with a high stress rate ...[/quote] Thanks guys. So I restarted the Knotwheel of death…. Got spiked a couple of times, hey-ho. It really cleaned up the welds nicely, removing flux etc too. Plus removing all the burned, heat damaged primer. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...G_7503(1).HEIC Sacrilegious https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7507.HEIC Done, and very pleased with the finish. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7520.HEIC Next up was a bit of playing around with @pauly ‘s roll bar from his Chevy. Seat in place for perspective, as well as the screen. It is clearly too wide as it is to be floor mounted, but will be once modified. It will go 220mm don below the sill and also backwards, in line with the “B-Pillar” with a slight tilt backwards so you can get in and out of the seat without being a contortionist. Make sense? The top of the roll bar should be about 100mm (plus its own thickness)above the seats headrest once all are bolted down, and at the same height as the top of the windscreen. Pics are just a basic mock up. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7512.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7510.HEIC Last thing I checked yesterday was the width of the steel wheels planned for this car. At 9” side to side, what is the minimum width one would start looking at, though that is not the objective. And I certainly do not want a load of stretch like the tyres currently fitted to them. I quite like a bit of chunky width. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7514.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(20).jpg Still got to decide what to do today, Sally is about to bead home, 2 miles down the road to work in her garden and cook Uncle Bobs dinners for the next couple of days. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So today I took a break, doing nothing.
Well, almost nothing. Guilt took over eventually, so I went to the garage and moved the chassis deeper into the carport, and moved the front end in next to it, and then the rear end to the front. Intending to start working on the bushes, removing them and refitting the new ones. Did not happen, started to look at the roll bar again. Then texted my friend Kevin on the farm, whom I knew has a 6.5 ton pipe bender……… He was busy rebuilding his guest house bathroom, but said “Come on over” so I loaded the bar into the truck and went over. 15 minutes later, the passenger side leg was bent to fit the space on the chassis where the original fitted. Remember this……. Horrible monstrosity of a roll cage. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...2b6228ab22.jpg Mounting points will be used. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(21).jpg Quick assembly and selecting the right piece. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7556.HEIC Pumping……. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7557.HEIC Started at 1440mm and 1330mm was the target. And done. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(22).jpg I then stayed another 45 minutes while he battled a bathroom cabinet that needed to be cut and shaped around a pipe. Then headed home to come play and see if the fit was successful. Tilted back, rear diagonal mocked up. It may end up a bit more upright once the seats are fitted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7561.HEIC Still needs to be squared up once the base plate is cut off and rewelded. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7562.HEIC |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
I haven't been on a while. Lots of cool stuff to see. You've made great progress on the chassis of the RR. Great job getting it clean and into a heavy duty primer. A lot of work, no doubt. But nice to know that you saved it from the elements and have preserved it in a way to last for a long time.
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Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
I am hoping that I do it justice. And also trying to future proof it all. [quote author="@bricol" source="/post/2698304/thread" timestamp="1632151626"][quote source="/post/2697881/thread" author="@grizz" timestamp="1631884038"]I do not understand the technical terms highlighted in orange. "Bump" - suspension travel upwards from normal ride height - think of it as when you go over a "bump". "Droop" - suspension travel downwards form normal ride height - if you jack a car up on the chassis, it takes a bit to get the wheel off the ground as the suspension "droops". Rule of thumb seems to be 2/3 of travel (minimum of 2" ish ) is in bump, with a 1/3 of travel in droop for a road going car. My trials special will have considerably more of each [/quote][/quote] Cannot remember who asked about the bump stops now. So I went and fitted the adapter, spacer and a wheel tonight after dinner Shows the bump stop, and I think it is missed, or is it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7582.HEIC Looks OK from here. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7584.HEIC I am hoping that when it is all loaded up with engine and gearbox fitted in there, that the geometry stays good. Not a lot planned this week. I am, hoping to get @paulf over, with his hydraulic press to make life easier. Here’s to hoping. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Popped over to @nickwheeler this afternoon, 10 miles from here, he lives a couple of houses from where Joy used to live.
