PINTO CAR CLUB of AMERICA
Shiny is Good! => Your Project => Topic started by: popbumper on August 16, 2008, 08:59:52 PM
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Update for August 16 2008
Hellfire Jim suggested that I tart a thread out here for my project, and it makes sense; I will park it here from now on. Now that my car is quite in the throes of teardown (well, interior at least), I need to document it here.
I will probably take some pics tomorrow, but tonite I got a few things done. All of the work I am currently doing is for prep to repaint the dash. I am also going to remove the windshield, to conquer the rust under the seal, and allow for painting of the dash top surface. Here is what was completed:
1) Removed headlight bezel and switch
2) CAN'T figure out how to remove the windshield washer bezel!!
3) Removed the speaker - not only was it off center and held on with ONLY the dash cap nut, but the cone was toast. Need to fix that !
4) Got three of the dash cap nuts off, and three screws (thanks for the tip, FRANK). One nut is STRIPPED (meaning, the screw and nut turn together - arghh), it will need to be cut off. The last nut is quite concealed under the dash A/C unit.
5) Jockeyed the under dash A.C unit to get at the dash cap nut. It's gonna be a bit more work.
6) Discovered some rust at the drivers air vent duct - looks unfriendly, I'll wait on this one
7) Pulled the corner vents/air vanes (thanks again FRANK for the tips)
The biggest challenge so far has been the dash cap removal. Everything else seems to be falling into place, I am keeping labeled sandwich bags of parts so everything stays together. Looking forward to pulling the cap, them going after the windshield, and getting the dash painted. Then comes dash cap restoration, replacement, putting the dash back together, fix the cowl rust - and then onto the doors.
Chris
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Update for August 17th 2008
Sorry, no pics - got so busy I ran out of light.
Did some more "dash digging" tonite, found more leaves and cleaned them out. In addition:
1) Still don't know how to remove the windshield washer bezel!!
2) REMOVED THE DASH CAP! This was quite an ordeal - the stripped screw, I had to put pressure against the cap to hold the screw so I could move the nut. My hands are too large to fit most anywhere in tight spots, so it was a fine balancing act of turning the nutdriver with my fingertips, and pressuting the dash cap with my other hand. Very tedious, but I did it. The other nut - I had to get the wrench between the dash and A/C unit, loosen it, and then back out the nut with a screwdriver... .hard to picture but can be done if you are patient. What a job!
The dash is gonna end up being pulled off, by golly. I can see where the screws that hold it in place are, though obviously the windshield is going to have to be pulled out. I >love< mechanical engineers. How they made all this stuff fit together is a small miracle.
BTW, the heater box is really intimidating me. I know it needs to come apart (I think it's full of leaves and junk), and looks like a real job. Having the dash out will probably help this effort.
Pics soon!
Chris
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Chris! Windshield does not need to be removed to remove the dash. The row of screws at the base of the windshield can be removed and replaced with out removeing the windshield. Biggest problem is all the controls and wireing must be removed first, and be ready, because that sucker weighs a ton. Take the steering out first too.
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Hey dick1172762,
Can you access the screws under the W/S gasket???
I did not know that!!!
COOL!!! 8)
From Pintony
Yes! With a very long screwdriver or nut driver (Ford used both types of screws) I'v had to glue the screws to the tool at times, but it always worked. Be ready, because the spedo cluster will most likely fall apart when you remove it from the dash.
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Hey guys:
Thanks for the replies...I guess photos would be helpful at this point, but let me explain first:
1) The seats were already out, I took them out while working on the floor. At 6'4", I would definitely >not< fit in the front floorboards otherwise :lol:. It's hard enough as is!
2) Just about every accessory has already been removed - ashtray, glove box, radio, speaker, A/C panel, heater control bezel, instrument cluster, dash cap, control bezels, so there really is nothing impeding the removal EXCEPT that the dealer underdash A/C unit is really taking up a lot of room, and gets in the way of the heater box. Not sure how I'm going to get it out, I need to figure out what hose connections need to be removed first.
3) Steering - what all must be removed? Wheel and turn signal collar? MUST it be removed or can it stay in place?
Thanks guys. What an adventure!
Chris
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I just drop the stearing collum down to remove the dash. letting it rest ing the floor where it lays. 4 bolts to drop it
FrankBoss
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If it's that simple - excellent. Thanks!
Chris
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Glad to see the you are knee deep in your project. This is going to be a big project but the trick I leanred is to just make it a series of small projects. When each small project gets done move to the next one until the big project is done. It will show progress and helps keep you from getting burned out.
jim
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Update for August 21 2008
Preface - it's either hot or rainy in Texas. After 30+ days of 100+ degree temps, we had five days in a row of downpours and clouds. No complaint, really, it was nice - except for having to sponge out the 1/4" of water in my floor pan every day (gotta fix the cowl)!!
Did not get much work done over the last few days as a result - you guys without garages understand. Regardless, prior to the rain, I was able to get a few more pieces out of the dash, and the dash cap removed. The cap was a real challenge; the last nut and screw turned together, forcing a wedge of something under the dash to get the nut to turn. And then, another nut was jammed between the underdash A/C unit and the dash, forcing me ti turn the nut with the end of a screwdriver - the slowest POSSIBLE way of turning a nut known to man.
Regardless, here are some reasonably >poor< pics of the removed dash cap and the nearly bare dash. The next goals will be:
1) REMOVE the entire dash. This requires the windshield to be taken out, which serves this purpose as well as allowing me to get to the cowl rust. Being a major job, I have to prep my garage (translation: make enough room in it for the Pinto >and< my wife's car - we have no basements in Texas) so that I can keep it rain free while the windshield is out.
2) RESTORE the dash cap - I have ordered materials to do so, though I am on the hunt for the right color corinthian vinyl, and have some possible leads. Sure, I'd like to go the "Just Dashes" route like Starsky and Hutch, but I'm doing this one on my own.
3) REPAINT the dash while out of the car, and address all the firewall/sound deadening/heater box/etc. issues while the dash is out.
It's gonna be a project filled winter, but I hope to come out ahead once Spring comes.
Chris
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Update for August 28, 2008
No pics right now, well, yeah, I took them but I have to modify them on my other computer and send to this one and I am too lazy tonite.
Got to messing around with the rear brakes tonite, figured I'd take a look at what was going on. Here's what I discovered:
1) Passenger side rear brake - pulled the drum to find the parking brake adjuster and spring fall off onto the ground. Shoes and drum look fine, but I really need to change >everything<. Gonna order parts tomorrow.
2) Drivers side rear brake - everything looks fine, but again, I'm going to pull all of it.
3) This is INCREDIBLE - remember, we're talking Texas here - the car has the ORIGINAL exhaust sytem on it. How do I know? The stinkin' muffler has the FORD logo stamped on it, as well as the date of "5 76" (which is the build date according to my build sheet), and the words "Made in Canada". Good grief!! How many of you guys have an ORIGIAL 30+ year old muffler? Maybe I need to change the pipes and restore the muffler itself, wow!! :hypno:
4) Everything else on the rear end is original (meaning, ripe for restoration, all surface rust but nothing critical). Undercoating and a life in the South SAVED this car!
5) I >DO< have a gas tank leak around the sending unit. Some of it has run down on the surface of the tank and it is definitely gas - I smelled it.
Goal for this winter: Finish the interior. Pull the rear end, blast/clean/paint the springs, build new brake lines, restore the rear end in entirety, paint everything fresh black, install all new brakes, install new shocks, pull the drive shaft and clean it up, put in new U joints, etc.
I >love< this stuff, what a blast!!
Chris
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Update for September 16 2008
OK. The weather is finally cooperating, the temps are outstanding. I have been cleaning the garage in anticipation for moving it inside, so I can get some stuff taken apart, and it won't be unsightly in the driveway. Up for grabs - windshield removal, which began tonite by pulling the windshield trim.
After obtaining the >very handy< tool from Harbor Freight, it was "relatively" easy. The amount of crap under the trim was staggering, mostly dead organic junk. The findings?
1) About 1/3 of the trim clips were rusted enough to disintegrate
2) The 6 clips at the bottom? Only one screw was so rusted that I will need to work it out with something besides a screwdriver
3) The two corner clips? One was intact, the other was broken
4) The rubber windshield seal is intact, but pitifully dry and cracked
SO, given that.....
Can I get trim clips from any source? Anyone have NOS ones they will sell?[/i][/b] I can derust some of the good ones I have, but there are not enough. Did Mustang or any other Ford use these (where repro parts might be available)?
Thanks as always. Windshield comes out next, then I can fix the cowl hole.
Then the dash gets pulled and repainted.
Chris
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I have some that look like that, new left over from my old body shop days. How many you need?
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Oldandcrochety:
Thanks for the offer. I could probably use ten of them, but I don't know how many you have. Let me know what you can do, I greatly appreciate it.
Chris
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Give me your mailing address.
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Just sent you an email, thanks!
chris
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Clips left out on the mail truck about 1:30.
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Wow - that's very helpful and fast. Thanks so much.
Chris
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Update for September 22nd
When last visited, I had just removed the windshield trim and discovered some uglies underneath - rusted trim clips, a few missing screw heads, and a corner clip that was unuseable.
"Oldandcrochety" was kind enough to send me some clips - these were not the same style, but nonetheless he was generous in doing so for free. The ACTUAL reproduction clips can be found at a place in Texas, called "Latemodelresto ration.com". If you search under 1976/Ford/Mustang/clip, they have these clips, new, for $3.95/pack of 13. Needless to say, I was thrilled to find these new!!
Then, lo and behold, another member stepped forward selling the corner clips - on the same day. Man, what luck. Bought them! The windshield clip issue is SOLVED, and everything in that area is going to be perfect.
In the meantime, I had been working on my dash cap, getting it ready for vinyl re-wrap. I am posting another thread about dash cap restoration.
Chris
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my car has the original muffler, ford logo, made in canada and all, the whole exhaust system is original except for the catalytic converter, had it replaced 4 years ago because i thought it was plugged but turned out to be the carb, don't envy the dash issues, I had to replace the defrost ducts in mine because they were chewed through by mice. mine has no rust around the windshield or cowl ( God blessed the desert! ) I'm about 6'4" too, so the seats have to come out to get under the dash. of course my car doesnt have air conditioning, so its a bit less cluttered
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Update for October 13, 2008
Today was the first day since I got the car that I literally spent the whole day working on it (our workplace had a Holiday). In fact, my old bones are so tired right now, I won't be up late tonite!!
Todays menu:
1) Finished both rear brakes. Thanks again, Fred, for the brake drum, it really helped.
2) Changed out both rear shocks
3) Replaced the aging rear brake hose and the axle vent tube. While I hate to put new parts on a rusty axle, these things need done.
4) Bled the rear brakes. No leaks, and I have recovered use of my parking brake.
5) Replaced the master cylinder. Now I gotta tell ya, this was a >pain<, not because of the difficulty, but because of it's tight location. I really had to dink around with stuff. And the push rod to the pedal? That was weird, never having done one before. The other master cylinder was SHOT, the brake fluid was full of rust and sediment, and just looked awful.
Now, being overly ambitious, I ventured farther to bleed my front brakes and change out the hoses. Wow, first time I took off my front tires....
Mechanically, >everything< is wasted. I'm not only talking brakes, I am talking grease fittings, rubber pieces, boots, etc. Good grief, I >absolutely< need a front end rebuild - and new rotors - and new calipers - and new hoses, etc..
It started getting dark, I needed to eat dinner. I had to give up, and STILL NO BRAKES!!! Boy, it's frustrating to work the whole day and not feel like you got anything accomplished. We had to let the car back out of the garage and let gravity (carefully) do its thing. She sits, as usual, with bricks behind the wheels on the sloped drive. This car is a friggin piece of work, I must be a glutton for punishment.
More later on this developing story.....
Chris
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The deeper you dig in the car, the deeper you have to dig in your pocket! I spent all day at u-pull-it, got a bunch of parts (check my thread) and when I got home all I had a chance to do to my car was change the windshield washer bottle! Truck full of parts and ran out of time. :( Tomorrow or Saturday or something is another day :)
At least when(ever) its done, you'll feel a sense of accomplishment .
Chuck
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Yup, you have been a busy boy!! Wow, this morning I just found a source (80 miles away - no biggie) for parts '76 and '74 wagons. Looks like I will be taking a drive tomorrow afternoon. Boss is out of town, I am not very busy, and the thought of extra parts has me pretty excited.
Have fun!!
Chris
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Update for November 9th, 2008
We have had the NICEST Fall weather I have seen in 14 years of being in Texas, and I should have a LOT more done!! :embarrassed:
Well, needless to say, I have something to report...as of this afternoon I HAVE A WORKING BRAKE SYSTEM AGAIN!!! Man, oh man, I think I am a brake expert now, after three attempts at bleeding, three master cylinders (orig, 1 rebuilt, now a new), a different proportioning valve, all new rear hardware, all new rubber hoses, new rear cylinders, and a whole bunch of frustration, I pulled the wagon out of the garage onto the inclined drive and was able to stop again. I took my baby out in the street, up to the front of the house, turned around again, and parked her. It was SO GOOD to drive again!! :amazed:
That was the most frustrating thing I have ever been through!! Now, I can move forward (literally and figuratively) and get some more done. NEXT WEEK'S GOAL - attack the cowl hole before rainy season gets here.
Then - the gas tank gets pulled and the leak at the sending unit gets fixed.
Then - the windshield comes out and gets a new seal, while the dash gets repainted.
Then...stay tuned.
Chris
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Remember chris you still have a roof rack to install =) and pics to get up so i can see
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Yes I do!! As soon as I get it, it's another short project I can get done quickly. I will definitely share pics. Thanks again!
Chris
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Well, shame on me, it's been a long time for an update. I have been busy with other things, the weather has been cold (for Texas), and I was laid off back on November 17th. This year? Find a new job and really get cracking on the Pinto.
OK - update (late) for December 30th. The weather was beautiful (low 70's), and with the help of a friend on the Maverick/Comet forum (local guy named Gene), I was able to tackle some more needed work on the wagon. Gene runs a welding business, and it was far easier to trailer the wagon and take it over to his place (it's about 4-5 miles away).
Once we got there, we literally pulled the car back on the trailer, let it overhang, and went to work on the gas tank. I had been wanting to remove it since there was obvious leaking - around the sending unit, or so I thought. Turns out that the tank had a number of pinholes (and one hole about 3/16" in diameter) that someone had previously patched with BONDO! We pulled the tank to also find a COLONY OF ANTS living in the space between the tank and the spare tire well - weird.
While I was under there, I figured why not pull the bumper off, because the bumper insert and related hardware are so rusty. Having done this, I took all the parts to have them sandblasted, including the filler tube, rear bumper shocks, gas tank straps, bumper insert, and license plate backer. These will all be cleaned then painted with POR-15 before reinstallation .
