If any of you are fans of some of the reality shows, Overhaulin, Rides, Monster Garage, American Hotrod and the likes, you will see how they can completely disassemble a car/truck and have it restored, repainted, and put back together in a week. For those of you who have never done a restoration project, let me tell you that time frame is waaaaaay of kilter for 1 person, on a limited budget. Those guys have unlimited money to use, and anywhere from 8-10 people you see on the show, and who knows how many people are behind the scenes doing work.
I got my truck, a 1969 Ford F100 Shortbed, about 7 years ago. I have been doing different things off and on during that time. Unlike a lot of people out there with classic vehicles, I didn't just slap a crap paint job on it, and some shiny wheels. I am working on it the right way. From the inside out. I have pretty much touched every single part on that truck, from the suspension, drive train, wiring, etc.... It is either stock, or modified to my wants and desires. As I have alluded to in other posts, sometimes I spend time just "fixing" previous owner's "fixes". Everything from hacked wiring harness, make do pulleys and brackets, to poorly patched exhaust and body panels. (One of the previous owners LOVED Bondo... Bondo over rust even).
The other things I have done have been modifications I wanted. To improve comfort, or functionality. I have added power brakes, power steering, delay windshield wipers, an upgraded sound system, with XM radio, currently have plans and parts to add a CD changer. I have installed a rare instrument cluster, and tachometer. I have installed a Pertronix breakerless ignition system, a Tornado, and K&N air filter for improved gas mileage. I found, and installed, a stock underhood light, stock cargo light I have front disc brake spindles, and components to add to the truck. I am going to relocate the gas tank from behind the seat in the cab, to under the bed between the rails. I have a Herculiner roll on bedliner kit.. just need to get the bed sandblasted and a nice day to do it. Once I get the engine running, I will be adding an electric cooling fan. I have the parts to install an upgraded factory a/c system. I have the parts to add shaved door handles, and power windows. Lots of plans, lots of parts.. just haven't found the time yet.
I also have tons of wants... fiberglass bedcover... grey seat out of a 98ish Ford F150 with the fold down arm rest... aluminum radiator... tailgate handle relocation kit.... front sway bar... and maybe suicide door kit, but I haven't made my mind up on that one.
I have not begun the majority of the body work yet. Just worked on rust spots, removed dings and dents, and welded in patch panels. I am in the process of shaving the drip rails from the cab, and shaving the front bumper. All the while keeping the truck as a running, occasional driver. It is currently black... several shades of black primer, and black rattle can paint. I have it one color, and I have the metal covered.. that's enough for now until I actually take each panel off and strip it, and paint each individual body panel.
If you have parts, or services to offer feel free to email me.
