Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Morning John.

Thanks for the reply and looking in.


Getting ready to go out to the foundry at Andy’s but also realise that these early up and late to bed with very full days is not letting me get around to updating the thread.

Andy is currently 06.00 making us breakfast, he and Dennis were up by 05.00 discussing stuff, and Craig and I followed at 05.30 though he was awake from 04.00 as well.

Driving into town.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps7m9bqaem.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pss9ee8rtm.jpg

So after moving the car again in New Orleans, parking time limited to two hours free, we carried on walking in the post apocalyptic streets.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgnvhudiq.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfuee0a9a.jpg

It was evident that Gay Pride was a big thing.

Dennis and Craig deciding which way they were going to go.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psvssy0m1p.jpg

And finding their way.

Pink bike was not Craig’s

HONEST.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps5l47iydj.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psovilmabe.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psc9fsvizj.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psadgwj5im.jpg

Architecture around here is lovely, despite it all smelling like vomit and stale beer

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pssiqng3ip.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psf2hz3plh.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstzzw7tle.jpg

One of my favourite flags.

SUPPORT THE POLICE.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnows0774.jpg

After quite some distance walking we found a clean looking and smelling space.

Called EAT.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgzhpwsqg.jpg

Selected breakfast.....

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps4l8eddwb.jpg

And got onto it.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps1ryx08pd.jpg

Dennis and I selected these beauties.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnv3gxuli.jpg

Craig’s fish.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psw3fqyduf.jpg

Bloody Mary with a difference included Bacon, Jalapeño and Ochra

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps7kddsniu.jpg

As expected, Asia the lady serving us agreed to smile at you all.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psizbjqb1i.jpg

Quirky as hell, just lovely and very Southern.

And had this most awesome tattoo amongst all her others.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psyezpmdvr.jpg

After really nice cuddle and hug we left the restaurant and found our way back to the car and moved it into central town and found some paid parking near Jackson square to get to some more of the touristy stuff.......


The rain had already set in and it was WET, like in Louisiana WET.


I hope this small update has helped the addicted masses out there.


Headed out to the shop now.

It’s 06.50 in Arkansas.

Later.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

House made sauces.

Nearly forgot to mention, these are spectacular in Eat where we had breakfast.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfh9f30zz.jpg

Once parked up we went walkabout to Jackson Square via the typical tourist shops.

I love these city busses that have space for bicycles up front.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspyjrcoo1.jpg

Saw loads of cool merchandise, some funnier than others.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psc6pp2ls7.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmjwex7sz.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psd41lz7rj.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjvgooftb.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psae4rcol1.jpg

Stickers I liked.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psrr8xkdpm.jpg

Jackson Square was pretty much deserted.

Major General Andrew Jackson

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psun729any.jpg

Yes, it was still raining.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshbr9tyz6.jpg

Some art

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psporh9bcv.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfbqnuq3p.jpg

I also saw one of the gardens noisiest inhabitants.

Cicada

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps22mdtmon.jpg

And an awesome John Deere Bicycle.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pswqak2wco.jpg

Wake Up !!!

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pslkb5ivol.jpg

Special parking can be bought from the city.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps4qkbx4bx.jpg

On leaving we realised there was a clown in the car.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pswq3sijmn.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxuuxztlu.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psbxpbapvq.jpg

We hit the motorway in order to try beat the tropical storm that was rolling in.

CLICK LINK

https://youtu.be/1y8lRoQTJ5w

Passing the left overs from Hurricane Katrina.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psghuizhnn.jpg

It let up from time to time for a minute or two, then wind and rain again.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psvo5mvuqh.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pszdturkno.jpg

We did navigate back to that yard with all the cars.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psl99rrfh2.jpg

Just about everything covered in brown primer.

And no, we have no idea either.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgnxgixab.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps99pt5okd.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psvbndafs4.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps59m90nyo.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps8bsqvbrz.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps2izxmqnv.jpg

Made it out of Louisiana into Mississippi and then into Louisiana again, crossed the state line and had a great rest break, including free coffee and chat.