I have to repair the tank, line the interior (it was power washed at a car wash), and rebuild it with all new parts from SSCenterprises (vent valve, filler neck gasket, etc.). I also ordered a brand new sending unit (NOS- $75), because the one in my tank was shot.
I am happy to be making progress again. Next step? Getting the rear end pulled - and either restoring it, or possibly replacing it with a larger 8" unit that has disc brakes.
Thanks for looking!
Chris
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if you do rear disc go with the 95 gt mustang rearend. =) and im glad to see the roof rack is on the car now =)
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That's not your roof rack - that's the original - it's all bent up, you cannot see it!
Chris
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aww lol. ok ok. well either way its good to see you moving on the project again. for me atm im at a stall till i have better cash flow. (I.E the g/f gets back to workin and i get a little of my money back)
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My cash flow ain't exactly liquid until I get another job. Right now I am spending some hobby money I have saved up - little bit here and there - I'll hit the wall again soon. Once I get the tank repaired, and everything back together, I need to start focusing on the rear end - and the interior - and the rust in the engine compartment - and removing the dash - and replacing the window rubber - etc etc etc etc etc etc...... :surprised:
Chris
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Update for January 14th, 2009
The side blessing of being laid off (that's a hard one to say :o) is having the time to get some work done. As we last visted, I had pulled my gas tank off, including the filler pipe, straps, and rear bumper insert. First task at hand - get stuff sandblasted. More pics on thsi later, the parts turned out GREAR and have already been painted with POR-15.
Tonite, we visit the venerable gas tank. Yes folks, just about everything that could be wrong with a tank was wrong with this one:
1) One 3/16" hole, and many small pinholes
2) A bad sending unit
3) A lot of oversprayed undercoating (not really an issue, but it was messy)
First things first: Tank comes off, parts come out, and I carry it to a car wash to spray it out. Then, off to "Poor Boy's" Radiator shop to get some brazing. This cost me $80, and took about a week and a half. Sending unit? Scored a NOS unit for $75. Also managed to get ahold of a new vent assembly and filler tube gasket from SSC Enterprises (www.sscenterpr ises.net).
The pictures below show today's work, after I picked up the tank. The "tank top after" shows the top coated with a fresh layer of silver POR-15; all the undercoating was NOT removed because I was less concerned about this unseen area. I have yet to replace the pad, and I also plan to cover the top with fresh undercoat. I have not decided what to do with the bottom yet; now freshly stripped steel, I may either polish it out and coat it with clear POR-15, or use their "steel" color coat. In either case, I need to address the "bumps" of the brazing.
Finally, the tank will be coated internally - it really needs it (there is evidence of rust). This will be done sometime next week, and then everything will be carefully reassembled. Total cost - about $200 +/-. Not what I would have expected, but I really do NEED to know how much gas I have, and, keep it IN the tank.
More soon!
Chris
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I forgot to add - the bottom of the tank, as you can see, had been "pre-scraped" of undercoating so that the radiator shop could braze the hole/pinholes. After I got it back, It took me about three hours to completely scrape off the remaining undercoat with a putty knife, mineral spirits, and plenty of elbow grease. I love the clean metal look!!
Chris
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hey Chris,
Glad to see progress on your wagon. Just keep at it a little at a time and it will get down.
jim
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Update for March 21, 2009
Hello again all, last time we visited I was in the throes of removing my leaking gas tank and finding it was a bit more of a job than I had anticipated. Now, with the weather warmer and days longer, I am happy to report that I have made yet another jump in the process of this wagon restoration. To recap the effort:
DONE:
1) Bad brake system rebuilt (new master cylinder, hoses, hardware)
2) Rusty floors repaired
3) Dash pad restored (pics will be in another thread)
4) Gas tank restored ;D
TO BE DONE:
5) Cowl hole repair
6) Pull windshield and replace gasket
7) Remove/restore dashboard with window out
8) Restore/rebuild front end
TASK #4 - The gas tank was completed today. All undercoating was removed; pinholes were patched at a radiator shop. Then, the "welds" were gently ground down, and the surrounding surface was smoothed with a small bit of bondo. I also purchased an NOS sending unit, and new valves/gaskets from SSCenterprises .net.
The tank was flushed with POR-15 materials to properly "degunk" it and etch it for sealing. Then, the tank was treated with POR-15 gas tank sealer, which did a GREAT job of lining the tank with a hard, durable surface.
To finish, any other dents in the tank were also filled, and the whole think was carefully sanded down to bright metal, at which point I used POR-15 "Metal Mask" paint to cover the surface. This is an excellent coating that dries in a natural metal shade.
My wife realized how tedious the restoration process was, and looked at me and kept telling me "hey, it's only a gas tank, nobody will ever see it". You know, I love her to death, but she just doesn't get it... ::)
The pics here reflect the final stages in the process before reinstallation; one of the pics takes you back to where I started after the radiator shoppics. Judge the results for yourself. I also spent part of the morning wire brushing the old undercoating around the gas tank and up under the rear wheelwells in anticipation of freshening up the undercoating and reinstalling the tank. I love this stuff....one step at a time.
NOTE: There was no particular reason I turned the tank in the opposite direction for the "painted" phot, I just shot it that way. There is NO evidence of the welds whatsoever, the tank looks nearly new. The ONLY caveat I have is that the paint dried VERY fast for one reason or another (see the shading issue?) - and went on thicker than I wanted it to. POR 15 is GREAT, but this particular can/batch/formulation did not behave well.
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Well, at the moment, I'm thinking a lot of people will be looking at your gas tank. Besides, if shiny is good, does that mean that only the upper surface of the car should be shiny? I have a shiny valve cover, most of the time I'm the only one that knows, but every once in a while somebody sneaks up on me when I check the oil. :D
Glad to see you're making progress, still waiting for the dash pics!
Chuck
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Update for April 05, 2009
Well, no pics to share today, but my gas tank is officially reinstalled. Spent the day yesterday "freshening" up the undercoating beneath the rear end of the car, and got the tank installed.I actually put a thin (1/16") layer of adhesive sheet cork on the gas tank straps so the straps would no longer contact the gas tank (yeah, I went overboard, sue me :cheesy_p:). Everything looks great, it all snugged up nicely. Cut a new cork gasket for the filler neck, installed all new rubber hoses/clamps at the sending unit and vent valve, poured a few gallons of gas in, and took her for a ride!!
She still drives fine, though the steering DOES "knock" when I turn the wheel.
I >love< making progress!! NEXT ON TAP: Front end rebuild. Might as well get it out of the way, it's definitely time. Gonna spend the $$ while I have them.
Chris
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Just a quick note - never having rebuilt a front end (well, except on a '57 Chevy), I have been "studying" my shop manuals and my parts CD. You know, it really helped - I took a look up under my front end tonite, it all makes sense, and looks pretty straightforwar d. Everything really needs done, and it's going to look awesome when all the parts are fresh and clean. I will order parts tomorrow.
As a side note - while I was up under the car, I took a metal scraper and started pulling some of the road grime/mud/dirt off the front crossmember. I was "awarded" with original body paint that is still intact. The oil pan also looked near new when wiped off with mineral spirits. Gotta love dry climate cars - you'd never see anything but rust on a Northern car (ducking now.....) :evil:
Chris
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Chris,
Here is the parts list I found from when i redid my front end 5 years ago. The list is not too detailed, but I was not as organized then.
This was a very straightforwar d operation from my experience. No spring compressor was needed; I can walk you through how I did mine. I did one side at a time. Car was supported under the front crossmember. Floor jack was used to let lower arm down when removing spring, steel rod was run through shock area as a safety precaution. Never had an issue though. Control arm bolts are left loose until entire job is done and full weight of the car is on the suspension. Everything is torqued then.
Let me know if you need some help or extra tools.
Rack and pinion gear (manual)
tie rod ends (2)
Upper ball joints (2)
Lower ball joints (2)
Upper control arm bushings
Lower control arm bushings
Strut rod bushing set (2 sets)
Wheel bearing set (2 sets)
Wheel bearing seals (2 sets)
Front brake hoses (2)
Brake pads (if needed)
Shocks (2) (if needed)
Sway bar bushings
Control arm bolts - see http://classicoldsmobile.com/forums/chassis-body-frame/12099-arm-bolt-breaks-front-wheel-falls-off.html (http://classicoldsmobile.com/forums/chassis-body-frame/12099-arm-bolt-breaks-front-wheel-falls-off.html) for the reason these should be replaced...
Shop labor to R&R all bushings
Wheel bearing grease
Grease gun for new ball joints
Get Moog parts when possible, aviod the cheapie parts. This is a job you go not want to do over...
My whole cost was about $1000, but Rockauto is a better place to get parts like these... I could have saved at least a few hundred.
But was it all worth it?? Heck yea!! :lol:
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Hey Rob:
Good to hear from you - my bad for not posting our car meet. GOOD NEWS - the front end is stripped out, I did it (with the help of another car guy I know) this past Saturday. It took six hours, and the lower control arms will not come off. He is bringing over a sawzall today to cut them loose.
Been studying all the parts, gonna start parts ordering today. Most of the fromt end parts (sway bar, control arms, strut rods) will be sandblasted and painted with POR-15 prior to reinstallation . Remember that wonderful "hole" under my battery tray? It's MASSIVE, I am going to have to fabricate a sheet metal piece to fill the area and repair it. It's a big mess, but now is the time to get it done.
Stay tuned, thanks for the list!
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Let me know if you need an impact wrench. I needed one to loosen the control arm bolts and the steering gear bolts. Make sure you replace all those load-bearing bolts with correct types and grades. I almost lost a wheel on Saturday due to a bolt stress failure. I will be free after work most of this week so if i can help, let me know...
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Update for 4/18/09
Been a busy Spring. Taking advantage of our wonderful, cool weather, trying to get some major work accomplished. Thanks to the help of a good friend (Gene Quinones), much progress has been made on the front end - whose suspension and btrake system has been completely dismantled. At this point, all the parts are either slated for sandblasting and refinishing, or are being replaced. Once all is said and done, I will have:
New bushings throughout, tie rod ends, shocks, springs, calipers, rotors, shoes
Refurbished control arms, strut rods, sway bar and hardware, wheels (more in another thread)
Picture 1 shoes the results after we had gotten to the lower control arms, which would NOT come off. The bolt has seized to the bushing lining, and we had to sawzall the bolt at either side - on BOTH arms. What a pain.
Picture 2 shows the box 'o goodies that came off he car. All this will be fresh and new in a few weeks.
Picture 3 shows the horrific rust I have on my passenger inner fender well. Looks liek to only good solution is to find a donor car (already located), saw out a fender, and weld in a new one. As much as I hate to do it, it HAS to be done right.
...making PROGRESS....
Chris
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Update for 4/21/09
Picked up the new rotors, shocks, springs, calipers, shoes on Monday. Dropped off a bunch of stuff at the sandblaster an hour ago. $200 and my front end pieces and rally wheels will be nice and clean.
I could have had the wheels powdercoated for $300 total, but one of the wheels has corrosion on it, and the pitting would show through the coating. Bummer - paint is the only option, I'll have to get a good durable epoxy paint or something such.
Still need to buy all my front end bushings, ball joints and bolts. Gonna be a banner month for spending money - but like I said, it's progress.
Chris
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Chris your inner fender apron that has all the rust holes, I located an NOS one at Green Sales (800-543-4959) if you want to go that way part# D5FZ16054A. I also found a battery tray NOS @ a Ford Dealer, I can pm the info if you want it.
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Bill:
Getting a replacement battery tray sandblasted today. On the inner fender - I imagine that it would be expensive to ship - and, unfortunately it would need welding (for that matter, a used one would, too :nocool:).
Thanks for the heads up!
Chris
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Update for April 24th
...so my wife calls me today at work. "You got a letter from the City about your Pinto". "Oh?" "Well, according to City regulations, any car exposed to public view in a driveway or otherwise needs to be titled and operating". OK....
...I phone the person who wrote it. She was actually nice. To my dismay, I had removed the rear bumper recently, and, of course it has the license plate on it. Before I tore off the front end, I turned the car around, back of car facing outward - and it was, sadly noticed for the wrong reasons.
I explained to the woman that the car did run, was registered in my name, had plates, and is properly titled but not yet inspected. "Can I come by to see it?" "I just need to have you start it up and move it back and forth". "Um...sure (gulp...knowing my front end suspension is completely off the car). ..."Sure, when"? "How about Saturday May 9th?" (I have 30 days from notification).
The rest of the day was busy. I picked up my parts from the sandblaster (whew, glad they got done). Monday morning I order my front end kit, bushings and all, and make a quick but important Rock Auto order. The next few days are heavy with painting parts and getting things in order. Next weekend, it all goes back together.
I told my wife I was proud of my little car...after all, someone from the City wants to come and see it run :lol:. She was not amused. ???
Chris
...still making progress, UNDER PRESSURE..... :mad:
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lol I am amused. that was funny yet sad. Im sorry to hear that man. They have not said crap about my car, its titled, but not Registered No plate, and backed into a space. =) No one complains cause they see me working on it every chance i get.
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Nothing like a little "official" inspiration, eh? :rolleye: Who knows? Maybe when the lady from the city comes out to look at your car she will fall in love with it and you'll make a new Pinto friend. ;D Godspeed on your project!
Dwayne :smile:
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I got a letter just like (about 50 days ago) that from the City of West Allis WI concerning my white squire wagon ;D Yeah, it lite a fire under my butt to get plates for it and to start working on it again. They were pretty cool about and do not have to come and take a look but when are are threating to tow it away, it will wake you up ;D
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I am glad Oregon is not like this.
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The nice thing is that Pinto front ends are not too difficult to put back together. The hardest and most time consuming is disassembly, cleaning, and painting.
Let me know if you need some assistance, guidance, motivaction, or comic relief!
Also let me know if there was anything you still needed off that carcass we left in the yard - I ~might~ go back later for that back bumper, since mine is cracked so badly... I would need hip waders after all the rain they are predicting, but maybe that would help postpone its upcoming destruction.
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...Hi, I'm Chris, and I'm a Pintoholic.... :drunk:
I'm tired. I have no updates right now. I'm tired. I have been busting my a$$ trying to get everything ready for my front end reassembly this weekend. Did I mention I'm tired....
..and probably a little loopy. :drunk: Sniffing paint fumes for hours on end tends to get you after a while.
...and yes, I just got out of the garage. I was out painting with POR-15. "Painting what" you say? Oh...um...my ball joints, before I attach them to the control arms. ???
No, I knew better than to paint the greased knuckle, and I was careful not to get paint where it should not be. This dam% car might as well be a show car, cripes, EVERYTHING on my suspension is restored, sandblasted and painted, or fresh out of the box. All the metal screws and nuts are stainless..... . ::)
It's a disease, I tell you. Did I mention I'm tired? :drunk:
Chris
PS - pics this weekend. After that, I rest. And then I restore the friggin dash that I pulled from the 78 hatch last weekend. Oh, and then the windshield comes out, and then the rear end comes off, and then I replace the inner fender panel, and then.....>thud<
......zzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzz..... ...
