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GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project~”
Hi all,
I have been on here a while, my 1966 C10 Fleetside is linked in the signature below. My name is Rian and I moved to England in August 2002 from South Africa where I was born and grew up. I like to tinker, and I love cars. A lot right now will be COPY AND PASTE. This is the story of........ A 1979 Chevy Blazer. Rough as a Badgers Butt. But would you buy it? V8 Auto http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psie0jw1lv.jpg Comments, opinions and suggestions welcome, feel free to add advice, and pointers, and if you know of spares etc...... let me know :mm: Loooong story. I took that photo in June 2016 when I saw it there while looking at a house with Nicola my ex wife and good friend before she left me. I loved it then, but never went back, when I did it was gone. Seller who had it now has been playing with it with his dad (seller is 50+) the last year or so, but had made its MOT (English yearly roadworthy test) test last year and is a driver. But only just. It certainly is a 40 year old truck, but in the back of my head it could still be a donor for a body swap if all else failed. All the “Dirtina” as a friend called it, is gone. Paint is flat and ugly, rust repairs suck, and at least one large hole in the floor (which can be welded up again) I am certain there will be lots more revealed over time. Report Yes, it was parked there for 13 years growing fungus and moss on its glass fibre rear half. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pslzfjmkby.jpg Waiting for insurance company guys to open up so I can speak with a human. THIS IS NOT MEANT TO BE A PROJECT........ I ASKED AROUND ON SOME ENGLISH FORUMS AND GOT VARIOUS REPLIES. MOSTLY SUPPORTIVE. Friend Disasterbus (Kerry) said: Personally I don't need it, it's too wide for my drive so I've nowhere to park it, I already have too many cars, I don't have the cash to spare, I don't have the skills to weld it up, I can't afford to run it, it doesn't have 4 seats and it simply isn't practical. So, following that rational review my decision would be....... Hell yeah, get it bought, get it home and worry about everything else later!! It will fit my drive, just. I have loads of space to park it. I am selling Prozac, so need a car. I have cash to spare, banks are not making it worth my while. I have a new welder. I can’t afford to run it, or maybe I can....... It has four seats, technically 5 The rear converts to flatbed truck, tailgate drops, rear roof comes off. Where do I deliver it??? So, if I were to buy this car..... It’s name has already been given by DarrenH on here. Tippex. Guess why? http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psk7vuajqq.jpg Quick video around it. CLICK LINK. https://youtu.be/sLldCzEizgo http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psagcejrqq.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps5mlyvnjs.jpg Yup, it is a big thing. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psybsnk4ha.jpg Driving force. And yes, aircon has been removed. No concern to me. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdftnfxkf.jpg So now you have a better idea of what I am looking at. Love the electric rear glass, operated from dash or with key in tailgate. I have been looking at another vehicle to replace Prozac....... Absolutely no reason to escalate my private motoring costs at all but the itch is always there. Now we know that I have the 1966 C10 Chevy truck in “kit form” in my garage, and it is patient and I will get to it, in my own time. Yes, really. When I am ready. Mate Martin gave me a heads up on a 1979 Chevy K5 Blazer in 2wd form last week (Thanks Mate #sarcastic mode) which I then went to see on the way home Friday night and again for more than two hours on Saturday afternoon. I have no interest in 4x4 cars at all. Turns out that I saw this car in June 2016 and still have a photo I took at the time as I really liked it then. But of course life, death and taxes plus a divorce got in the way. I also started a question thread here: which has generated a lot of comments and opinions, all valid of course and much appreciated as I am the KING OF DITHERERS when it comes to this sort of thing. Below a quote from Disasterbus with my responses to his points. [quote author="@disasterbus" source="/post/2450544/thread" timestamp="1538210550"]Personally I don't need it, it's too wide for my drive so I've nowhere to park it, I already have too many cars, I don't have the cash to spare, I don't have the skills to weld it up, I can't afford to run it, it doesn't have 4 seats and it simply isn't practical. So, following that rational review my decision would be....... Hell yeah, get it bought, get it home and worry about everything else later!! [/quote] It will fit my drive, just. I have loads of space to park it. I am selling Prozac, so need a car. I have cash to spare, banks are not making it worth my while. I have a new welder. I can’t afford to run it, or maybe I can....... It has four seats, technically you can fit 5 people. The rear converts to flatbed truck, tailgate drops, rear roof comes off. Where do I deliver it??? And no, it still was not enough motivation to get me to just randomly hand over cash. Even a half an hour on the phone to @kevfromwales had me thinking it’s a great idea. Yet I woke this morning wondering if this little Berlingo that has been running and performing faultlessly for 19 months as an adjunct to my company car Ford Focus for when dirty jobs needed doing, really needed to be replaced with a Big, Dirty, Nasty Fossil Fuel Guzzling Monster that would be costing me pretty much 10 times as much to run and own than the Berlingo. Not the car in question, though it is American too. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjmdgluba.jpg Prozac stood in the background, truly Kicked to the Curb, looking on as I fawned over the bid smelly beast for hours. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psbloz7wcm.jpg Tailgate too drops, turning it into a cavernous skip on wheels. Love the electric rear glass, operated from dash or with key in tailgate http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psc4klh6b4.jpg Inside the rear bench can fold forward or be unbolted too. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psl1rpn5yt.jpg Folded forward access via front passenger seat. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psszjyzpg6.jpg I spent about 30 minutes under it, and the only rust was this hole in the corner by the drivers footwell. The rest of the underside is shockingly rustfree. Fenders and hood, conversely are rough, rotten but absolutely functional. This does not scare me. Couple of hours cutting, welding, undersealing and job done. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psorwj0mgz.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psybsnk4ha.jpg Where your wallet goes to get raped. Current miles http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pssmej7yde.jpg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Well, it’s raining outside.