Craig has more about this stop.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0gpi2nof.jpg


Onward we went, into Arkanasas eventually

Looking for a place for the night, in this bad weather.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psm6qzdp92.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfsivmabp.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psezdbgyhk.jpg

Heading for Pine Bluff, we had to run through Dumas, no idea why.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psie0f2eha.jpg


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psd1jfvbv9.jpg


Some great shop advertising.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps6iq9siuv.jpg

Craig also identified the Road Trip logo on a T-Shirt.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psalebwvnr.jpg


After leaving the city where the rain really messed it all up, we headed for Fayetteville to try break the 600 mile plus trips back.

Eventually we made it to Pine Bluff, booked into a Motel 6 for the night, Dennis managed to get a massive Family suite, large enough for a circus

Then dinner.........

Only one place open....

The Red Lobster.

Dinner was excellent as was the company but the beer sucked big time.

I suspect they sell a keg a month.

Eventually back to the hotel and to bed in great spirits, drinking our own beers from the cooler in the trunk.

So ended Sunday

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Im enjoying the trip so far , carry on .

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

:agree:

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Thanks guys, we are as well.

I have seen a few things I like a lot, and some I like even more.

These are beyond my ability but loved them, despite everyone going for two doors, I would be quite happy in a decent four door.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psspimmtwt.jpg


Will try find some time to post up pics again, back in St Louis, raining, somsome activities will be curbed.

We will do other stuff.:mm:

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Hey there,

It's busy as heck out here in the good old US of A. The people out here are so hospitable that it is difficult to pinch off some time to document this for you guys. Hope you're enjoying the snippets we manage to get out.

Trust you recall this comment by @Grizz...

We walked into the welcome area to receive the following friendly greeting from the 3 employees: "If you're wanting fresh coffee, its over there and the rest rooms are through the back."

We proceeded through to the rest rooms and came back in for fresh coffee.

Picking up on our accents this really friendly lady asked where we were from and what we did.

I pointed to @Grizz and replied: "He's a Professional Bullsh!t Artist!"

"Oh, really!" was the response, so @Grizz started searching for one of his business cards and handed it over.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psrj7lt2zo.jpg

A bit more chat ensued, including @Grizz thanking Joe for the great cup of coffee we'd had.

We're about to leave, so @Grizz says: "Can I have my card back please, you're married!"

The instant response back was: [font color="#ff0317"]"But I'm not dead!"[/font] Needless to say, she kept card.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

So driving through the cotton fields into Arkansas the rain eventually let up, first clear skies in days.

But the trip was good.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfpibaeq1.jpg


Dinner at the Red Lobster, Cajun, Blackened and just sublime.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnj8izxo7.jpg

Up early the next morning we headed for Fayetteville to Clem and Kim’s place, well over 400 miles to go.

We decided to do a couple of hours before breakfast.

Crossing the mighty Mississippi early.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps37onhdqf.jpg

Choose the route less traveled

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspmbzf2lj.jpg

Next up we found a service area, filled thencar and then Dennis introduced us to another institution.

Welcome to Cracker Barrel.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxveqxbfz.jpg

The place was just perfectly paced when we got there and got seated.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps5a5qd3fw.jpg

Rockin’ Robin the General was our magical server.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfcmcejdn.jpg

In the mean time I gave it horns.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps64ihdwox.jpg

My choice.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psesinf8vg.jpg

Including Grits and Sausage Gravy and Biscuits.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psixkzpy2x.jpg

After breakfast we headed out again, but not before a quick pit stop, I noticed the low level urinals, could it be that the Arkansans don’t like the cold porcelain coming into contact with their extremities?

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnykj8cc5.jpg

Then on leaving town it all became clear.......

Biiiiiig Cock.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psadyv58iz.jpg

Leaving the city limits it became rural America again.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnews0lsa.jpg

We decided to use Wayz to take us off the main routes so we could find some junk stores on the roadside, but it was Labour day, so mostly all were shut.

One guy has this display up in the rafters.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pscozefpn0.jpg

We continued to eat up the miles, passing through small settlements, many with long closed businesses.

Then.........


Surprise surprise.......


Guess what happened next.


Cop car....



Lights flashing from up front.


We slowed, pulled over and waited for Deputy Dawg to pull up behind us.


Got out of his car and sauntered over to where we were parked up.


Big hands on the doors window opening, he leaned in and in the most Southern of drawling accents addressed us.....


