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Posted by: arne Nov 27 2017, 08:38 PM

I tried, folks, really I did. Since I sold the yellow 2.0 I’ve looked into 3 different 914s. None were good enough that I felt I could refresh them and still break even later. So I had to look at other options.

“And now for something completely different.”

In fact, it doesn’t get much different, really. Japanese. 50+ years old. Not what anyone would consider as “sporty” in any normal sense of the word. But I think it’ll be a pretty cool project, all the same.

1964 Toyota FJ40 Land Cruiser. All original, with a rare factory PTO winch. I’ve got a lot of new stuff to learn, and I don’t think I can learn it here. It’s been a fun time, 914world is great!

Wish me luck!

Posted by: Mueller Nov 27 2017, 08:51 PM

No complaints from this guy!

That should be fun, surprised you actually found one that was affordable, I think most get snatched up by ICON for their $100K builds.

Feel free to keep us posted on the progress.

Posted by: KELTY360 Nov 27 2017, 10:03 PM

Fits in with the trophies on the wall.

I guess you could call it a NARP; hell, it's not even a fake one.

Posted by: bandjoey Nov 27 2017, 10:20 PM

Our friend Rust hangs out on Cruisers too. Keep us posted.

Posted by: G e o r g e Nov 27 2017, 10:44 PM

Wish I still had mine.

Posted by: 914 7T3 Nov 27 2017, 10:45 PM

Super Cool and Welcome to FJ Cruiser World!

Wait wrong website.

Please post a link so we can follow your progress and good luck with it.

Posted by: JRust Nov 27 2017, 10:49 PM

There is a place in Lincoln city that specializes in them. Always see 2 or 3 by the road up there. Might be worth looking into as a resource. Congrats on the Cruiser. They are killer rigs

Posted by: draperjojo Nov 27 2017, 11:13 PM

Always wanted to go through an old FJ, I've restored several old jeeps tho. Right now a sandblasted 914 takes up one bay in my garage, and this project is taking up another bay. I swear I'll quit doing cars and just go pick up an old Shovelhead next time I feel the need to do a project... Good luck with your FJ, and keep posting progress pics!


Attached thumbnail(s)

Posted by: arne Nov 28 2017, 10:56 AM

Thanks, folks. I’ll stop by once in a while, just to visit. There are a few forums that cater to old FJs, the most active seems to be IH8MUD, so that’s where I plan to post the build thread. The initial consensus there seems to be that I found a really good example, with a lot of rare original parts. Might be a bit of a challenge to keep it as original as I plan, but that’s part of the fun for me.

Here’s a parting pic or two.

Posted by: JOEPROPER Nov 28 2017, 11:40 AM

No complaints here. I had a '72 a few years back that started out just like that one. Same color too. That's a fun project and will be worth something when complete.

Posted by: arne Nov 28 2017, 12:01 PM

Forgot the link to the build thread:

https://forum.ih8mud.com/threads/older-than-dirt-refreshing-a-64-fj40.1025704/

Posted by: arne Jan 9 2018, 06:41 PM

Oh wait, I’ve used that meme here before. Oops!

In any case, the Land Cruiser started up and ran today, first time in at least 10 years, probably 15. Slow progress, this is definitely going to take longer than the ‘teener.

Posted by: JOEPROPER Jan 9 2018, 07:55 PM

Love it. I had a '72 FJ40 and loved it. Good luck.

Posted by: arne Feb 4 2018, 07:48 PM

Moved under its own power earlier this week. Not far, got no cooling system hooked up yet. But soon should move into real test drive mode.

Posted by: JRust Feb 4 2018, 09:55 PM

Thats great Arne! Really solid FJ you found. Are you down the same path & getting it painted?

Posted by: arne Mar 31 2018, 06:51 PM

Popped in today to check on a couple of other builds I have been watching, thought I'd post an update while I'm here.

QUOTE(JRust @ Feb 4 2018, 07:55 PM)

Posted by: KELTY360 Mar 31 2018, 09:09 PM

Love the pink seat cover!

Posted by: arne Jul 29 2018, 09:06 PM

Story of my progress...

Make it run and drive, disassemble it, make it run and drive again, disassemble it, repeat several times.

I'm in disassembled mode now...

Posted by: 914 7T3 Jul 29 2018, 11:11 PM

Looks like your FJ project is a lot more involved than the 914 and you will soon be ready for paint. That will be a big turning point so Congrats on your progress!

Posted by: arne Aug 29 2018, 10:10 PM

Posted by: 914_7T3 Aug 29 2018, 10:23 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Aug 29 2018, 09:10 PM)

Posted by: arne Aug 29 2018, 10:25 PM

QUOTE(914_7T3 @ Aug 29 2018, 09:23 PM)

Posted by: porschetub Aug 30 2018, 12:50 AM

Wonderful vehicle,built like a panzer tank and went for ever,fond memories driving one of these in the late 90's,these were a popular government vehicle in their time in my country,used for all manner of uses ,we had an option called the Arcarna body option which was anything from a troop carrier multi seat rear body on a cab on only to a set up to long metal rear wellside.
Very popular in Australia as a people carrier for mining workers in the upper west coast and others area's.
The one I used had a later motor I think 4.1 litre,drunk fuel @ an amazing rate and was a vehicle that you never had control of because it had some sort of early autopilot ,finally died towing a large commercial boat on a even larger trailer in a remote area cost a bunch of $$$ to get it to extracted to the nearest town.
Don't know what happened to it after this .

Posted by: tomeric914 Aug 30 2018, 08:29 AM

Similar story here, drove an '80 FJ40 in the early '90s which was an absolute beast. Built 100 times better than a Jeep. Went into, through and out of stuff that would stop other vehicles cold. Had this auxiliary rear seat heater which was AWESOME for the -30 deg F mornings in central and western NY.

I can't think of a single time that it got stuck. @http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=8376 was with me on a maiden voyage through a farmers back field (I think it was Mr. Gregory's) where we fell through a sheet of ice into a muddy bog and just kept going.

Posted by: napasteve Aug 30 2018, 08:58 AM

Fantastic work Arne.

Posted by: Cupomeat Aug 30 2018, 09:43 AM

QUOTE(tomeric914 @ Aug 30 2018, 10:29 AM)

Posted by: Ferg Aug 30 2018, 10:06 AM

Really nice

Posted by: arne Oct 18 2018, 09:19 PM

10.5 months into it. I'm calling it essentially complete. Waiting on a last firewall grommet, and a bit of cleaning and touchup. Everything works as it should—lights, brakes, horns, gauges, wipers, all of it.

Going to be out of town for a few days next week, will do some more driving to make sure there are no new surprises, and then lay plans to sell it.

Posted by: horizontally-opposed Oct 18 2018, 09:29 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Oct 18 2018, 08:19 PM)

10.5 months into it. I'm calling it essentially complete. Waiting on a last firewall grommet, and a bit of cleaning and touchup. Everything works as it should—lights, brakes, horns, gauges, wipers, all of it.

Going to be out of town for a few days next week, will do some more driving to make sure there are no new surprises, and then lay plans to sell it.

Posted by: championgt1 Oct 18 2018, 09:52 PM

All kinds of awesome!!

Posted by: mbseto Oct 19 2018, 11:57 AM

Gorgeous.

Posted by: mepstein Oct 19 2018, 12:19 PM

I love it. Great vision.

Posted by: 914_7T3 Oct 19 2018, 06:13 PM

That’s 2x you’ve completed your project before me.



Congratulations on another great build!

Posted by: KELTY360 Oct 19 2018, 07:49 PM

Schweeeet!

Should be an easy sale.

Posted by: arne Oct 19 2018, 08:02 PM

Probably auction it on BaT.

Posted by: arne Nov 2 2018, 05:57 PM

Posted by: burton73 Nov 2 2018, 06:38 PM

Bravo on the great work.

It looks really nice.
Bob B

Posted by: Larmo63 Nov 2 2018, 06:48 PM

Dang, that thing is eye candy. Great job!!! (again)

What is something like that worth?

Posted by: Maltese Falcon Nov 2 2018, 07:23 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Nov 2 2018, 04:57 PM)

Posted by: 914_7T3 Nov 2 2018, 10:32 PM

@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=20799 Here is a nice ‘68 available in the LA area!

https://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/cto/d/classic-vintage-restored-1968/6725880805.html

Posted by: mepstein Nov 3 2018, 02:54 AM

Arne - your color choice turns a cool car into a show stopper. Great job!

Posted by: arne Nov 5 2018, 01:56 PM

QUOTE(Larmo63 @ Nov 2 2018, 04:48 PM)

What is something like that worth?

QUOTE(Maltese Falcon @ Nov 2 2018, 05:23 PM)

I also mfg. these 6 into 1 tuned headers for the vintage fj40 if your cast iron manifold is in need of replacement
Get the 914World discount as well

QUOTE(914_7T3 @ Nov 2 2018, 08:32 PM)

QUOTE(mepstein @ Nov 3 2018, 12:54 AM)

Posted by: arne Nov 23 2018, 09:19 PM

Auction on Bring-a-Trailer is now live.

http://'https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1964-toyota-land-cruiser-fj40-4/'

Posted by: orangecrate Nov 23 2018, 09:59 PM

Nice job!!! But now it's too purty to wheel.

Posted by: porschetub Nov 23 2018, 10:47 PM

Worth good money as in reality it looks like its 70% new ,don't undervalve it unless you need the $$$$.
GLWTS

Posted by: JRust Nov 24 2018, 11:27 AM

That turned out GREAT Arnie! Well done man it will pull top dollar I'm thinking.

Posted by: arne Nov 24 2018, 12:00 PM

QUOTE(orangecrate @ Nov 23 2018, 07:59 PM)

QUOTE(porschetub @ Nov 23 2018, 08:47 PM)

Worth good money as in reality it looks like its 70% new ,don't undervalve it unless you need the $$$$.
GLWTS

QUOTE(JRust @ Nov 24 2018, 09:27 AM)

Posted by: arne Dec 1 2018, 02:20 PM

Auction over, and it is sold (pending payment, of course). I feel I did OK. Thought it might have pulled a bit more than it did, but I had carefully set the reserve at a price I could live with, and it cleared it, so it's all fine.

Search for the next project can begin in earnest now. Ideal project would be a LWB long hood 911 in an interesting color. But even though prices have softened some on those, they may all still be outside my budget. So other vehicles will also need to be considered.

Posted by: arne Dec 14 2018, 11:44 PM

Posted by: 914_7T3 Dec 15 2018, 01:00 AM

Love it! Please share details of your plans for this one.

Posted by: arne Dec 15 2018, 01:06 AM

1972 911T coupe. 2.4 MFI, 5 speed. Original spec was Fuchs, F&R sway bars, Appearance Group and factory A/C. No sunroof, crank windows.

Plan is for mostly stock, but with better seats. Definitely back to original silver. It will replace the '84 Carrera as my "keeper". Seller is doing a front pan replacement on it now, then it will be shipped here to Oregon. 4-6 weeks away, I'm guessing.

Posted by: mepstein Dec 15 2018, 06:14 AM

terrific car. congrats

Posted by: Cairo94507 Dec 15 2018, 07:31 AM

Great year- that has the oil tank fill door on the passenger rear fender right? One year only feature if I recall correctly.

Posted by: mepstein Dec 15 2018, 07:41 AM

QUOTE(Cairo94507 @ Dec 15 2018, 08:31 AM)

Posted by: arne Dec 15 2018, 11:00 AM

Yes. As a long wheelbase, no-sunroof '72 with the forward mounted oil tank, this car is probably one of the best balanced 911 versions ever. Stuff some wider tires in the rear and enjoy.

Wonder where I can find a pair of 7R wheels that look like flat sixes?

Posted by: mepstein Dec 15 2018, 12:18 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Dec 15 2018, 12:00 PM)

Posted by: arne Dec 15 2018, 01:04 PM

QUOTE(mepstein @ Dec 15 2018, 10:18 AM)

Posted by: arne Jan 11 2019, 07:19 PM

Getting close to ready to ship.

Posted by: arne Jan 16 2019, 10:37 PM

Even closer...

Posted by: arne Mar 1 2019, 11:16 PM

Finally! It's here!!

Posted by: flyer86d Mar 2 2019, 10:23 AM

QUOTE(Dion @ Mar 1 2019, 09:55 PM)

Some how , all this needs to go back on the car!!
Eventually

Posted by: arne Mar 2 2019, 07:33 PM

If I were rebuilding the motor, I'd probably do just that. But the engine is already done, fresh split-case rebuild with new Mahle P&Cs. Has about 3 hours on it now. I think I'll be happy with it as is.