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Update for May 11th, 2009
When we last visited, I was "complaining" about how tired I was working on my car :drunk:. Well my friends, now that the work has passed, I am on to greener pastures. Well, at least a short "break" before I go to the next level ::). A few posts back, you saw my nasty, nasty box of cruddy, rusty, and unloved original front end parts. :reek: This past weekend, the front end got rebuilt. Yeah, I'm partial -it's DA BOMB!!
I have to thank both 78TXPony (Rob) and my Comet friend Gene for taking the time to help. Six hours were spent Saturday reassembling all of the new parts, and I have to say, I was actually >sad< to put new parts on my "unfinished" frame, but without shop space and a rotisserie, it's "one step at a time" getting this stuff done. Here's some pics of the process.
"Ugh before" is a revisit of what it used to look like
"Restored parts" shows all the stuff neatly laid out and waiting for reinstallation
"Mocked lower" shows a prefit of the parts, just to get an initial visual
"Prepper rotor" shows the restored spindle/rotor/caliper assemblies
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B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L. Great attention to detail and that hard work has to be paying off! It will ride so smooth and drive great... while looking good too! 8) At least there is more than one crazy person on this site, we all fit in together very nicely.
-beegle55
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What I did not show is the "cleanup" process; since the inner fenders need some work, and I want to remove the fenders before I really undercoat them properly, what I did is pay attention to ONLY those areas I knew I could not get at after front end parts were reinstalled.
I cleaned the towers with Mineral sprits, as well as the frame areas. Then, the towers were repainted with two coats of POR-15; metal, then "Chassis black". This gives the areas the toughness they need. The parts them selves had three coats of paint - one of metal POR-15, one of chassis black, then one of body paint - "Charcoal grey metallic". Red accents were a must, so I painted the calipers and ball joints. All hardware is stainless steel, and the front end kit is P-S-T. The frame areas were recoated with fresh undercoat.
Rotors, brake pads, calipers, and springs from Autozone
Small hardware, bellows, etc. from Rock Auto
I am very happy with the results, the new parts look stunning and will be beautiful when I put my rally wheels back on. My biggest issues now?
1) get everything else to look as nice
2) get the front end realigned - it is very obvious that the wheels are "crooked" in the driveway.
It was several weeks of work, but well worth it. I cannot believe how the front end sits up at the CORRECT HEIGHT now!
Final result photos - show the driver's side nearly complete. Brake hoses still need to be hung, as well as the sway bar.
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So I gotta ask - in this project forum, is it even worth the time to post anything? There's a lot of work involved in taking pics, resizing them, moving them around, and then posting. It seems like people really "don't care", because there is rarely a response (thanks Beegle, I really >do< appreciate the inputs). It's not like I'm looking for a pat on the back, but it would be nice to know that people are interested! I know when somone busts their butt on their car, I sure like to let them know that it's worth their while.
That's what still gets me about this group - if it was the Maverick group, people would be all over it. Sometimes it seems very odd out here. I'll still keep a pictorial history as I go, but if nobody cares, I won't waste their time.
Chris
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Continue to post pictures! I LOVE going through project threads on everyone's cars, which is what prompted me to take pictures of mine. There are things I don't take pictures of though because I feel like it's not worth the time to do it, as you stated.
I was actually just about to reply just before you posted that last bit, but it said someone else had posted a reply while I was writing my response.
You car is coming along AMAZINGLY WELL! It makes me jealous and wonder why in the world I didn't pay as much attention to detail when I did my ball joints, since I had the front end taken apart anyway. I guess it will have to wait until I replace all of the bushings....
Keep up the great work Chris, I'm loving the whole thing :)
If I only lived closer, I would be happy to come over and help.
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Geeze Dave, I wish ALL of us lived near each other - not to sound campy - but it would be NICE to be able to take all of our collective experience and put it together. Would it be GREAT to have a "Pinto Restoration" shop? Yeah - I'm dreaming. My wife thinks the thing will never get done. I beg to differ.
Thanks for posting!
Chris
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I'm with you on the Pinto Restoration Shop idea! If things continue to go as they have been for me, I may be moving down to Arizona since I am getting tired of everything going on here in Idaho. I'd be closer to more Pinto members and Knotts would be realistic. :D
When I own my own home with a garage, it WILL be a Pinto restoration shop!
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I am glad i was able to come help out a little bit. If it wasn't for the date I had that night, i would have stuck around to see the car move under its own power!
Attention to detail takes a LONG time - my Olds has taught me that. Freshen up one area, and everything else looks like s*** on a white rabbit... :reek:
I wish i repainted my front end components when i rebuilt it back in 2002, but I guess it will have to wait until the next time... I never thought I would try to restore the car. To me, it is still just a cool-weather daily driver...
I have to say those AFTER pics look great, and it was not because of the photographer! :smile:
:police: The city gal will be impressed - you know she will want a ride! :lol:
I am glad that big accomplishment is done - now you can move on to the next! :drunk:
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I'm at home for lunch right now, heading back to work. Of course, when I got here, I took her for a quick ride. It's SO great to be "up and running" again.
What's next, Rob? Retrofit of factory A/C :hypno:?
Chris
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What's next, Rob? Retrofit of factory A/C :hypno:?
Chris
It sounds like you want that A/C box again... :-\
Do they make medicine for these types of disorders?? ;)
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Popbumper,
Keep posting the progress even though i do not respond i do keep up and as of right now my car does not need any major work it is nice to have the info avable when and if i ever need it.
phil
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I know all the guys and gals appricate you as much as I do. Your pict-history is going to help me while I resto-mod my car since I have to start all over again. Your posts have inspared me to do every little detail part the right way, and make it look good too!!!
Keep up the good work and I hope mine will look and fuction as good as yours.
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Thanks guys, it means a lot. I hope it's worth the effort, tere will be a LOT more before all is said and done.
Chris
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Update for 6/10/09
Been almost a year since I bought my car. While it seems like there still is a LOT to do, I have also accomplished much. Floors are solid, entire brake system is new, gas tank is repaired/restored/lined, front suspension has been completely stripped out and restored, interior has been stripped, all rear bumper hardware has been sandblasted and painted, front bumper hardware is removed in readiness for restoration, some interior panels have been restored, dash pad has been restored, and rally wheels have been obtained and restored.
Replacement dash and power brake booster have also been purchased.
Wow! Still busy at it, though as the days get hotter, the work slows.
On tap for tonite? Front end restoration (non-suspension) and cowl leak fix. See next posts.
Chris
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First up? COWL HOLE. This bugger really has annoyed me for a year, why I did not fix it first is beyond me; I guess I let it overwhelm me when I got the car.
PROBLEM: EVERY time it rained (meaning, ALL WINTER AND SPRING), I had to sponge off my floor pans, which would collect up to an inch of water.
1st pic: The hole, close up, after wire wheeling. Where this hole is presented an unusual challenge for welding, so I went the "soft repair" route.
2nd pic: Two layers of POR-15 fiberglass were laid up over the hole and allowed to dry. NOT SHOWN: Aftre it dried, I covered the entire area with POR-15 PUTTY, and sanded everyhing smooth, creating a rock hard barrier.
3rd pic: The completed repair. IT RAINED HARD TONITE AND THERE WAS ZERO WATER IN THE CAR AFTERWARDS. Hooray!!
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Second up? Inner fender (wheel side) restoration
Having completed the suspension restore/rebuild, I needed to address the ailing inner fender surfaces (those hidden by the fender), including the cowl drains, the edge where the fender meets the inner lip, and beneath the plastic insert.
Pic 1: Exposed inner fender, showing the clean suspension but incomplete/old undercoating, and rusty vent tube/surfaces around the drains
Pic 2: In process - here the painting has begun (POR-15), after surface rust has been exposed and addressed with a wire wheel.
Pic 3: "Complete" - you can see where I have >not< yet added the POR-15 putty to the cowl patch. Once complete and sanded, everything got another coat of POR-15. Even the inside of the cowl was thoroughly cleaned, and a POR-15 "dauber" was used to coat the inner cowl. No more rust, and water flows easily. Also note the complete refreshening of the undercoating, the "restoration" of the gas tank vent tube, and the removal of the old charcoal canister.
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I HAVE TO GET SOME OF THAT POR-15!!!
I am jealous that your car looks so good and it ain't even finished!
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Just imagine what it will look like DONE ;D.
Man, this is a LONG process but I must do everything right...
Get some POR-15. If you don't soon, you're going to see a can show up at your doorstep. All I need is an address.....
Chris
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Chris,
Hang in there on posting. On my thread I rarely get a post from other people but the views are over 10,000 so somebody is watching.
Take some solace in that you are doing it right. That is what I am doing to the best of my ability. I choose to do the mechanical first. Actually I really didn't choose i had no choice... :rolleye: When it is completed then I plan to tackle the body and interior work.
I too have found out the process is taking at least twice what i thought and about twice as exspensive but now i am hooked on as it is refered to as that damn little car. :lol:
Remember we are watching...
jim
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Man you have got that thing looking sweet. I am a believer in that por 15 its good stuff.
Keep up the good work little at a time. That way you can enjoy it longer.
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I choose to do the mechanical first. Actually I really didn't choose i had no choice... :rolleye: When it is completed then I plan to tackle the body and interior work.
Thanks Jim. I am doing mechanical at first as well, with a little bit of "misc" thrown in as it presents itself. Wanna make it bulletproof underneath (full chassis rebuild/restore), then motor/eng compartment, then interior, then body (if at all - I may keep it original just for kicks). I agree it's tedious and expensive, but worth it.
Chris
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Looking good! you seem to be doing a real good job but why would you skimp and fill a rust hole with fiberglass instead of doing it right and welding a patch in it on your cowl?
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Skimp? Well, let's put it this way. Some guys have the knowledge, facilities, tools, and experiece to weld. I do not. I waited nearly a year to fix this hole, suffering over how to do it right, and finally got tired of sponging rain out of my car and did something about it.
I'm busting my butt to restore this as far as I can without putting it on a rotisserie, or spending $15K. Rather than trying to learn to weld, finding somebody who could, and making the requisite noise in my driveway, I took three hours, fixed it for a few dollars, did it myself, and sealed it adequately.
Given all the time and effort I have put into the car (and what it still needs), I won't suffer over something that's a hassle to fix, and I'm not sorry I did it this way. I wish I could have welded it, but what someone else expects is not always what I can do. As long as my own standards are met, that is what's important.
Chris
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Wow, no need to get all defensive. I simply seemed liked everything else was looking so good that it didn't meet the standards of the rest of the vehicle. Didn't mean to offend you!
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No problem, I suppose that particular subject was a sore spot, and the word "skimp" didn't quite hit me right. Thanks for the good words. Some days this restoration gets the best of me.
Chris
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Hey Pop, Just invite him to the pool! :evil: :lol:
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Excellent job Chris! That cowl and inner fender look better than new. Shame no one will be able to see it after you put the fender back on! :amazed: Thanks for the pics, I know there are a lot of leaky cowls out there, other members will benefit from seeing how you repaired it. Looks good from my end! ;)
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I have read many a cowl post and never really understood the problem area. Now I do and where to look. Might just be the cause of my floorpan repair area.
Thanks!!!
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Pop,
I'll chime in a give you a giant ATTABOY for your meticulous and thorough detail on both the car and in the documentation.
I have that same annoying leak, and "someday" may be sooner than I thought, thanks to your post.
As an avid welder and fabber, I can't fault you one bit for the cowl fix.
Due to your needing to learn to weld, buy the welder and "stuff", practice...etc ....that fix will last forever, and that is what counts.
Another (right) way to get it done, I like that.
POR15 is the future for me, the Pinto, the '66 Fairlane and the '39 Chevy.
Keep the posts coming, even for the lurkers like me.
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And just think... that cowl will never rust there again! :tgif: Thank Goodness It's Fixed! ;D
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I like your definition of TGIF!!
Chris
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;D
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Well.......... :P
The audience awaits in silence....... . :o
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Have new pics of progress, just need to go through the arduous task of resizing them before posting. Lots of progress stuff to report on. Thanks for pushing me, Rob! :P
Chris
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And the pictures are........... ............
:lol:
jim
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Update for July 11th 2209
Been over a year now since I picked up the car. Progress is slow at this time of year because, well, it's really HOT out, and like a lot of folks, I don't have storage space or a garage to work in, so the weather is a dictating factor.
WHERE I have had time and the weather has cooperated, I have been involving myself in at least a few areas, including the windshield, dash, and front end bumper area. MUCH remains - I am starting to understand my limitations from financial, time and skill levels, and I believe that my "directive" is changing - more on that later.
Without further adieu, these following pics show shots of the windshield work and dashboard effort. Stay tuned for an article in PINTO TIMES - I have captured the entire process in pictures and will write a feature about the windshield stuff; here's a small snapshot of the effort.
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WINDSHIELD AREA - if you have been following, I had a hole in my cowl at the driver's windshield corner. This hole allowed water to enetr the cabin, creating rust on the floors. After treating/filling the hole, I needed to look at the windshield gasket as well, because I could see that the damage extended up beneath it.
In pulling the gasket, I found the gasket corner had been bent in towards the dash when installed at the factory, creating a pocket for rainwater to collect in. THis water created some additional problems at the pinchwelds between the cowl and pillar structure. I cleaned these areas up, puttied them, and treated all with POR-15 in preparation for a new gasket, and window trim clips.
Pic 1 - windshield removed
Pic 2 - Wire wheeling at the pinch weld
Pic 3 - perimeter treated with POR-15
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DASH AREA - with the windshield out, it becomes an easy task to pull the dashboard. Why pull the dash? Well, in my case, at MINIMUM I want to have a car that is mechanically sound, and has a perfect interior - bodywork and repaint can always be last. With the job that the Texas sun did on my interior over 30+ years, the dash deserves a full restoration - and NEEDS it, besides.
A few months back, 78TXPony and I went to a local junkyard and stripped a '78 sedan to almost nothing. I pulled the dash, in hopes of restoring it outside of the car, so that when I pulled my own dash, I could pop a completely rebuilt unit in, which would make things a little bit easier. The two dashes are pretty much identical.
If you have never seen a full dashboard out of a Pinto, enjoy these pics. The dash will be PERFECT when I get done with it.
Pic 1 - Donor dashboard
Pic 2 - Rear of donor dashboard
Pic 3 - Donor dashboard sandblasted
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MISC STUFF - no trip to the sandblaster is complete without LOTS of parts. In the process of handing over the dash, I also handed over plenty of miscelleneous parts that needed to be done, including the front BUMPER INSERT sitting behind it. Rust had really taken a toll on this piece, pitting it with holes; this unit will be painted with POR-15 and POR-15 chassis black, the same way I treated the rear insert.