I cannot do the accent but Craig will be along shortly to re-enact it for your entertainment.


In the mean time, Y’aaawlll need to guess what happened next.


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psb3ggzlc7.jpg



After leaving cautiously we stopped a few more times looking for random stuff.


Including beers.


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfbgcid6m.jpg

Made another rest stop near London.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0lslyd8c.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmk47aevm.jpg

At last, not near but getting there.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspsedzruv.jpg

Into the Ozarks.

Love these mountains.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psr32l8apq.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pss0cz2uqx.jpg

Eventually rolled into Fayettevile by 12.30 and stopped for beers.

Saw this next to the shop, for sale too.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psk5mc2gn4.jpg

Went to meet up with Clem at the shop, the. Up to their house and picked up Kim his wife after dropping off our stuff and catching up.

Then down town to get some wings and beers.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjtgqmtgo.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfieqtc0y.jpg

Great advertising.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0hvdcyk9.jpg

Like so many of the girls I have met on this trip, Red as is her name, was a professional server/waiter and she is as sharp as a blade....... Workong guys like me for a maximum tip, just making us feel good with an intelligent conversation and some teasing.

I love the banter and while I went to the toilet, the “team” of Clem, Dennis and Craig tried to set me up for a fall......

Telling Red the waitress to tell me I was not on my A game today and could she have a photo with me........

You know what happens next, right....??


When I came out the restrooms, I called her over and asked her for a photo to share with you guys.

You should have seen the teams faces and heard them laugh after hey realised I had pre-emptied their genius plan.



So......

I give you all: Red form Fayetteville


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psz1napdbj.jpg


After the late lunch we went back to the gas station for more drinks, a lot mor.


Headed out to the race car shop now.


Later all.



PS: Remember the replies to us getting over for a second time, this time by a good old Southern boy with no sense of humour

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Glad to see you are having a good time in the States. The Air Force stationed me in Little Rock for 4 years and it was a great jumping off point for many adventures.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

:metal:

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Quick real time interlude.

You all know the now World Famous Ethyls Smoke House and Saloon.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps2pfgezrb.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pssuhizlqs.jpg

Stand by.

More later.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

By the looks of that last pic yall must have drank a lot of beer , Im seeing blurry from it and Im sober .

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

No beer.

But there was a new lady.



After leaving Red behind in the restaurant, we went back to the workshop and got some beers, rum and Coke.

I am sure you know where this would be headed.

Back at the garage, I saw this sculpture, driven by a chicken.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psvnnzy8gf.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pseleprqqz.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps4w6zrylh.jpg


Having three Advanced Design Chevys and his 47 Aerosedan Craig was massively interested and impressed with the work Clem is turning out at www.tubatrucks.com

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxdvvdn2i.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgzmyo9mm.jpg

Remember that th whole of the gas station is now also for rent on www.airbnb.com as well as some more accommodation in town, all at very competitive rates.

TV table.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0uzan3de.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psapccrx5b.jpg

How many people can boast with a Chevy 235ci straight six engine with rare Offenhauser Side cover in their lounge.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspo2g2mae.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pss8elfbr3.jpg

Sleeping space.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psi4b9ggh9.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfucewixx.jpg


Live in security courtesy of Gus and Hugo.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psasmzld7c.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdfleuydl.jpg

Some of Clems completed trucks.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps80i9y82o.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspms01siu.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pskicxdocn.jpg


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0e8enogq.jpg

At the house I got my usual warm welcome from the cats.

Minnie ended up going to sleep with me too.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psubfvkzda.jpg

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Just another quicky update from the road trip that keeps on giving.

Kinda funny after you get pulled over by a cop car.

Click link.

https://youtu.be/an7YZeH5Kkw


Off to a Flea Market this morning.

Hope for some random bargains.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

So next morning by 05.00 we heard Dennis and Clem get out the house to go yo the shop, to feed the dogs, paint some parts and hang the newly painted doors on the green Chevy truck. (AD trucks as they were known as)

Craig and I then went to the shop by 08.00 to meet up and head out for breakfast

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0gsfkbqa.jpg

Before we left a few tasks got completed.