Posted by: arne Mar 4 2019, 08:06 PM

FYI - Build thread is at http://www.early911sregistry.org/forums/showthread.php?142979-Ambition-Fulfilled-my-1972-911T-coupe

Posted by: arne Apr 21 2019, 10:27 AM

Thought I'd drop by and post a quick update. The 911 runs and drives now -- sort of. The brakes are still a bit soft, still have a bit of air in there somewhere. And I'm trying to track down what appears to be a fuel delivery problem that is proving difficult to find.

I've driven it enough to determine that KYB shocks and inserts are no better on a 911 than they are on a 914. They look rather new, but they suck badly. The fronts especially are so soft the car just bobs around at backroad speeds. Once I get the fuel problem dealt with, new dampers will be the next item. Will need to decide on stock Boge/Sachs or Bilsteins.

And, of course, here are some pictures for my 914 friends...

Posted by: 914_7T3 Apr 21 2019, 10:44 AM

Nice! Flashbacks to two years ago getting the 914 up and running, I'll bet.

Posted by: Cairo94507 Apr 21 2019, 11:07 AM

Very nice project. Not surprised to hear your comments re the KYB's. They are junk out of the box and the reason they are nicknamed Kill Your Back shocks. The two names that repeatedly come up for Porsches are Bilstein and Koni.

Posted by: horizontally-opposed Apr 21 2019, 11:26 AM

QUOTE(Cairo94507 @ Apr 21 2019, 10:07 AM)

The two names that repeatedly come up for Porsches are Bilstein and Koni.

Posted by: arne Apr 21 2019, 11:45 AM

QUOTE(horizontally-opposed @ Apr 21 2019, 10:26 AM)

QUOTE(914_7T3 @ Apr 21 2019, 09:44 AM)

Posted by: arne Aug 5 2019, 06:52 PM

Three months later, where am I?

Mechanically, mostly done. Engine and MFI are dialed in and running great. Suspension refresh completed with new Sachs dampers, sway bar bushings and a fresh corner balance/alignment. Brakes finally stop like I want after installing some REAL brake pads - Pagid Orange.

I've put almost 1500 miles on it this summer, engine break-in is complete. Picking away at a few oil leaks, but that's about the extent of the functional part. Overall, the car runs and drives exactly as I expect. (Other than the fuel economy. I figured it would be bad, but who knew a little 2.4L could burn THAT much fuel?)

Now gathering parts in preparation for a full glass-out repaint in the original silver, planned for over the winter. This project will take considerably longer than most of mine, as I'm doing some parts (paint especially) to a higher standard than some of my previous vehicles, and I need to stretch the timeline a bit to ease the financial hit. Recently ditched the really poor fiberglass S bumper and replaced it with a steel factory standard unit, which is what it came with when new. Also have a freshly restored set of Fuchs waiting until after paint.

In any case, I plan to drive it possibly another 1000 miles over the next couple months, and then into paint in October. By spring it should be silver once more.

Posted by: 914_7T3 Aug 5 2019, 08:16 PM

As usual, looking great Arne! As for timeline, seems pretty quick to me

Posted by: arne Aug 5 2019, 08:25 PM

QUOTE(914_7T3 @ Aug 5 2019, 07:16 PM)

As usual, looking great Arne! As for timeline, seems pretty quick to me

Posted by: arne Sep 26 2019, 08:16 PM

The timeline is still good, I'm on track to take the car to the painter next week. I've got the car pretty much stripped.

Posted by: sixnotfour Sep 26 2019, 09:03 PM

911SRegistry

Pelican911forum

Sandbox,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

my 87 Carrera, Backdate

Posted by: sixnotfour Sep 26 2019, 09:11 PM

Posted by: sixnotfour Sep 26 2019, 09:14 PM

the dream


Attached image(s)

Posted by: sixnotfour Sep 26 2019, 09:26 PM

Posted by: sixnotfour Sep 26 2019, 09:31 PM

2.4 MFI&915, perfect for a 914

Posted by: arne Oct 24 2019, 11:11 PM

Posted by: 914_7T3 Oct 25 2019, 09:52 PM

Nice Body..................Work! Already in Primer too!

Looking great!

You know its harder to put it all back together, right?

Posted by: arne Oct 25 2019, 10:06 PM

Not harder, just slower.

Posted by: arne Jan 10 2020, 09:34 PM

Posted by: sixnotfour Jan 10 2020, 10:29 PM

so the 911 guys dont like you ...............914.... World ?? @http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=179

Posted by: SirAndy Jan 10 2020, 10:38 PM

QUOTE(sixnotfour @ Jan 10 2020, 08:29 PM)

Posted by: arne Jan 10 2020, 10:40 PM

QUOTE(sixnotfour @ Jan 10 2020, 08:29 PM)

Posted by: sixnotfour Jan 10 2020, 10:42 PM

sandbox...
I have plenty of other projects to clog the 914world with..testing 1.2

Posted by: JRust Jan 10 2020, 10:43 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Jan 10 2020, 08:40 PM)

QUOTE(sixnotfour @ Jan 10 2020, 08:29 PM)

so the 911 guys dont like you ...............914.... World ?? @http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=179

I gather that you object to my stopping in periodically to let the friends I made here on 914world know how things are progressing? Odd that no one has complained about this until now, over two years after I started this thread.

@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=179 - I suspect you were pinged so that you could take some action on this thread. If you'd prefer I don't stop in, just say the word.

Posted by: napasteve Jan 10 2020, 10:54 PM

Here’s another vote for Arne to keep posting. Fantastic work, I love being able to follow.

Posted by: RickS Jan 10 2020, 10:59 PM

Keep it coming. Most car guys enjoy progress reports on like cars and makes.

Posted by: sixnotfour Jan 10 2020, 11:05 PM

just sayin....nothing personal....I have a 87 Carrea Ive been backdating for years,, and a m38a1 since 1967..

Posted by: 914_7T3 Jan 10 2020, 11:52 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Jan 10 2020, 07:34 PM)

Posted by: Rleog Jan 11 2020, 05:31 AM

Love both the FJ and 911 projects. Keep the updates coming, Arne.

QUOTE(914_7T3 @ Jan 11 2020, 12:52 AM)

QUOTE(arne @ Jan 10 2020, 07:34 PM)

Posted by: 76-914 Jan 11 2020, 10:01 AM

Keep posting. A little variety is nice for a change. This site put-up with me when I desecrated a 914 by converting it to a water pumping Subaru 6.
EDIT: And Jeff, post up some of your other projects.

Posted by: SirAndy Jan 11 2020, 01:09 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Jan 10 2020, 08:40 PM)

QUOTE(sixnotfour @ Jan 10 2020, 08:29 PM)

so the 911 guys dont like you ...............914.... World ?? @http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=179

I gather that you object to my stopping in periodically to let the friends I made here on 914world know how things are progressing? Odd that no one has complained about this until now, over two years after I started this thread.

@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=179 - I suspect you were pinged so that you could take some action on this thread. If you'd prefer I don't stop in, just say the word.

Posted by: arne Jan 11 2020, 01:41 PM

QUOTE(SirAndy @ Jan 11 2020, 11:09 AM)

Posted by: Maltese Falcon Jan 11 2020, 01:55 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Jan 11 2020, 11:41 AM)

QUOTE(SirAndy @ Jan 11 2020, 11:09 AM)

If nothing else, the 911 is a potential parts donor for the 914 so logically, there's plenty of 914 content right here in this thread

True, although it was a lot closer to being a donor when I bought it than it is now.

No worries on my part. I have build threads with more frequent updates on both http://www.early911sregistry.org/forums/showthread.php?142979-Ambition-Fulfilled-my-1972-911T-coupe (detailed) and the http://early911.pca.org/showthread.php?t=35 (simpler). Just milestones here, every 2-3 months until it's mostly done, I figure.

Parts scattered all over the house, awaiting the car's return.

Posted by: porschetub Jan 11 2020, 03:29 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Jan 11 2020, 05:40 PM)

QUOTE(sixnotfour @ Jan 10 2020, 08:29 PM)

so the 911 guys dont like you ...............914.... World ?? @http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=179

I gather that you object to my stopping in periodically to let the friends I made here on 914world know how things are progressing? Odd that no one has complained about this until now, over two years after I started this thread.

@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=179 - I suspect you were pinged so that you could take some action on this thread. If you'd prefer I don't stop in, just say the word.

Posted by: jim_hoyland Jan 11 2020, 05:44 PM

Keep up the posts; love watching others progress...

Posted by: TravisNeff Jan 11 2020, 06:40 PM

Looking good Arne, thanks for sharing!

Posted by: rgalla9146 Jan 11 2020, 07:26 PM

I had a silver '72 E
Never should have sold it.
Nice work. Keep posting.

Posted by: rick 918-S Jan 12 2020, 07:13 AM

Did this 72 Targa some years back.

Posted by: arne Feb 13 2020, 10:51 AM

In my garage now, and reassembly is in progress. Gearing up my resolve to begin a task that is foreign to 914 owners -- installing the headliner!

Posted by: mepstein Feb 13 2020, 11:16 AM

Arne - Looks fantastic. Are you keeping this one?

Posted by: rhodyguy Feb 13 2020, 11:21 AM

SILVER! STUNNING! The brightwork is beautiful. You do great work.

Posted by: arne Feb 13 2020, 01:22 PM

QUOTE(mepstein @ Feb 13 2020, 09:16 AM)

Posted by: arne Mar 4 2020, 07:00 PM

Posted by: RickS Mar 4 2020, 10:57 PM

What a knock out job and in my fave Early color. Very well done

Posted by: horizontally-opposed Mar 4 2020, 11:18 PM

Wow, car is gorgeous, Arne! Thank you for sharing your projects here....

There's just something about a cool car freshly repainted in silver—before everything goes back on. Not sure what that is, but I've noticed it across a lot of kinds of cars.

Posted by: Chris H. Mar 5 2020, 07:38 AM

Yeah it's a timeless color. Very "classy" no matter what the trend of the day is. Great work Arne, it's really turned out nice.

Posted by: arne Apr 7 2020, 06:20 PM

First shakedown drive yesterday. Last drive was 6½ months ago. Went well. The steering wheel was a couple of splines off, and I've got something in the back rattling a bit at idle. The rest of the car seems tight and ready to go.

After a few final details, I'm considering the exterior work to be done for now. Yes, at some point I'll start upgrading various bits of exterior trim that I reused from before the paint work, but for now it looks pretty darn good.

On to the interior now.

Posted by: 914_7T3 Apr 7 2020, 06:57 PM

Looks great!

Posted by: arne May 4 2020, 07:09 PM

The interior is now pretty well taken care of too, other than re-wrapping the steering wheel. (Leather for that arrives later this week.) Starting to consider all the A/C parts now. Other than the A/C, the car is ready to drive now.

While I'm not quite ready for something else yet, I am starting to sniff around for my next project. Will have to be a cheap one, as I'm not selling this car (or any other stuff) to finance it.

Posted by: arne May 15 2020, 01:56 PM

Finished wrapping the steering wheel today, getting ready to go for a drive, as the Oregon rain is supposed to return tomorrow.

Scored another missing part this week, still need brackets and knobs. But tested it, and it works great.

Posted by: 914_7T3 May 15 2020, 02:29 PM

QUOTE(arne @ May 15 2020, 12:56 PM)

Finished wrapping the steering wheel today, getting ready to go for a drive, as the Oregon rain is supposed to return tomorrow.

Scored another missing part this week, still need brackets and knobs. But tested it, and it works great.

Posted by: arne May 15 2020, 11:22 PM

QUOTE(914_7T3 @ May 15 2020, 01:29 PM)

Nice radio!

You one of them CW, NOS parts collectors I've been hearing about?

Posted by: arne Aug 23 2020, 11:53 AM

So the 911 is now mostly complete. About all that is left is re-working the factory A/C. No rush there.



So I've been watching for a next project to consume my time. Something fun to build, and that I can sell when done and not get too far underwater in. I think I've got it selected, stay tuned...

Posted by: Tdskip Aug 23 2020, 12:12 PM

Good selection/choices so far - bring it!

Posted by: arne Aug 23 2020, 06:01 PM

Verbal deal made, money changes hands tomorrow.

Posted by: Chris H. Aug 23 2020, 06:51 PM

That'll be a fun one. You going stock? GTI trim? Always thought an engine swap to a slightly more powerful one would make that a great daily driver.

Posted by: arne Aug 23 2020, 06:54 PM

QUOTE(Chris H. @ Aug 23 2020, 05:51 PM)

Posted by: Chris H. Aug 23 2020, 07:05 PM

Oh man that's a GREAT one to start with. 2.0 is perfect. Not too crazy but it'll keep up with traffic. Looking forward to the updates as usual!