The Blazer has been bought and brought home, a name to be decided when it’s made me smile more. Did a 10 mile motorway drive this afternoon. It is very comfy cruising at 70mph indicated with more oooommmfff left to do overtaking in the fast lane. Thank you all for the input, motivation, goading and sensible logic arguments put forward the last 12 days that saw me inside and under it three times trying to make up my dithering mind. Prozac passed its MOT today as well, so a good day in all, albeit with an empty wallet to show for it all. So.......... How does it feel? This thing is at least 4 inches wider than the C10, which I used to reverse down the side of the house in one uninterrupted, if tight run. This thing I had to readjust four times to get down past the house. It is huge. Believe me. I went down to the garage 20 minutes ago, just to go look at it again, and to start it up, and to sit in it, looking around, feeling it. Then I burst out laughing at myself. After which I proceeded to climb into the rear, going between the front seats, like a kid would..... yes, it’s that big. Then I sat in the rear fold down bench seat that is actually a three seater, with seat belts, and again started to chuckle. I saw where the rain comes in between the body and the fibre glass rear canopy, this is a known flaw, even from the factory 40 years ago..... so I may address it some time. I did realise there are a few little things that can, but do not have to be done to and for this truck to make it nicer. But nothing has to be done, except for driving it and enjoying it. That’s the plan, honestly. HAPPY ??? ME ?? HELL YEAHHH !!! After buying it and doing the paperwork, Lee the owner agreed to drive it over home for me, and have his dad pick him up, his dad lives 4 miles from me. He has some spare wheels, seats etc for it. But no Towbar, he removed and tossed it recently, so I need to find one........ First gas stop and certainly will not be the last time. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps7ywkje40.jpg I drove ahead and then pulled over and stopped at a roundabout as I wanted to get a nice in motion photo of the Blazer passing by. Not perfect, but you get the idea. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgjpryq4a.jpg QUICK VIDEO OF THE ARRIVAL Thanks Lee. CLICK LINK. https://youtu.be/cuhMP80xs8Q After he went, I then took the truck and reversed it down the tight drive alongside the house. Parked up awaiting attention. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psv5jxttlm.jpg Thread to be started some time for those interested in following this one. Later guys |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Few things......
Yesterday, Lee and his dad John came around by 12.00 to drop off the wheels and extra seats (originals) for the Blazer and also a dash mat, though the dash on this truck is unmarked and not cracked. They were down at the garage for a while and we chatted cars. John, who owned the Blazer and recommissioned it, told me about all the other stuff he had done to it over time, and reckons he could have as much as 200 hours into it. He certainly replaced quite a lot of stuff, that one does not always think of when recommissioning a car. And I am glad it’s all done already. Just add fuel and drive. Sounds a lot of time invested, but then you will see in a bit, what I got done over 4 hours late afternoon once I eventually made it to the garage for real, in fact I was busy for a minimum of 3 hours and have a bit of sheet metal to show for it. A set of four alloys, which will be for sale, immediately as I like the steels on the truck. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxfzmguad.jpg Rear bench seat....... Excellent condition. Getting stored for now. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps9i5yvz0r.jpg Front seats, actually are the same height and in good, if grubby condition. Weirdly, I still prefer the colour of the ones fitted to the truck. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pslpe6o5jp.jpg Part of my time wasting in the morning was ironing 17 work shirts, doing laundry, cleaning house etc, a mans work is never done. Then I pulled the Blazer forward from the garage and turned Prozac around and drove it head first into the property, I always reverse stuff down the side of the house. And then a few pics, the left side of Prozac is lined up with the right side of the truck, just to show how much wider it is. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfac6jhaq.jpg Yes, that is really how wide, though a bit of an optical illusion I guess. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgrocelja.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps8ddr7cbu.jpg By 2.00 pm Caleb who had looked after the cats came back from his two weeks in Europe, to collect his stuff as he had found a temporary job in London and a place near work to stay. MY USA ROAD TRIP FOR 2018 REPORT: http://forum.retro-rides.org/thread/...2018-humdinger Once he had packed up and we had a coffee and catch up I took him to Rochester station in Prozac, for a guy claiming to live a gypsy life, he has a lot of stuff to carry. Van worked perfectly, again. After dropping him off, I Reversed Prozac back and saw this in the mirror, made me smile. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pso0gnwvlj.jpg By now it was 2.45 and I had a quick coffee and sandwich, then headed out to the garage to start looking at the “bit of rust” that I had seen and been shown when buying the Blazer. I am under no illusions and was expecting more rust, randomly. So there will be no surprises, rather pleasant discoveries of good sheet metal to work with and attach patches to. Harley was looking on and I left the house. Did she know something I did not?? http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjlei4tyk.jpg More later on the closer inspection and smiles. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Insomnia Sucks.
Waking at 04.00 on a weekend sucks. Waking to this does not suck. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps8bvpyooo.jpg Garage time today. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So on to the rust I knew would need to be addressed, not for MOT reasons, but rather for waterproofing and because I knew it was there.
