Making some small progress on the truck this weekend. Got the gas tank installed and gas line run ready to connect. previous owner had bought new tank, so i just had to replace the rubber gromets at the neck.
Also figured out the steering column issues and got that installed, well almost.
I wanted a little extra room between my belly and the wheel, so i wallered out the 3 frame holes and modified the plate at the dash mount to allow me to pivot the angle and raise a couple of inches. It did cause the pitman arm to shift back a little, but does not appear to impact overall steering radius as i was able to have full range of steering limited by the stop bolts on the wheels.
Learned more than i wanted to on steering column, such as it matters which way you mount the ushaped bracket that holds the column to the dash, there is a slot in the bottom of the column and a tab in that bracket that limits how far down the column will slide. Also, put the rubber seal on the column BEFORE you button everything up.
Yep, pull it off and reinstall ONE more time.
I also Installed new drag link for steering. Because the drag link has the “tie rod” ends built into the unit instead of threading on , had to purchase new drag link. Seems to fit perfect.
Should help moving the truck around shop with steering funtioning.
Splurged on birthday present and bought new brake booster and master cylinder from Pirate Jacks in Asheville. Mounted right up to firewall with existing mounting holes. The push-rod linkage to stock brake pedal is about 2” too long, so need to address that. I thing they a shorter unit that will work. Previous setup was out of 70’s truck and had home-made linkage rod.
And finally, i am going to have to deal with the hood hinge bolts i had to cut because there are spinning. I tried to throw a small weld to one edge, but was not able break the bolt loose to remove. I assume i am going to have to drill the bolts, but i must have wrong bits, because initial attempt was nada, was not able to drill into the bolt.
Pass side has 2 , drivers side has 1. Any suggestions?