Posted by: 914_7T3 Aug 23 2020, 07:23 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Aug 23 2020, 05:01 PM)

Verbal deal made, money changes hands tomorrow.

Posted by: JRust Aug 23 2020, 07:29 PM

Nice Arne always liked those rabbit(LOL) trucks. I always wanted one for mics little stuff. Be a cool ride for sure

Posted by: arne Aug 23 2020, 08:26 PM

QUOTE(914_7T3 @ Aug 23 2020, 06:23 PM)

Posted by: horizontally-opposed Aug 23 2020, 10:01 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Aug 23 2020, 05:54 PM)

Posted by: arne Aug 23 2020, 10:42 PM

Stock G60 in the portly Corrado was uninspiring. I was afraid of grenading the supercharger and didn't want to put a smaller pulley on it, but did do some simple plumbing changes (couldn't get away with them in CA) to help keep the boost up while shifting. Better, but not great, the 16v Jetta that was the family car during that time was more entertaining.

But in a lighter Mk1, if you can accept the risk of spinning the G-lader faster than stock, it could make it feel special.

But all in all, I prefer the feel and character of the 16v engines. Which should make this little truck a pile of fun.

Posted by: garrettlee2 Aug 23 2020, 10:54 PM

I’m planning on selling this if you would like a dumb race car

Posted by: arne Aug 24 2020, 01:20 PM

QUOTE(garrettlee2 @ Aug 23 2020, 09:54 PM)

Posted by: arne Aug 25 2020, 09:42 PM

Home now, let the fun begin...

Posted by: Tdskip Aug 26 2020, 07:07 AM

QUOTE(garrettlee2 @ Aug 23 2020, 11:54 PM)

I’m planning on selling this if you would like a dumb race car

Posted by: garrettlee2 Aug 26 2020, 08:09 AM

QUOTE(Tdskip @ Aug 26 2020, 06:07 AM)

QUOTE(garrettlee2 @ Aug 23 2020, 11:54 PM)

I’m planning on selling this if you would like a dumb race car

Is that Pre-SMOG by chance?

Posted by: Tdskip Aug 26 2020, 08:11 AM

QUOTE(garrettlee2 @ Aug 26 2020, 09:09 AM)

QUOTE(Tdskip @ Aug 26 2020, 06:07 AM)

QUOTE(garrettlee2 @ Aug 23 2020, 11:54 PM)

I’m planning on selling this if you would like a dumb race car

Is that Pre-SMOG by chance?

It has a 300hp 1.8t and diesel title

Posted by: porschetub Aug 26 2020, 03:47 PM

The 16v 2.0 engine is a very good engine,much improved torque over the KR 1.8 which I have in my Corrado.
In ROW spec the ABF 2.0 made the same power as the first 20v Mk4 GTI's ,it seems the US version called a 9A had some slight differences but pretty much the same unit.
These motors tune very well and provide good gains when chipped and fitted with a quality header and exhaust.

Posted by: arne Aug 26 2020, 06:21 PM

Got it running today, for a short time. After some troubleshooting I hot wired the fuel pump and it fired right up. Fuel pump relay is toast. New one arrives tomorrow.

Wiring is less than professional, I'm going to have to sort the whole thing, I suspect.

I like the 2.0 16v, and have a lot of seat time with them. We bought a '91 Jetta GLI new in '91, and used it as our family driver until 2002, and as a backup car through 2007 when we gave it to our son. He still owns it.

I don't know if this one is stock internally. It does have a header on it, and no cat.

Posted by: porschetub Aug 26 2020, 10:21 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Aug 27 2020, 12:21 PM)

Posted by: arne Sep 10 2020, 11:27 PM

QUOTE(porschetub @ Aug 26 2020, 09:21 PM)

Posted by: porschetub Sep 11 2020, 05:00 PM

[quote name='arne' date='Sep 11 2020, 05:27 PM' post='2850221']
[quote name='porschetub' post='2846267' date='Aug 26 2020, 09:21 PM']Great to here you got it running,with the Mk1 platform the power to weight should be pretty good.
Good luck.
[/quote]
It should be a fun little truck when I get it done. The 2.0 16v is about twice the power of the original gas 1.7, and almost 3 times as much as the more common diesel pickups. It also has a close-ratio 5 speed with 3.94 final drive from an early GTI. So it will be surprisingly quick. A definite sleeper. The rather plain-looking factory VW wheels were original on the donor Passat, and are actually forged Fuchs, complete with the fox head stamp on the back side. They don't weigh much, extremely light. A good wheel for the sleeper look.

I got it running about a week ago, although not 100% yet. The Motronic ECU is apparently running in limp-home mode. So the AFR is way rich, and there is no ignition advance at all. Indications are that it may have at least one bad knock sensor. So no driving it yet. Brakes have been overhauled, the fronts upgraded to vented rotors. Suspension is ¾ done, will be complete before the week is out. New knock sensors on their way.
[quote]
Sounds like you are moving on with this,not sure if you know this but the blue temp sensor if faulty will give you the issue you have,if not working or faulty wiring there is no communication with the ECU regarding engine temp status...ask me how I know,mine was a dead wire in the loom,bought a replacement engine loom for cheap and all was good.
Good luck.

Posted by: arne Sep 11 2020, 06:04 PM

QUOTE(porschetub @ Sep 11 2020, 04:00 PM)

Posted by: arne Nov 21 2020, 11:53 AM

Still debugging the Motronic injection, problems from sitting too long, as well as ill-advised tampering by the PO. It runs, and shows promise as being really quick. But it doesn't run right yet. Awaiting some additional parts for that now.

Beyond that, the electrical bits have been pretty much dealt with, everything now works again - lights, gauges, etc.

New brakes both ends, including an upgrade to vented GTI up front. Suspension and steering all refreshed as well.

Polished the VW/Fuchs wheels, turned out quite nice.

And now the rust exploration has begun, pictured below is the back half of the passenger floor pan. Rust is present, but not horrible. Better than I feared.

Will be expanding my work to a new area on this one, as I plan to tackle the rust repair myself. New MIG welder should be delivered any day now.

Posted by: porschetub Nov 21 2020, 07:32 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Nov 22 2020, 06:53 AM)

Posted by: arne Nov 21 2020, 07:45 PM

QUOTE(porschetub @ Nov 21 2020, 05:32 PM)

QUOTE(porschetub @ Nov 21 2020, 05:32 PM)

Posted by: arne Dec 27 2020, 10:04 PM

Lots has happened in the last 5 weeks.

First, new MIG welder arrived.



And several boxes of parts, most from the UK. Notable bit include a new stainless header (found some nasty stress cracks in the one the truck came with), tail lights, rust repair panels, front bumper, seats, exterior trim, mirrors, seals, etc.











Rust repair is proceeding.





And lastly, the replacement AFM is STILL not here yet, USPS sat on it in a Connecticut post office for over 2 weeks before it started to move. Hoping for later this week.

Posted by: Maltese Falcon Dec 28 2020, 10:51 AM

My dynamic duo in the early 1980's ; the 2.7/ cis turbo 9146, and 1.5L turbo-diesel 5 speed Wabbit pick-up. The truck was changed out (at 500k miles) to a 1.8L /16v gti engine, with side draft webers.
It was sold to a friend that set up the suspension, and canyon raced it

Posted by: arne Jan 30 2021, 12:40 PM

Replacement AFM was installed, first impression was that it has fixed the running issues, but final judgement will be withheld until the failing fuel pump and partially crushed gas tank are replaced. (Tank is scheduled to arrive any day now.)

Passenger floor pan has been replaced, and more new trim is being test fitted. Second half of the floor pan project will start after the fuel tank and pump have been replaced.

Posted by: IronHillRestorations Jan 30 2021, 05:35 PM

I love those little trucks. A friend had one for years; his had a topper that fit the back perfectly

Posted by: flat4guy Jan 30 2021, 10:11 PM

I've had that same welder for years - love it.

Posted by: arne Mar 20 2021, 10:44 PM

Since the last update, the fuel pump and tank have been replaced, and the second half of the floor pan welded in. New tires next week (the ones on it now are almost 20 years old!). Starting to test fit all the new trim pieces, as I don't want to have to drill holes or tweak fitment after the truck has been painted. While there is still a little non-structural rust left to repair, I'll be talking with the painters about the job in the next couple of weeks.

Posted by: EdwardBlume Mar 21 2021, 06:33 AM

Well done! A joy to see your projects. Keep it up!

Posted by: arne Mar 22 2021, 02:35 PM

Posted by: bigkensteele Mar 22 2021, 07:02 PM

Love this thread Arne! I don't know how you find it in yourself to sell them when you are done.

Is it just me, or is it sitting high. Did you go with performance springs?

Posted by: arne Mar 22 2021, 07:10 PM

It *DOES* look pretty tall in that shot. Partly due to camera angle, partly because I just had it jacked up and it hasn't settled yet, and partly because we are so used to seeing these cars slammed. This one is just totally stock height. I might trim a half turn off the front coils to adjust the rake a bit, but beyond that I'm going to leave it be. If the next owner wants to lower it, how and how far will be their decision.

Posted by: bigkensteele Mar 22 2021, 09:55 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Mar 22 2021, 05:10 PM)

Posted by: arne Apr 20 2021, 10:37 AM

Not much visible has happened over the past month. Still futzing with the injection. While it does run and drive, it definitely isn't quite right yet. Trying to fix years of neglect, unadvised tampering and sitting unused. I hope I'm getting close. If any of you just happen to have 16v Motronic injection parts sitting on a shelf, let me know!

In the mean while, I have talked with the shop that painted my silver 911, and I'm pretty sure he will get the job, once it runs right and I finish a couple more bits of minor rust repair. Settling in on a couple of colors now.

Oh yeah, there has been a recent addition. The little truck had no radio, speakers or antenna when I bought it. No antenna hole, either, as the fenders installed when it was converted to round headlights had no hole. I plan to put it together "radio delete", but a future owner might want to add a radio. It would be a shame to then have to drill a hole through the fresh paint for an antenna. So I decided that while I would not install a head unit or speakers, I'd go ahead and add an antenna now. And since it is a 16v VW, only one type of antenna will do...

Posted by: 914_7T3 Apr 20 2021, 12:03 PM

Love it!!!

Posted by: arne Aug 5 2021, 03:58 PM

Progress slowed a fair amount during the past couple of months. For one thing, I'm a really slow welder. For another, I took about 4 weeks off to install upgraded A/C in my 911.

So there isn't a lot to show on the Bunny Truck right now. But today I did complete all the welding that I plan to do. It is possible (or actually, rather likely) that my painter will find more work during the body and paint prep. And that's OK. By doing the floor pans, bed floor patch and patching under the rear window myself, I feel pretty good about where I'm at.

Will drive the little guy across town to the paint shop soon, so the painter can see it in person for planning and estimate. Maybe tomorrow if he's available, otherwise sometime next week.

Here's a pic of the A/C result in the '72 911T, plus the current state of the Bunny Truck.

Posted by: wonkipop Aug 6 2021, 04:36 AM

QUOTE(arne @ Aug 5 2021, 03:58 PM)

Progress slowed a fair amount during the past couple of months. For one thing, I'm a really slow welder. For another, I took about 4 weeks off to install upgraded A/C in my 911.

So there isn't a lot to show on the Bunny Truck right now. But today I did complete all the welding that I plan to do. It is possible (or actually, rather likely) that my painter will find more work during the body and paint prep. And that's OK. By doing the floor pans, bed floor patch and patching under the rear window myself, I feel pretty good about where I'm at.

Will drive the little guy across town to the paint shop soon, so the painter can see it in person for planning and estimate. Maybe tomorrow if he's available, otherwise sometime next week.

Here's a pic of the A/C result in the '72 911T, plus the current state of the Bunny Truck.

Posted by: TRS63 Aug 6 2021, 04:41 AM

My first VW love had one for years, loved it much, had to sell for my ghia sadly

Antoine

Posted by: arne Sep 19 2021, 02:52 PM

Current status:

Posted by: arne Nov 7 2021, 07:08 PM

All body work complete, a bit more blocking and then the painter will start laying down some color. Really straight now.

Posted by: arne Jan 9 2022, 08:25 PM

Still no paint. COVID and such has cramped the paint shop pretty significantly. Painter keeps saying, "Soon." Still waiting.

I got the seats back from the upholstery shop, though...

Posted by: arne Jan 20 2022, 09:39 PM

New paint is on! The truck was not in a spot that lent to good pictures, though...

Posted by: SirAndy Jan 20 2022, 10:13 PM

Posted by: dstudeba Jan 21 2022, 11:32 AM

Enjoy seeing your progress, thanks for posting.