So I undid the sill plate and removed that and folded the 40year old carpet and underfelt etc out the way after removing the door seal and rubbers. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pswihbrllw.jpg Closer inspection showed that despite my expectations, it is another as bad as expected. Clearly not a desert or new car. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pskuqlmq2a.jpg Felt my butt being nudged and it was security cat wanting to inspect, Harley, she has always loved a new car and has to check them out. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pscftnbhys.jpg Found some good fresh steel plate in the C10 cab, then washed the floor, scrapped and poked and actually hammered the rust before drawing music lines out where I felt the new metal needed to be let in. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfzwdyq63.jpg Cut and measured the first replacement section. Offered up. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps6l65inxl.jpg Further cutting and shaping to get the angles and fill right. Only good metal to good metal. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psndvhwsn6.jpg Edges on both sides of the patch panel cleaned up, ensures a much better went. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psljfbfnu3.jpg Then grind back the paint and rust on the floor in preparation for transferring the patch panel pattern. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psy2qfpt63.jpg Also some Vactan planned for the pock marked shallow damage. Some welding and some rust converter planned here, worked well on the C10 http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psp8glp2j2.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psagqaq4xh.jpg Next up will be transfer of the pattern to the floor before cutting the rot out, followed by welding and primer. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Sharpie in hand, time to trace the patch panel out.
http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pszhdzs87h.jpg While all this was going on, Security cat had decided to get comfy, on the job. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pseyineu6a.jpg First welding job was to do then30mm upright for the side kick panel, they rust out in the bottom corner and you need to replace that steel too. Easier to weld in some metal, than another fold, if your steel is not that wide. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psugget9tx.jpg Technically the outside, and awaiting weld through primer before it all gets welded in. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstqnxfpsa.jpg Inside http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psb1ycsgqf.jpg And in place. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmk6i3tno.jpg I will probably only cut the floor and weld this in by next weekend. Unless I get time, which is unlikely as it’s another week from a dark place. Later. [quote author="@shielsy68" source="/post/2452958/thread" timestamp="1539042120"][img src="http://img.retro-rides.org/i/v/shielsy68/b6b28177be48.jpg"] i was bought a pair [/quote] |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Some more ideas spinning around in my head.
Found this case last week Friday, thrown out on a sidewalk. Yes, I don't know either but knew its potential purpose even before I bought the Blazer. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfhw6prub.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psa4ytoegj.jpg Anyone want to hazard a guess as to what its to become? And at the opposite end of the spectrum, a pic sent to me by Disasterbus. I do like it. But not £100 k much. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psirchxsau.jpg Tail lights......... Lexus style........ Just so bad. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pswytqpuod.jpg Changes underfoot here too. Bedtime. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Well, funny how stuff works .
I was looking for a pair of original tail lights for the Blazer to replace the not so sexy anymore, Lexus style units fitted. And then next thing I know, I am chatting to a guy called Martin, from Ilkeston, Derbyshire..... He has this: 1975 Chevrolet Blazer. http://forum.retro-rides.org/thread/...evrolet-blazer Which currently looks like this..... http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjdffzlaa.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psobmaz1o6.jpg Looks a bit like my floor. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psbrxkgelz.jpg Panels http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pseiggrsrb.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psoh1rkfxc.jpg But a lot more pain. Life has got in the way over the last few years for Martin too. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps2xnrwwl8.jpg Stepping back..... It looks challenging. But it will all get fixed, when it gets fixed. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps9377vtml.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxoun2msn.jpg In the mean time he has this to keep him busy. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psb3rbr9ok.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfumrvkcv.jpg Some may see it as a mountain too high, but I see this as motivation. My Blazer seems to be in a better place. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So last night I had an hour after getting home from work.
Primed the first patch panel and proceeded. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxg04w9gy.jpg Then moved the truck so I could work on both sides. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnual5iaf.jpg Proceeded to cut. No going back now. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psq1k4wd6e.jpg And then we had opened a can of worms, or maybe not. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pssq5iovc6.jpg Despite what it looks like, 2/3 of this section has strong steel in it, and a large hammer and sharp screwdriver could destroy the structure more. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnozurmhd.jpg From the underside there are chalk marks, I missed them when inspecting the truck. Not that it would have stopped me. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pskflzm4kr.jpg Conversely, the passenger side looked perfectly fine http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psaxxsqieh.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psl1emnkaw.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps2fgoxeam.jpg At this point, the truck is still not as bad as expected and this rust is a day job A couple more odd shaped patch panels, and we will be in business. I am still,happy with my purchase |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Call it a confession if you want.
It’s more about recording stuff as the truck is right now. I know many people will recoil in terror, but many (I do hope) will say, it’s not that bad at all. I guess we all have different perceptions and opinions on the same things...... I bought it because I saw enough value in the sum of its parts and a fun car that will cripple you financially on fuel costs alone, were it a daily. However, this is not a daily. It’s a toy. The fenders are available as replacement reproduction items, not cheap, but probably cheaper than patching up what is there. So unless I find the cheapest of the cheap, in a set of ex-desert or dry state fenders to just bolt on, it is not even going to happen, till these do self destruct. For now they are just fine. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps47dq3wnv.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspmppvoyn.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psaelogizd.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pskvyqpnib.jpg The hood has rust in all the same places they rust, currently expertly covered in a very thick layer of filler, and Dulux home enamel paint, or something. I had my friend Joy around last night and before showing her the truck, told her she best make all the right noises of approval or else there was no dinner for her. She made all the right noises. Next....!! |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
[quote author="@westbay" source="/post/2453528/thread" timestamp="1539244193"]You have a welder, you have the right approach and you have friends in America (for spares) ... Now what's the problem ! ...[/quote]
Thank you mate. Agreed. I think that for a 40 year old truck this is still very much a “good one” Not sure why it lasted this long, but thankful regardless At least less of a mess than this one. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psqrul1byt.jpg Looking at various options to polish this turd These graphics are the ones I seem to be drawn to. Over the hood or over tbe roof. Ideally not a colour change from the white it has now. Of course its just toughts right now. Starting with plain white on Smoothies. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstkran5s0.jpg Randomly different. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjhzacjyx.jpg This style really works for me. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps6emuxyig.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psrtkrs8dd.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psiwldo9rw.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnvaxda4f.jpg Of course I love this. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psvex45zom.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgd9c8tvx.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psffppzbt2.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pssuuxgzvs.jpg Really Really like everything about this van. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psyyqli13m.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps1mqqpzx9.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps7my2iam1.jpg Lastly this. Subtle. But maybe too subtle. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfqrt6w0c.jpg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Thanks to @littlepixel we have a quick photoshop of the truck.