This final pic for tonite shows the other stuff that was sandblasted along with the dash and insert, including:
1) Front bumper shocks
2) Gas/brake pedal levers
3) Underdash brake/clutch support
4) Underdash braces
5) Fuse box support
6) Fender to chassis linkages
7) Glove box and hinge
8 Ash tray and ash tray insert
9) Headlamp bucket
10) Rear spring shock brackets
11) Rear spring isolator brackets
12) Front license plate holder
There's lots of painting to do over the next few weeks, and once it starts to cool down, I am going after the dash in the car. Lots of work there - heater box, A/C, harness, lots of maintenance.
Chris
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When I stripped my first Pinto, I had intentions of using it's dash for my good car. The only thing is, the vin number is in the dash. What did you do to solve the vin number problem? Are you going to drill out the rivots and re rivot the correct vin into your "new" dash? I was thinking of doing it that way, but you have to make the "rosets" in them and hope that a LEO doesn't see that it has been tampered with. I know that a Pinto shouldn't draw to much attention as far as that goes, but you never know!!
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That would be the only way to assure that everything was legal. Since I have a valid title and am the owner, there should be no problem.
The 1978 dash VIN plate is also invalid, because in Texas, once a car has been sold off to salvage, it can never be resold to the public. The junkyard who sold me the dash never even mentioned it.
Chris
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Looking good, Chris - smells like progress... ::)
I see lots of painting in your near future! 8)
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It really is looking good Chris. I dont envy your work, i have a 65 mustang down to the bone going thru the same things. Its not the kinda of work i like to do. But it will one day have its rewards. Keeper up.
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Looking good, Chris - smells like progress... ::)
I see lots of painting in your near future! 8)
Thanks SmallFryefarm. It's all for a good cause, glad you know what it is like.
Hey Rob, painting started last night at 8 PM - you know, when the sun finally started going down and it was still 95 degrees. Got one shock and the bumper insert mostly done, and quit about 9 PM. Plan to do a little more tonite!!
Chris
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I'm surprized it's not up on a 'rotisseire' yet, Chris. ;D
Lots done, and lots to do. :) :o You've got your hands full of small pieces :laugh: I'd say you're doing a pretty thorough restoration there! :)
Good luck...
Chuck :afro:
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Question on the windshield pull. What advice can you give as I will have a 77 donor car that I want the windshield to put into my 75? Pulling the old without breaking and such. Any thoughts would be welcome.
jim
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take a guitar string pref a D string.(i play guitar) its the 4th largest string you can get. get that through the old silicone or what ever they used to fasten the window down and just Slowly use it like a saw and work your way through that adhesive. (if its Adhered that way) Gl jim
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I used a special knife I bought at the glass store for just this purpose. It is like a safety knife with an extendable blade, and can cut very deep. I probably did not need it, but I chose it since I have >no< experience pulling windshields.
Man, another 4 weeks and it should start cooling down. I CAN'T wait, 'cause I want to get cracking on the car again!!!
Chris
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No pics tonite but stay tuned. SEASON TWO of "Restore my Pinto Wagon" began tonite; the wether is FINALLY starting to cool down, high today was only 87, and for Texas, that's AWESOME. Spent about 1.5 hours tonite outdoors doing some much needed teardown....
....with the official removal of the original dashboard. Holy moly, getting a dash out is a wonderful thing, and I can't wait to finish it; I have another dash out of a '78 waiting in the wings and being painted/populated for the great swapover. Taking a look at the harnesses and such, all looks pretty good, though of course the pedal hangar and associated brackets are quite rusty (again, no worries, I have sandblasted and painted a replacement set on the side)!! My heater box was chock full of mud dauber nest/insulation/dead leaves, it is finally clean again, though needs carefully cleaned up/repainted/restored.
Once the dash is done, the headliner goes in, and the car moves into a garage...where I will pull and replace the rear end with a better restored one, pull the motor and replace the inner fender, and get my interior done. This Fall/Winter should be a VERY active time and I plan to get a lot done.
I am stoked. Fall is ALMOST HERE!! Again, sorry no pics tonite, I took them but they need resizing and I have to do it.
Chris
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Take extra pictures of the heater box for me - I am curious to see what it is like. Mine has never been out, but EVENTUALLY I need to replace those rotting heater hoses before they decide to blow...
Maybe I can stop by some time and look at it.
Isn't this weather great? I was out for an hour yesterday sanding & cleaning a sway bar and never sweated a drop!! ;D Tonight I will paint the bar with POR15...
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Yeah Rob - you can imagine my excitement when I got home last night - after dinner I disaapeared, I think the family thought I was alien abducted ::).
Got pics of everything. My heater box needs rebuilt (has a hole in it....and it's NOT a stock P/N for my year car, probably because of the dealer A/C). The dampers are all rusty, and gaskets need to be replaced (I will cut my own). Kinda think I will stop at the firewall and leave the heater box and motor intact (that is, attached). No real reason to remove anything back there. Rest of the floor will get the Dynamat treatment before being recarpeted.
Visited with the local upholstery guy at lunch - I'm gonna pull the car over there in a week or two and get a new headliner (about $300 installed). Gonna get color matched "close enough" - don't want to spend $229 on an original, and can't put the windshield back in until the headliner is replaced.
FUN, FUN. More later - you need to come by and inspect the process.
Chris
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Update for September 9th, 2009
It has been an interesting Summer. Forget that, it's been TOO hot to do anything - and yes, the time I have waited for is here. About a week ago, we had a reprieve in the weather, and the weather is promising to get cooler - SO - time for another season of car work.
On tap? Something that has been planned ever since the windshield was removed - DASH REMOVAL AND RESTORATION.
Photo 1 shows one step in removal of the dash. This is accomplished by loosening four screws at the base, separating it from the steering column, and loosening 6 screws beneath the rubber seal where the dash meets the windshield.
Photo 2 shows the loosened dash, ready to pull away from the car once theharness and control bezels have been removed
Photo 3 shows the dash out, and the undersides exposed. Note the heater box with a hole in it, the loose and hanging underdash A/C blower unit, the loose harness, etc. There are quite a few things to address here!
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As said, having the dash out allows for a great deal of attention to much needed items, as well as a thorough inspection of everything. Focus one: HEATER BOX
Picture 4 - Fall began EARLY in my heater box, stuff with leaves and debris from years past, including three large mud dauber nests. It's no wonder the fan would never turn on. This mess will be vacuumed out, and everything will be carefully washed/scrubbed.
Picture 5 - with the heater box opened up, the internals are exposed. The hoses and heater core look fine, but the "mix door" is well rusted with a deteriorating surround. This door will be replaced with a NOS unit.
Picture 6 - The outside of the box turned over; the metal divertor plate is rusty, and the gasket is well worn. The box itself is cracked, and there is a hole in it where the mount bracket used to be. Blink77 has kindly stepped forward to donate a solid replacement.
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Moving right along, the pedals and pedal hanger beg for attention, having originally been installed at the factory as natural metal that has long since developed a coat of rust. Part of this rework is also to convert the manual brakes to power brakes; the RESTORED unit is for a power brake setup, and is different from the original.
Photo 7 - The pedal hangar removed, with pedals, front view. Not a lot to talk about here, but if you have not seen one out of a car, here it is.
Photo 8 - same hangar from the rear view. The rear of the bracket bolts up to the firewall and interfaces with the master cylinder and clutch cable, where applicable.
Photo 9 - This pedal hangar (a donor from a '78 with auto tranny and power brakes) was carefully disassembled into pieces, sandblasted, painted with POR-15, then a metallic topcoat, and reassembled. Pics of the pedals installed later.
Photo 10 - Hangar reassembled minus the pedals.
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With the heater box started, and the pedal set near restored, we get to one of the MAIN reasons I wanted to pull the dash. If you have kept up, you saw the rework of the cowl hole that I did a few months back. The extent of the damage at this area was worse than I though, but not as bad as it could have been since it has now been arrested.
Picture 11 shows the corner of the dash where the leak existed. Note the water leakage as it had creeped into the pillar/firewall interface. The rust here was pretty bad.
Picture 12 - Not only had the rust affected the interface, but had crept up around the pillar and into the rain gutter weld as well. This required some original body seam sealer removal, which showed rust underneath.
Picture 13 - Using a wire wheel, the area was carefully ground down on all surfaces, getting the pitted metal shiny. Note the small holes at the pillar; had this been left to itself, the pillar would have disintegrated, pulling the roof away from the firewall. Wow!!
Picture 14 - The whole area sealed with POR-15. I have yet to add POR-15 putty to this area, and fill/sand/prime before repaint.
That's is for now. The next few weeks promise to be most interesting as the dash is replaced (as fully restored), power brakes are installed, and the car goes to the shop for a new headliner. NOT SHOWN - I am also in the midst of restoring the steering column, with everything being repainted and the mechanicals cleaned/adjusted. Have fun, hope you enjoyed this update.
Chris
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Chris, are you going to be submitting all this to the magazine? I think it would be an excellent build article!! I know I am following this thread because I plan on doing the same thing with my car. I'm not to thrilled about disconecting all the wiring under the dash, but I'm sure if I forget where something goes, I can always ask you or someone on here!!!
In other words, I really like your thread on this project!!! ;D Well done!!! Well, not done, but..... you know!! LOL ;D
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Hey Becky!
Thanks for the kind words. This is a lot of work, but there is plenty being learned. I have been taking photos I have not shown here so that I can write specific articles and submit them to the magazine as things get done. I know Matt is busy - I already have an article out to him called "What they don't tell you about Pintos" that talks about some of the unexpected challenges and pitfalls the unsuspecting Pinto owner goes through when restoring one!
Again, thanks for reading, I hope these recaps help someone along the way!!
Chris
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Hey Becky!
Thanks for the kind words. This is a lot of work, but there is plenty being learned. I have been taking photos I have not shown here so that I can write specific articles and submit them to the magazine as things get done. I know Matt is busy - I already have an article out to him called "What they don't tell you about Pintos" that talks about some of the unexpected challenges and pitfalls the unsuspecting Pinto owner goes through when restoring one!
Again, thanks for reading, I hope these recaps help someone along the way!!
Chris
LOL It's Kim, but that's ok! I don't mind being called Becky!! ;D
I can't wait for the next magazine!!!! Looking forward to your article!!
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Oh BOY, my bad, very sorry..... :rolleye:
Thanks regardless, Kim, I appreciate the patience!
Chris
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"Semi-update" for October 12, 2009
"Rain, rain, go away" >:(. Unlike last Fall, which had literal WEEKS of beautiful weather, this year we went directly from Summer to Winter. It has been cold (for Texas) - about 55 degrees every day, cloudy, raining all the time. Of course, with the car sitting in the driveway, I have been unable to get hardly ANYTHING done. I did buy a car cover, so at least I am not getting soaked anymore.
As soon as I have more to post, I will. The car is slated to move to a buddy's shop, but until I get the driver's firewall area done (again, can't due to rain), I can't move the car. Right now, I am still in the midst of restoring this area, putting down some "FatMat" and "Second Skin" sound dampeners (in place of the original decaying jute material). The vent and windshield wiper motor have been restored, and everything is going over to a power brake setup.
More later, with pics. They are telling us sunshine this weekend :cheesy_n:.
Chris
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I did buy a car cover, so at least I am not getting soaked anymore.
Chris
Uhhh, Chris, the car cover goes on the CAR, not you! :lol: You need to reread the instructions.. . :read:
Have you installed a bilge pump in it yet? :P :lol:
This weather is totally different than last year's... However the last electric bill of $48 was a welcomed treat. My Pinto project is on hold due to rain also. The box o' parts is ready though...
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Hey Rob:
I will be more careful with my wording :P. The car is nice and dry - for a change - as am I.
This weekend is "install sound deadening material/reinstall pedal hangar/get the power brakes in/restart the car" weekend. If you are around, you may want to see/share in the festivities.
I should have bought a finished car - shutting my mouth now :reek:.
Chris
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Sounds like a productive weekend if the weather is right...
Saturday I am going to an all-day all-Olds show in Ft Worth, complete with nightly drag racing. IF you want to go, let me know and you can drive the 86 - I am taking the vert...
Sunday is up in the air - the ladyfriend is robbing me of time lately... :hypno:
I should be able to stop by for a short time, just to make sure you are working on your car.....
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Update for October 18th, 2009
With the weather finally cooperating, much was accomplished this past weekend. For those who have been watching, the firewall area around the drivers area has been in heavy work, both preparing for new insulation/sound deadening material(s), as well as restoration of the brake/clutch pedal assembly, and swapover to power brakes. This has been a huge project, I probably spent 10 hours in the car this weekend alone.
On to the show - Pic 1 shows the installation of "FatMat" sound deadening material to the firewall area. This material dampens vibrations, and is a good heat/cold block as well. It has a very sticky backing, and once on, is virtually impossible to peel off. This material was carefully cut to the firewall, and up around the cowl underside.
Pic 2 - on top of the Fatmat, I am adding a vinyl/foam barrier for sound reduction. This material is made by "Second Skin", and will replace the old, scrungy jute/rubber firewall pad. Now, in order to "fit" it properly. I used the original firewall jute pad as a guide for cutting holes in the proper places; note them side by side.
Pic 3 - Here, the small but important "gas pedal plate" has been added to the material, just as it was in the factory pad (placed in the pad, and gently "hammered" so that it grips the pad). Now, with some careful cutting, the pad will be installed to the firewall using spray contact cement.
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Very nice!! I like the pics. Specially the side by side. Sure shows a difference on how much nicer the new is!!!
Great update!!!
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Continuing on.
Pic 4: Once the pad is placed at the firewall, everything is glued and carefully trimmed to the surrounding mechanisms. All items which are "in the way" need to be accounted for, including the windshield wiper motor, which is removed and repainted. Adjustments are made, the layer is not perfect, but far superior to the factory mat.
Pic 5: With the pad and mat work finished, the assembled brake/clutch pedal hangar can be reinstalled to the firewall. There's a lot of work to do here; all braces/brackets must be realigned, the pedals must be linked to their proper mechs, everything must be tightened down. I found that the clutch cable length had to be adjusted, and for some unknown reason, the clutch pad sits higher than the brake pad. I also reinstalled the freshened gas pedal assembly; I sure wish I had a new "pad" to match the new brake and clutch pads.
Pic 6: Here's a bottom shot of everything looking up from the floor. Note how clean everything is - it looks SO much batter than it did when I first got the car. NOTE the steering column has not yet been attached (nor the rubber "seal" installed at the firewall) and needs a good cosmetic restoration itself. Given the condition of the original plastic parts, most of them are being replaced.
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And finally - with the drivers' side firewall nearly complete, I have yet to install the power brake setup in the engine compartment, readjust the clutch cable, and get her fired up again. For better or worse, I figured while I was at the firewall, I need to go "all the way".
Pic 7: Inside the engine compartment, I located the heater hoses, cut them, and bypassed the heater core. Taking out the four bolts that hold the blower motor to the firewall. the whole heater box assembly nicely slips out of the car in one piece. Look at all the lovely surface rust and general filth - I promise you, in a short time it will all look next to new.