Posted by: arne Feb 26 2022, 06:19 PM

The Bunny Truck® should be coming home next week, as long as I can get it started and running reasonably well after 6 months of sitting.


In the mean while, other vehicle changes. The '72 911T has been sold and was picked up by the transporter earlier today. On its way to Seattle. I picked up its far more modern replacement last week. Son-of-914 - mid-engine 4 cylinder Porsche - 2018 718 Cayman. Whole lot of fun!

Posted by: arne Mar 2 2022, 10:44 PM

Getting closer...

Posted by: Larmo63 Mar 2 2022, 11:40 PM

I had a Rabbit truck that I commuted to work in for a number of years.

Great little vehicle that I converted to Euro look on the front. It saw me through so many situations, a real workhorse.

Posted by: raynekat Mar 3 2022, 12:31 AM

There's a diesel Rabbit pickup on BaT right now. Not affiliated. Sounds like there is not much power in that diesel version.

Posted by: racerbvd Mar 3 2022, 12:46 AM

I've had a few myself, even considered getting another one. Back in high school, a friend had a turbo diesel Sport Truck, it was surprisingly quick, I converted a diesel to GTI specs back in the 80’s.
Had a few diesels later, slow but got great mileage. I still have a factory VW bed cover and Kamei hood scoop.



Attached thumbnail(s)


Attached image(s)

Posted by: arne Mar 8 2022, 11:22 AM

The truck finally came home from the paint shop yesterday, and reassembly has begun in earnest. It is still loud, still quick, but now is a whole lot better looking!

Posted by: Chris H. Mar 8 2022, 02:16 PM

Looks like a VW factory special edition Arne! Great work!

Posted by: arne Mar 8 2022, 07:06 PM

Thanks, Chris. It's coming along nicely.

Posted by: windforfun Mar 10 2022, 02:24 PM

QUOTE(raynekat @ Mar 2 2022, 10:31 PM)

Posted by: arne Mar 16 2022, 05:17 PM

Dressed the tailgate today. Letters and badge.

Posted by: raynekat Mar 17 2022, 12:10 AM

QUOTE(arne @ Mar 16 2022, 04:17 PM)

Dressed the tailgate today. Letters and badge.

Posted by: arne Mar 17 2022, 09:56 AM

QUOTE(raynekat @ Mar 16 2022, 10:10 PM)

So are those pre-cut stick-on letters for the "Volkswagen"? Or are you an excellent painter/graphics person?

Looks fantastic.

Might have to start my own post-teener thread.
I've got a "doozy."

Posted by: arne Mar 29 2022, 03:35 PM

The exterior is pretty much done. Working on the interior now, then will clean up under the hood.

Posted by: mb911 Mar 29 2022, 03:39 PM

Looks cool.. I would love to have that truck. I would daily that in the summer

Posted by: Root_Werks Mar 29 2022, 03:46 PM

Very cool! Sure turned out looking great! I agree with others, looks like a factory edition.

Posted by: arne Apr 9 2022, 12:37 AM

Still picking away at the interior, slowly. I keep getting distracted by the replacement for my former '72 911T.

Posted by: arne Apr 23 2022, 08:48 PM

Interior is finished now. I've been driving it a bit now, just because. Will be doing some cleaning and detailing under the hood next. And that will about do it.

Posted by: Chris H. Apr 23 2022, 08:55 PM

Bravo! What's next? Mk1 Scirocco? AWD Quantum with 1.8t?

Posted by: Jett Apr 23 2022, 10:08 PM

Love watching these! Great job!


G60 Corrado, next

Posted by: arne Apr 23 2022, 10:29 PM

QUOTE(Chris H. @ Apr 23 2022, 06:55 PM)

Posted by: Cairo94507 Apr 25 2022, 08:48 AM

Arne - I love that VW truck. Great looking and I am sure it will run forever now.

Posted by: arne May 1 2022, 04:18 PM

I've been working on the Bunny Truck's engine compartment over the past few days, making some progress. It's never going to be pristine, but that's not really my goal. It does need to look presentable, though. Still a little more I want to do there, but realistically there's a point of dimishing returns on a job like this, and I'm probably already past it.

Posted by: arne May 3 2022, 09:23 PM

I'm calling it essentially done, other than some final cleaning and such. Posted this along with some pictures on a couple of FB groups and the requests for price and more info have been rolling in. We'll see if any are serious...

Posted by: arne May 27 2022, 08:18 PM

Posted to FB and Vortex this afternoon. Let the games begin...

https://www.vwvortex.com/threads/1981-rabbit-pickup-old-school-16v-restomod.9505563/

Posted by: KELTY360 May 27 2022, 08:45 PM

Nice job, as usual. GLWS

Posted by: Craigers17 May 28 2022, 03:35 AM

That thing is awesome! You've done a great job. This thing's gonna sell quick. I'd pull it and put it on BAT. I think you'd get double what you're asking.....maybe more.

Posted by: arne May 28 2022, 10:42 AM

QUOTE(Craigers17 @ May 28 2022, 01:35 AM)

Posted by: raynekat May 30 2022, 05:05 PM

So tempted on this one....

Posted by: arne May 30 2022, 06:29 PM

QUOTE(raynekat @ May 30 2022, 03:05 PM)

Posted by: arne Jun 13 2022, 06:25 PM

Sold it today.

Posted by: 914_7T3 Jun 13 2022, 06:47 PM

Congratulations Arne! Came out great!

Posted by: Chris H. Jun 13 2022, 07:16 PM

Ugh thank God! I have NO ROOM for any cars but that one was so tempting. Congrats Arne.

Posted by: arne Sep 11 2022, 03:46 PM

Up next, Project #6 - 1964 Chevy C-10

Should be picking up a stalled project tomorrow. A '64 C-10 short step side. Converted to a 305 V8 (5.0L) and a overdrive manual transmission. Not as fast as it looks or as it will sound, so I hesitate to call it a "hot" rod -- maybe it's a warm rod.

This will be a new experience for me, I do NOT need to paint this one! Oh happy day!

Posted by: arne Oct 6 2022, 12:47 PM

Picking away...

Posted by: arne Nov 27 2022, 09:40 PM

Posted by: ConeDodger Nov 27 2022, 10:51 PM

Nice Arne! A C10 has always been on my mind for a toy…

Posted by: rhodyguy Nov 28 2022, 07:36 AM

Stepside short bed. Pretty cool. A gentleman farmer’s PU to drive to the diner for AM coffee.

Posted by: Chris H. Nov 28 2022, 08:28 AM

Nice color. I like it.

Posted by: arne Nov 28 2022, 07:36 PM

QUOTE(ConeDodger @ Nov 27 2022, 08:51 PM)

Posted by: arne Dec 8 2022, 01:41 PM

Test fit before paint.

Posted by: arne Dec 14 2022, 07:13 PM

With the new wheels. Looks more finished than it really is...

Posted by: arne Jan 6 2023, 05:17 PM

Finally getting to the interior.

Posted by: 76-914 Jan 6 2023, 07:01 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Sep 11 2022, 01:46 PM)

Up next, Project #6 - 1964 Chevy C-10

Should be picking up a stalled project tomorrow. A '64 C-10 short step side. Converted to a 305 V8 (5.0L) and a overdrive manual transmission. Not as fast as it looks or as it will sound, so I hesitate to call it a "hot" rod -- maybe it's a warm rod.

This will be a new experience for me, I do NOT need to paint this one! Oh happy day!

Posted by: raynekat Jan 6 2023, 08:42 PM

This will be a sweet ride when finished for sure....

Posted by: arne Jan 7 2023, 10:09 PM

QUOTE(raynekat @ Jan 6 2023, 06:42 PM)

Posted by: arne Jan 8 2023, 08:28 PM

QUOTE(76-914 @ Jan 6 2023, 05:01 PM)

Sell it before the tranny needs planetary gears. They're scarce IIRC. GLWS

Posted by: arne Feb 11 2023, 10:09 PM

The new power rack is installed, fed by a Volvo electric hydraulic pump. Nothing old school here.



And the seat got new foam and covers, too.

Posted by: arne May 5 2023, 05:40 PM

Almost done. All that's left is new A/C, the parts for which should arrive late next week.

Posted by: Chris H. May 5 2023, 07:15 PM

Looks great Arne! Those wheels really changed the look.

Posted by: arne May 17 2023, 07:44 PM

A/C installation has commenced.

Posted by: arne May 23 2023, 09:45 PM

A/C install is complete. Evac and charge scheduled for next week.



Then just a few minor touch up items. I plan to attend a local American Classic show and cruise on June 3rd, with a For Sale sign in the back window.

Posted by: East coaster May 24 2023, 05:48 AM

Truck looks great!

Posted by: arne Jun 16 2023, 08:27 PM

The A/C was charged a couple of weeks ago, and—as they say in all the car ads—blows COLD.



Took some time to squash a couple of small bugs, and I'm now declaring it to be finished. I will clean it up a bit, do a few final touch-ups, and then start marketing it. Considering BaT, but we haven't agreed on a reserve yet.

Posted by: arne Jun 24 2023, 09:26 PM

Accepted by BaT earlier this week. Should go live in 3-4 weeks, so they say.

Posted by: rhodyguy Jun 25 2023, 07:50 AM

GLWTS. Turned out sweet. If it had an 8’ bed I would buy it.

Posted by: raynekat Jul 15 2023, 01:41 AM

Can't to see it on BaT.

Posted by: wonkipop Jul 15 2023, 01:47 AM

love it.

fan of utes myself, but a pick up truck is the next best thing.
and that ones a ripper.

Posted by: arne Jul 25 2023, 12:07 PM

QUOTE(raynekat @ Jul 15 2023, 12:41 AM)

Posted by: arne Aug 4 2023, 02:53 PM

It's show time!!

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1964-chevrolet-c10-stepside-23/

Posted by: championgt1 Aug 5 2023, 08:09 AM

Best of luck with the sale. That is a damn nice truck!

Posted by: Shivers Aug 5 2023, 09:39 AM

She sure came out nice. Reading the comments there were a few 305 haters. In that light of a truck it should be a great power plant. Good luck on the sale

Posted by: arne Aug 5 2023, 04:21 PM

You can't auction any vehicle on BaT without a hater or two popping in. You just have to roll with it. On the whole, the comments have been mostly positive, so it's been easy so far.

Posted by: euro911 Aug 10 2023, 12:12 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Aug 4 2023, 01:53 PM)

Posted by: rhodyguy Aug 11 2023, 10:15 AM

My dad had a 64’, in-line 6 and ‘3 on the tree’. He wouldn’t spend the $15 for a dealer installed AM radio. Traded that in on a 70’ Datsun 510 wagon. It had a radio.

Posted by: arne Aug 11 2023, 06:26 PM

Reserve not met...

Posted by: arne Aug 31 2023, 02:23 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Aug 11 2023, 05:26 PM)

Reserve not met...

Posted by: 73-914 Aug 31 2023, 04:28 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Sep 11 2022, 05:46 PM)

Up next, Project #6 - 1964 Chevy C-10

Should be picking up a stalled project tomorrow. A '64 C-10 short step side. Converted to a 305 V8 (5.0L) and a overdrive manual transmission. Not as fast as it looks or as it will sound, so I hesitate to call it a "hot" rod -- maybe it's a warm rod.

This will be a new experience for me, I do NOT need to paint this one! Oh happy day!

Posted by: krazykonrad Sep 2 2023, 05:51 PM

That's one nice looking truck!

Posted by: arne Oct 27 2023, 10:42 PM

Project #7 begins tomorrow. 1974 Capri V6...

Posted by: KELTY360 Oct 27 2023, 10:50 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Oct 27 2023, 09:42 PM)

Posted by: Jett Oct 28 2023, 08:00 AM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Oct 27 2023, 09:50 PM)

QUOTE(arne @ Oct 27 2023, 09:42 PM)

Project #7 begins tomorrow. 1974 Capri V6...

Cool car. This should be fun.

Posted by: KELTY360 Oct 28 2023, 08:05 AM

Always thought it was nicely styled but never understood why it wasn’t a hatchback.

Posted by: East coaster Oct 28 2023, 03:43 PM

I had a ‘73 (in’79), they’re cool cars.

Posted by: fiacra Oct 28 2023, 05:48 PM

@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=20799 Any chance this is the correct front fender emblem/nameplate for your Capri? Sure looks like it, but I can't find any clear pictures online and the part number on the sticker doesn't show up in a Google search. NOS part that came with a stockpile of parts I bought years ago at an estate sale. Marked "made to west German specification." The part number starts with a 74 and I believe the V6 in 1974 was a 2.8. The back is marked "G 68250" and a search does show that as a Capri part, although I can't find a picture. Yours for free if it's for your car.