Not entirely the way I want it, but lovely nonetheless. Its as close as I could get to it right now with minimal cash spent. Remember this is not a project. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pselpm8tba.png I will certainly look at other colour combos too. I have a hankering for brown wheels and some autumnal graphics on the white or a beige background. Lets see what transpires. Another one of those questions I do like to ask, in order to maximise my own responses and actions. The sum of us all, is a lot cleverer than one of us. So, yesterday evening I had the front end up on my low Snap-On 3 ton (I think) jack and saw the different looks available. I was measuring up the front suspension for @PaulY as he said he may have something that could fit the front end, to replace the parts in there at the moment. Pics to follow. So the question was posed by a lawyer friend in St Louis, Missouri, yes the truck has eyes on it all over the globe it seems. “Are you leaving it that low? “ I need to get it a lot more driveable, despite it actually being good as it is. What height then? Off-roader http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pse9pogs15.jpg School run http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pssdg8gn1d.jpg Gangsta http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgcodtacr.jpg While crawling around under the truck, I noted the transmission was a TH400 as mentioned by the seller, seems that is a good thing. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfjz7royb.jpg So, on to the suspension, or what is needing the attention. Amazing engineering tool an oxyacetylene torch can be. Drivers side. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psiquxxgn5.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pssszqw7f7.jpg Passengers side. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psbriba0we.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0z7nsnmy.jpg Shocking shocks all round. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psytadn87e.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psautdqect.jpg This needs to be addressed. Soonish. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdisrhuaj.jpg
Pthere you go...lol Anyone interested in more of this Blazers evolution?? |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Bravo. I have a much rustier '81 2wd to revive. The coil springs can be replaced w/a pair of 3/4 ton w/one wrap cut off to net a 2" drop & firmer ride.
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Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
Thank you for the reply. Do you have a thread on your 2WD? Seems they are not that common in the USA Ohhh, and I was in your backyard in September. All too soon, we were in Amish country. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps8osysa90.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psx6qgnael.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psyzvkxceb.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshr9rpdri.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxqlcoytz.jpg Street name, indicating county/State lines and motorway. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psyen5udnk.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdbecrkbp.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psc7n9afph.jpg Another state. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps4t89hupe.jpg Headed for Oskaloosa. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psny8fwwma.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psselkegbf.jpg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
BLIMEY! Small world. I stop at an Amish owned store & purchase food every now & then. And this trip to Oskaloosa I was there last fall several trips to purchase (3) 455 Buick, (1) 500 Cadillac & (1) 472 Cadillac engines. The 472 is likely going into said '81 Blaze. No build thread yet. But have made purchases of gas tank & sending unit, front brake overhaul kit. As a well as a PST front suspension kit. It was OG black w/a Highland interior. Amazing that your travels lead you here.
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Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
1 Attachment(s)
1970 El Dorado 500 motor in the foreground. The floor boards are SWISS CHEESE in all but the trans tunnel.
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Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
Been inside at Gas Monkey Garage for three hours visiting, managed to help for a day on a SEMA Truck (Boosted Bertha) and various other places I could only dream of. This year I got invited to Kelderman Engineering in Oskaloosa, and also spent some time with my friend Ray and his wife Eve in Monroe, Iowa. Looks like you have loads of good stuff stashed away though. Over here everything is a battle and very costly to get. Price you see, then add international shipping, taxes, and import duties on it all. We pretty much work on double the price. And to import a car over 40 years will cost an additional $3000.00 to get it on your driveway. Newer stuff is even more. Quote:
If I had more space here...ll:mm::metal: |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Took a pic for Lee, my lawyer friend in St Louis last night while checking the trucks vitals, oil, water etc.....
Can you see what is wrong? http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxjzuekbg.jpg Just connecting the dots again. Been looking at potential simple 80’s style graphics and at this point the winner seems to be this one....... Who owned one of these in the Day??? http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps06gzpeqm.jpg Inspired. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pselpm8tba.png Also this.... http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstiiokoaw.jpg After work I walked down to the truck, as I seem to do every day. Is this a good thing? So I took a few pics of the paint. For those who may be thinking it’s sacrilege to paint it or change things. If you,look in the gas filler neck, it seems this was an orange truck in the past. Anyway, welcome to 30 grit textured paint, it is right up ther with wood chip wall paper. Fender http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psbjrfwfyq.jpg Roof http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psr2mvnwjm.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psa2yi7phg.jpg Side panel...... 30 Grit anyone? http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps8a6yfk8m.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps2kapmp5m.jpg And lastly the hood. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psscvcufyp.jpg So that concludes all the unpleasantlnes of this 40 year old survivor truck. Still happy. It is worth more than the sum of its parts. Paint? Satin white with graphics?? |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Well
Its not really a challenge. The clever guys who can do this stuff have already done it. Repeatedly I took two sets of pics earlier in the garden. Suspension as it is now and one on the jack, raised to “Stock height” Which is where I am headed. I think for the moment, this is where I am headed. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pselpm8tba.png Based on this. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps06gzpeqm.jpg I like the simplicity and chunkyness of this design. However The front and rear start and end may need to be on the samelevel or completely different. I still like the idea of some simple bonnet action, subtle and either connected to the sides or seperate, in a U shape or L shape accentuating the slight raised area. The tailgate also can do with a symmetric or asymmetric design. I like the rear canopy black with shaded side glass, but also wonder if it can look good in white as it is now. So below are a few pics to work with if you are interested in habing a go. Thank you all for helping. Low and “broken” as it is now. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmkdphdw4.jpg Difference between now and future wheel arch height. “Broken” http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmldoxwgu.jpg “Fixed” http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pszq1vcahu.jpg Raised slightly as it will be once I get done. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps5vgmmsvp.jpg Rear 3/4 view for the adventurous. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstxefaass.jpg Tailgate. Glass can be blacked out too. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdf51qatj.jpg I await your replies. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
[quote author="@colonelsponsz" source="/post/2454130/thread" timestamp="1539436592"]I've mucked about with @littlepixel's original....the front fender is all wrong on this rough mock-up but there's a way of getting the ribbon to run over the shoulder and onto and across the hood - it might mean taking the upright onto the hood about midway over the wheelarch?