A quick pickup turned into a two hour chat. Amazing how many skilled, knowledgeable people are out there when you allow yourself to meet them. Nick seems to have an encyclopaedic knowledge of things automotive and more…. Perfect way to spend a few hours. Book he offered me should be a perfect guide in this build. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7607.HEIC I also worked on the seats and roll bar for a bit before dark. Hope to get the roll bar welded tomorrow. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Another quick after work session, though I was kinda gutted I could not strike an arc or two, as I am in a two day national online meeting that I cannot walk out of at all.
So after work I went and took a quick look which turned into two hours of measure, fit, cut, move about. I recovered the passenger seat from the C10 cab and put it in the tub as well. Roll bar as it stood. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7598.HEIC Both seats, and screen with roll bar. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7597.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7594.HEIC Mocking up is the easy part of course. I think thats how I want it, seats will be back 3-4 inches at least. Fixed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7595.HEIC Once I got to the look I wanted, I copied the angle of the roll bar onto a pizza box with a Sharpie, CAD at it’s best. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7608.HEIC And proceeded to transfer measurements onto the paving outside the garage, using the water drain as a straight edge…….. And cut both ends as long as possible.. VERY HAPPY at this point. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7618.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7616.HEIC I am adding new mounting plates that have been rotated slightly to the floor, that will then sandwich the body to the chassis. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7613.HEIC I also trimmed the outside corners as the body tub has a slight curve at the bottom where it had been moulded, thus preventing any issues later. I will be mounting and setting the roll bar at the correct angle and position using ductape, broomsticks and small children before tacking the base plates to it, followed by a decent penetrating weld. Fresh hardware and a diagonal rear brace, modified to suit should give me the look I am after. Then the search for suitable safety belts or harnesses will be on, that can be used with the RX8 seats https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7619.HEIC If things go well, I may try find some time tonight after work for the welding up, before cooking dinner for Sally and I . Fingers crossed. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
[quote author="@misteralz" source="/post/2698563/thread" timestamp="1632296454"]I love that roll bar. It's aggressively selfish![/quote]
Absolutely, it should fit in with the whole WTF ? Attitude of the car, slightly Antisocial Thuggery in motion. I am already thinking of putting a LED high-tight brake light into the top junction as well, possibly with an override switch, allowing me to find and fit a strobe type that goes into F1 cars when raced in the rain. GREAT RESULT…… The company gave us an hour off for “Wellness Wednesday” time to add to lunch to do whatever we want, as long as it is not work. I guess I am headed out to quickly do some prep, cleaning some of the chrome off the base of the roll bar and welding it to the plates. Fingers crossed it is a quick n easy job. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Good work picking up the back angle of the door opening. Makes the roll bar and the windscreen angle look like they belong. The charm in the Jeep design in part comes from its abruptness, but a bit of planning and refinement adds a lot to the overall presentation.
A question about that asparagus you showed a while back. Could you take a picture of it growing in place? It's hard to imagine - I've never seen naturally occurring asparagus, haha. I assume it's out of season now, but you got me curious. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
I do like detail and aesthetics. Not a mechanic, but certainly a polisher. These asparagus is on the sidewalk and encouraged to grow, though messy because it is intermingled with the fence. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(24).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(25).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(26).jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(27).jpg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Well, what do you when the company gives you an hour extra at lunch time?