Cab roll over.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pst84bonmc.jpg

Garage cat house.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psycbqhyhu.jpg

Then off for brekkie

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0gsfkbqa.jpg

My choice, sensible of course, with bacon on the side.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfzbtt2th.jpg

Before we headed out to Prairie Grove, we stopped and looked at this recovery truck.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdcgwmdfp.jpg

Followed by a bit of fast motorway driving.

Where we saw this.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psbmfotft7.jpg

Interesting.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

That is a N-I-C-E 50's Ford ramp truck!

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Well guys.

Life moves on.

Quickest Real Time update.

Dennis and Adam offered us literally anyting to drive on part two of this trip.

From a very large 5th wheel Chevy Dually to GMC Cabalero, 80’s Chevy truck, Hellcat or Challenger.

We selected in stead the short Chevy Silverado.

After all, its a road trip.

So headed out in 10 minutes in this truck, headed to www.kelderman.com in Oskaloosa for a factory tour and also to pick up some stuff for Dennis’ Shell gas station before heading up to Ray in Monroe Iowa.



http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnalec83m.jpg

Later guys.

Will try post more tonight.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Good Choice!!

Watch out for dem blue lights! :lol:

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Our Troopers don't say Youall Up Here unless they want Everybody out of the Vehicle!

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Thanks all for stopping by. I said to Grizz last night that I can now really appreciate why it took him some time to catch up on posting about the trip last year. Paraphrasing Indian113 who kindly put us up overnight: "We're squeezing 10 pounds of 'fun' into a 5 pound bag!"

It is really nice. It's on a later model dually frame and with the fuel tank under the bed, the seat is placed further back for a more comfortable cab experience as well.

Absolutely! I'm in love with it. I drove it about 300 miles yesterday and feel as fresh (or not) as when I started. I'd happily have one of these back home.

As for blue lights. We did encounter an Iowa state trooper, but it was all civilised and on the right side of the law at a gas station. More on that later from Rian (no pictures or flashing blue lights though!!).

Thanks for the headsup!!

Stay tuned and we'll look to get the full updates through to you guys as soon as time allows...

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

[quote author="@smokeem" source="/post/2446102/thread" timestamp="1536674647"]Is it time yet......[/quote]

Really sorry guys (girls)

We have been running non stop the whole time.

Sleep, Wake up, shower, brekkie and activities and then repeat

I hate being behind as it takes a lot of time upload all of thos stuff on the run.


Slept over in Monroe, Iowa last night after a grand BBQ dinner with Ray and Eve.

This morning Eve made us Cinnamon cake and a pot of coffee for breakfast as we declined a full cooked breakfast. The girl knows how to treat a man or tourist.

Today we were off early to Des Moines, Iowa 30 miles away for some random shopping.

Ray volunteered his 1966 Cadillac Coupe De Ville for the trip. 429 ci and around 350 eager horses.

He had insisted on both of taking it for a decent drive around town yesterday.

On the way home we stopped for a quick coffee at a service station.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps2kgznfml.jpg

Coffee time with Ray and Eve.

Thank you.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psomqlfyu7.jpg

Headed down to Le Claire, Iowa on the Mississippi river later to get to the American Pickers’Antique Archeology store.

Later guys.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Real time update.

10.30pm and we are in McComb, Illinois having beers, wings to be followed by ice cream and coffees.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psf4spfzsy.jpg


Made it to Le Claire, Iowa at 17.30 before the American Pickers shop shut at 18.00

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmrsvrsl3.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxbznpjms.jpg

After this we mixed with the local Police department

Officer Tony Thomas assured me I would not be tazzered, despite Craig offering my substantial chest as a target.

So I tried to provoke him.

The guy outcooled Chuck Norris.

Trust me.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psb3zhbccj.jpg


Headed back to our last hotel for the road trip later.


Off to Hannibal tomorrow via a few other stops then back to Wentzville and O’Fallon near Dennis’ place

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Back to the actual photodump and minimal reportage.......


After breakfast, the four of us bundled into the rental car V6 Impala which over the more than two thousand miles in our hands, had done exceptionally well.

We headed out to the town of Pairie Grove to hunting for various items in their antiques shops.

Sheriffs in town...

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psurthogqb.jpg

Like many places, the economy died years ago, and a few businesses have kept them afloat.