Pic 8: This shows the next are that will be tackled, first with FatMat, then with sound deadener. You can see the dealer A/C box as it sits on the tranny hump, waiting for reinstallation .
You know, I have been into this for over a year now, and I am amazed at the amount of work it is. That's not a complaint; I suppose I could have "stopped myself down" from doing so much, but I am driven to do as much as I can. This car will drive like new when finished, look better than factory in many respects, be mechanically new, and be quieter to boot. I >do< get weary of it from time to time, but I continue on, hpoing to cross that next bridge...
NEXT: Firewall completion THEN dash rebuild and reinstallation . It's gonna be beautiful....!
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Great progress! I need to stop by this week to see it for myself.
How did you make those nice holes int he insulation mat? Looka like a punch of some sort - very pro looking!
I am starting to wonder if I might be able to change those heater hoses afterall. The heater box looks somewhat easy to get out (but of course you yanked the dash off first...
BTW, out of all the chances in the world, I got to race my 442 against a 76 Pinto bracket racer on Saturday at the drag strip... He was faster but I won due to him leaving before the green light! ;D ;D ;D We had lots of fun there and my 442 even got the People's Choice trophy! ;D ;D ;D
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Rob:
Love the story on the 442 - like you said, what are the odds against a Pinto? What did they have in it? Congrats on the award as well - I'm sure that was a big thrill!!
Don't worry, we'll whittle your Pinto down to the bone and restore it after I learn how to do all this stuff :lost:. Ya, right. :lol: At any rate, I placed the old pad over the new stuff, traced the patterns, then hand cut the holes with a long utility knife and/or X-ACTO blade. The spacing was not EXACT but it was close. Funny stuff is, most of this effort gets "buried" by the carpet, so it need not be perfect, but I am trying to at least be sure it is not sloppy.
Also - your heater box should not be too difficult, even with the dash in place. The hard part will be getting off the clips that hold the clamshells in place. My core was solid - testament to being a southern car - so no need for me to replace it. Of course, I took your advice and thought it a good idea to go after hoses, since everything was right in front of me.
Thanks for watching and replying - I knew I could count on you ;D. Said it before, will say it again - I get so few comments when I put this stuff out, I wonder if it's even worth posting. Maybe I'll just catalogue all this stuff and put together a restoration "document" of some kind.
Chris
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Love the story on the 442 - like you said, what are the odds against a Pinto?
VERY LOW!!! I did not plan it as we were just doing time trials.
What did they have in it?
Highly modified 302 V8, powerglide tranny, Chevy rear, full cage, tubbed with M/T drag slicks. It weighed 2600lbs with driver. Not enough time to get all the details. It was called Small Endeavors (by Fred Small).
Don't worry, we'll whittle your Pinto down to the bone and restore it after I learn how to do all this stuff
Let me know when I can bring it over... :P
Also - your heater box should not be too difficult, even with the dash in place. The hard part will be getting off the clips that hold the clamshells in place.
I will have to look into this...
when I put this stuff out, I wonder if it's even worth posting. Maybe I'll just catalogue all this stuff and put together a restoration "document" of some kind.
Do both! That is what I am doing with the Oldsmobile resto... I have noticed this board is pretty slow compared to the Olds board - most likely due to a less common car. Email me when you available this week - I want to come check out your work!
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Sounds good Rob. I think you will like looking into "the belly of the beast".
Chris
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Chris,
I just want you to know that I DO read and enjoy your posts. The work you are doing on your wagon absolutely blows me away! Unfortunately, I don't have a mechanical bone in my body when it comes to automobiles and most of what you post goes right over my head. I've always refrained from posting in your thread because I know most anything I say will sound incredibly stupid... it's just not something I can discuss with much intelligence. Please do know however, that your efforts are much appreciated.
Dwayne :smile:
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Dwayne:
Please don't EVER think what you say will "sound incredibly stupid" - the fact that you even said anything really is encouraging. Nobody here is stupid - we all have different levels of experience and capability - there are guys here who could put me under the rug with their expertise, guaranteed!! ;)
I think anyone here who has a project on their hands is happy to have someone speak up and notice what they are doing. I put all this stuff out here to show people what can be done, how much I am intersted in Pintos, and to perhaps shed some light on areas that someone MAY get into one day. I personally don't think there is a lot of good documentation on Pinto restoration, so if I can help someone else out, that's just a plus.
Any reponse is an encouragement; I have always thought of this group as a place to create a common bond. We're all crazy :P, and we need to share our experiences. Thanks much, Dwayne.
Chris
PS - stay tuned for my Pinto restoration book :lol:
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chris ,
i do enjoy reading your progress as well and keep in mind all that you do just in case i ever need to do that type of work my self. fortuniatly my wagon did not need that much when i got it, But some day it will have to have some of your documintated work done to it. and alll you hard work and referances will be greatly appreichated.
phil
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Phil:
You ARE fortunate yours did not need that much! In some respects, I am sorry I bought this car (paid way too much for it, I guess the seller saw me coming) ::)), but, you know, this allows me to have a much broader learning experience. I am glad I can be a resource - I just can't wait to DRIVE it!!! :lol:
Chris
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Update for November 09, 2009
Where does the time go? November already. WE FINALLY have had some decent weather - and much has been accomplished, though it seems like I can't ever get ahead. The dash/firewall restoration continues, the next batch of ugly rust has been addressed, and the engine compartment is begging to be emptied. At any rate, tonite's episode covers a few more steps in this long, but worthwhile process.
Having finished the drivers' firewall area, and stripped away the heater box and the firewall pad, I was greeted at the passenger cowl side near the air intake by another unforseen mess of rust that had penetrated the firewall from the cowl above. This would explain the nice "swiss cheese" appearance of my passenger floor pan when I first bought the car. This was gonna be some work; as I got into it, I realized what years of sitting in the rain outdoors had done.
Pic 1 - Ah, yes, more rust after some grinding. A few pits, a few small holes, ack
Pic 2 - Another shot, this stuff really gets up into the creases, unfortunately. I thought the drivers' side was bad...
Pic 3 - yet another portrait of loveliness - I'm waxing sarcastic this evening. The water had seeped from above along the cowl, to the passenger compartment, under the seam seal, and all the way to the floor. A real mess.
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...so out comes the POR 15, after grinding and phosphoric acid etch. The idea here is of course to knock down any future invasion. I attacked the inside FIRST before going to the source (under the passenger fender), which would also prove ugly.
Now, all I could do here (not entirely shown) is loosen as much flaking rust as possible in the seam and up under the dash. Some of this was nearly inaccessible, and it was more a matter of tearing away the bad stuff, and treating it the best I could. After treatment, keeping it dry really is the only way to stave off future "growth".
Pic 4 - Using the silver POR-15 really reveals the holes left behind by the corrosion. Note the areas that have been eaten away, and will need to be sealed.
Pic 5 - Prep up around the air intake
Pic 6 - A more complete coverage. Note the hole in the curved area - this was punched at the dealer for the dealer A/C drain hose
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Thanks for the update! I like the detail you are putting into you car! One day I would like to put that much detail into one of mine! I think I am going to wait for the right one to come along! I would really love to find a blue one like my Mom had when I was a kid!!
Anyway, back to your project. Keep it up and keep posting the pics! I like to look at them and see the before and after shots!!! Shows that it can be done!!!
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I really can't wait until the rust is done. I'm close, with the exception of the inner fender, which needs replacing - more on that later. With the area treated in general, I moved on to address the firewall surface itself, again adding sound dampening material. Note the wheel well, which will stay "bare" until all internal/external rust is fully treated.
Pic 7 - Layering of the sound deadener, as around the drivers' firewall
Pic 8 - more of the same
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If ypu have been keeping up, some months ago I mentioned that I would be moving my car to secure indoor storage for the Winter. This presents a real danger :P, because now I have the room to really "make a mess" of things. I am already envisioning body work, a repaint, a pulled engine and restored engine compartment - I think you get it.
Pic 9 - My baby in her new home
Pic 10 - Oh yes, now having the room, I was able to remove the PASSENGER fender and take a look at the damage from above. Yecch. This is about 30 years of water damage from the car sitting outdoors. Of course, it just gets worse when you grind it all away and expose holes.... Oh, yeah, I loved the silicone sealant someone dumped in there trying to stop it all....
Pic 11 - yup, the water ran down the windshield and sat in the cowl seams, tearing it up. Then, the cowl drains dumped water onto the seam between the cowl and wheel well, nicely tearing up the metal between the spot welds. ACK.
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looking good, man aint it hard to work up under the dash on those cowl pans. i had to cut mine out and replace it, rotted out around the chimney so bad had to go back with new metal.
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Well, I can't just leave it that way. Out comes the new wire wheel pack. Out comes my buddy's MIG welder (I did not show this part, but he put a plate in over the holes at the top). Then comes the POR-15. It's all magical, watching the rust disappear. Well, you know, while I'm at it, might as well take the door off and get the rust behind the hinges. Can you say "R-E-S-T-O-R-A-T-I-O-N"? ::)
Pic x (I lost count) ;D - That sneaky water likes to get into EVERYTHING. Well, with the door off, I can restore the door as well.
Pic y - I love POR-15. This pic shows the treated area BEFORE we went back and reground it to weld a sheet metal plate at the top. It looks very solid now.
Pic z - Another shot. Once I get all of this done, the engine pulled, the inner fender replaced, all of this cowl/firewall/windshield surround/etc. will be repainted factory color. Yeah, I'm nuts.
Pic xy - grind it all down and make it shiny!!!
That's all for tonite boys and girls. More to come, hope you enjoyed it.
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Congrats on getting shelter worked out for your baby! That's a lot of rust Chris, still glad I'm not facing that, I was just in there on the other side!
:afro:
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Hey Chuck - always good to hear from you, hope all is well your way. C'mon out to Texas and give me a hand, we'll have some good BBQ and a few Coronas!!
Chris
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Looks like great progress so far! It makes a difference having a place to work and leave it all apart and not worrying about the weather. It will make the project move along smoother and earier. I sure wish I had more space! Man, that rust was pretty bad... Hopefully you found the worst of all of it now.
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Looks like great progress so far! It makes a difference having a place to work and leave it all apart and not worrying about the weather. It will make the project move along smoother and earier. I sure wish I had more space! Man, that rust was pretty bad... Hopefully you found the worst of all of it now.
That progress was but a small drop in the larger pool. The real fun starts tomorrow - no kidding - stay tuned for photos and updates.... ;D
Chris
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Update for November 19th, 2009
You know, once you have space, you have freedom - to spread out, REALLY get yourself in trouble, and create all that much more work to do. :rolleye: Tonite's ditty is one of completion (finally fixed that ugly cowl rust), continuance (hey, you know, let's do something really, really big), and confusion (hmm, there's so much to do now, what is the best path to take)?
Photo 1 - completion! Having successfully tackled cowl corner with an array of welds, putties, mesh, and paint, the area is now ready for an etchable primer and topcoat. I will add in new body plugs here as well.
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Chapter 2 - Continuance. Knowing I had some serious inner fender rust to tackle, and really, really aching to freshen up the engine comparrtment, I pooled my resources (read: my buddy Gene, who is a '73 Comet owner), took a day off of work, and decided to do the monumental (well, for me anyway) task of pulling the motor and tranny. 4 hours of fun, you can't beat it! Gene really pulled me through this one, using his expertise and understanding of all things automotive. I really appreciate the guy, he has been invaluable in my car restoration, and taught me a lot. I can handle the small stuff, but the big guns belong to Gene.
Photo 2: Setting up: Gene has the "cool tools". He is a gate welder with his own business, and knows "heavy duty. He showed up with a trailer replete with gadgets and goodies, including this nice cherry picker to pull the motor.
Photo 3: Hey, I didn't ask - we spend time pulling things off the engine compartment and motor (radiator, alternator, A/C compressor, fan, etc.), and then Gene heads for the "lower deck", addressing all the goodies beneath (drive shaft, tranny, speedo cable, fuel lines, clutch cable, etc.)
Photo 4: First hookup - ah, yes, the ose hooks find convenient lifting spots on the motor, and we set up the picker. Yes, the motor mounts prove a pain, as one bolt is seized. The exhaust pipe nut could not be in a more inconvenient spot. Several bolts are tough to break loose. Ultimately, it all begins to float.
Photo 5: Maneuvering - yup, gotta watch out for the peripheral stuff, don't want to scratch that nifty new brake setup (which now has to be removed again, ack) as well as all the other harnesses and goodies that reside in the engine compartment, so it can be made fresh and new.
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Almost Home!!
Pic 6: The hoist does a lovely job of getting it up and out. WE hit the radiator support with the harmonic balancer, and got stuck. It took a lowering and repositioning of the chains to allow for the upward motion to be more "forward", pulling the motor into the air.
Pic 7: The hunt is over....I can now see the full extent of the damage that was done to the passenger inner fender by the battery. Wow, what a mess. Having scored a NOS inner fender, I am working with a local high school vocational shop to get the new one welded in. The shop instructor is off next week and has offered to come out to visit the car and assess the repair. If the repair is deemed "do-able" by the school, my total cost will be $0. Yup, free. I am stoked.
I stopped the pics at this point, will have more soon. The day was getting late, we had to clean up and close out the effort. I have a LOT to do now.
Incidentally, a gentleman from Oklahoma is stopping by tomorrow afternoon at the shop on the way to Houston with a modified 2.3 motor (shaved head, cam, headers). I will have to go through it, because it has not run in a while, but the price is pretty nice, and I can freshen this one up and pop it in. No V8 here, no turbo, no updated motor, I just want something better than stock that has some more pep.
Confusion - More to come in this story.....!!! What's next? ;D
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what was wrong with the old engine?
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what was wrong with the old engine?
It was dirty.... :P
Seriously, it ran fine, but was well aged. As you can see, though, the bad rust in the inner fender really required me to pull the engine so that I could get proper access to it for repair. Besides, I want to have something with a bit more pep, which is why I am getting the other engine that I talked about.
Chris
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Got the motor today - can't say it's a "prize" at all, quite dirty, no exhaust manifold, but looks workable. I'll have to spend some time with it to see what has been done. Lots of work ahead, just need about 2 grand to throw some Racer Walsh goodies on it :lol:.
Chris
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hey its looking good popbumper. wont be long now, i kid i know it takes like forever to do what your doing. but your patience will have so much reward. but that inner fender is starting to show some rust on it. :lol: really kidding, your doing a awesome job on her.
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I really have to keep forging ahead on this - yeah, there's LOTS of work ahead, no doubt, and it will take a while. Thanks for the comments!
Chris
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And just WHY is there a turkey stuck in the wall in picture 6?? ??? ???
Looks like an out of control landing... :o :o
Too much Wild Turkey for that bird, for sure! :drunk:
Looks like good progress - too bad the brake setup had to come out again...