Posted by: Shivers Oct 28 2023, 07:07 PM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Oct 28 2023, 07:05 AM)

Posted by: arne Oct 28 2023, 11:09 PM

Color - Original looks to be a silver-blue, so I think I'll bring that back.

Hatchback was introduced in '74 (Europe) or '76 (US).

QUOTE(fiacra @ Oct 28 2023, 04:48 PM)

Posted by: wonkipop Oct 29 2023, 10:16 PM

@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=20799

ford capri = one of coolest cars from late 60s/early 70s.

the hot oz capris got the super-roo sticker same as the big falcon GTHO V8s.
same sticker i sent over to the @http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=2755

have not seen one in the flesh out on the streets down here for a long long time.
all hidden away in collections these days.
same sexy little rectangular headlights that the ford escorts had.
some great cars came out of ford UK / ford Europe.

Posted by: KELTY360 Oct 29 2023, 10:24 PM

Interesting. In the US they were sold as Mercurys.

Posted by: wonkipop Oct 29 2023, 10:30 PM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Oct 29 2023, 10:24 PM)

Interesting. In the US they were sold as Mercurys.

Posted by: arne Oct 29 2023, 10:42 PM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Oct 29 2023, 09:24 PM)

Interesting. In the US they were sold as Mercurys.

Posted by: Chris H. Oct 30 2023, 08:02 AM

Love the Capri. My Dad had one (early '70s). Can the bumpers be back dated? Assuming so but not familiar enough with them.

Posted by: rjames Oct 30 2023, 09:30 AM

Another big fan of the Capri. Friend had one in high school. Engine sounded good and it felt fast (at least to me at the time). About 20 years ago I went looking to see if I could pick one up cheap. I hadn't realized how popular/rare they had become. I thought I could maybe find one for cheap. I was wrong.
There is one rotting away under a tarp around the corner, but it's too far gone.

Posted by: arne Oct 30 2023, 10:32 AM

QUOTE(Chris H. @ Oct 30 2023, 07:02 AM)

Posted by: jd74914 Oct 30 2023, 10:33 AM

Very cool!

My dad had a few back in the day and I've always wanted one but around here they are pretty rare. Looking forward to seeing your progress as usual!

Posted by: Maltese Falcon Oct 30 2023, 02:41 PM

QUOTE(wonkipop @ Oct 29 2023, 09:16 PM)

@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=20799

ford capri = one of coolest cars from late 60s/early 70s.

the hot oz capris got the super-roo sticker same as the big falcon GTHO V8s.
same sticker i sent over to the @http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=2755

have not seen one in the flesh out on the streets down here for a long long time.
all hidden away in collections these days.
same sexy little rectangular headlights that the ford escorts had.
some great cars came out of ford UK / ford Europe.

Posted by: arne Nov 10 2023, 10:35 PM

Waiting on parts for the fuel and cooling systems, so I started on the wheel refresh. One down...

Posted by: arne Dec 3 2023, 08:36 PM

Since that last post, I've finished de-smogging the engine, verified that it runs (yay!), refinished all the wheels and installed the new tires, done a complete brake overhaul (master cylinder, hoses and all), and started putting the dash back together at least far enough to be drivable.

More to come, of course.

Posted by: orthobiz Dec 3 2023, 08:58 PM

I had a 73 V6 Capri in 75. It was blue, had the decor group with the rear molded seats and AC but no sunroof. My dad wanted me to get a brown Audi Fox automatic: all it did was shift in and out of second gear, what a dog! Got the manual Capri instead, they were 4 speeds, right?

I installed a switch that allowed the fans for the AC to work without the compressor, making the cabin way more comfortable on those in between days.

Rubbed the paint down to primer in the front learning how to use Blue Coral.

The shifter broke off in my hand on the way back to Stony Brook, NY after seeing Little Feat open for Procol Harum in Westchester, NY. Made it back last part of the way powershifting.

I appropriated a set of front seatbelt buckles from a wreck in my neighborhood. That was a 74 innovation, mine had limp short belts that sat on the floor.

Of course, the map light was the coolest feature of all! And the Pirellii CN36's weren't bad either.

Thanks for the memories!

Paul

Posted by: Chris H. Dec 3 2023, 10:39 PM

I remember that tach...they printed the whole RPM number 1000 -2000- 3000 etc. lot of digits on that thing.

Posted by: mlmgm Dec 9 2023, 05:43 PM

Love your projects and the Capri will be a nice one to watch. My first car was a '73 V6 four speed in 1974, great fun. Second car was a '70 914/6 in 1978 and I still have it.

Posted by: rhodyguy Dec 9 2023, 05:48 PM

When I was stationed in Germany there were 4 Capris that raced around town. Flares, big tires and turbo V-6s.

Posted by: arne Dec 13 2023, 10:15 PM

Engine tuning and refresh is mostly done. Much cleaning of oily gunk, valve adjustment, rebuilt carb. Lots of oily gunk. Someone's idea of dealing with leaky cork valve cover gaskets was to just keep tightening them down until they were paper thin. Who knows how many years they'd been leaking.

I decided not to mess with the ignition yet, as I knew it worked as is, and why introduce an additional change when messing with a fresh carb.

Runs much better, idles smoothly at around 800 rpm, revs cleanly. So I'll probably pull the distributor for cleaning, service and normal tune-up stuff soon.

This means I should be able to drive it to DMV for VIN check and papers soon.

Posted by: SirAndy Dec 13 2023, 11:40 PM

QUOTE(rhodyguy @ Dec 9 2023, 03:48 PM)

Posted by: arne Dec 14 2023, 12:43 AM

QUOTE(Chris H. @ Oct 30 2023, 06:02 AM)

Posted by: Chris H. Dec 14 2023, 09:39 AM

QUOTE(arne @ Dec 14 2023, 12:43 AM)

QUOTE(Chris H. @ Oct 30 2023, 06:02 AM)

Can the bumpers be back dated? Assuming so but not familiar enough with them.

It turns out that backdating the rear bumper requires significant metal surgery to trim the impact bumper mounts and fill the holes (which are too low in the valance to be covered by the little chrome parts). I really don't want to hack up this totally rust-free shell, so I'll be refurbishing the original big bumpers instead.

Posted by: arne Dec 18 2023, 11:14 PM

Well, DMV trip still on hold. The car runs well with new carb and ignition tune up, until you work it hard. Under load (like steep uphill pulls in my neighborhood), it quickly stalls out. It felt to me like the float bowl ran dry. The car was equipped with a small electric fuel pump shortly before it was parked back in 2008 or so. Running that pump with the hose from the carb inlet pointing into a beaker delivered a sad trickle of fuel. I'm not sure if the pump is bad, or just not big enough—it claims to output at 2.0-3.5 psi and 28 gph. Specs I've found for V6 pumps seem to vary from 3.75 to 7.0 psi.

The original engine-driven pump was still mounted on the block. I think I'm going to revert to that style rather than another electric. So still not drivable yet. I'll spend some of the time waiting for a new pump refinishing the air cleaner.

Posted by: arne Dec 23 2023, 09:35 PM

Still waiting on the fuel pump, so I clean and refurb other stuff to pass the time.

Posted by: arne Dec 31 2023, 07:06 PM

Fuel pump arrived a couple days ago, and works well. The car is a little fussy when cold, but runs well once warmed up. Nice, smooth idle at 600-700 rpm. Pulls cleanly, shifts well. Final prep for the trip to DMV for papers is pretty well complete. Last bit is the wipers, since rain is predicted all week. I dislike modern black plastic wiper blades on vintage cars like these, so I was happy to find a pair of period-correct silver Anco Aero wiper blades in the car when I bought it. I refinished the arms and blades in matte silver. The proper vintage-style refills won't be here for a bit yet, but if they don't arrive before I need to drive to DMV I found I can rob the blades from my '96 Tacoma—they fit just fine.

Posted by: arne Feb 3 2024, 09:23 PM

Since the last episode:

Another milestone - the Capri is now registered and road legal. First time in almost 15 years.

The drive across town went well, up until it didn't. The engine, transmission and brakes all work well. Suspension was very soft up front, needed to get some new struts.

Got the paperwork completed, and went to start it for the drive home, and the only ignition key broke off in the ignition. Since none of the lower dash parts were in place yet, I was able to remove the steering lock from the column and quickly hot wire it to get home. Annoying, but not horrible. I got the broken key extracted, and pulled the ignition tumbler to get the key code to have a couple new keys cut.

Still pretty good feeling to have it registered...



This past month brought a nasty ice storm (almost 2 ½" accumulated on the ground), new parts, new plans, and more.

First, working under this (and other) car(s) is going to be a lot easier after the delivery of a set of QuickJacks. Not sure why I waited so long on these, but that's sometimes how I roll. Saved $500 by getting an 'open-box' set direct from QuickJack. Going to be a nice help on this and future projects.



New OE-type strut inserts from the UK are now installed, and have restored the ride and handling to a nice, original feel. I did find that the internal steering rack bushing is bad, and will replace that as soon as the part arrives. Otherwise the suspension is pretty well under control.

A small shipment from Denmark brought a left quarter window trim and a used turn signal switch. Both parts are extremely nice, and the turn signal finally cancels reliably, every time, either direction.

Still waiting for a final quote on the paint, the shop had some computer issues last week that have set him behind.

But in preparation for that, I've re-worked my schedule and plans. I was planning to drop the oil pan for new gaskets and clean the engine from years of oil leaks, but it sounds like the paint shop may want the car within a couple of weeks. So I don't think I want to pull the engine apart just yet.

Related to that, I think the engine cleaning and resealing is going to go a bit farther than I had originally planned. The farther I dig into this car, the more it looks like (with no way to confirm) that the 76k on the odometer might be original and correct. I'm reasonably comfortable that it hasn't rolled over yet. Which means that I'm fairly sure the original and notorious fiber timing gear has probably not been replaced. So the oil pan drop will be expanded to include pulling the timing cover, and most likely the replacement of the gears. Will probably replace the water pump as well, as long as I have it off anyway.

So today, in preparation for the upcoming repaint, I removed the entire heater-A/C box from the car. This is a rather major project on the '74 factory A/C cars. But it had to be done as the entire system (including the cowl plenum) is stuffed full of leaves, pine needles and other related junk that must be cleaned from the cowl before it can be painted. Will begin cleaning out all the crud tomorrow.

Posted by: KELTY360 Feb 4 2024, 08:40 AM

Really enjoy seeing your process Arne. You pick interesting cars and thoroughly sort them out. Somebody is going to get a great car.

Posted by: arne Feb 9 2024, 06:58 PM

The Capri goes in for paint a week from Monday. Final trim and glass removal is in progress.

Posted by: arne Feb 12 2024, 07:38 PM

Disassembly complete. No surprises, no rust in the window channels. On track for the painter next week.

Interesting side note, these German Fords are similar to the 914 in one way—the front fenders are welded in place, not easily removable.

Posted by: raynekat Feb 12 2024, 11:50 PM

Arne...your projects are almost more interesting than the 914 projects here.
Sorry 914World.

Keep posting brother...

Posted by: Chris H. Feb 13 2024, 07:41 AM

That thing looks very straight. The paint is going to transform it.

Posted by: arne Feb 17 2024, 10:24 PM

QUOTE(Chris H. @ Feb 13 2024, 05:41 AM)

Posted by: Front yard mechanic Feb 18 2024, 04:32 AM

Nice! a silver turd

Posted by: KELTY360 Feb 18 2024, 08:07 AM

QUOTE(arne @ Feb 17 2024, 08:24 PM)

QUOTE(Chris H. @ Feb 13 2024, 05:41 AM)

That thing looks very straight. The paint is going to transform it.

It IS very straight. Not a single door ding on either side, thanks to the much maligned dealer-installed side moldings.

Posted by: Rufus Feb 18 2024, 09:01 PM

This brings back memories of my 1st new car; a ‘72 Capri 2600 V-6.

Good luck with the project arne

Posted by: arne Feb 19 2024, 12:32 PM

On its way to the painter this morning.

Posted by: arne Feb 24 2024, 12:30 PM

Had a chat with the paint shop owner yesterday, now that they have had some time to touch the car and look for things they missed on the original estimate. And while I always expect these jobs to cost more than they first say, in this case the estimate was pretty good—largely because the car is solid.

It will require a lot of surface prep, due to the desert sunburned paint, but we knew that going in. No real surprises there. But the bumpers are a bit worse than we thought, and will require extra attention. Still far less expensive than sourcing and converting to chrome, though.