You go do some cutting, grinding and welding. First thing to do was get the tools ready, then fix the chassis so it would not roll around, and set it as close as possible to level. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7629.HEIC Then set the angle using the CAD tool. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7645.HEIC Ready to weld. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7630.HEIC Bzzzzzzzzzzttt…… https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(23).jpg Done. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7676.HEIC Cooled off, I thought it made sense to try it in position. HAPPY !! https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7651.HEIC Seats in the position they will be fixed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7652.HEIC Front view, in final position they windscreen and roll bar have the same top horizontal line. So pleased with this result. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7655.HEIC That concluded my lunch break. We ended up concluding day 1 by 3.45 which meant I could go for a 5.3km walk which took me an hour. Than I went down to the garage again to start on the rear diagonal which would prove to be more challenging. Being from the 56 Chevy @pauly used to race and hoon about in, it is too big in all directions. It took me a lot of fine tuned grinding and sanding with flap wheel and my narrow power file. Eventually it all slipped together easily https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7678.HEIC Then using the level between various points on the chassis I got the cutoff line marked out. It is not the original roll bar, so I need to make up a new anchor point for the rear. I will have to weld in a new mounting plate to the chassis and also a foot plate to the rear diagonal with a couple of nuts and bolts. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7679.HEIC I cut the plate in preparation, and also cut and prepped the diagonal. At this point I closed shop. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7681.HEIC Hopefully I can get the two parts made up and welded in place tomorrow evening after work. Life is still good. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Thanks for the asparagus photos. I'll be honest, I couldn't pick it out in the pictures until the last one. Man, it looks like you might want to schedule a 2-hour lunch every day! You got a lot done. That roll bar adapted much more cleanly than I had envisioned. You surprised me with the FTP aspect of it ("forget" the passenger), but it looks good in there.
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Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
I had a good think about the roll bar before fitting it. Main reason for it is to ensure one is not completely crushed or captive if landed in a ditch, however, not sure they save lives, so the effect of it will still be seen and felt by a passenger. It should be good enough for both parties. In other news…… Back up for sale. Price shows just how classics, cheap cars have increased in value. And people are paying for them. It is a 1979 model, not 75 and some other facts are a bit twisted in the ad. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/IMG_7683.JPG I hope he makes his price. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Before work today I bagged myself an hour.
Mounting plate for the diagonal had to be made as it sits in a completely different place to the original 4 point roll bar support. I also needed to make up a foot plate for the diagonal. Cut some plate. Faithful Sharpie out and cut basic plate back. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7723.HEIC Tidied up. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7725.HEIC Foot plate measured, cut, drilled, finished back. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7726.HEIC Next up, find some time to bolt together and weld to chassis and then the diagonal will be added. Sir Steve Redgrave telling me how he was successful in 5 Olympic games. Time to concentrate. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So the next little problem would be supporting gussets under the plate that would not interfere with the Jeep Cherokee fuel tank planned for the build.
With a bit of fine tuning it should all come together and fit. Exhaust will be side exit in front of the rear wheel so route not fouled by the tank. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7731.HEIC Rear view. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7732.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7733.HEIC Tank sits in a robust steel basket, thanks to @Pauly again for the “trade”’ |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So before fully thinking it through, I removed this nut and cleaned up the cut.
This way the fuel tank basket can ge hung and secured. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7739.HEIC Then reconsidered all the options and decided the pie cut and forcefully bending the diagonal into position before welding it in place. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7742.HEIC Pie cut welded up and ground back, right next to the original welds. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7746.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7744.HEIC I needed to be a bit clever with the diagonals footplate. The floor is corrugated so I decided to create a stepped plate. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7749.HEIC Plate made up to match the original support. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7751.HEIC Welded in place with bolts and spacers in place. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7752.HEIC Ground back. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7759.HEIC And result. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7764.HEIC Hoping that mate @paulf makes it here tomorrow evening to visit, check progress and deliver his hydraulic press for the bushes. Road trip Saturday. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Busy day here for work, so nothing done till after 5.00pm
And even that was negligible. But I started by priming the roll bar and diagonal as polishing it failed to impress, old age left some pitting, chrome flaked off, and of course where I cut, ground and welded there was damage too. Not sure the primer will stick ultimately, but I hope so, and then some paint, temporary in nature again, as I plan on having the whole thing covered in high density “roll bar foam” and some nylon sheathing. Still need to investigate how and where to get that done. Still very pleased with the outcome here, thanks to @pauly ‘s generous offer and vision. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7794.HEIC After work, around 6.30pm a Nissan Cube reversed up my drive……. @paulf had come to check out progress on the RR AND DELIVER HIS HYDRAULIC PRESS FOR THE BUSHES. I had previously used it to push the bushes on the Chevy Blazer that was never a project. Massively useful tool too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7797.HEIC After a lot of chat, opinions and advice, he headed home to his family. I closed shop and came in before the mosquitoes carried me off to a dark place to suck me dry. Tonight is an early night as I will need to be up at 04.45 to get out and head over to @craigrk and a quick 250 mile x2 trip to deliver Ouma Lil his Chevy to is new home…….. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...74e86fa77d.jpg She is a big girl. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...bee7d0776e.jpg As always, it should be a good day out. PS: it has to be Rum-0-Clock Later. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
On the road by 06.30
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7812.HEIC Some slow bits…. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7822.HEIC Eventually nearly there. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7832.HEIC Meet Donna, she followed me all over, head on shoulder. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7844.HEIC Such a sweet horse. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...B7F54885A3.jpg Eventually after unloading, a decent walk around and dicussing a ton of logistics, we headed home to Leatherhead and London. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7843.HEIC Back down South delivering the trailer to the yard it came from, a load of what is presumed to be a load of film props. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7869.HEIC . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Bootfair I nearly missed today, delivered OK in the end.