[img src="http://img.retro-rides.org/i/v/colonelsponsz/535055599c61.jpg"] [img src="http://img.retro-rides.org/i/v/colonelsponsz/9499e5ec05de.jpg"] [/quote] Quick bit of randomness. The last few weeks at work have been hectic. Culminating on Friday in a marathon training, plractical and learning session. I was up at 04.00 because this sort of thing stresses and kills my head. Headed to Cobham for the day by 07.00 and finished there at 5.45pm All in all, it seems the boss and our trainers are still happy to let me loose amongst our customers in London and outskirts. On the way back I stopped in at Craig and his family, Lorraine was doing steaks and desert, what’s not to like. When I got there, she had just got home from scouts with their daughter and Kyle, their awesome son (I rarely like teenagers) was in the garage, painting up a a contraption Craig had designed and built to change the way the dogs access the house in winter. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psc7e5fdg0.jpg While I was there, Craig worked on getting my 5500 photos from my old mobile and the 2500 onnthe new one into a saved file and will then try create a new super file for my iPhone I left their place at about 9.30 and headed home, before I left, I noticed their daughters Halloween protector was outside her bedroom door. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjeh9uoro.jpg Weirdly, also on the agenda last night was a chat with Mr Tiki whom I had not chatted with for a few weeks. He was having some family time too. Love the angle grinder inspired brazier http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pso6yjjnet.jpg Back to the Chevy Blazer. The playing with designs continues and a few more came through, I do like bits from ever one I see. Do note, the rear glass has been shortened. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps3nepskut.png http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pse4optxfz.jpg This was the surprise, and I also like the subtle reference to the year of manufacture http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psj5gcwhyq.jpg Yesterday, like most weekends, I had a load of other stuff to do. One of the jobs was to cut back the access to the garage by another two wheel bins worth. Now you can drive up and down that part without hugging the hedge in order to avoid the trees branches that overhanged the drive. Less camouflage but more easy access. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pszn6wgexy.jpg It’s 04.00now, but been chatting to,Dennis since 03.00 He went to a car and Hotrod show and sent me loads of great pics. I will only put this one up and say that he said it was a blast. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psvoo1xkwb.jpg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Awake since 03.00
Insomnia sucks. But 90 minutes later I just remembered that I did this short walk around for a certain friend in the USA who,asked about the motor in the truck. CLICK LINK https://youtu.be/rkdj0tMFBEM Back to yesterday. Once I had done all the yard and house work, it was time to take some photos of the truck formthe photoshop challenge of creating some designs to possibly use on it when the mechanical side meets my expectations. http://forum.retro-rides.org/threads/recent/206591 Thank goodness for my Snap On low level jack, bought used years ago for £25.00 or $30.00 it certainly makes life a lot easier. Up she goes. Or is it a he?? http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psg8roaiz7.jpg Made safe-ish. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psaywt1vb2.jpg I knew what was there. Just not how much of it there was. The rust is really weird, it seems to attack some parts and leaves others completely untouched. Some hammer, chisel, and screwdriver action helped me find the starting points. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps8tz8honu.jpg Flap wheel action. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pslpumdmfn.jpg When I had cleaned up the whole inside panel at the expense of one 40 grit flap wheel to tear off the thick layers of underseal, and a scotch wheel on my cordless drill on the lower spot welded seam, it became apparent that these inside panels were only spot welded every few inches, with drainage incorporated. So I decided to remove the majority of the 900mm by 90mm strip, but to leave enough of the strong material to plug weld my repair and then randomly “spot weld” along the top and bottom of the patch, in order to allow drainage as before out of the sill area. Before that I wire brushed the inside, applied Vactan rust converter and used one of my hot air guns to speed up the drying process before welding in the patch. At this point it was 4.30 and progress had been much slower than planned, but of course I had all the yard work and a run to the gas station with four jerry to show. I had no idea how much gas was in the truck when Lee the seller delivered it for me, as he had told me he drove it basically between £10.00 to £20.00 fills, and never filled it up unnecessarily Only the rear primered with the Weld through stuff as the front would get worked a bit after my ****tty welds, upside down with a large mask in that space had me swearing a lot, a really big lot of swearing, including blasphemy, which I never do. Once prepped and ready, Mr Welder came out to play. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psvmepyvyp.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psaths8ife.jpg Bit of grinding will be needed to just top the welds and then primer, seam sealer at the top and finally some fresh underbody seal. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psehfvss9s.jpg Mickey had come around earlier when I was cutting the trees back and had asked if I would let him insure Prozac for both of us and then we could share it, I had to be really nice to tell him no, not happening. Not sure he understood. He came around later around 5.30 to check up on progress and was impressed with the welded in plate. He even took a pic of me crawling about. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pslgee9k9f.jpg At this point I was about to start on the outrigger patch panel that has aspects in all sorts of directions. I had got some thicker steel from Craig on Friday evening that was going to be just right for the patch panel there. More bending, hammering, cutting and swearing plus a bit of head scratching coming. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So much for more sleep, got another hour in.