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Wow, I haven't checked on this thread in awhile and you've done A LOT!
When I pull my windshield for a new gasket, I plan to remove the dash to repaint, and cut out my rusty floor pan. I really hope I don't run into as much rust as you have, but it's probably unavoidable.
At least I have some hope, seeing that it can be repaired with some time and patience...oh, and some POR-15 to! :)
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Wow, I haven't checked on this thread in awhile and you've done A LOT!
When I pull my windshield for a new gasket, I plan to remove the dash to repaint, and cut out my rusty floor pan. I really hope I don't run into as much rust as you have, but it's probably unavoidable.
At least I have some hope, seeing that it can be repaired with some time and patience...oh, and some POR-15 to! :)
Dave:
Good to hear from you. When you get there, if you have any questions, happy to help. Being through it is half the fun, though it can be a long process. I just can't wait to drive it again, though that is a >ways< off. Best wishes!!
CHris
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Well???
Is it done yet??? :P :P
:lol:
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Rob, my press secretary..... :P
No, no, it's not done yet, it's been too stinking cold, and the money flow has slowed, so I have been concentrating my efforts towards cash flow, working on pinball machines again.
I bought some good spot weld drill bits today, and with Sunday's temp forecasted near 70 degrees, you know where I will be. Gotta get that inner fender out, and do some more rust treatment.
Once the money gets a bit better, the motor goes to the shop. Have to have it in by Spring. Hope all winter is not this cold - been very unusual here.
Chris
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It would be cool if the students can pull it off! Hope you are having a most wonderful holiday season, Chris :)
:afro:
P.S. I'm driving my car these days! :fastcar:
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Disco:
Always good to hear from you, the inner fender is about 75% out (spent time on it yesterday but I forgot the memory stick in the camera - argggh). LOTS of spot welds to drill!! Glad you are driving your car again, best wishes also for you at this time of year, stay healthy and happy!!
Chris
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Well, it looks like some progress... Keep it up!
I am finally driving my pony, but I sure miss the heated seats in the Caddy.
Chris - WHERE did you get your seat covering again? I need to get my drivers seat redone soon and i will do seat heaters in it just like in my Olds. ;D
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I went and checked on my li'l project tonite, coldest night this year in Texas. She is sitting patiently waiting on some more love. Been too cold to do any work (yeah, see what happens when you "smart off" to the Northern guys about mild Texas Winters)? :'(
Of course I know it's hitting everyone, so much for global warming. Al is putting a log on the fire now. Poor guy.
Back with more fun once it gets tolerable, the shop owner and I buy a decent heater, or both. The only good news is, I have been working on pinball machines and generating more dough to fund the new engine that's going in this Spring. My, my, isn't restoring a car expensive? :o
Stay warm everyone!!!
Chris
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Update for March 14, 2010
Been more than two months since my last post. That day - coldest in the Winter for North Texas - a really remarkable one, with snows beating every historical record, and lots of grey skies, rain, wind. Amazing.
Now, more than two months later - the warmest day of the year so far (73 degrees) with bright blue skies. Yes, it meant a visit to the garage, of course!!
Now, there's some catching up to do, as last Fall found me pulling the engine, the tranny, and the passenger door. While I got a LITTLE done between then and now, I am again on an upward trek, beating down what will be the last of the major efforts to get the car back on track.
Tonite's features? A smattering of photos showing just how much work is involved in taking out an inner fender (well, what it looks like AFTER all the work), and the process of cleaning out an engine compartment to prepare for a full restoration.
Photo 1 (spot weld view) - this photo is dark, but if you look around you will see several dozen holes where light is coming through. The big opening is where my completely rust eaten inner fender USED to be, and yes, those holes are the dozens of spot welds I had to drill out to pull it, including several on the firewall. Ack - and people say these cars were poorly constructed - NOT.
Photo 2 (bare frame rail) - Amazing, the amount of room that is made when the inner fender is gone. Of course, rust often travels with gravity, and the rust really started a downward drive on the inner frame rail. Here the rail has already been sanded and wire wheeled several times to clean it of grime, paint, and rust. You can see the cleanliness of the front end components, which were restored/replaced last year.
Phot 3 (etching frame rail) - Here I have sprayed the frame rail (after another heavy wire wheeling) with phosphoric acid to get the rust in the pits - and cover the rail with a phosphate coating before POR-15 is applied.
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Wow, great work there Chris! Talk about a Pinto being stripped down!
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Moving on.
Photo 4 (painted frame rail) - Satisfied with the effort of cleaning and etching the rail, I then applied a coat of POR-15. This will provide a solid barrier and undercoat for the restoration paint. Note how the paint does NOT cover the edges near the weld drill holes - this is because the car will be traveling (trailered) to a local high school in the near future to have an NOS inner fender welded back in. Cost? $0. In fact, the bottom of the radiator support will also be replaced, as it currently looks like swiss cheese.
Photo 5 (firewall and tunnel) - This is a "down-on" shot of what the engine compartment and firewall currently look like, aside from the removed inner fender. Most of the firewall has been cleaned and sanded, the lower front crossmember is cleaned, and I will be replacing the rack and pinion assembly with a new unit, as well as removing the steering column to restore it (in fact, I have been restoring another one on the side so I can swap it out).
The goal here is to get the front end 100% mechanically new, and it's close. I also plan to do an engine rebuild, while maintaining the 2.3 and having some modifications made to the block and head to better the horsepower. No turbo, no V8, just a nicely warmed and tuned 2.3 - goal about 150 HP.
Once the new inner fender is installed, I will repaint the entire front end sheetmetal set (inner fenders, radiator support, cowl, firewall, rad support). ....and then start reassembly of the peripheral engine compartment equipment, including restuffing the firewall, replacing the heater box, and reinstalling the restored dash.
Stay tuned, LOTS more to come! Going on two years as of June with this restoration... ..
Chris
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Wow, great work there Chris! Talk about a Pinto being stripped down!
Thanks Dave. It will be a miracle if I get this car done!!! ;D
Chris
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Thanks Dave. It will be a miracle if I get this car done!!! ;D
Chris
I definitely believe in miracles, but this doesn't qualify as a miracle... it's the end result of a lot of determination, hard work, and skill! You're doing a beautiful job, Chris. Keep it up!
Dwayne :smile:
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Be thankful you are working out of a garage. What you are doing is the only way it gets done. You do the first step and then the second step and so on. You look to be making good progress. keep going and don't forget pictures.
jim
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Thanks guys, your positive comments really keep me going. It's nice to have the support. ;)
Chris
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It`s like you got a little ford factory goin on there bud!!!!!!!! 9 pages to read ,,keep pounding the pavement ...
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...pound the pavement....ma ybe I should write a book on Pinto restoration... :P
....DING...... .!
...always wanted to write a book.
Chris
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...pound the pavement....ma ybe I should write a book on Pinto restoration... :P
....DING...... .!
...always wanted to write a book.
Chris
All I've ever written has been fiction, but I can tell you from firsthand experience, there is nothing quite like the rush of seeing your work in published form!
Go for it!
Dwayne :smile:
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Dwayne:
Have published before in model railroading mags (10 articles back in the 90's), and in the current issue of Pinto times, and agree it's a lot of fun. A book however would be what I call a "life accomplishment", not for the weary. Might be a lot easier than redoing my car though, no? :D
Chris
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Dwayne:
Have published before in model railroading mags (10 articles back in the 90's), and in the current issue of Pinto times, and agree it's a lot of fun. A book however would be what I call a "life accomplishment", not for the weary. Might be a lot easier than redoing my car though, no? :D
Chris
Chris,
I had published before too, but nothing equals the rush of a real book! You strike me as a natural writer so, yes, you probably would find authoring a book to be less work than restoring your Pinto.
With fiction, I have found that if you create and develop strong characters, they tend to take on a life of their own. Then all the author has to do is type fast enough to keep up!
Dwayne :smile:
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I write for a living though on the technical side. I find it very satisfying. Though I have not written a book, I would think that would be an interesting challenge. if you decide on writing the book let me know and i will offer my help.
jim
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Great progress, Chris - it's about dang time it has warmed up enough to start car work. I have just began mine a couple weeks ago. I finished restoring some door hinges.
What will you use to paint your engine bay with? Original paint color?
I agree you should write a book with your processes and pictures. Computer should make that easy.
I am keeping a big journal on my Oldsmobile resto. Whenever I post on a forum, I just copy and paste from it. Later it will be easy to convert into an interesting book (If I get around to it...)
Big work on my Pinto will be done in mid April - May when the Olds interior is complete.
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Thanks Rob, always nice to know you are "next door". Now that the weather is nice I will have to have you out - in fact, you could probably help me get some things arranged. One thing I need to do is get the front end up on ramps so I can pull the steering rack and get the tranny tunnel prepped for paint. Maybe next weekend.
Let's also plan on a trip out to that junkyard I told you about last year - down south - and see what they have. Could be fun before it gets too hot!
Chris
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Yep, junkyarding is always fun. Kinda like a woman stuck in a shopping mall... :o
If you need some ramps for short term use, I have a set. However, you push, I 'll steer. :P Heck, with no engine or front fenders, we might be able to just lift it up there. Fill the gas tank and it might stay up on its own! ::)
I used an impact wrench to get my old rack off. I also used it to put it on, cause it was difficult to torque to 100ft lbs laying on my back. :nocool:
The ladyfriend will be leaving the country on a long business trip in a couple weeks, so I will have plenty of car time after that... :hypno:
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All:
Will be back at it this weekend. Need to do final prep, as the car is slated to go to the High School shop next week or weekend for the NOS inner fender welding and installation.
AFTER THAT THE MAJOR RUST IS GONE!!!
ROB, I WILL BE CALLING SOON. Can't wait, that hurdle has really held me back for a long time. From there:
1a) Change out steering rack
1b) Restore steering column (started)
2) Prime and paint engine compartment/cowl/bulkheads
3) Replace rusty front passenger brake line (already pulled)
4) Repopulate engine compartment with peripheral goodies
5) Repopulate inner firewall
6) Paint dash, repopulate, reinstall
7) Listen to the wife tell me what a waste of money it all is (oops, not supposed to write that)
Then on to:
Motor/tranny rebuild
Windshield install
Interior repaint
Door / fender/ hood restoration
8" Rear end restoration and install
...still wondering if I will ever get done.....!
More pics soon folks.
Chris
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Sounds like you're getting excited about it again, though... and that's a good thing!
\
Dwayne :smile:
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Quick update for 4/11/10
OK, it's official, I'm getting excited again. 78TXPony (Rob) and I travelled out to the garage today so I could show him my progress and get the car ready for the trip to the welder for installation of the NOS passenger inner fender. Rob agreed that once this hurdle is overcome, I am "on the way".
As a redirective today, pulling the car out of the garage into the driveway and blasting all the dust off and vacuuming it, it really occured to me that the next >logical< step is bodywork. Here again, Rob agreed with me - the car is pretty much a shell at this point, motor and tranny out, interior stripped, doors and fenders off, and being in this state REALLLY allows for concentration on the body.
If I opt to do this, I can then plan on the next couple months devoted to bodywork, and finishing the underframe (rear end/drive shaft/rack and pinion), while I put the engine and tranny in the shop for rebuild. The doors can be stripped down as well, small holes repaired, everything restored, and the hood and fenders can also undergo restoration. Paint makes sense because the car is stripped, and everything else can follow.
It's coming together again, I will have pics for everyone this Wednesday before the car travels. Thanks for the support, my long term goal is to have the car on the road next Spring.
Chris
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Glad to hear you've rediscovered your excitement!
Dwayne :smile:
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if you have it done in early spring you can have it at carlisle
phil
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That would be my goal - hope it can happen. I have secured the space (garage) I am in with the owner for the next year, so I am good there. Whew!!
As soon as the welding is done, bodywork commences.
Chris
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Howdy neighbor.. Read through the entire thread today. It's looking very nice. I hope my 72 will look as good someday.
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Hey Mark! Thanks for the comments and for taking time to write! IIRC I have seen your car on Dallas Craigslist over the past year! Would be great to meet up sometime, 78TXPony and I have become good friends and it's great to have locals nearby that appreciate Pintos.
Send me a msg sometime if you get a chance. Thanks for checking my "story", there's a lot to do but a lot has been done, so I am happy to make progress.
Chris
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Update for 4/15/10
Good evening all, time for the ""rubber to hit the road". This Winter was a real slowdown for my progress but I am at it again, making the best of the nice weather and trying to get some big work done.
The removal of the inner fender was a MAJOR step towards rust repair on my car, and it is now complete. In fact, I dropped the car off at the local high school shop yesterday afternoon, and was phoned this afternoon with a wonderful message - the car is ready. Holy cow - 24 hours? Incredible. The shop teacher said - "hey, you did all the hard work, putting the new fender in was easy". :lol: ALL THE RUST IS FINALLY GONE, when the car gets back in the garage, it's BODYWORK time!!
The following photos capture the process of taking the car to the shop. As soon as I get it back, I will show the rework that was done, but for now, please enjoy these shots. Man I am getting STOKED!
Photo 1 - Inner fender shot - this shows, again, what the vehicle looks like minus the inner fender. It's not pretty!
Photo 2 - Side shot - this is a passenger side shot which shows the obvious rear quarter damage, the interior / firewall reconstruction
Photo 3 - Interior - shot showing the floors and firewall
Photo 4 - Empty cabin - not a whole lot left back there!!
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>Addendum<
Been almost two years and I finally feel like I am actually getting somewhere. With the body pretty much stripped out, I will start doing bodywork (to prep for a repaint) before it gets real hot outside. Along with this will be:
1) Rack and pinion replacement
2) Steering column restoration
3) Rear end and spring replacement/restoration
LOTS of work to do but I feel like there's been good progress. If I can get this done in three years I'll feel pretty good about it. Stay tuned!!
Chris
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I would like to know where you are going to get steering column bushings and repair parts because I finally got my pinto off the trailer and started the motor. runs good but still no radiator or belts, etc.
my steering column is very loose and the key lock is buggered up. I don't suppose you know how to remove the lock cylinder??
thanks
Barney
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Barney:
I don't plan to install new bushings, I have TWO colums, the one that is in the car and another I pulled off of the '78 and started restoring. The lock cylinder comes out easily, I have not done it yet, maybe one of the guys here can tell you - make a separate post and ask. I have seen pictures of the process but have yet to do it so I can't explain.
Chris
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thanks, when you find bushings for your steering column would you let me know where you got them.
I found out that you have to remove the steering wheel and blinkers to get to the clip that holds the lock in.
thanks again.
Barney
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Update for May 2, 2010
This Spring in North Texas has been a delight, though I find myself somewhat non-motivated spending more time with the family outdoors than working on the Pinto. Regardless, strides HAVE been made and this year promises to be a turning point for the progress on this long project. Nearly two years into it, the major rust is finally gone, and the body is now at a point where I can begin bodywork. In fact, I have been out purchasing many supplies in preparation for what promises to be a summer full of bodywork and paint.