When I woke at 4.55 I got back in bed and heard David the lodger rummaging around, usually I don't get back to sleep, but I did, woke 6.20 and thought….. screw the bootfair as it has not been spectacular the last few weeks….. checked my phone, message from Sally, asking me to look for a multi picture frame…… so I got up and got going. First blood was mine today, a house clearance guy I check every week, had a tin full of 10mm and 12mm HSS drill bits at 50p each. I said how much for the lot, hoping a bundle deal would work, he said 50p each, so I counted them all……. 30 of which 21 were the 12mm bits. His prices are always fair, and we got a load of flower pots from him before, so I paid the £15.00 with a smile. Driving 10 miles to the big hardware store for one, would cost me a lot more than 50p for one. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7883.HEIC Other items included a picture frame (unused) for Sally£1.00 Fake patina Coke bucket for Craig 50p Rusted oil jug for Craig £1.00 Stanley type lockblade carpet knife for Craig 50p (cost a lot more) Sabatier kitchen prep knife FREE for two super nice girls Side strip for Sally’s kitchen top after new cooker was installed 50p Hessian sand bag FREE from a seller I talk to every week. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7892.HEIC So a semi decent day in fact. For those wondering what a motorbike and bunch of stainless scrap translates to, along with some savings…… I give you Sally’s new cooker, installed and delivered yesterday. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...0caee68dc6.jpg On a different front, mate Craig gave me (traded for stuff) a 5 liter can of white Cellulose paint yesterday, ostensibly to paint the Rezin Rockit once it is completed as the gel coat on it is dead and crazwd in places. I know very little about paint and what goes where. or which you should avoid. Do I blow the fiberglass body over in this stuff, or rather avoid using it, due to its properties and possibly the type and amout of prep involved. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7871.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7878.HEIC Need to have another coffee, then scrape together all my resolve and go make a start on bushing the suspension parts. Raining here at themoment…. Ooohhh, we have a carport. No excuses. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Started late yesterday.
Only made it to the garage by 12.00 and came out just after 18.00 Some progress was fast, some ballachingly slow……. Making stuff up and learning as I go along is interesting and actually really enjoyable. So armed with the book from @nickwheeler I sat down and started to try understand what went where. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...G_7896(1).HEIC First job, identify and lay out the bushes. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7898.HEIC Started easy enough, undo the axle side and try get to the Void bush. Problem no 1….. Bolt completely seized in the bush sleeve and not moving, despite all the tools and force available. Even the G-clamp destroying itself when trying to shift the bolt. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7900.HEIC Then managed to break off a drill bit inside the rubber….. Joy ! Followed by a burning,torch, swapped this one for my garden weed burner, usually used for my woodwork branding. Mickey had come around in his slippers to see what I was up to. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7902.HEIC Result, followed by Mr Grinder to cut the gead off the bolt as it was not relinquishing the sleeve. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7903.HEIC The result of a lot of BFH action. This was after no 2 went easy. Still a load of rust, but at least not like the first one. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7910.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7911.HEIC Repaired and rebent the metal to standard afterward. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7912.HEIC Next job was to use the Void Bush tool sent to me almost a year ago to use to pull the bushes from the rear axle. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7914.HEIC Using the impact wrench released them, but it was an absolute ballache. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7918.HEIC After burning out the rubber, the sleeve was left to pull, so I started with tht one. Magic. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7915.HEIC Both Void Bushes done. Note the amount of rust in the holes. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7920.HEIC Next up was the bushes in the arms, so onto @paulf ‘s press. These are not easy as they are quite thin and the press tools are specific sizes. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7926.HEIC After much more swearing, skew pressing, popping out etc, I had all of these…… https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7932.HEIC And these were ready, well, they need to be fine sanded to clean them out before fitting the new bushes. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(29).jpg Oh…… And of course I need to go buy a replacement nut and bolt for the one destroyed. Rain and a load of work ahead. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So yesterday my one neighbour who restores pre-unit Triumphs popped around,