Got up to feed Harleyat 07.00, who was asking since 05.00 to be fed, only to then lick the gravy off the wet food and walk away in disgust. Cats. Was planning on getting the underside of the truck finished today before heading out. Rain had different plans by 07.30 so it’s on hold for the moment. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psebf0vkoo.jpg Back to last night before I shut shop to get ready for my “Meals on Wheels” from Joy. Craig had given me some nice thick folded steel plate, part of a high end gas BBQ construction that I had eyeballed on his pile of stock. It’s the same gauge as the outrigger, so would be just fine, if I could incorporate some of the bends. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psozadsljh.jpg So in with Sharpie under the truck, some cardboard and scissors, lay out, mark out, cut out and transfer onto the metal. Leaving me with a stightly oversized panel to trim back and fit once I cut away what is left of the outrigger. Folding vise. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps7fdty0wl.jpg Once you copied the template, cutting and folding goes easy. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnzf7mwqt.jpg Happy?? Yes, very happy. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pso6a04gwh.jpg Because the outrigger is angled in some planes, it looks cockeyed, but is meant to be so. I need to just infill the little gusset piece before offering it up a last time and cleaning off the metal, getting primer on the hidden side and adding the Vactan rust converter stuff that I still don’t know if it makes any real different, but I am happy to just add into the mix to the insides of the outrigger where I can reach. Amazing how long it takes to do every piece. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxoefmtky.jpg Seems not too bad........ http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0m6chbar.jpg Now if the rain would just go away and let me get this little job done. Later guys. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
I gotta hand it to you all.
This truck is bringing my head and enjoyment back to where I can recognise it as a positive influence. After work. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psas75ds1z.jpg Before shower last night. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psngieaowo.jpg This morning it was raining, so I could not get out in a hurry to get the non structural outrigger cut and welded in. Prepared http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxsqw9pgw.jpg I also had to get to take some stuff including a bunch of numberplates from various people including Andy in Oklahoma, down to Faversham fo Neil who had helped me buy my welder from Rallyart before. I have to make up some new inner panels for the rear of the truck as they are missing too. Amazingly, 6 foot long and 2 foot high. I had contacted my regular carpet guy, Shane, to see if he had any useable offcuts to cover the panels and also a spare piece of 6x6 foot carpet for the rear floor. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnifdwous.jpg Got to Neil’s place and we exchanged gifts, he had made me a California black plate wall clock. Thank you mate. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psp67degyy.jpg He also gave me a bunch of registration plates for my collection. The small,Belgian plate will,head out to Moscow, Missouri for Dave to put in his restaurant. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps4honavkp.jpg Also from Neil. Love this small set. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psyuqd3qpq.jpg Then we went out to his garage to look at his Valiant, a lovely car, awaiting its engine transplant. And he offered me some red, very RED show carpet, thin, lightweight and perfect for the use I had in mind. Thanks mate, perfect. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdyx7jkur.jpg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
I meant to give you this link a while ago.
https://www.us-army-military-shop.de.../K30:::68.html Most of their stuff is GM but some is reproduction so watch what you are ordering. They might have some of the odds and ends you need. As for the interior panels, I might be able to help you out. I made some up for myself and members here & could maybe do some kind of blueprint for you. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quote:
That is great. Please post up more about the panels. I am happy with the one side I made up, but hey..... they are just the start. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Thank you all for the responses so far.
This really is a great community to be part of. Thought I would add the last two renderings in orange. I like this too. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psekchrlm0.png And inverted http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspins8rkw.png In my opinion Sinclair vs 76 Union orange roof vs last Bigtruk Grey bottom are the SHORTLIST WHATSAMANTODO ?? [quote author="@deano123" source="/post/2454709/thread" timestamp="1539633719"]Sinclair one is sweet. Isnt that petrol pump you made got Sinclair logo etc on it?[/quote] Close. http://forum.retro-rides.org/thread/...ca-retro-build This http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps57bbe133.jpg Other side...... http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0c522e11.jpg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Suspension bushes, front and rear, excluding U.K. import duty, tax and shipping.
Need an airplane carrier or courier. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshpxp6f3p.jpg Took me two hours to do 30 miles home tonight which is always frustrating, as I lost an hour of garage time. As Stas in Siberia observed, I seem to spend a lot of time there, but it’s just about using the time I get to get stuff done. It’s a return to the real me. So after work, I was straight down to the garage, assistant security cat leading the way. Opened the Chevy up and got going making up a patchwork cardboard template for the rear body side panels, they seem to have been gone a long time. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psvjwujazs.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdtuwcfun.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psrfbbqd1l.jpg Cutting, fitting, fettling cardboard, eventually sorted http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0zwoea6y.jpg Patchwork template with ply. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgrdnlcag.jpg Quick Castscan to ensure all is good. Note, shoes...l,l http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psiqkvng2z.jpg 6 foot by 2 foot tall. Shows you how deceptive these things are. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjruje1tp.jpg Job done. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psznurlnyv.jpg Next up will be to finish and sand the edges and screw to the body. Then add the thin red automotive carpet. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pscytpvhav.jpg Should work well with upholstery and Sinclair colours. Bed time. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
RIIIIIIGGHHHHTT......
Having done all the thinking around the graphics, and settling on either the Green Sinclair or Orange 76 Union design, my next question is this. [font color="19e644"][font size="5"]Would you buy this truck, were it painted or covered in vinyl like that. HONEST ANSWERS ONLY.[/font][/font] THANK YOU. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pscth6tv2i.png http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psekchrlm0.png |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Bunch of small things came together yesterday.