Looking for Zombies.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psonuwsvnv.jpg

Found me some protection.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psznjb5rsr.jpg

And bought it.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psn6lxvzww.jpg

We all had a great time.

Multiple shops, many items.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspmxzryfd.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pscep94km4.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnchctroz.jpg

Then out into the streets again and further down, Pawn shops.

Love them.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshnxhibm4.jpg

Guns.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pschn4tybp.jpg


Many.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psstqrxeyg.jpg

Not keen on wearing it, but great to wind his wife and son up with.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pscvylhgzo.jpg



Loads of these Antique stores have classics, and retro cars parked outside.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspevjqxur.jpg

Found this fully functional, running C60 Recovery truck, with clean title for $2300.00

Absolutely worth it.

Craig was tempted.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psr877t91b.jpg

Lovely plasma cut Shovel.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psp2qb09fi.jpg

Semi Steampunk inspired, repurposed lamps.

Not cheap at all.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psznw2onmx.jpg

This was really cheap, but too bulky for the car.

So we eventually decided to call it a day and go find a Mexican Cantina as it was Taco Tuesday throughout Arkansas and Clem needed a Margarita

Two Tacos each and a large Margarita........


Pics to follow

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

So to carry on with Tuesday

We went to Gabriellas for TacoTuesday. My first.


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgbcqsjlh.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmzrfaa1m.jpg

Clem getting on with it.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps3v1kwmzb.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psramxw7qw.jpg

Tried this stuff.....

Phewww.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgoclghwi.jpg

Some of the art in the place.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnxnvcoax.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pst75lt3fn.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psge722xdv.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psoax2f4rq.jpg

After a great break, we dragged ourselves away, and headed back to Fayetteville to Kim and Clems place.

I had been volunteered to cook dinner on the BBQ.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Great road trip ,thanks for taking us along

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Nice trip so far, keep the pics coming. Love me some tacos...

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Thanks guys.

Yes, it’s good.

Last day today...



After Taco Tuesday we headed back to the shop at wwww.tubatrucks.com for Clem to deliver some beers and he and Dennis to thresh out the details of the garage forecourt lamp shades they were dealing on for Dennis’ Shell gas station
As well as for him and Craig to do a deal on some very rare to us, parts for Craig’s fleet of Chevys and for Craig to find them in Clems stock inventory.
Because Craig is going original paint and patina with his cars, it’s not as easy as buying a bunch of reproduction parts as they are just too shiny.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psr2zyxczz.jpg

While Craig was looking through his search inventory, I saw a random, unusual set of side trim that I personally have never seen before, I asked Clem about them, what they were from, and he had no idea.
The next day, before we left, he told me back at the shop, to go find them again in the store and take them, I tried to decline and also offer payment, both of which he declined.
So I now have a set of side badges that I have never seen before (clearly someone will know what it is from) that will be fitted to my fenders as I like stuff just a bit different.
Thank you Clem !!

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pszxobh80z.jpg

After this we left the shop and headed home to do laundry, get dinner sorted.

Remember that Clem and Kim are on Airbnb with the shop and a large self contained unit at the house all being available for short of longer lease in Fayetteville, Arkansas

I was volunteered to do the steaks that Kim had been marinading for 24hours in good Texan/Cajun style.


Our BBQ area.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps8oblv2sd.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psiyqogwfe.jpg

Dinner was absolutely perfect and as it done in the Johnson home, after dinner we sat at the kitchen table, talking, drinking and feeling good.

Especially when the Reverend joined the table.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pswjsanvn3.jpg


Our Bounty from the day out......


Craig:


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psj3mgj1ce.jpg


Grizz:


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstb9cu7li.jpg

Next morning we were up early, said our goodbyes to Kim and all the cats at the house, then headed down to the shop to sort out Gus and Hugo and for Clem to set the guys up for their day tasks.

After which we headed to the Rolling Pin for a last breakfast before heading for Oklahoma

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pscdzotbza.jpg

Selection was easy.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psbk4zo6ni.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmtn23dvt.jpg


And then we were off.

It’s always bitter sweet leaving Clem and Kim as they are the most incredible hosts, as are everyone we meet on our travels, but I do feel a special kinship or brotherhood with Clem, he is a quiet soul who is always good for my head when I am back in England at my day job.