“Hey mate, do you have a space heater?” My reply was “Ys, a a small gas powered unit, why? Do you need it?” “No was his reply, I have one, do you want it?” My reply was to ask what or how much he wanted for it, and just what model it was. The small one I have runs off Butane or LPG but I have never actually used it, so new in the box Seems Mike tried using his 55kw unit twice, running it on Diesel but did nt get on with it as it needs ventilation. I offered him my one in exchange, but he is going ceramic something or other. I will collect his one, when it gets colder. What it means, is that I will probably be able to work in the carport in winter if I do hang that large blue canvas in the front of the carport. I really want to complete this build as soon as possible. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/IMG_7921.JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/IMG_7922.PNG So last night I left the Rezin Rockit packed away as they weather forecast was for rain today. I forgot to show the inside of the one arm. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7927.HEIC And all packed away. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7936.HEIC Today, in a fruitless search for diesel for my car, I bought some nuts and bolts to replace some of the pieces removes when trying to get to the bushes. I also had some steel pipe cut and acquired, no charge. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7955.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7956.HEIC More later. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So after work I got some free time as Sally was too knackered to come here for a few hours and dinner.
Perfect. So I started cautiously……. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7960.HEIC MAGIC !! https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7961.HEIC Then the second one, needed the press to just seat is as deep as possible. Then onto the famous Void Bush Bit of white Lithium grease, and all the sleeves got traditional Copper Slip to help them resist rust for as long as possible. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7962.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7963.HEIC Once all the bushes were fitted, I removed the lower arms, one at a time, not knowing how the Anti Roll Bar would react once released, it was easier than I thought. Fitted the new to me lower arms and upper arms, Job done by 7.15 almost dark. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7964.HEIC Next job……. Front end. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
My day started with a crisis, so I requested a days leave from the boss, approved.
By about 12.It was time to try focus on life. So I started with a job I was possibly not going to screw up. First coat on the roll-bar. I like that, contrast should be good. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7979.HEIC Also tidied up the rear end where I had burned the bush and hammered the living daylight deon the rear end. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7981.HEIC So I unpacked all the bushes where they were meant to go, just to get the idea. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7983.HEIC Started on what I thought would be the easiest point, the ARB. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7985.HEIC Hard to believe, but having it all disconnected and rolling round, this single nut took 30 minutes to remove, it was rusted and locked in, and the nylon of the nyloc was chewed up and pulled into the thread. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...926CD0F6A4.jpg Next job to figure out will be just how to remove these uprights, including the lower bushes from where they are stuck. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7992.HEIC And the next challenge after that one is these 27mm nuts……… their threaded shafts are long and make it impossible to use a regular socket or impact driver to unseat and unscrew them. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7993.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_7994.HEIC Looks like I may have to head to Halfords or somewhere to buy a 27mm ring and open spanner. Little bit frustrating. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Big nuts………
These are what I have . 20mm of bolt/shaft thread sticking out, and the nuts first 3mm is curved https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8017.HEIC I thought I would try plan C which is in fact Plan A first, calling mate Kevin Kelly, but his wife answered the phone, he was doing plumbing…. Bad idea to bother him. So I went to plan D which is plan B and drove less than a mile to Cliff’s Auto Repairs (he did some work on the MX5 about 8 years ago, and I have been there since. Plans A&B which really were C&D were to purchase from Ebay and wait a week, or Amazon and own an expensive “single use tool” So Cliff whipped out a long 27mm for me and wished me luck, https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8020.HEIC Fingers crossed we are up to the job. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8019.HEIC I may get to it tonight after work if I can find some time, having a sandwich on the side right now at my desk. Quick bit of Eye Candy https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/IMG_4716.JPG https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/IMG_4715.JPG We can all dream ehhhh. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
DIRTY
DIRTY DIRTY And a load of rust. As this comes apart bit by bit it seems a lot of this is original 70’s Cortina. First stop was this one. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...38466A0A10.jpg I did not realise for a while that I cound unbolt the other end. Inappropriate tools abound. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8033.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8035.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8036.HEIC Then the arms and their bushes that seem bushed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8039.HEIC A ton of cleaning up followed. Wire brushed all parts. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8041.HEIC Less and less to it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8040.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(31).jpg Why a split pin, Nyloc and bolt retainer? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8048.HEIC Bushes go there. How the hell? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(32).jpg Anti Roll Bar gets new bushes both ends https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(33).jpg So thats where we got last night. Still so much more to do. I am also replacing all Nylocs and bolts as I go along. Later team. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Yesterday and today were and will be very busy.