Seam sealer mate Martin had ordered off eBay for me, arrived. Bulk buys work out cheaper. To be used once all the welding is done. Supposed to be good and not crack, the stuff on th C10 has cracked. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspftx3rxe.jpg Then some underbody sealer. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psm6n3x2eo.jpg And once all is done, every cavity, doors, tailgate and bed sides are all getting a load of this stuff too. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps5pnbptuy.jpg That should keep my head happy on a 40year old. It won’t stop rust, or any existing stuff, but hopefully slow it all down. For the wood panels and carpeting on the sides, spray glue which is said to be easier to work with than brush on, on larger surfaces. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psl50bd8o5.jpg While in the garage last night, I also sanded down and trimmed back the ply side panels. Next job is to trim the top and bottoms by 5-10mm to get an easy fit in order to screw them down on the mounting plates and top edge, after which I will precut the red carpet and prep it for glue. I plan on glueing over the screws once placed, but to leave it unglued around the screws with just tension keeping the carpet flat there.that way I can access the screws but not see them once mounted. I have always disliked the open headed flat chrome screws in hotorod door panels etc. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxdauhju2.jpg I think I have a dinner date tonight, so may not get around to getting anything done. But always optimistic I can find an hour or so to go play. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Last night after work, I drove over to Brentford in Essex to meet up with PaulY to do a service station pickup of parts.
Paul has been into and onto old cars for a long time, preferring V8’s or fast stuff. His current toy, awaiting good times. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ighlight=Woody When I bought the Blazer, he reached out quietly from the side lines to offer me some springs and shocks he had. Pretty much anything would be better than the tired units fitted right now. The springs came from somewhere else, surgically enhanced, but never fitted. I wrote the description he gave on the box. Means nothing to me. But they are 14 inches tall, and same size as what’s fitted to the truck at the moment, so worth a try. Anyone have any ideas?? http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psepuadw7l.jpg As unpacked. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshl9ncygi.jpg Cleaned all of them with degreaser and then some paint, just to make them a bit prettier. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pskfrtgdrc.jpg Afterward, ready to go on. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psoa1a2vyo.jpg So the question is........... Anyone game to come over and lend a hand and spring compressors to get the springs in over the weekend?? Let me know. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Screwed..........??
http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psyxmmfxql.jpg Not really. Dry run on the ply, to recess the flat head screws. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfh2fxl99.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pskbdpdaye.jpg Somfollowing that, I got back onto the plymsides, fine tuning the fit, drilling pilot holes for the screws into the sides, and then came up to the house to lay out the carpet and cutting to fit. Catscan. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps1cioxfik.jpg Cut to size. At this point I decided to call it a night, rather than glue the carpet down. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psgx7mbebo.jpg Pretty pleased so far. Mojo headed back. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Well, for this who tried to guess the contents of the box posted to me this week.
They were in fact original lights, generously sold to me by MrS (Martin with the very rusty K5) as he had a spare set. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psqh2tayo3.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pseozy5qlb.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps25sn2nmj.jpg Complete with bodies and lamps. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps5gzeelqh.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psojrjtuv0.jpg To replace these ugly burgers. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pswytqpuod.jpg Double, in fact triple whammy of good news today. Lights arrived in the post, as did V5C in my name, but unable to SORN truck online for some reason. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pskneidjfz.jpg Third thing was getting a VW Polo Towbar from mate Martin to try fit on the truck where Lee had removed the original. Yes, I want o e but most people do not. Worked in London today, doing a lecture in Kings College Hospital to the Stroke team, before I started, this view greeted me, sometimes there are bonuses attached to earning your keep. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnqzyrn5d.jpg Towbar update in a bit. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
This morning at one point, mate Martin called me to say he had been to his mums home and found VW Polo Towbar
Knowing that I was looking for something to convert to fit to the Blazer, he put it in his work van and took it with him. Tonight we were about a mile apart on the motorway , both headed down the M2 when he called to see how my day had gone, we realised a rendezvous was in order, so met up on the roadside next to the Medway river on the Cuxton road bypass. Nice new work van. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psygmgq1iy.jpg Wooooohoooo.... Bounty. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psq8lgcdtb.jpg Came home, fed the security cat, then quick trip to the garage to offer the Towbar up yo the chassis mounting points Extension to be removed. Mounting plate 300mm off the ground. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps2ey3cc1b.jpg Chassis mounts are at 800mm Towbar is at 900mm Perfect. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pseyycevxe.jpg To be mounted in top of chassis tabs. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psw6ljrcf9.jpg Security cat helped and then came up to the house to wait for me. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspxujmxhi.jpg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Oooooppps.
