'51 Rusto-Mod

[fauXGT]

I was asked why some people couldn't find my project build on the site from seeing some of my posts. I guess I haven't had one, so here it is.
Was given the opportunity to buy a 'project' 2 years ago. '52 5 window with alot of parts. Cab was crushed on top. Found a '51 6400 5 window cab replacement. Got the '84 C4 Vette front and rear suspension kit in. Figured out the stock drivers side key lock into the factory latch. Rebuilt the door hinges. Patched the usual big rust holes. Just finished the rear locate fuel tank and filler. Now working on a parking brake setup using the 55+ under dash handle. Goal is to have it look stock, old and worn.
My grandfather had a Mobil service station in Laurel, MT and I was told he had a '52 3600 5 window with a fuel delivery tank in the bed, so that is what I'm shooting for...minus the tank in the bed. I will look that old, including patina paint and dents.
I already have a show truck that I'm affraid to drive, so this could be a daily driver if needed.

[fauXGT]

The fuel filler relocate and the drivers lock pics

[oldman3]

Glad to see you got a build thread, you do some great work. I'll follow along...Jim

[fauXGT]

Worked on fitting the tailgate this weekend.
Have one old rusted original hinge for stock look. Don't know if it's a combo of both replacement new tailgate or new hinges but have 3/8"+ gap at lower part of tailgate. Gives 1/2" space to bed. Will cut and set both sides before re-welding.
More reproduction 'identical to stock' parts to deal with.

[dsraven]

haha, "identical to stock" from 30 ft away.
nice work.

[youngrodder]

Following alone....

Marc

[mongocanfly]

Gonna be fun..I like the way you did the fuel fill cover inside the bed..that looks good

[joedoh]

nice work! I dont like it when guys with tanks behind the axle have a filler neck on the floor, even if you dont haul anything invariably you will be carrying something and need gas. I really like your solution!

[lower50's]

I like the plan!!

[fauXGT]

Got the tailgate set.
Next to dump the bed outside and back to the cab.

[6DoF]

that's just satisfyingly tight

[fauXGT]

Got the bed off and finished the front sway bar fitment.
Spent a weekend figuring out the poor movement in the 'Flat Out Engineering' instructions of the sway bar mounting was being they give you enough material to mount the bar on top of the frame for ground clearance(low rider), or below for normal mounting(lol). If they gave you that info, it would save many a headache.
Removed 3/8" from the Heim side and 5/8" from the threaded side. That still gives me about 12 threads for anchor between, and it looks like it has normal travel. 1st is no changes, 2nd is cut down to fit. Also installed Heim washers that Flat-out should have included in the kit for a bit more travel in motion without binding.

[lower50's]

Looking good!! Suggestion though, I would like to see some more support on the frame above the steering rack. Maybe gusset up to shock tower? Just my two cents.

[fauXGT]

It's the full 'Flat Out Engineering" kit.
Frame is boxed in a couple of feet towards the cab also.
The only thing I would do different is to box the entire frame for rigidity, but have the brake booster to the frame already. But I don't plan on (at least as of now) rallying it either.
Pretty stout I think.

[6DoF]

you could probably use a slightly softer compression rate on that shock

[fauXGT]

With the chocolate pooping bunny invading this weekend, tried to get something done.
Didn't have any of the stock parking brake hardware so decided to update.

[fauXGT]

Originally Posted by 6DoF

you could probably use a slightly softer compression rate on that shock

I know. Been thinking of just ordering the 'Flat Out Engineering' recommended coilovers, or ask the forum about another equilivant(i.e. Q1A, or whatever).
Will install soon.

[fauXGT]

A bit more progress, but not much.
Some more fixing and POR-15 the inner side of the fenders.
Dropped the fuel pump and sending unit in the tank and started the thought process of hard line placement.
Now I know why hotrod customizers charge so much. Times my brain wants to pop and let out something other than purple dust.

[lower50's]

Ya most people don't understand how much effort it takes to build or modify something unless they have done it. Just do a bit each day and before you know it you will be done. Don't get overwhelmed.
Your progress looks good though!

[fauXGT]

Started the fuel line runs.
On a staycation this week, so more progress coming.

[6DoF]

oh man, i could so use a staycation ... git-r-done!

[fauXGT]

Finished the fuel lines and started on the brake lines. Reassembled the heater box freshly painted a week ago with 12v motor and new core.
Still don't think this year is going to be the drive date, but can spend the winter doing detail finish work.

[joedoh]

great stuff!

[fauXGT]

Been a while since posting but have gotten a bit more done.
Finished the fuel lines and brake lines, including the rotors/calipers.... and now prepping the body and parts for paint.
Hoping tho get paint on her before the snow flies, and then spend the the winter re-assembling. Just wishing at this point.

[fauXGT]

Well, missed the weather.
Was on the last wipe down before primer and the rain started. These paint booths are not rain proof. Drip, drip. Now it's in the 40's. Unless it decides to throw in an indian summer, it's done until spring.
All put in the shop ready for warmer days.