Let's take a look at some progress.
Photo 1 - This photo shows the new NOS passenger inner fender installed. Thanks to the fine folks at a local high school (who will be given credit at car shows), the inner fender is installed and the rust is gone. A LOT of work went into drilling out the many, many spot welds and cleaning up the rust damage that plagued this automobile, but it's finally done and I can move on.
Photo 2 - Same inner fender from wheel side. These guys did an EXCELLENT job welding all the holes where the original spot welds were. After some minor grinding work, it barely looks "non-factory".
Photo 3 - Given that my original lower radiator brace was swiss cheese, our own celebrity FRED was kind enough to provide me a replacement unit for a small fee, and the shop welded it in perfectly. As I said, the rust is GONE!!!
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Once the new panels were installed, I spent about an hour grinding down the "spot welds" that the school had created, just to neaten up the panel interfaces. Once this was done, I also did a bit more wire wheeling, and then hit all surfaces with "sanding sponges" to give them some "bite".
Photo 4: The cowl and jamb had been treated with POR-15 previously, and I needed to get some etch primer on there. This is not a completed coat, as it will join the other surfaces in th engine compartment as well when all are primed in readiness for paint.
Photo 5 - There is nothing quite as beautiful as gloss POR-15. It amazes me how you can BRUSH this stuff on and get such superior coverage and smooth flowout. I did not have enough time to get the entire compartment done, but got quite a bit finished on the passenger inner, 1/2 the cowl, and the rad support. I ran into some "fish eyes" at the right, which means I need to go back and do some careful cleaning before I complete the painting of the engine compartment.
Photo 6 - Another view. The POR-15 will effectively seal all of the original surfaces and allow a fresh starting point for new paint.
Within a few weeks the engine compartment should be complete (meaning, painted in new body color). I also plan to replace the original steering rack, and restore the steering column. Then, on to the major body panels!
Chris
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Smells like progress, Chris - keep it up!
It is nice to see some good structure in there now. Hopefully the rust thing is all gone.
The POR15 looks good. What is used to bond your new paint to the POR15? I think there is a special primer or something to use to paint over cured POR...
That thing is gonna look sharp. Hope you are able to get it painted up before the summer heat wave settles in and wont budge!
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Thanks Rob. The POR-15 has special etchant primer that comes in a spray can - and is VERY expensive ($28/can). Fortunately, I don't need a LOT of it. I also "rough up" the cured surface before I apply primer to make sure it "takes". After that, I can use regular primer before paint.
Trying to get done, though so far this Spring has been very nice - maybe we'll have a non-sweltering Summer....mayb e....
Chris
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Well so far, the POR 15 treatment went well. Chris roughed up the surfaces of the engine bay and applied the self-etching primer...
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25528)
Looks good - adhesion seems great.
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25530)
Time for me to report the following progress on the steery rack pull, since I did most of the work... :P
I had done this before, so it was nothing new. It needed replacement anyways and also it would be a great time to clean and paint under it.
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25532)
The hardest part is usually getting the two huge bolts off that hold it to the frame......... .
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25534)
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However, thanks to Chris holding the bolt head with a wrench, my handy electric impact wrench on the nuts, and the "lack of engine" that allowed me to get right in there, I spun those rusty nuts off effortlessly. :amazed:
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25536)
The tie-rod end ball joint cotter pins were pulled and the castle nuts removed and reinstalled upside down with the nut just above the stud some.
Following my trusted motto "Pickle fork thingie BAD, hammer GOOD!" :lol:, the tie rod ends were pounded off and are reusable since they only had about 300 feet of use so far... :rolleye:
The steering coupler bolt was removed last and the clamp pried apart slightly.
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25538)
The huge bolts were rusty, but salvagable. Chris had to beat one out with a hammer, as rust had stuck it well in the rack bushing. The other was loosey-goosey.
Now with it all loose, I wanted to give a hefty tug on it to hopefully disengage the steering shaft. Heave-ho!!
KER-CHUNK!!
Unexpectingly, in a flash of light and a splash of dirt, the whole thing came off in my hand, almost straining my arm.
I never thought it would be that easy! :surprised:
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25540)
Next we both removed the throttle cable, clutch cable, and hood release cable, giving a bare firewall, ready for PAINT PREP! This went fast with two people.
Afterwards we both grabbed sandpaper, scrapers, etc and in only 10 minutes, made a big difference.
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25542)
Tomorrow we will get the wirewheels out, finish cleaning, and hopefully get some sort of paint-like substances applied to it! ::)
Chris's new rack came in, sans bushings :nocool:, so he will order some from Rockauto. In the meantime, the tie rod ends will be installed and the engine bay finished up.
Back to you, Chris!
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Nice progress! Gotta love a super clean, NO RUST car!
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Well heck Rob, you did such a super-fine job of reporting my (er, in this case "our") progress, I'll let you do it again tomorrow night :lol:. Thanks for posting. Geeze, guys, please talk me into KEEPING this car, it's wearing me out. Of course, with Rob at the helm, it should go twice as fast.
Maybe I can buy him some beer and he'll throw in a few $$ towards the restoration. Hey, a guy can dream.....any sponsors out there??? :P
Chris
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Maybe I can buy him some beer and he'll throw in a few $$ towards the restoration. Hey, a guy can dream.....any sponsors out there???
Hey, I'll work for beer, especially "Nuclear Tactical Penguin".... ::) :P
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.
A few days later, Chris and I revisited the car armed with wirebrushes and sandpaper.
As Chris roughed up the cured POR15, I attacked the crossmember and some untouched areas on the firewall and part of the tranny tunnel with drill-mounted wire brushes. The rust and dirt came off easily.
At the same time, Chris cleaned the upper areas with naphtha, giving me a temporary high since the fumes sank down towards me… :hypno: :hypno: ;D
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25558)
After it was cleaned, the crossmember and other stripped areas were sprayed with metal-ready and allowed to dry. Finally a good coat of POR15 self-etching primer was applied to everywhere but the crossmember, which will get a separate treatment.
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25560)
We took turns due to the “rattle can sore finger syndrome”… :o
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25562)
And here it is – ready for another couple coats of primer and then the body color topcoat! :amazed:
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25564)
We both agreed that the progress looks to be towards the top of the hill now! 8)
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VERY nice work! You know... for a buck or two, you can purchase a plastic spray gun attachment that virtually eliminates "rattle can sore finger syndrome". I won't even touch a rattle can without one anymore!
Dwayne :smile:
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you can buy those in the walmart paint dept right by the spray cans =P
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Update for June 06, 2010
Well, as seen in another current thread, "Summer is here". While most are enjoying their crops of summer veggies and fresh fruits, summer in Texas means H-E-A-T. We had a very nice Spring (I shoudl have accomplished more), but indeed we hit the century mark on the thermometer this weekend and are pretty much burying ourselves indoors keeping cool.
Now, apart from the photos and work last discussed, little has been done with the exception of sanding out the first engine compartment primer coat, carefully applying another, and getting the lower crossmember cleaned/treated/primered as well.
The plan? Well, I need to hit the car one early morning while the heat is down and get some factory topcoat (which I have had mixed) on the crossmember so I can get the new steering rack installed and finish the steering column restoration/reinstallation. Then, I need to get paint on the rest of the engine compartment and reinstall the brake system. Having brakes and steering again is very important.
Bodywork needs to be done, and done soon. I admit I have been lazy because of the heat (and the car being 20 miles away), but the sooner it all gets done the better. In the meantime, I can live vicariously through guys like Flash041 who has done a GREAT job of restoration on his car!! I'll get there....
Photo 1 - Crossmember prep - here we carefully cleaned the dirty, oily crossmember with POR-15 prep wash and then dried and sanded/painted it. While I had intended to remove and sandblast the two "framing rods" at the back, the thought of going after the big torx screw at the bottom of each turned me away, and I decided to leave all intact. You can also see some seam sealer applied here in the background. The compartment is clean and well sealed.
Photo 2 - Primecoat knockdown - the first coat of POR-15 etch primer was carefully sanded to reveal a lot of hidden ridges/bumps/valleys. While the idea here is not to have a "perfect" engine compartment, nonetheless, I am taking some time to make the surfaces very smooth and presentable for paint. I want the engine compartment to really stand out.
Here the crossmember has also been carefully primed.
Photo 3 - Second primecoat - the final prime coat after sanding. This coat now needs careful attention for fine sanding prior to color coat. The compartment looks very, very nice at this point.
Photo 4 - Eng comp detail - an angled shot of the prepped compartment. If you had ever seen the way this looked when I bought the car, it's a WORLD of difference.
More later as I get topcoat on these areas, and some mechanical parts reinstalled.
Chris
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This project has some SOOO far from what it was before. Although not a WHOLE LOT has been done to the car, the engine compartment restoration alone is at least 40% of the work that needs to be done to this car! I hope to see either a souped up motor dropped in, or the original 2.3 rebuilt and back to NEW condition and appearance. This is going to be a truly amazing wagon once it's done! I hope Brownie comes out this well some day. Right now I"m tackling the transmission issue though, damn automatics!
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Thanks Dave. Looking more and more like I will be going with a stock motor setup initially, in the hopes of saving some money in the short term and concentrating on structural/cosmetic areas, since performance can always follow. I have two motors - the original one with 65k that I am going to heavily scrub down and do some basic functional/cosmetic restoration, and a second motor, which is slated (as money allows) for a rebuild with heavy head work, cam, intake, all kinds of goodies.
At this point I really want to get the car back running to enjoy it - it's been under construction for two years and I don't plan on it exceeding the three year mark; given what I've yet to do, it's alot of work to squeeze into another year, but if I can get through bodywork and paint over the next 4 or 5 months, I think I can get very far with everything else after that. I want to drive my baby.....
Chris
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Well, progress is starting to move forward more on this wagon that I am slowly inhereting out of labor... ::)
Chris got the front crossmember repainted a few days back and today my job assignment was to get the new steery rack back in. Chris supplied the paint fumes that drifted downward to get me in a better mood while i was in the engine bay torquing bolts... :rolleye:
Pretty easy overall... Bushings go in rack with flat part towards the frame. The two huge bolts were bought new at a local bolt supplier and inserted from the rear. Rack went over bolts and existing special washers and nuts were cleaned and reused. The special washers crush the ends of the bushings, providing a nice tight rubber isolation.
Then the tie rod ends were twisted on, making sure each threaded section is the same length. After the engine goes back in, I will align it better.
Ball joints were torqued and new cotter pins inserted.
Here it is installed:
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25941)
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25943)
This whole assy was wrapped with newspaper afterwards to protect from future overspray.
Here Chris continues painting the sides of the cowls with the body color paint that was put in rattle cans...
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25945)
Here is one finished side:
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25947)
Note the freshly resprayed undercoating, too.
I hope this paint does as good for the body as it does for the eyes (and nervous system)!
:hypno:
Wonderful color IT IS!
It is sure nice to see new parts and body colored paint going ON now! :lol:
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Yes, this reply is worthless without pics but I am excited nonetheless:
The engine compartment IS PAINTED as of this evening! Woohoo! The amount of time and effort I put into prep was well worth the result, it's absolutely beautiful, like a bright copper penny!!!
I ran out of daylight and had a full memory stick, will have to shoot pics probably Thursday, and get them up on Thursday or Friday evening. It's SO awesome to put a LOT of hours in tearing things apart, and finally seeing things going back together.
Sorry for the bandwidth, couldn't help myself, be back soon.
Chris
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A few days ago I went with Chris and his son to go check out the painted engine bay during daylight hours.
It looks great in it's rich metallic paint.
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25995)
There are a few flaws, but nothing that jumps right out at you. In fact, the factory paint job would have looked much worse.
Chris did make sure to add some factory looking runs, that were present on my car, too...
The bottom radiator frame was SO shiny, the reflection makes it look like its still in primer... ::)
The reworked suspension and new steering gear look great against the new paint:
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25997)
However, it makes the rust of the undercarriage look - uh, dirty! :mad:
While Chris and I were checking out the details, the owner of the shop decided to teach Chris' son to drive his all-terrain golf cart. I looked out just in time to see him trying to climb the ladder on the side of the shop...
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=25999)
By looking at this picture, one may think he busted the front wheel off and kept on going!
(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10321.0;attach=26001)
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...bump...
Thanks Rob, again for posting the pics. I have some work to do on the engine compartment paint as it has some overspray issues and lacks a high shine level, probably due to the excess (90+ degree) temps and shooting it with spray cans. Not a failure in any way, just not as nice as it could have been.
My son digs the electric golf cart more than my Pinto :nocool:, oh well, that's fine. Lots of work left!!
Chris
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Looks amazing! I love clean undercarriages and engine compartments! :D
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love that colour you have there, burnt orange? looks very sharp with the black and the silver!!!
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That color was mixed from the actual 1976 code that I gave the paint shop (Medium chestnut brown metallic). It is quite a bit darker than my factory paint, but I like how it looks, and I had better - since the whole car will be painted this way. :P
Chris
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Chris, you have done an amazing job so far. I hope mine will look as good as yours once I get that far.
Why did you choose the POR-15 over say the Eastwood line? I am still on the fence about which brand to use.
Can you send Gene and Rob over to my place in Akron for a visit? :-) Actually, I will be doing this all alone, which I really prefer. Makes some of the work more difficult, but that is just the way I am. I don't mind helping others though. Just "my car, MY work" type mentallity I guess. Plus, if something is done wrong, there is no doubt who did it. :-)
Russ
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God Bless you Russ - I have been reading your threads as well and you are approaching your car EXACTLY the way I did mine. Oh man, like other posters have shared, I NEVER anticipated going as far as I have, but one thing leads to another, and you are in deep.
My madness started when I pulled the carpets out and saw rust on the floor. I though, "well, gotta fix that". The wife comes outside and says - "why are the seats out"? "Well, gotta fix the floor....
The floor gets fixed, then the gas tank gets pulled to be flushed, coated, repaired. Tank goes back in, might as well change shocks. Let's pull the bumpers - man, the inserts are CRUSTY, let's get them blasted. Inspection of front end reveals terrible condition parts, so it all comes apart, gets sandblasted, gets rebuilt with new parts. ALL new parts. Fenders come off - crap, gotta fix those cowl rust holes. Vents are full of leaves, as is the heater box. Heater gets pulled, "might as well pull the dash". Oh, the windshield needs to come out, 'cause the rubber is dry. Hey, what's that rust up under the window frame? Geeze, the brake pedal setup looks lousy, let's restore it. Huh? Let's also add new firewall sound barrier and insulation, and then change to a power brake setup.
Lord, I hate that big rusty inner fender. Only way to get that fixed is to pull the motor and tranny. Yes, that hole is terrible - I need to drill out the 4,312 spot welds and put a NOS inner fender back in. Geeze, firewall looks terrible, you know, might as well clean and retore the engine compartment. What? Oh, man, the steering rack was knocking, and looks lousy. Let's put a new one in. Let's pull the doors off too.....and get the engine rebuilt. Don't forget, replace the headliner before the windshield goes back in.