Estimating 3-4 weeks in the shop.

Posted by: arne Mar 4 2024, 08:03 PM

Visited the car in the shop last week. Progress is being made. No new surprises since the last visit. The first of the 2 badly weather-checked rubber-like bumpers has been prepped, and looks good, ready for paint.

Posted by: arne Mar 10 2024, 09:48 PM

Posted by: arne Mar 14 2024, 05:31 PM

Fresh out of the booth...

Posted by: KELTY360 Mar 14 2024, 06:08 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Mar 14 2024, 03:31 PM)

Fresh out of the booth...

Posted by: rhodyguy Mar 14 2024, 06:16 PM

The market for the V-6s seems pretty robust. Very shiny.

Posted by: Millerwelds Mar 14 2024, 06:26 PM

A client of mine has this for sale right now. For those who enjoy a different build this one is special:

https://www.2shores.com/en/cars/offers/1973-Ford-Capri-RS-2600/333/detail

Posted by: arne Mar 14 2024, 10:20 PM

QUOTE(Millerwelds @ Mar 14 2024, 04:26 PM)

Posted by: arne Mar 18 2024, 06:44 PM

First pic in natural daylight. At home in the garage now, reassembly in progress.

Posted by: arne Mar 20 2024, 07:34 PM

Posted by: Chris H. Mar 20 2024, 08:01 PM

Wow that turned out great. Is that the original color or did you add some blue to it? Either way it looks awesome.

Posted by: arne Mar 20 2024, 09:16 PM

QUOTE(Chris H. @ Mar 20 2024, 07:01 PM)

Posted by: raynekat Mar 22 2024, 08:40 PM

Paint looks very flat. Assuming you’re doing all the wet sanding and polishing on this project? Looks great.

Posted by: arne Mar 23 2024, 06:55 PM

QUOTE(raynekat @ Mar 22 2024, 07:40 PM)

Posted by: KELTY360 Mar 23 2024, 06:58 PM

I’d have a hard time letting that one go.

Posted by: arne Mar 23 2024, 10:27 PM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Mar 23 2024, 05:58 PM)

Posted by: Chris H. Mar 24 2024, 09:44 AM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Mar 23 2024, 07:58 PM)

Posted by: arne Mar 26 2024, 09:06 PM

Back on the ground again, with almost all of the exterior trim installed. Installed the new steering rack internal bushing yesterday. Starting on one of my less favored jobs now—new headliner.

Posted by: Root_Werks Mar 27 2024, 08:42 AM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Mar 23 2024, 05:58 PM)

Posted by: Chris H. Mar 28 2024, 07:21 AM

QUOTE(Root_Werks @ Mar 27 2024, 09:42 AM)

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Mar 23 2024, 05:58 PM)

I’d have a hard time letting that one go.

Grew up with a V6 Vega. Small car, decent power = fun.

Looking very good!

Posted by: Front yard mechanic Mar 28 2024, 07:42 AM

The car looks fantastic now you have a blue turd

Posted by: Tdskip Mar 28 2024, 09:55 AM

I had a 1971 Road/race Capri and was just a ton of fun.

Enjoy the process.

And yeah, I’d be interested when time comes to sell it @http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=20799

Posted by: arne Mar 28 2024, 04:32 PM

QUOTE(Tdskip @ Mar 28 2024, 08:55 AM)

Posted by: arne Mar 29 2024, 12:50 PM

New headliner install has been postponed due to mis-boxed product. Vendor is handling the issue well, but there is still going to be some delay before the correct item arrives.

In the meanwhile, I've started fitting the new carpet instead.

Posted by: arne Apr 1 2024, 06:58 PM

Side glass and trim is all in place now. Still waiting on more parts.

Posted by: arne Apr 8 2024, 03:54 PM

New headliner snugged into place and glued from the B pillars forward. Will begin final stretch and fit on the rear half tomorrow.

Posted by: Cairo94507 Apr 8 2024, 04:28 PM

My brother bought a Capri, V-6, 5 speed, brand new. It was a cool car.

Posted by: arne Apr 8 2024, 05:48 PM

QUOTE(Cairo94507 @ Apr 8 2024, 03:28 PM)

My brother bought a Capri, V-6, 5 speed, brand new. It was a cool car.

Posted by: wonkipop Apr 9 2024, 12:33 AM

ace looking car

but i sure am glad aussie capris never copped the collision bumpers.

but its looking good regardless. .

Posted by: raynekat Apr 9 2024, 11:01 PM

Arne's cars are always drop dead gorgeous when he gets done with them.

Posted by: arne Apr 24 2024, 05:54 PM

It's been a little slow lately, but today things started to break loose. I finished the headliner last week, and so today I picked the Capri up from the glass shop with both front and rear glass back in place with new rubber and chrome lock strips. The car is finally weather tight for the first time in many years. In honor of the new all-weather capability, I quickly installed the new/restored period-correct wipers. I'm also working now on final gauge testing before reinstalling the dash pad.

And more good news! The new seat covers arrived from France this afternoon. Will share more on these later, but initial impression is they are really nice.

Posted by: Jett Apr 24 2024, 07:12 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Apr 24 2024, 04:54 PM)

Posted by: East coaster Apr 25 2024, 05:49 AM

Looks great!

Posted by: KELTY360 Apr 25 2024, 07:04 AM

Top of the market!

Posted by: arne Apr 27 2024, 10:38 AM

More fun with electrics. While working to refit the dash today, I installed the gauge cluster for testing. And everything worked... at first.

While testing all the warning lights, suddenly I caught a whiff of magic smoke escaping, and the dash illumination lights all came on by themselves, and would not go out. After pulling the cluster back out I found that there were some rather crude repairs to the printed circuit at some of the bulb "sockets", and one of them shorted and burned a section of the circuit. [Big sigh!]

So add another foreign country to the parts sources list. So far I've bought parts from Germany, England, Denmark and France. Now I found that there is a shop in Australia that has reproduced the printed circuit sheet for these cars. I've started the order process now.

While I wait, I removed the damaged traces so that I could install the gauges and drive the car while I wait. Apparently the only damage was to the dash illumination. I don't plan to drive at night, so I can get by until the new part arrives.

Posted by: wonkipop Apr 27 2024, 06:23 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Apr 27 2024, 10:38 AM)

More fun with electrics. While working to refit the dash today, I installed the gauge cluster for testing. And everything worked... at first.

While testing all the warning lights, suddenly I caught a whiff of magic smoke escaping, and the dash illumination lights all came on by themselves, and would not go out. After pulling the cluster back out I found that there were some rather crude repairs to the printed circuit at some of the bulb "sockets", and one of them shorted and burned a section of the circuit. [Big sigh!]

So add another foreign country to the parts sources list. So far I've bought parts from Germany, England, Denmark and France. Now I found that there is a shop in Australia that has reproduced the printed circuit sheet for these cars. I've started the order process now.

While I wait, I removed the damaged traces so that I could install the gauges and drive the car while I wait. Apparently the only damage was to the dash illumination. I don't plan to drive at night, so I can get by until the new part arrives.

Posted by: arne Apr 27 2024, 08:20 PM

QUOTE(wonkipop @ Apr 27 2024, 05:23 PM)

australia to the rescue.



been a couple of years since i have made it out to a ford day, but not surprised something like that would be available down here. usually lots of capris out at ford shows.

your car is looking great mate.
the aussie version hot capris came with a "super-roo" decal and stripes back in the day.

Posted by: wonkipop Apr 27 2024, 09:39 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Apr 27 2024, 08:20 PM)

QUOTE(wonkipop @ Apr 27 2024, 05:23 PM)

australia to the rescue.



been a couple of years since i have made it out to a ford day, but not surprised something like that would be available down here. usually lots of capris out at ford shows.

your car is looking great mate.
the aussie version hot capris came with a "super-roo" decal and stripes back in the day.

Tony does a lot more BMC parts than Fords.

https://www.aeowparts.com/

Posted by: arne May 2 2024, 06:39 PM

Note to self - I like having A/C in a street car so that I can drive through the summer months, but the factory A/C in a Capri really complicates the dash and underdash plumbing. It's worse since I wasn't the one who took it apart, and I've never seen it assembled. So it seems like everything I do has to be done two or three times, as I find some new bits to do the more I put together. I'm getting close now, pretty much all that's left is the glovebox. I'll be glad when this part of the project is behind me.

Side notes - The new circuit sheet for the gauge cluster is still in Queensland, but is "booked for flight".

The new seat covers from France seem to be quite nice, but I found that no headrest covers were shipped despite the website indicating that they would be included. Turns out that in Europe and the UK Capris did not come with headrests, and the supplier told me that the item description was in error and they do not have a pattern for Capri headrests. So I'll be sending one of my headrest covers to France to use as a pattern as soon as I can get one removed from the foam and reinforcing plate.

My clock was working fine a few months ago when I hooked it up for testing, but only works in spurts now. Dang!

Posted by: raynekat May 2 2024, 07:43 PM

Arne…sounds like a “perfect” car. Always fun watching and listening to your restorations. Wish I had room for this car.

Posted by: arne May 2 2024, 08:36 PM

QUOTE(raynekat @ May 2 2024, 06:43 PM)

Posted by: arne May 4 2024, 12:55 PM

First public outing... in the rain! Took it to a PCA monthly coffee gathering. Because of the rain, there was less time for people to gather 'round, but the Capri was a big hit anyway.

Drive across town was uneventful. Pretty much everything worked as expected. The car is solid, water-tight, and rattle-free.

Posted by: arne May 15 2024, 10:33 PM

Quick update - Replaced the transmission output shaft seal. No drama.

I've also been troubleshooting speedometer failure, and after disassembling the dash (yet again) found the inner cable was bad. Getting the correct replacement cable has proven to be a bit harder than expected. The latest attempt should be here sometime tomorrow. So the dash has not been put back together yet.

While I wait, I've started working on the seats. The seat covers from France are looking like really nice stuff at this point.

Stretching the thick vinyl into place is more work than I remembered, but seems to be going well so far. Just starting with the passenger seat back.

Posted by: arne May 20 2024, 01:30 PM

The first seat is complete.

Posted by: raynekat May 21 2024, 12:29 AM

Looks factory new....nice!

Posted by: wonkipop May 22 2024, 01:04 AM

QUOTE(arne @ May 20 2024, 01:30 PM)

The first seat is complete.

Posted by: East coaster May 23 2024, 04:11 PM

……

Posted by: arne May 27 2024, 05:52 PM

Today I have mostly finished the interior. The new covers for the headrests are not here yet, and I'll need to find a knob of some sort for the gauge dimmer, but that's about it.

Next up will be timing gears, water pump and general engine reseal.

Posted by: KELTY360 May 27 2024, 10:21 PM

Solid.

Posted by: arne May 29 2024, 07:34 PM

Confirmed today that the original fiber composite timing gear is still in place. Probably the best clue yet that the 76k on the odometer is probably correct. New metal gearset is on its way.

Posted by: East coaster May 29 2024, 08:02 PM

Plastic gear poofed on my Capri at 60k

Posted by: arne Jun 2 2024, 12:38 PM

Dropped the steering rack and lifted the engine for clearance, and then dropped the pan. No serious surprises. Found one of the water outlets was massively corroded, amazed that it wasn't already leaking. A replacement and a few additional gaskets are all on their way now, as well as new rack mount bushings and a new steering coupler. While I wait for parts, I've been reviewing what I'm going to need to make the A/C work.

I've included a new pic from the day before I started tearing it all apart. Looks pretty good with the exterior and now interior largely complete.

Posted by: Chris H. Jun 3 2024, 02:16 PM

Good move on the timing gear. That was the demise of ours. I was so bummed. Couldn't drive yet but I loved the styling of that thing.

Posted by: eddie914 Jun 3 2024, 02:37 PM

Ah the memories!

The fibre timing gear KABLAMOOED on my '74 "Le Cat Black" back in 1983.

After installation of the aluminum replacement, my pals thought I had installed a supercharger ... the whining made is sound fast!

Cheers, Eddie

Posted by: arne Jun 3 2024, 09:11 PM

Cleaning continues. Compare to picture at the top of this page.

Posted by: East coaster Jun 15 2024, 05:23 AM

…

Posted by: technicalninja Jun 15 2024, 08:26 AM

I run an Automotive AC specialist shop.

For my concours quality old vehicles I still use R12.

If your condenser has large round tubes in it, you should stay R12.

R12 is less prone to leak, takes an oil that is harmless and will last forever, can be used in the old hoses (which really should be replaced on something that old).

If you're planning on converting this is the minimum IMO.

New multi-pass flat fin condenser. Look at your modern vehicle for examples.