Today is my first face to face team meeting with the whole team in 18 months, as our company is super conscientious about staff safety and social distancing etc. I also managed to find a service station after passing 8 with zero fuel yesterday, and that included a 25 mile round trip to be allowed to buy £30.00 worth of diesel. Amazing how the profiteering is openly happening. £1.56 or $2.10 per liter at a Shell station on Bluebell Hill I am sure some will say I should not complain and be thankful that I managed to find some fuel. I did some Rezin Rockit “work” as well, stopping at a nearby Nuts n Bolts guy who has reinforced my belief in people. He will sell two washers and single nut if that is what you need, and at the price of what that item is worth as a portion of the pack. Hopefully the weekend which has a LOT OF RAIN and WIND forecast, will also allow me some time to get to the build, as it is Sally’s weekend off at work, and I feel the need to spend some good quality time with her as well. Yesterdays purchases…….. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8101.HEIC Looking forward to seeing them back on the front end. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So the weather forecast said rain.
A fair amount of it. And I must be honest, it got worse, amd left me really thankful for this structure. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8165.HEIC Lodger came home around 13.00……… a bit wet. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8176.HEIC A big part of the time spent is just cleaning, matching, restoring, replacing, painting etc. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8173.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8174.HEIC Two dots to remind me how it goes back together later. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8162.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8164.HEIC Bushes cut to fit over the bar as ends are rather large. Also added copper grease on every opened surface to protect and enhance movement. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8169.HEIC First bit reassembled. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8170.HEIC Followed by the steering rack bushes, after a bit of a fight to get them loosened up, they came off. Both were split when fitted. So still on the right track. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8190.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8191.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8194.HEIC Though fit is a major problem. The bushes are actually too small for the job in one aspect (fitting around the steering rack) and too wide, fitting in the prerequisite spaces, so the bench grinder helped. Followed by BFH encouragement and Fairy Liquid in copious amounts. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8197.HEIC And after a bit of a struggle to get both ends captive, it was all good, Nylocs and split pins back in place. The nut fixing. Plates need to still be folded up. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8206.HEIC Then I started on the next set of bushes, on the top control arms. More castle nuts and split pins. Undid one, started to drive it out, not sure what the referred energy would be from the springs……… So with one end disengaged, it was time to panic and stop, as light was failing and I may need to approach this a different way. Note the difference in height already there. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8208.HEIC Is that a curve I see in the spring, or is it just happy to see me ?/ https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8209.HEIC At this point I decided walking away till tomorrow was a wise move. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8213.HEIC So I packed up tools and went into the garage and painted the roll bar a second coat of Hammerite Red as well as the rear shocks, mainly to see what they look like in red once refitted when planning the lowering, as I have red springs from @Kevins to go in there. No Bootfair tomorrow as it has been raining most of the day, and will continue overnight. So maybe a Sunday morning lie in in bed ?/ Unlikely. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
I rarely “give up” on jobs.