Next stop at Mike Losh for a quick drink and catch up.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Great coffee cup! Good looking haul you 2 are picking up.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pszxobh80z.jpg

Rian, I believe those to be the cowl extension or fender emblems for a '62 Chevy C10. I believe that the '62 was the first year for the C10 designation, the '60 & '61 models where called Apache trucks.

Reproductions can be had here...
http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/cbe/full.aspx?Page=71


Steaks look good, and done right over a hot set of coals!

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Yes 1962 C10 badges on the cowl.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Always the case on these trips.

Loads of what you see as trash, normal, for us is a treasure or unusual.

Hey Karl,

Thank you for the info.

Clem could not tell me where they were from, but I liked them a lot.

They are nicer than my 66 emblems.

Thank you Vince.

I do love this forum.

So much knowledge and friendship.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Headed toward Oklahoma via Siloam Springs where we briefly stopped in to see Mike Losh of Slosh Tubz fame, having touched and cleaned under his last SEMA build truck “Boosted Bertha” we needed to at least go mess with him.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psqgfpja9y.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pst8zzsljf.jpg

His front reception area has mellons growing and some of these too.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pssootiyhn.jpg

While we were there we forced Dennis to sit in a Right hand drive car.......

All part of the road trip experience.

It may have made him feel a bit seasick.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstvqeacvz.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshlictbr7.jpg

Back in the shop with Mike.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfa3kvjqs.jpg

Drinks for the road.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psayoftjyl.jpg

Then we were all out and the post man took a photo for us.

Thanks for the license plates Mike, good to see you again.

Back on the road we looked out for junk or antique stores as we all had agendas for stuff to find.

So we stopped at a few shops, including this one.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmxefwwgg.jpg

I have been looking for a pair or a single genuine, not reproduction horse riding spur for years to hang on my mantle piece above my fire place.

In this shop there was a lovely looking pair...... there was no price, so the lady managing the shop called the seller and got a price of $50.00 and I overheard her saying to the shopkeeper that her friend had told her they were worth $500.00

This pi$$ed me off instantly as I had taken a close look and realised the leather had never worked, and they were pretty certainly lovely reproduction items.

So I walked out, still no spur(s) to hang on my wall.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps7qadc8g0.jpg

Detail.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psqdu0tgu3.jpg


PS.

Clems garage cat.

From feral to best buddy.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps7rtz3zyf.jpg

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Through Tulsa we went in afternoon rush hour to Andy “Oldironfarmer” https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/...d.php?t=334140 on his farm.

Part of the attraction was melting metal with Andy and casting hammers and trivets or other items.

We had taken some copper cable, crushed beer cans and smashed aluminium wheels for Andy to add to his stockpile of raw materials for casting.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstu9ha8wc.jpg

When we got there, we were greeted by Andy, Sharon his bride and Hershey, Cali his dogs and the neighbors dog.

Then a grand tour of the treasure site.

How many people have a Caboose in their back yard.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmvxii5ht.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps61p8m0rl.jpg

Chevy Suburban had Craig all excited, who needs one when you can have two.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psy5krlyyf.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psm5h2rxrg.jpg

Late 1930’s Ford truck.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshpxiueuy.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psw3s0eqlo.jpg

So many good running, original paint tractors and then some restored examples.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps72gpum7l.jpg

Then around to the forge and following that the furnace area where the melting metal and castin happens.

These two 1954 Chevys got my attention pronto.

I would be happy to have one of these in England too.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psrwi6kbh5.jpg


We will do a full separate, technical thread on some of Andy’s metal work as it is loaded with photos and technical data that Craig can describe more accurately


After an afternoon of Andy teaching us some of the alchemy of Sand casting and Lost Foam casting we melted loads of aluminium as well as making Alu-Bronze castings. More about this next report.

I was again volunteered to convert some of Andy’s herd of cows into 100% pure handmade beef burgers.

You really can taste the difference.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0biegznk.jpg


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psyjldmowr.jpg

More in a while.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

So before we got to Andy, he had made up a Lost foam casting blank.