Double post. Have a random penance pic. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psf1b18ed2.jpg May have found a previous owner from a long time ago. Below some comments from him. [font size="3"][font color="e62b19"]Did that come from a guy in Kent? It looks like one I had years ago. Also 2WD Not sure Rian long time ago sold to a guy in kent and never seen since it was original 2wd from California was all in primer apart from removable top in cream, i had a heavy duty tow bar welded on as used to pull large trailer pulling yanks from Belgium, have a pic will try and find, same grill though. As I said not sure if that's the same one but looks like it, but i remember when i registered mine i had to take it to Ashford kent for some reason to have it checked always had mine done local, verry hard to find in original 2wd today, the only reason i sold it i had a 70 3 door suburban from Texas arrive couple months later.[/font][/font] Take two. iPad 1 Grizz 0 Been a busy week, and tonight I had a report deadline, after a conversation with my new manager, we booked a half day for Thursday so that he could help me understand the process and activity to deliver a new monthly report, which all his reportees think is a waste of time, but hey..... what do we know? So at 6pm before light failedI went to the garage and lifted the Blazer up high. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjem54foa.jpg Remember this piece? http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxsqw9pgw.jpg Clamped in. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pshqzajcin.jpg Done. Good enough for me. Glued in place. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psuiuc4bl5.jpg Then the seam sealer, thinking it would be the end of the day. But of course not, Ehhh? http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstdzzsj4k.jpg 900mm of welding done in the dark, using an LED torch to show me where to go....... http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps4zzlinb2.jpg Bird poop welding on the inner sill panel, without a doubt, Grinding back in the morning, and some seam sealer later. This is not at all structural but needed to be done. Kraken Rum no 2 is history too, so gp era near bedtime for me. I am also almost out of gas, and interestingly, Imam getting a free delivery from Sam tomorrow. Old skool service with a smile. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
I texted my welding gas supply guy well after hours on Friday evening and he replied that he would have a new bottle of Argon/CO2 gas delivered on Saturday morning,by 08.00 I had a call to say the gas would be here by 09.00
True to his word, Steve was here on time, retired mechanic and general nice guy who works three days a week as volunteer at the British Heart Foundation furniture shop and then does deliveries for Sam in exchange for beer tokens, likes three sugars in his tea, we ended up chatting for an hour before I kicked him out and headed to the garage. Saturday saw some side panel action. Based on this photoshop, it may be a bit bright, so in the back of my head there is a plan involving some satin black paint and masking tape...... Just to reduce the eye searingly red of the carpet. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psws8xiedq.jpg I cut small scross slots in the carpet that would be invisible, but allow a screwdriver tip in, to secure the screws to the bedsides. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnokjuobv.jpg Spray glue, bought cheaply at a Bootfair last year or longer agoworked beautifully Mickey came around to give a hand on the mounting job and photo credits to him. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps1za7ibnm.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmrpqkkim.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pslkuwmhlt.jpg Really pleased with how it turned out. In the mean time, the original importer in 2004 of the Blazer sent me this photo. His computer with all photos was stolen a few years ago, so evidence is scarce. Originally a California truck,it came into the U.K. in primer and a white canopy. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psn6jlbi53.jpg Once started on the truck, my first job was to get the welding ground back just a little bit on the underside, then added another coat of weld through primer on all surfaces. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psllsflype.jpg Through the day, Harley was on QC duty, and also vermin patrol. She catches and releases (usually the release is live, and indoors) On a trip up to the house, I saw her in the “I got one” position next to a garden bed, and found this little guy there, playing possum http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxeondwl2.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psilqjl3b6.jpg Friend PaulF sent this pic yesterday. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psronefqmr.jpg More on the welding up of the floor later, time for tea and toast now. I had a deadline of 5.30 yesterday, as I had a dinner date, the kind where you shave and shower and put on clean clothes for a Lady. Really. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
With the underside primered, the next job was to fine tune the hole into which my previously made and primered panel would be fitted and welded up.
Amazing how everything takes more time than planned. I did discover that the plastic sill plate had not survived my welding on the underside sill the night before. So removed this one. Possibly to be replaced with a cut to size and shape Mazda MX5 part donated by mate Martin. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspzdehrcd.jpg New panel. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psh6fgus66.jpg Glued in place. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psydedwkw2.jpg Followed by a load of smaller patches, cut out, measure and make new piece and then weld in and grind back, look for missed spots or pin holes, weld up, grind and repeat. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psb8tflanq.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspgezw6bu.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psjdreswvc.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdegg1ijj.jpg Of course, the smaller the holes and patches, the bigger the effort, as I could not be bothered to go fetch and cut this thick steel with my Dremmel. You cut with a big cutter and end up with cuts to close up too. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psm8kbfrjo.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psss833b9q.jpg Around 3.00pm mate PaulF came around for a chat, cuppa, cookies and to check out my garage, as they have recently bought a new home and he is building a bigger garage. He took a sneaky pic too. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psojddihhs.jpg More in a bit. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
When PaulF came over, he brought me an awesome little tool.
LED Inspection Light. Perfect. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdefoihr7.jpg Cat Stevens sang that “The first cut is the deepest” The last one was deep too. I had poked and prodded everywhere to find any further holes, none. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psclmyyff6.jpg Keeping this price methinks. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pse0aioubb.jpg All done. Ready for more primer, galvanising spray and the seam sealer. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psfee9qawr.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pso4fgpmji.jpg Two coats on the underside. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psxg5t7e1g.jpg Galvanised spray http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psle2uraj6.jpg Seam sealer inside and outside. Job done. Happy http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psrttw0swr.jpg Yes, really pleased with the outcome. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psnvhxssqs.jpg Dinner time, with a lady. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psi4nx3zu0.jpg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
[quote author="@darkspeed" source="/post/2456238/thread" timestamp="1540231731"][font size="6"]Projekt paint [/font]- well it fecking made me chuckle.[/quote]
Remember this.....?? My 1966 C10 fender Looks like a world of pain to me. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps98j3e62h.jpg Very few people got it. So always good to see who reads the lines and between the lines. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Continuing on the food theme, once I was onto beer number two, the starters got to us.
Main course was even better and desert.......? A Twister each. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps73dkkz2t.jpg After a great day in the garage, pretty much on my own, the evening spent with Joy was lovely, eventually got to bed by midnight and my friend insomnia stayed away till 5.30 which was a good night, up by 06.00 to feed Harley and up reading and writing. By 10.00 mate Henry got here from Romford, As can be expected, he brought provisions and tools (spring compressors) http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psenc18o1g.jpg Earlier on, before Henry got here I did a few jobs. Measured the wheels and body height. Front http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pstenh248z.jpg Rear. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psdxruqi55.jpg Then a lot of, well, two generous coats of this gloop. Over the primer and two coats of Zinc spray from Saturday, plus the seam sealer. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0tidpuq7.jpg Resulting in this underside, a great improvement imho. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psrrscpgh5.jpg Getting back to the top of the truck, outer sills and floor. I had destroyed the plastic sill with the welding heat, so pulled it off. Then Martin to the rescue again. Old MX5 sills, also needing some trimming to fit and rebadging. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...ps0gk6xhm9.jpg http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...pspwp0gfei.jpg And as mentioned....... This is not a project. I am super pleased with the final outcome of the floor. Really pleased. http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/m...psmrszrkxi.jpg Did I mention I was pleased with that floor.....? |
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