Today I did give up and changed direction for a while. Sometimes you need to change place and pace to survive. I had hoped to get the bushes completed and even the chassis partly reassembled. Sousing a Mercedes Benz spring compressor which was not a Ford item, meant I ultimately failed to disassemble the upper and lower control,arms. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8225.HEIC Unfortunately too big to successfully clamp and deactivate the springs so that I could get the arms off. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8226.HEIC So once I gave up on the springs, having tried them three ways, I decided that reassembled parts made sense. Problem with the poly bushes, was that even when completely wound in, they hardly give way, compared to the units removes. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...D86D018887.jpg VS The old https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8039.HEIC So the space is taken up differently. Looking at the parts next to the wheel you can see I had too much bush. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8232.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8239.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8242.HEIC Minus the two steel eyes that this threaded though I was still dismally short in bolt thread. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8240.HEIC So I took the 8 small bushes and ground about 3mm off each of them to create some space so that I could thread on, and tighten the nut. Once completed, I felt a bit better about failing. Despite the control arms still having to be done, possibly when I cut the front springs, or buy some correctly specced shorter front springs and shocks. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8248.HEIC I am hopeful that I will be able to do this as soon as I have time to get to it. Todays weather was decent in fact, starting out cold, but dry all day. Weekend is over, work again tomorrow. Life is good though . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Remember my friend on the nearby farm whonwas building a Rolls Royce based, Jaguar engined Deusenberg replica.
He was really driven to get it out and running before winter. Got this video from him on Sunday. https://youtu.be/lBQyUQN34oY I would say that equates to success. Silent runner. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Seems the truck has started to attract attention.
George is from two houses down. Loves catnip. I iz a dealer https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8293.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8294.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8295.HEIC So, do I chase him away, and stop him visiting the truck, or encourage him I do like animals of course 😉 Nice boy. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
After several extended laughter filled and teeth gritting exchanges with @pauly he sent me a picture to explain what has to be done next.
Create a simple threaded bar spring compressor in order to release the springs safely and rebush the upper and lower control arms. After knocking out the lower Ball Joint. It was different when I did the Blazer springs and bushes…… jack up, pressure off, remove. Done. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...Render(34).jpg Fingers crossed that I have fingers left to cross once I get this done after work tonight. It seems a good time to start thinking of fitting some strip lights up in the carport roof right now too. And plan for heating etc. Winter’s a-coming. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Make a compressor said @pauly
Got some bits from the steel store. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8326.HEIC Mark out, clamp, drill. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8327.HEIC Test fit. I used the shock absorber mounting bolts to anchor the bottom to. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8333.HEIC Threaded bar. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8332.HEIC Then add a small plate to the top of the angle iron so the nut can be tightened flat. Then welded the plate to the angle iron and grind back. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8343.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8345.HEIC And painted, just because I ran out of workable daylight. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8348.HEIC Tomorrow is a long day for me, so may only get to dismantling on Friday. Also removed more rusted, broken, bent split pins from the castle nuts. Then shut shop and headed indoors, earlier onI found a happy George on the S10 enjoying the late afternoon sun. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8337.HEIC Bedtime soon. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Almost the weekend.
Been a busy (rough) work week and I planned on bailing out by 2.00pm but typically I was still at it by 4.15 Keep in mind I start by 07.00 most days. Bought myself a couple of tools, since my one is dying, and the other I do not have. I went and bought DCD796 £62 DCF887 w/ 2x2aH £130 as one gets confused with the variable offers out there, and at the end of the day, I am kinda a Hobbyist at best, and these specs seem to deliver for most hobby guys out there. Hope to get back onto the Rezin Rockit tomorrow. PS: No idea how to make these links work as a click link. (I got a Dewalt drill and Impact driver) . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
………………and then I ground to a halt.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8383.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8379.HEIC I had hoped to finish work early (flexi-time) today so that I could get a start on the final chapter of the bushes. Then work kicked me in the nuts, hard. When it gets busy I just need to keep going, so by 4.30 it wound down. Also realised that I will need to disassemble some of the work I did before. Too many obstructions and retainers. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8382.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8381.HEIC I will try find some time tomorrow, but we are planning a bit of a run out in the S10 that has not been out much lately as I have spent a lot of time at home. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Went down to Whitstable yesterday in the truck with Sally to see mate Martins new home and garage he is building.