Cut out Joy’s name and added a funnel ( I am certain there is a more correct description for that)

It also gets covered in order to protect the sandy sides of the casting.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psuutydmfr.jpg

Out to the casting area.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psn5iqk8ld.jpg

Then into the dry sand casting bucket, covered in sand which is compacted with a pneumatic vibrator.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshihncvee.jpg

After preparing the foam mound, we filled the crucible with beer cans and aluminium window frame extrusions.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfenux9zb.jpg

Using old engine oil and a leaf Blower to generate most of the heat, followed by a short blast of pure Propane gas before removing the slag and casting.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxzx6oapd.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshjxbyitm.jpg

Eventually the casting is made by pouring the 1000’C red hot molten aluminium into the cast, burning away the foam, leaving only the casting.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pswqvtjejs.jpg

The. Spraying it clean.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgu9syehe.jpg

Along with some hammer heads Andy cast at the same tim.

All of these still needed trimming and cleaning up.

So all the excess material is cut off on the band daw and then hand worked and machine polished.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pswnlwyhiz.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psrybexv2o.jpg


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psbka2uv9g.jpg

If you look closely, you will see the smaller indents with Joy’s name on the front face.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psoqu9cw4l.jpg

And another Andy Martin piece ready to be shipped out

Thank you Andy

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pssfu9izme.jpg

So with the sand casting, to be discussed next, you can copy badges like these extremely closely.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pseaa6mht3.jpg

Bedtime now.

Flying out of St Louis tomorrow to Philadelphia and then London.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

What an adventure. Safe travels home.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Eve and I wish you and Craig a safe trip home and Thank You for including us in your Holiday! It was great to actually meet person to person. Later, Ray

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Thank you Karl.

The hard part will be getting back to UK time and also back to work.

Then there is the matter of gaining near 10 pounds in two weeks.......

Thanks for all the hospitality and food everywhere.

Thank you both Ray, as well as the dogs, for making us welcome and sharing your lives with us.

It was worth the travel and time to get there.

Thank you also for my sneaky gift, to be posted later.




Before we went to bed Andy and Sharon’s daughter came around with a freshly baked, still warm tray of cinnamon rolls as he expected a few more guests for the next day to cast and drool over all of his cars, tractors and trucks.
I missed out on photographing many of his various toys, both vintage and Hotrod as we were so busy in the casting and melting Department which is hugely interesting.
If you want to see more about Andy’s various toys and projects, including the cattle, animals and his Auction wins go to his thread here: https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/...d.php?t=334140

Unfortunately most of the guys did not make it, due to jobs, pet injuries etc.

These were exceptional

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgcikstlz.jpg

Back to casting metals.

Preparing your mould is the most important part of the job.

You build a negative of what you want, in two halves, create channels for the molten metal to run in and fill the cavity, hopefully leaving you with a final product without flaws.
Metals respond very differently to contaminants, temperature and preparation. Some take a lot more heat to get to working temperature etc.

Dennis chose to make an Alu-Bronze trivet for Deb (Debbie)

Once the negative it prepared, it goes into a half mould, gets talcum powder as releasing agent, but you have to brush the excess off to prevent dulling of the casting. It really becomes an art of preparation.
In the mean time the furnace gets fed with metal, to create the pour.

Dennis sifting the green sand over the pattern before compacting it in a three step process, followed by scrapping flat, turning over and removing the negative pattern carefully.
In this process grains of sand can make a difference in outcome.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psyoz0aoog.jpg

Every letter gets removed next.

Followed by making the pouring side in a separate box with a pouring channel from the outside and spruces leading in to get an even distribution of metal.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps45pkkbkm.jpg

In the mean time, Craig was working in the woodworking and foam area to create some gifts for his family (details later as his is a surprise and his family may be following the thread)

Cutting foam on a hot wire for casting.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps2jvxcwtu.jpg

Once fully prepped they would be put in the bucket and processed like JOY was done.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgnz9kjvi.jpg

While various things happen there are more jobs to do, in order to keep enjoying the hobby.

Here we are using a pneumatic trammel to separate dirt from the casting sand so it can be used again.

Another clever Andy innovation.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pswinxeiyl.jpg

The rain continued, as it had all week, but we were semi indoors, so the mosquitos and rain was less of a problem.

Some more of Andys future projects.

Interestingly, rust is not much of a problem on these older vehicles.