New "Barrier" hoses. Most of what's available now is barrier. You might have trouble finding hoses and most of the time, on something like that I'm building hoses with parts from these people.

https://coldhose.com/?utm_source=google&utm_campaign=cold-hose&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgr3ZjeTdhgMVATjUAR014AzKEAAYASAAEgKVs_D_BwE

Fresh compressor. Only brand name!!!!! If not available, I use an old school rebuilder close to me.
http://www.yellowrosedistributors.com/

You might have the same type of shop closer to you. Yellow Rose has been rebuilding/resealing compressor for 50 years.

I spoke with the owner at length last year and the ONLY reason he still does it is to keep 2 old guys that have been working there for decades employed.
There is not a good financial reason to do this stuff anymore.
Try to find a "radiator shop". Same shit has happened to those guys.
I donated over 100 compressors to him.

An expansion valve that is set of R134 is a good thing to replace but not completely necessary.

All the O-rings need to be made from HBNR.

Massive flushing needs to be done for the old parts you re-use.
You can run mineral oil (R12) with PAG (R134), it will work at first but slowly the two will mix into a brown goo that resembles molasses.

The resultant molasses has no lubricating qualities...

The ratio for 134 to 12 is 75-80%.
So, a 2 lbs. R12 system will take between 1.5 and 1.6 lbs. of R134.

I run the PAG oil at 4-1 ratio. So, a 1.5lb system gets 6 oz. of oil. This is with a modern compressor. If that runs a York, I'd use the dip stick measure procedure to determine oil level in the compressor.
Yorks take a shitload of oil!

Hope this helps. Feel free to pm me with questions if I can be of service.

Posted by: arne Jun 16 2024, 06:45 PM

Thanks for that. I've done this before, notably on a couple of air-cooled 911s, plus a fresh install on the '64 C10 project.

The Capri has factory A/C, not dealer. The entire HVAC on the '74 factory A/C in these cars is US made, basically a slightly downsized version of a full-size Ford system. I've used several parts from big Ford A/C as replacements, such as the blower motor and vacuum actuators.



The condenser is definitely not the old large tube type, so it and the evaporator are going to be retained. I flushed and pressure tested the evaporator thoroughly while I was going through the HVAC box while I had the dash out, and will flush and test the condenser prior to reinstalling. A new expansion valve (R134a calibrated) has been located, a new Sanden-style compressor from a source I've used before is coming, and the hoses will all be barrier crimped up by a local hot rod shop that does a lot of custom A/C work. Haven't found an accumulator that I like yet, but I'm sure I can find something that will work.

Posted by: arne Jun 17 2024, 05:41 PM

And I'm back. Took some time off for a long road trip in the Cayman into the Canadian Rockies—Banff and other nearby areas. Fantastic.

Now easing back into the Capri. I've got most everything I need to get the engine back together now, as the new timing gears arrived while I was away. Hope to have it sealed back up and running by this coming weekend.

Then on to the A/C, and final details. I think the end may be in sight.

Posted by: arne Jun 21 2024, 06:24 PM

Timing gears are on. Front cover on. Oil pan on. Steering rack back in place with poly coupler and mount bushings. Engine dropped back down on its mounts. New water pump installed.

Later this weekend I'll re-install and hook up the cooling system, plus the heater. That should make it drivable again.

Posted by: arne Jun 24 2024, 05:55 PM

A day later than expected, but my Capri is functional once again, after all the oil leak remediation and new cooling parts. Runs a little crisper than before, since I had set the ignition timing by ear because I couldn't find the timing marks in all the oily grunge down there. Now that the marks are visible, I found I had the timing at about 1° BTDC, rather than the 12° the factory called for. That was quickly corrected.

Almost everything seems to work fine, save the vacuum-operated heater valve. I had that working before, but didn't test it after the last work on the dash. Shouldn't be too hard to track down. Other than that, it starts easily, runs cleanly, no leaks so far, gauges all work. Steering will probably be a little more responsive with the new coupler and rack mount bushings.
Starting to plan the A/C refresh now.

Posted by: arne Jul 5 2024, 04:43 PM

Since my last post(s), I've been catching up with some of the little things, as the project is definitely nearing it's end. I've tweaked the center bearing on the driveshaft to eliminate a vibration during decel, tracked down a couple more glitches in the vastly over-complicated factory A/C air handler box, and recovered and reinstalled the headrests. Most of the A/C refurb parts have been ordered, and I expect the last few by late tomorrow.

I had to make a change in plan on the A/C, normally on a project like this I'd convert to a modern Sanden compressor. But the installation on the Cologne V6 is tight, and the Sanden is too long. So a new R134a-compatible York-style compressor is part of the still incoming parts.

Tomorrow morning I'm going to take the Capri to a cars & coffee hosted by the local Porsche club.

Posted by: Patrick_139 Jul 5 2024, 05:03 PM

My first car was a 1976 2.8 that I bought in 1978. It was a good looking and fun car for its time. I must say your Capri is amazing (even with the big bumpers). Love your work and I hope you get it fully sorted. Also, I hope your new compressor is less of a drag than what came on mine from the factory as it really ate up the HP.

Posted by: arne Jul 5 2024, 05:59 PM

QUOTE(Patrick_139 @ Jul 5 2024, 04:03 PM)

Posted by: arne Jul 6 2024, 09:34 PM

The Capri was a surprise guest at the local PCA C&C this morning. Runs great, comfy and solid. No rattles. Can't wait to get the A/C running again though...

Will probably be ready to sell by the end of the month.

Posted by: wonkipop Jul 6 2024, 11:23 PM

top stuff

would need a super roo sticker to set it off down here.
hot escorts and capris were a feature of my youth. great little cars.

no side markers or big bumpers on the versions that roamed north arntarctica, but i don't mind the looks of that one. ford did a reasonable job dealing with it.
we also got the rectangle headlights. pretty neat.

you need to find yourself an aussie ford falcon hardtop and do a resto on one of those.
(the capris were the junior cousin in the showrooms back then and the escorts were the baby brother).
that will give you some motoring pleasure. problem is finding one. even down here.

Posted by: arne Jul 9 2024, 05:27 PM

Test fitting the A/C hoses with the new parts, prior to having the hoses rebuilt with new barrier rubber suitable for R134a refrigerant.

Posted by: arne Jul 14 2024, 08:37 PM

A funny thing happened this weekend—to use the common real estate phrase, the Capri is now "Sale Pending".

No, it's not totally finished, I'm still working on the A/C and a couple of other little details. But similar to what happened with my yellow 914 years ago, a person who's been following the progress online drove several hundred miles to come see the car now, and decided they needed to tie the car up now, before others might jump in. Didn't take long to agree on a price. I will finish the car over the next couple of weeks before it is picked up.

The primary thing I'm now working on is the A/C. I had all 3 hoses rebuilt using the original hose ends (save 1). I'm waiting for a binary pressure switch port fitting to splice into the hose from the accumulator to the expansion valve. Planning to evac and charge late next week.

And not long after that, the deal should be wrapped up.

Posted by: KELTY360 Jul 14 2024, 10:57 PM

That’s a lucky buyer!

Posted by: Chris H. Jul 15 2024, 07:48 AM

Those things are so hard to find in good shape, especially a manual.

Posted by: 76-914 Jul 15 2024, 08:22 AM

Great job. Love that cockpit and its interior as well.

Posted by: arne Jul 31 2024, 07:32 PM

Time for the big goodbye to the Capri. The sale was final today. I'll be finishing a couple of details, then packing it up and storing it away to await transport.

Posted by: Root_Werks Aug 1 2024, 08:54 AM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Jul 14 2024, 09:57 PM)

Posted by: East coaster Aug 1 2024, 09:52 AM

So, what’s next?

Posted by: arne Aug 1 2024, 05:11 PM

QUOTE(East coaster @ Aug 1 2024, 08:52 AM)

Posted by: arne Aug 29 2024, 04:50 PM

Next project found, here's a teaser...

Posted by: KELTY360 Aug 29 2024, 05:05 PM

Early Bronco! Six or v-8? This should be fun to watch.

Posted by: arne Aug 29 2024, 08:13 PM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Aug 29 2024, 04:05 PM)

Posted by: KELTY360 Aug 29 2024, 08:36 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Aug 29 2024, 06:13 PM)

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Aug 29 2024, 04:05 PM)

Early Bronco! Six or v-8? This should be fun to watch.

V8. Original was 302, there is some question as to whether the original is still in there, or if it was replaced by a 289. No matter to me, either of those is fine. I hope to have it in the garage by next weekend.

Posted by: arne Aug 29 2024, 09:39 PM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Aug 29 2024, 07:36 PM)

Posted by: Chris H. Aug 30 2024, 07:12 AM

Just when we think he's out of options.... Love it.

Posted by: arne Sep 7 2024, 08:40 PM

It's home now, and sitting in the garage with a flat tire. I unloaded it in the street and it drove into the garage under its own power. That's very rare for my projects, I think this is only the second one to do that. Starting tomorrow I'll sort parts and see just what it is that I've bought.

I haven't really started exploring to see what I bought. Just a few odds and ends so far. First inspection shows it to be mostly stock, other than headers, dual exhaust and what looks to be probably around 2" suspension lift. No body lift. The tires are 31x10.50R15 on 15x8's with approximately 4" backside. They poke a fair bit in back, and I suspect the funky coil-over spring assist shocks on the rear are all that keeps them from rubbing on the uncut fenders. I like the stance, but the suspension will need a refresh at some point. I'll probably want to drop to a bit narrower wheel to tuck things in a bit.

That's all for now. Stay tuned for more later.

Posted by: 914_7T3 Sep 7 2024, 09:11 PM

Oh Wow

Looks like a great project!

Posted by: KELTY360 Sep 7 2024, 09:15 PM

Posted by: arne Sep 17 2024, 05:31 PM

Been a fair amount going on with the Bronc. After flitting around to this bit, and then to that part, I've settled on a couple first goals.

First is to make it mobile. Yes, it would start and run and drive on and off the trailer to get it home, but I wasn't happy with the process. Since it had no gas tanks the PO fed it fuel via a soda bottle wedged in the engine compartment. And because the wiring is a mess and the solenoid was seized, you had to twist a couple of wires together for ignition, and then short across the 2 large terminals on the solenoid, with many accompanying sparks. Sparks and an open bottle of gas in the same engine compartment did not give me warm fuzzies. I now have a temporary toggle inside for ignition, with a push button connected to a new solenoid to crank it over.

It still has no fuel tanks, but a new rear tank kit is on its way now, should be here tomorrow. That will take care of all the safety issues in starting the engine so that I can move it.

Also looking for an appropriate set of wheels and tires for it, since the rear tires are 17 years old, and fronts are over 20. And the LF doesn't hold air very long, either. I've got a line on something local I think would be good, but the seller seems to have ghosted me so far.

Second goal is to get the body solid and ready for final body and paint work. I want to get that out of the way early this time.

Parts - The first parts to arrive were the least needed, as I snagged a set of close-out Toyota H4 headlights at a killer price. Opened the box, checked them out, and packed them back up, as I won't be ready for those for a long while yet. Tomorrow should bring the new fuel tank, plus a first batch of replacement sheet metal—floors and windshield cowl mount. Also expecting a new HEI distributor and transfer case shift lever with floor indicator in the next day or two. These were another crime of opportunity, not really needed just yet.

I've started removing parts so I can get to the rusty areas. Going to have to get a fresh tank of gas for the MIG soon...

Posted by: Root_Werks Sep 19 2024, 07:30 PM

Posted by: arne Sep 30 2024, 08:34 PM

Rust repair has begun.

Posted by: technicalninja Sep 30 2024, 09:01 PM

Are these the Toyota lights you are referring too?

https://cruiserteq.com/oem-toyota-koito-h4-headlight-upgrade-kit-w-harness-elec81110kit/

$42.50 seems an absolute steal for 2 glass lens housings, bulbs, and wiring harness with relays.

Posted by: arne Sep 30 2024, 09:43 PM

QUOTE(technicalninja @ Sep 30 2024, 08:01 PM)

Posted by: technicalninja Sep 30 2024, 09:56 PM

Thank you, Sir!

That vendor seems to have excessive shipping cost.

I'll check with my Toyota dealer in the morning.

Your projects come out truly nice.

The vast range of stuff you'll work on is impressive!

Posted by: arne Sep 30 2024, 10:16 PM

QUOTE(technicalninja @ Sep 30 2024, 08:56 PM)

Posted by: Literati914 Sep 30 2024, 10:59 PM

QUOTE(technicalninja @ Sep 30 2024, 10:56 PM)

QUOTE(arne @ Sep 30 2024, 11:16 PM)

QUOTE(technicalninja @ Sep 30 2024, 08:56 PM)

That vendor seems to have excessive shipping cost.