Threw an accrow (spelling?) extendable support in the back for Martin to use to support his main steel girder if he ever wants to hoist out an engine or something similar. Again, truck made me grin madly, both for the drive as well as for using it to do even a simple job. Last bootfair of the year sucked. One item worth £2.00 But…….. I have been looking for a horse riding spur for a few years on my USA travels and generally when out and about. Usually overpriced for me at around $20-30 a pair. Todays one was worth adding to my random pile of weirdness. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8478.HEIC Home by 08.20 from bootfair, hoping to see mate Kerry, @disasterbus who was popping over to drop some random stuff off that he had collected over time for me. When I got here, the first thing I saw was a pile of stuff on the driveway, and no Kerry, somhe had been and run as he does not like to leave his animals at home alone. I totally get that. Still need to carry through and sort through all the treasures. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...0FE5FE529A.jpg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8480.HEIC I am sure we will meet again soon enough. So unpack and carry through treasure, sort through solid wood kitchen shelves etc mate Kevin dropped off yesterday (firewood and shelving) Then get back to Rezin Rockit for bushes part 2. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Seems Photobucket feels I am loading too many photos for the contract I have.
So it is not loading my photos. At the tariff I pay as it is, I am not going to have them extort another $xxx or whatever it is out of me. They get about $xxx/year from me. As far as I know I am on the intermediate tariff which equates 25000 photos. But for now it seems pics are on hold |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Remember this…….?
Damascus steel, hand made, in America. Had a message from my friend Jon Hall custom Knives to say the weather had forced hime back into the forge and to start making knives again. My custom kitchen knife is taking shape. Not sure if I will want to use it or just look and touch it. Such an honour. And of course I do love people who are skilled creators. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/IMG_8419.JPG Layer upon layer of steel. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/IMG_8417.JPG On Saturday Sally and I took the truck out for a run down to Whitstable to see mate martins new home and under construction garage via some shops. What a pleasure, as always, to take the truck out. Silly grins abound. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8412.HEIC Thankfully the recent fuel shortages have not impacted my pleasures. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Looks like deleting the Photophukit app from my phone and reinstalling it, has allowed me to upload.
I still do not understand how my 25000 photo option is near capacity. Anyway……. So where were we? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8592.HEIC Back to the hydraulic press and removing the old rubber. Old vs new. Bottom end. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8547.HEIC Kinda screwed up on the first top one I did. Not realising the outer sleeves had to be re-used I was pretty rough on them till I woke up. Rough as a rough thing, but I cleaned them all up and cleared the very rusted inside and outside bores plus the cuff. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8542.HEIC Once cleaned up, you need Fairy Liquid or any slippery dishwashing liquid to help slip them in, vice or press needed again. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8544.HEIC Lower arms needed a lot of remedial work too. Also top and bottom ball joints were well and truely beyond their best….. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8545.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8550.HEIC And I still need to understand why there are screws in the bottom of the ball joints. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8549.HEIC This rebuild has certainly turned into a restoration as @westbay Tony pointed out to me this week. The plan was originally just a quick throw together but I am realising more and more that it may well end up being a decent car once completed. Here’s to Vroom Vroom eventually. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Out of sync now.
Thanks to too many pics. Remember the home made spring compressor? One bit of advice is to have a long enough shaft to allow full decompression The Ford has a cup/ridge to finally get over when you get to that point. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8521.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8533.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8552.HEIC Second one was easier as I knew what to do. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...x/IMG_8584.JPG Sure these look at least a coil to high?/ https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8551.HEIC Another job I have been looking forward to for many months was to remove the mangled remains of the disc brake dust shield. So I removed the hub and got that off too. Discs are pretty rotten too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8526.HEIC https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8525.HEIC And to finish on a happy note, this tome of year, with winter creeping in at a fair pace, the sunrises are again pretty. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag.../IMG_8612.HEIC Day job is also keeping me really busy every day with somewhat extended hours at the moment. So progress is limited to quick early morning or late day spurts of activity. . |
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