Having been in the oil industry, many of Andy’s vehicles came from there too.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pslqqv65en.jpg


http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psumdfwdyn.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxjt2lvsx.jpg


More in a while.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Ray, it was great meeting all four of you. Thanks for your hospitality & time as well as the pointers from Eve on my continuing quest to turn the rest of my family into true bikers!!

Thanks, we've been having a blast, the only downside being that we are struggling to keep you guys updated, but the updates will continue as we still have 100's of photo's to work through. (not to mention a Video or two)

A bit of trivia for those who don't know. The mailman on this route is under contract and gets paid a mileage rate. The car is his personal vehicle. He says those people who can't afford a RHD vehicle will sit on the centre console and drive with their left foot and left hand so they can reach out the window.

He also admitted that he actually finds it strange driving his normal LHD car as he does so many miles in the Jeep.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Hi again,

Quick update from the road. We’re heading from St Louis to London via Philadelphia, so currently enjoying the delights that the Philly International Airport has the offer.

All was going well on the flight from St. Louis with us sharing 3 seats between the two of us, except as usual, Grizz just wouldn’t stop talking.

https://youtu.be/Z4D18nmwTIM


​

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Thanks for helping Craig ;)


Sitting in Philly now, 5 hour layover.

Had pizza, drinks, and actually watched people for a while.

So while we continued to feed the crucible in the furnace, Craig made more foam cutouts.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psbjdjitsu.jpg

Andy cut the channels to ensure complete filling of the stars for Alu-Bronze casting, it proves to be less than easy to work with.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pss2m7fugy.jpg

Temperature check.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshslboy1m.jpg

Alu-Bronze pour.

Surface casting.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdw2gbmv6.jpg

This was the result of the pour.

Will need to be worked, but remember this metal work hardens, so would prove interesting

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnnsdelrz.jpg

I started a new set of stars n steers under Andy’s watchful eye.

Cast iron originals

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pslftyggyd.jpg

Placement, talcum powder.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psv4wh4mls.jpg

Detail preservation

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdq1ht2bj.jpg

Sand fill.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psefv979ac.jpg

Then the back and filling hole and channels get made before casting.

Resulting in this

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps135sjmz7.jpg

Happy with a great result, thanks to Andy ensuring it all went smoothly, very smoothly.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgudyz63o.jpg

With Dennis as part of the production line.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfaskpbr5.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psl0kwol4g.jpg

And finally you have all the pieces.

Next job would be to cut them free, then to grind and machine them back to a level where you are happy and polish them up.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psemzppemt.jpg

VIDEOS OF CASTING.

SAND CASTING.

https://youtu.be/pqOxalF_n4k


LOST FOAM CASTING. FOLLOWED BY TWO HAMMER REVEALS.

https://youtu.be/cU6K3Ns9o3U


So now Craig has a set of ally copies of the cast Iron stars and steer head I bought in Arkansas for his place.

I have a few things I would love to make as well, including an old stool hotrodder plaque and another very special trivet for a special lady (not Joy)

.

Re: Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!
 

Of course casting is a hot job.

Andy has that sorted too.

Check out the video.

https://youtu.be/OzoUZsvYT7E

After casting pieces they need to be trimmed, a hand held electric bandsaw works wonders.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psctzuw0g1.jpg

One of the many toys in the barn, shed, garage.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pscjobzso0.jpg

Craig making metal.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfxyue7xz.jpg

Resulting in......

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps1ce4suon.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnyxoq92w.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pst6ryn5sp.jpg

All day the dogs helped as well.

Sweet Calli.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps9646ilvw.jpg

Calli and Hershey together.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps96dtkpn7.jpg

As with all fun things, it had to end.

Before we went Andy took us all for a ride in the Show Truck.

For those who missed it the first time.

CLICK LINK.

https://youtu.be/oCNH2kPzZG0



http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps96dtkpn7.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psp0teopqo.jpg

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psp9z8uar4.jpg


ANDY MARTIN

THE MAN

THE LEGEND.

ON THE LICENSED, INSURED AND GREAT SHOW TRUCK.

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psumjztcad.jpg


THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN FROM ALL THREE OF US FOR THE MOST AWESOME TIME SOENT WITH YOU, YOUR BRIDE AND THE REST OF YOUR FAMILY.

YOU ROCK ANDY.