Had another short week. I had reserved two vendor tables at a local gun show and was there for 4 days starting on this past Thursday. Sales were good. Saved most of my earnings for the truck resto!
In any case, we did accomplish the following:
Finished the cleaning and painting of the engine early in the week and installed it this past Wednesday.
Completed all the hooking up of all lines, hoses and wiring today. (Second time around!) Didn't have enough oil for the crankcase and no gasoline so will try to start up the engine tomorrow. No water leaks this time!
Got good news from my attorney that the seller of the engine with the holes in the cylinder walls has refunded the entire amount I'd paid for the engine. He picked up his engine this past Saturday. Was glad to have that sad affair behind me!
Used a round-over bit on the wood planking and cover for the gas tank to avoid having splintering and sharp corners. Used a hole cutter to cut the hole for the tank drain but have yet to cut the 5" holes in the top planking for access to the filler cap and spare tank switch and fuel line.
Purchased 5 tires from a tire wholesaler in Australia and arranged for them to be shipped in a conainer destined to another military vehicle collector/restorer here in my community. The tires are the MRF Sandgrip and they should arrive here early next year.
Picked up the fenders and braces today from the fabricator. Need to have the fenders panels arched and they'll be ready for the painter. (Thanks, Mike, for all the drawings and pictures!)
It's been 6 months since the truck arrived and I had hoped to have it finished by now. Have learned a lot in the intervening time and understand and appreciate all that goes into a restoration! However, it's been fun! The heat is gone and has been replaced with days in the low 70's F, much easier climate to work it!
That's it for now!
Regards,
Jim