I'll check with my Toyota dealer in the morning.

Shipping may be more than you think, they come well packed in a surprisingly large box. But definitely check your local dealers, even if you have to pay tax and MSRP, they are a steal!

By the way, many dealers don't know about these, so order by part number above. And the dealer will probably try to tell you that it is a single headlight, try to talk you into buying 2 kits. Only do that if you really want 4 lights, as there are 2 lights per kit.

Posted by: technicalninja Sep 30 2024, 11:36 PM

I have an automotive AC repair shop.

We don't refer to the Toyota dealer by their correct name, we call it "Kim's" as Kim is the parts manager.

Kim's AWESOME. She once pulled parts out of Saudia Arabia for me...

I buy a lot of stuff from her.

I'll be calling Kim in the morning...

I'll post results.

Posted by: technicalninja Oct 1 2024, 10:59 AM

QUOTE(arne @ Sep 30 2024, 10:43 PM)

QUOTE(technicalninja @ Sep 30 2024, 08:01 PM)

Are these the Toyota lights you are referring too?

https://cruiserteq.com/oem-toyota-koito-h4-headlight-upgrade-kit-w-harness-elec81110kit/

$42.50 seems an absolute steal for 2 glass lens housings, bulbs, and wiring harness with relays.

That's the lights, but you can get them cheaper than that. Your local Toyota dealer may have them available (part number is 81110-60P70), or this link will help you find dealers selling at MSRP (currently $23.05 for the pair), or even less. I had to order mine from out of town, but the pair was discounted to $17.33, and only $34.85 shipped.

https://autoparts.toyota.com/products/product/headlamp-assy-8111060p70

Posted by: arne Oct 3 2024, 11:03 PM

I finished removing the passenger floor this afternoon. Pretty happy with what I found underneath, for the most part. A lot of good, solid metal, especially the forward crossmember where the body mount is. Just 2 or 3 small repair patches needed. Next step will be trimming and fitting the new pans, then I'll patch, clean and prep for welding.

Then I'll need to do it again for the driver's side, and finally on to the big part—the cowl and windshield parts.

Posted by: arne Oct 4 2024, 09:24 AM

Oops!

Posted by: East coaster Oct 4 2024, 04:26 PM

That’s a pretty clean Bronc! I’ve toyed with the idea of restoring one multiple times, but in my area they are Swiss cheese at every panel.

Posted by: arne Oct 4 2024, 08:12 PM

Yeah, really solid example.

Floor test fitting is complete. And the rusted body mount under the floor pan has been tediously cut out. Next will be to cut out the next body mount in line, then start to fabricate and install the few repairs needed. After all that, I can start welding it all together.

Posted by: Jett Oct 4 2024, 09:02 PM

Love this thread!

Posted by: arne Oct 9 2024, 08:20 PM

All four body mount bushings on the passenger side have been replaced, and minor rust repair is under way prior to laying down the new floor pans.

Posted by: Root_Werks Oct 10 2024, 09:17 AM

It takes so much time to properly remove and replace panels like that. Very cool project!

Posted by: Maltese Falcon Oct 11 2024, 10:03 AM

Wild Horses 4x4, inc. over in Lodi, Ca. should be a decent source of restoration parts + accessories. Over 30 years dealing with them, and they are good to deal with

Posted by: arne Oct 11 2024, 07:00 PM

QUOTE(Maltese Falcon @ Oct 11 2024, 09:03 AM)

Wild Horses 4x4, inc. over in Lodi, Ca. should be a decent source of restoration parts + accessories. Over 30 years dealing with them, and they are good to deal with

Posted by: Maltese Falcon Oct 11 2024, 09:15 PM

QUOTE(arne @ Oct 11 2024, 06:00 PM)

QUOTE(Maltese Falcon @ Oct 11 2024, 09:03 AM)

Wild Horses 4x4, inc. over in Lodi, Ca. should be a decent source of restoration parts + accessories. Over 30 years dealing with them, and they are good to deal with

Wild Horses and Tom's Bronco Parts are my 2 go-to places so far.

Posted by: arne Oct 19 2024, 06:32 PM

Passenger floor is all done, save the seam sealer which will be done after the driver's side is finished so I can do it all at once. Very solid feeling, should be good for many more decades.

Posted by: arne Nov 23 2024, 11:15 AM

And now the driver's side is complete as well. This side needed a repair panel for the firewall too. Now working on replacing the rusty cowl assembly so I can weld on the new windshield frame. New doors arrived yesterday, which (I hope) will be the last of the major sheet metal.

Posted by: arne Dec 5 2024, 06:38 PM

Wow, it's been a while since I updated this.

After the floors were finished, I moved on to the inner and outer cowls, and finally the new windshield frame. Also hung the new door on the driver's side. Starting to look a bit more like a Bronco, not a Land Rover Lightweight.

Posted by: East coaster Dec 5 2024, 06:47 PM

Looking good! A Bronco is on my list of future projects.

Posted by: rick 918-S Dec 6 2024, 06:10 PM

Always liked those Broncos

Posted by: arne Dec 30 2024, 08:56 PM

More progress. Rebuilt and installed both the gas pedal and the main pedal box. The throttle and clutch both work great. Also fitted the left fender. Fit up really nicely, great door gaps all around.

I also picked up a lightly used power brake conversion, a pair of stock exhaust manifolds, and a dual exhaust kit.

And that's when I got derailed by one thing leading to another.

I started looking at installing the brake booster rather than hooking up the seized original master. Setting it in place for mock up made it obvious that if I mounted the brake parts now, I'd just need to pull it back off to get the mis-matched header off the driver's side.

So I decided to at least swap the left side header for the cast manifold, and move then back to the brakes so that I can move the Bronco, as I'll need to turn it around to have room to fit the right fender and door.

Got the header out and the manifold on, so I went back to the brakes. Quickly found that pretty much every flare nut fitting I touched is seized, and I'll need to cut them to remove. This is not a horrible deal, as I planned to replace all the hard lines later anyway, but I wasn't planning to do it now, but later when I do the front disc conversion. Oh well, ordered the lines and center hoses today.

While I wait for the new brake lines, I went back to the exhaust replacement. Got both cast manifolds on, the old exhaust removed, and have begun mocking up the new duals. So glad to have the old stuff off. Really poorly jury-rigged set up, and way wrong choices. Who would have decided that headers into a full 3" pair of duals was a good idea for a stock 302 2BBL? And who tries to cram dual 3" piping under an early Bronco anyway? Major mess, but now gone. The new exhaust system is looking quite nice so far, especially in comparison.

Posted by: KELTY360 Dec 31 2024, 10:55 AM

Happy New Year Arne!

Nice to see progress on the Bronco. If you're converting to dual exhaust, are you thinking about switching to a 4bbl carb? BTW, a set of rolling car dollies might give you the room to fit the right fender without having to turn the Bronco around. I had a set and considered them cheap garage square footage.

Posted by: Root_Werks Dec 31 2024, 11:05 AM

QUOTE(rick 918-S @ Dec 6 2024, 04:10 PM)

Always liked those Broncos

Posted by: Maltese Falcon Dec 31 2024, 11:40 AM

Arne...we also build a 'Shorty (1.625") v8 Bronco set/ also the inline 6Cyl (dual exit or single exit) headers>> which I can directly supply (at discount) if you need

Posted by: arne Dec 31 2024, 10:24 PM

QUOTE(KELTY360 @ Dec 31 2024, 09:55 AM)

QUOTE(Root_Werks @ Dec 31 2024, 10:05 AM)

QUOTE(Maltese Falcon @ Dec 31 2024, 10:40 AM)

Arne...we also build a 'Shorty (1.625") v8 Bronco set/ also the inline 6Cyl (dual exit or single exit) headers>> which I can directly supply (at discount) if you need

Posted by: arne Jan 18 2025, 09:47 PM

No picture today, not much has changed visually. I made a parts run to the coast last week. Picked up a bunch of parts for both sooner and later in the project. Notably a nice pair of bucket seats to be re-foamed and recovered later, a pair of taller front springs, and an adjustable track bar. I installed one of the taller front springs as a test, they appear to be around 2½" to 3" lift, and look like they will be a better match with the (apparently) 3" or so rear springs. Should sit much closer to level when they are both installed.

After the brake hard lines and hoses arrived, I returned to working on the brakes. The booster and master are now in place, and the prop valve, hard lines and center hoses also. New rear brakes are going on this weekend—drums, shoes, cylinders, springs and adjusters. Once these are done I'll bleed the system and turn it around so I can do the other front spring and then fit the second door and fender. So far, so good.

Posted by: arne Jan 28 2025, 07:56 PM

Brakes are now mostly wrapped up. No p-brake cables yet (on the way), and not doing anything up front until I do the disc brake conversion, but not in a hurry on that.

Installed the second front spring, I'm now going to call it about 3" to 3½" suspension lift on both ends. Then adjusted and installed the new track bar. Got the axle centered to the frame within about ⅛". Looks like the uncut fender clearance will be fine with the 7" wide wheels and 31x10.50 tires. New shocks will arrive soon.

Hung the right door and fender, and then the grill. Fit seems reasonable so far, other than the bottom front of the 2 fenders tucking a bit sharper underneath. Will need some massaging to make them match the grill.

Gathering info and testing parts in preparation for the complete rewiring of the truck. A few more parts (mostly replacement switches) are also on the way.

Posted by: arne Apr 5 2025, 10:27 PM

A friend I talked with at PCA Cars & Coffee this morning reminded me that I have neglected to post any updates on the project lately. So I'll provide an exec summary to catch you all up.

The brakes and suspension are mostly set now. It still has drums up front, the swap to discs is still a ways off. The suspension is also largely complete.

The big change is the wiring, I have assembled and built a completely new wiring harness for it. That work is also mostly complete, all done except wipers and heater, neither of which are installed yet. The fuel system is complete now as well, the second new tank, new fuel lines and tank selector valve are in, connected and working. I also rebuilt and installed a slightly newer factory 2-bbl carb with electric choke for simpler starting.

I'm planning to strip the engine for oil leak remediation next.

Posted by: arne Apr 13 2025, 09:15 PM

Spent the past couple of days stripping the engine. Dropped the pan, pulled the water pump and timing cover, and started assessing it all.

First thing I found is that the engine is not a 302. Crank casting ID is 1M, which is the 289 crank. Frankly, that's not a big deal in my opinion, not much difference between a bone-stock 289 and similar 302. About the only difference this will make is that I won't drill the new fenders and install new 302 badges.

Water pump was installed by someone who was... shall we say, generous with RTV. Yuck. And everything is seriously grimy, much cleaning will be required.

Found a couple of issues, none major since I found them now. Distributor shaft has more play than I like, the balancer has a noticeable groove worn where the seal rides, and the timing chain is about as loose and sloppy as I've ever seen.

I'm putting together a big parts order now. Included will be timing chain and both sprockets, water pump, Speedi-sleeve for the balancer, complete DuraSpark package, and all the normal stuff—many gaskets, t-stat and housing, plugs, molded hoses, gauge senders, heater core and valve, etc.

Lots of cleaning and painting will start tomorrow. Parts probably won't all be here for a week or so.

Posted by: arne May 5 2025, 08:39 PM

Progress has been made. (Although I haven't got the pan back on it yet...)

Posted by: Root_Werks May 6 2025, 10:10 AM

That is good progress! Can't wait to see paint on this one.

Posted by: arne Jun 1 2025, 02:06 PM

I tore the engine apart for resealing and deferred maintenance on or about 10 April. Seven weeks later, I've mostly wrapped it all up. Here's what has transpired since then:

• Cleaned prior years of oil leak grunge.
• Replaced gaskets and seals - oil pan, valve covers, intake manifold, etc.
• Replaced timing chain and gears.
• Replaced water pump, t-stat, t-stat housing, etc.
• Replaced temp and oil senders.
• Converted to Duraspark II ignition.
• Painted various engine externals.
• Full power steering conversion - OER box, Saginaw pump, etc.
• Rebuilt steering column, incl. smooth collar (floor shift installed decades ago).
• Replaced radiator, hoses and mounts.

Posted by: Front yard mechanic Jun 1 2025, 09:18 PM

Someone just bought Nixon old bronco on bat

Posted by: arne Jun 2 2025, 08:55 PM

Even just backing it out of the garage is so much nicer with power steering!

Posted by: KELTY360 Jun 3 2025, 09:59 AM

Must be nice having it move under its own power. Big step forward.

Posted by: Root_Werks Jul 11 2025, 12:30 PM

Any updates on the Bronco Arne? - Dan