Project 1966 K20 adventure rig

[layinrocker65]

Thank you

[72cs20]

Still progressing with this beast and finishing up the detail work.

I finally got around to installing shocks at the rear axle. They are Bilstein 5100 series units. The bushings on these shocks use 1/2 Inch bolts. To fit 1/2 inch bolts into the upper factory 3/4 inch mounting holes, I used some 3/4 inch outside diameter dom tubing with .120 wall(.510 inch inside diameter) to sleeve those upper mounting holes. The lower mounts are stout aftermarket sourced with 1/2 inch bolt holes.

To address the driveline vibration at 50+ mph, I've decided on CV joint at the transfer case end. And at the rear axle end I used a 4 degree shim to get the pinion and driveshaft on the same angle. I also had to change out the t-case rear output yoke to a CV style. Should get the driveshaft back from the shop next week.

The interior configuration is now the way it is going to stay so it was time to trim down and bend the main transmission shifter. I put some heat to it and made a bend towards the driver. Then I removed about 8 inches between the bend and the shift knob. Then I welded back together. Way more comfortable shifting position now.

[72cs20]

I had some air conditioning tasks to take care of. I never really liked the rotary knob control panel that came with the system. So I bought the newest control panel that is out now for the 64-66 trucks. It is pricey but way nicer and is also backlit.

In addition to the nice factory style ac vents there were still two ducted outputs from the ac unit that needed to be finished. I didn't want to use the whole lower duct assembly that came with the VA system. So I cut off the section I did want to use and rtv sealed off the open end with some thick cardboard. Gave it some black paint. Screwed it to the dash and ran the ducting. Great air flow now.

[72cs20]

Time to deal with the front bumper. The old pto winch mount is cool so I'm going to re-use it. I have an old Warn 8274 winch that will look good and work well on this truck.

The pto winch and its bracketry was mounted in this bumper almost permanently with a lot of thick steal. Very well done. It all had to be cut out with a grinder and cutting torch.

I then cut out enough of the middle to fit the Warn winch mount. Today was just mock up day to see how it all fits. Tacked in a few places and bolted to the truck. It fit nicely.

Then I set the winch in place to check fit. Pretty good but I think tomorrow I will move it down one inch and to the rear an inch.

[72cs20]

Winch and bumper fit up done. Moved the winch mounting plate down and back one inch. Bolted in with grade 8 1/2 inch hardware on 1/4 inch steel L-brackets. I cut the front bumper into two pieces and bolted her up. A little hammer work to the bumper and some paint and this step is off the whiteboard.