Gotta fix that rust at the firewall seam. There, looks great. Hey, let's get some spray cans and repaint everything. Time and money, time and money. :lol:
That's my story, I wish you luck. On the POR-15, I guess I picked it only because I found out about it before I found out about Eastwood stuff. I imagine they are both good products.
You know, Gene and Rob have been invaluable. Gene is a skilled welder, all around mechanic, and willing helper, and Rob is an engineer by day (as I am) and has an EXCELLENT eye for detail, so much so, that I "let him loose" on my stuff and never worry about the results. GREAT guys to know.
Best wishes Russ, you're in for a wonderful journey of rewards and tribulation. Keep at it, persevere, and get things done as you can. I have wanted to quit many times, but the progress keeps me going, as well as the positive comments by others in the "same war".
Chris
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Holy cow Chris! You sure don't settle for HALF-ASSED! lol! I don't either, but that's really taking it to the extreme! In a good way of coarse!
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yeah, I know going into this that once I start that I can't quit. Like you have found out, once you fix one thing, the thing next to it looks bad. Even though most people would never see it or know the difference I will.
I expect to have to replace all the mechanical stuff on mine going in. The only real unknown at this point is how much rust is on the bottom.
A trick to remove the glued in windshields for those who don't play guitar is to use weed eater string. Seriously. I did this on a 69 Mustang I used to own when I couldn't figure out how to remove it. Once a hole is made to feed it through it goes really well. And the string will not hurt your hands at all. Plus if you use a long piece, you can do just about the whole windshield from one side of the car. Just stand there and saw back and forth. Going to have to do this fairly soon with mine.
Russ
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I used to pull engines out of cars just to clean & paint everything & make it look pretty. Its amazing how it snowballs if you arent careful.....
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I wouldn't say it snowballs if you arn't careful, it snowballs if you start getting anal about it. lol
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Chris,
Did you notice any fitment issues with the parts after all the layers of paint?
Does the POR-15 stay thicker than a normal coat of paint after it dries, or does it dry thin like normal paint?
I was wondering about this as I was tearing the Pinto apart tonight, some of the pieces don't seem to have enough clearance for any paint, much less several coats.
Thanks,
Russ
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I wouldn't say it snowballs if you arn't careful, it snowballs if you start getting anal about it. lol
Did you notice the Stang I use for my avatar? That came about because of a few paint chips in the 1700 mile finish. :o Anal is my middle name....... :lol:
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LOL!!! Chips in the 1700 mile finish - I think you are my newest best friend. LOVE it....
Chris
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Chris,
Did you notice any fitment issues with the parts after all the layers of paint?
Does the POR-15 stay thicker than a normal coat of paint after it dries, or does it dry thin like normal paint?
I was wondering about this as I was tearing the Pinto apart tonight, some of the pieces don't seem to have enough clearance for any paint, much less several coats.
Thanks,
Russ
Russ:
The trick with POR-15 is to use the GLOSS BLACK only - it is the BEST POR-15. I have used the grey, the chassis black, and the stuff that simulates metal, and NONE of them flow as well as the gloss black. Just be sure to coat it with the self-etching primer afterwards, because NOTHING will stick to it otherwise.
No fitment issues yet though I have not really done alot of engine "repop" since the paint. I plan to compound the paint this weekend (it's had a few weeks to dry) and then start to put some things back.
Looking at your pics it seems the right time to install a new rack and pinion - and restore your steering column - and replace your brake lines. Hey, why not? ;D
Chris
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Holy cow Chris! You sure don't settle for HALF-ASSED! lol! I don't either, but that's really taking it to the extreme! In a good way of coarse!
Only my wife would accuse me of settling for HALF-ASSED, since I am doing what she calls a "frame off" restoration of a Pinto. Oh well, at least you guys appreciate it...... :lol:
Perfection IS the key!!!!!! Do it right the first time! Do it right or don't bother!
Chris
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Thanks for the tip on the POR-15. I was totally lost about which to use. Gloss Black it is!
Wish I could replace the steering rack, but it seems to work ok and money is too tight, so I will just clean and detail it. Off the car that is. :-)
The idea with the steering column is to replace it with one from a Mustang II. I am also putting (or trying to at least) the dash from the II into the Pinto. Better gauges and overall look. I can convert the II column into a tilt if it fits in the Pinto. But I will have to be careful taking the Pinto dash out in case my idea doesn't work out.
Would like to just completely strip the car right now, but I am trying to keep it on wheels for a while longer in case I need to move it around. Plus it still looks like a car with the wheels still on it. :-)
Might do the brake lines, although they are only a few years old. I HAVE to do the gas lines though. If I can do them ok I will try the brake lines. Got to get the tools to do that first though.
Also need to clean out the garage again. Too many pieces all over the place.
All comes down to money, or the lack of it. :-(
Thanks,
Russ
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Curious on how easily the MII steering column integrates to the Pinto. Same rag joint and knuckle setup? Same mounting under the dash? Same wiring connector and integration? Interesting... ..
Also interested in the dash....the Pinto dash is not difficult to remove (probably 8 nuts and 8 screws) but curious how well the MII dash fits, especially over the pedal hangar assembly and such. Should be a cool conversion.
I like these projects in parallel, certainly we can learn from one another. Best wishes!
Chris
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Yeah. I am curious too. Supposedly the II column is a tad longer than the Pinto. I have the complete wiring harness from the II from headlights to tailights. Going to be redoing the wiring anyway, even if I don't change the dash. Moving some stuff around. Like the fusebox for one! Whoever designed some of this stuff was a sadist.
I may get it all in and decide it looks too screwed up. But it is something I am going to try. Won't cost anything but time since I have all the stuff from both cars. No dollars spent is a good thing right now. That's about all I can do at the moment, stuff that is free.
Russ
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PLease keep us all up to date on your progress, I am very curious to see your results. You are right, FREE is GOOD. I have myself a big 'ol piggybank at this point.....!
Chris
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well, as soon as I think I know what to do with the windshield I will be taking it out and then starting on the dash. I just don't feel like doing anymore under the car stuff at the moment. At least not until I get "mini BP" cleaned up. I haven't even felt like getting under just to take the seats out. It's been so hot and humid here even after midnight which is when I am usually out in the garage that the sweat is just poring off of me. You would think I would be losing some weight, but NOOOOOOOOOO. :-) I still prefer the dry heat of Phoenix to this humidity garbage. Oh well. I was the one that wanted to move back here.
Finding out that the Ranger trans I have probably won't work in the Pinto the way I had hoped has put a bit of a damper on my enthusiasm. Trying just not to think about that at the moment, hoping that things will work out when I am ready to put a trans in.
Russ
These things sure come apart fast. Wish they went back together that way. :-)
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So Chris, what's the status? It's been a while since I talked with ya...
All painted now? Doors overhauled? Column done?
:lol:
I haven't even felt like getting under just to take the seats out. It's been so hot and humid here even after midnight which is when I am usually out in the garage that the sweat is just poring off of me. You would think I would be losing some weight, but NOOOOOOOOOO. :-) I still prefer the dry heat of Phoenix to this humidity garbage.
I feel for ya. Kinda sounds like you moved to Texas.
It's not quite he|| but I can see it from here....
http://classicoldsmobile.com/forums/clubhouse/24350-summer-texas.html#post184817 (http://classicoldsmobile.com/forums/clubhouse/24350-summer-texas.html#post184817)
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Hey Rob:
I live in the same heat you do, so I have been hiding in the cool as well. After letting the enamel dry several weeks, spent time last night compounding the engine compartment. It turned out pretty good - the compartment surfaces are now smooth and about as shiny as I can get them - not in any way "bright" but certainly decent for an engine compartment. Can't compain too much. Yes, there are some nice "factory style flaws" I added, a few minor sags, a drip or two, some blotching, some fisheyes, and some thin coats. I am a terrible self critic, expecting perfection was a bad thing to do. Of course, you'll never see the flaws when it's all back together. :hypno:
Next? Steering column gets refurbed (under way) then reinstalled. Undercoat gets added to back of tranny tunnel. New passenger side brake line gets bent and installed. Brake setup (booster and cylinder) get reinstalled. Install new clutch cable, new hood cable. Install wiring harness and other peripheral goodies. Car comes off of ramps and rolls again.
After that, gotta get some parts sandblasted and repainted or powder coated, including hood latch bracket, motor mounts, drive shaft. Then on to the 8" rear end; dismantle, blast, powder coat, add 5 lug axles w/disc brakes, get new rear springs.
At that point, bottom of car is done. Then onto a new motor.
It pretty much never ends.
Chris
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Geeze, look at that. I have not posted on this project since July 14th. Man, that's just over three months.
Well, nobody has asked, "out of sight out of mind" I suppose, but I'm still working on my wagon. You know, the Summer was so d#$% hot, and then I was on medical leave from work, and too busy with other things - I guess I started to feel like Russ - overwhelmed (God bless you man, I feel your pain!!) and even considered dropping the project. I went back this weekend for the FIRST TIME in three months and got some little stuff done - you know, I'm in so far and the hard stuff is complete, now I just have to pace myself and keep going. Now that the weather is better, and I have saved some $$ to move the project, this is what I am working on:
1) Steering column - has been restored, repainted, looks great, all the colored parts are fresh, everything is super clean and looks new.
2) Heater box - fully restored, even figured out a way to re-create new "foam" on the dampers, it all looks great, and is ready to reinstall. I also bought all new seals, Dallas Mustang's kit for the 1969-1970 Mustang works alsmost perfectly.
3) Dash - taking it to MAACO tomorrow to see what they will charge me to shoot it (I will supply paint, the dash has already been sandblasted and primed, I just don't have a good place to paint).
With the engine compartment repainted and restored, I have to clean my harness(es), reinstall the brake lines (started), reinstall the motor mounts and brackets, the battery box, and other new accessories (voltage reg, coil, solenoid, etc). My goal this Fall is to get the engine compartment complete, get the dash back in (incl all components, fully restored), get the windshield back in, get the car off the ramps. Then I move onto the motor/tranny - and the rear end.
At any rate, I hope to have new pics up here within a week, showing more progress.
Chris
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3) Dash - taking it to MAACO tomorrow to see what they will charge me to shoot it (I will supply paint, the dash has already been sandblasted and primed, I just don't have a good place to paint).
Unless you have first-hand knowledge of your local MAACO's work, you might want to shop it around to some other body shops as well. Some MAACO shops are okay, but the majority of them leave a lot to be desired. Wherever you take your dash, I hope they treat it with the same attention to detail that you've put into this restoration so far. Good to know that you're still making progress!
Dwayne :smile:
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Chris has made a little progress since last update, reinstalling front brake lines, proportioning valve, and applying some undercoat to the trans tunnel and right inner fender side.
Over the past weekend I joined in the fun of engine prep. He has decided to fix up the original 60 k mile 2.3.
Accessory brackets were removed to be included in a box o’ parts for bead blasting. We took pictures as we went, so we dot an idea what when where and what bolt goes with what. The timing belt cover, fuel lines, and crank pulley were pulled. These will be cleaned up off site.
Quite a few mud-dauber nests were dislodged with a chisel and we used paint scrapers and screwdrivers to scrape off years of grunge. I bet this engine was NEVER cleaned before!
After the worst was done, we wrestled the cherry picker, still holding the motor, into the gravel drive. This was a pathetic task – never before have I seen a pea-size pebble stop a moving 400lb vehicle dead in its tracks…
After getting it out there, we started the degrease process.
Here is “El Grungo”…
(http://www.fordpinto.com/your-project/popbumper's-'76-wagon-update/?action=dlattach;attach=26992)
(http://www.fordpinto.com/your-project/popbumper's-'76-wagon-update/?action=dlattach;attach=26994)
3 cans of gunk later, and lots of scrubbing and water spraying we realized that the 76 blocks were painted blue. My 78 one is black (an effort at cost reduction I assume…) Also, I was impressed that this motor was pretty much all original, due to all of the motorcraft labels and part numbers. Fuel pump, disty and cap, starter, and carb looked to have came with the engine. (Of course my starter is original still and the fuel pump was recently replaced out of prevention.)
Here is the block after about 45 minutes of cleaning time:
(http://www.fordpinto.com/your-project/popbumper's-'76-wagon-update/?action=dlattach;attach=26996)
(http://www.fordpinto.com/your-project/popbumper's-'76-wagon-update/?action=dlattach;attach=26998)
Still lots of cleaning to be done, but the manifolds will be pulled so we can get around them.
We ran out of time and daylight (stupid time change), so we hauled the beast out of the mud pit we had created.
Still lots to do!
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Although my 78's motor is still really clean from being boiled out when my dad and I rebuilt it, I REALLY want to pull my engine like this and paint it. Then my nit picking at detail will be somewhat satisfied!
Keep up the work, I'm rootin for ya! :)
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Two plus years, people, and still beating on this project. There have been ups. There have been downs. I have almost given up. But, I think I am finally starting to see some light at the end of this tunnel. PLease don't tell me it's an oncoming train...... :lol:
Summer was hot. The last real work before this Fall was in July. Fall came and my motivation was less than adequate. Now, I make a weekly habit of work again. As you can see in the last posts, my good bud Rob was kind enough to report recent activity on cleaning the motor. Well, I am starting to move ahead again, slowly....the good part is, now things are being ASSEMBLED instead of just taken apart.
This evening, I took a shot at painting my dashboard, which I had carefully sandblasted, primed and sanded. Ugh. What an awful night; the paint gun did not cooperate, so it's gonna have to be redone. HOWEVER, let's talk about some good stuff that happened recently.
Photo 1 - Let's catch everyone up to where we are at. This photi shows an angle shot of the front end, as it currently styands. All of the paint work is done in the engine compartment.
Photo 2 - Down on shot of the compartment. Yes, the brake lines are starting to return, as well as the proportioning valve. Note the new rack and pinion. This completes the front end mechanics - EVERYTHING is new and/or restored/repainted/replaced.
Photo 3 - Shot from radiator support - note the paint missing on the bottom of the support; gotta touch it up. Yup, I ran out this past Summer when I shot the whole compartment with spray cans of body color. Looking back, I wish I had done it differently, but it looks good for an engine compartment, and all the rust, grease, gunk, dirt, crap is gone.
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For those paying attention, you probably asked "hey, why is there no paint above the drip rail in the engine compartment"? Yeah, this bugged me too. OK, this past weekend I got brave - and it paid off. The three photos show the effort towards getting this area done - as well as the cowl - so that I could feel good about repopulating the engine compartment again, and not worrying about paint overspray.
Photo 4 - Yup, the cowl had planty of those nifty little dings in it. Using a catalyzed filler, I went after the little nnicks and filled/snaded all of them. The general cowl area got a good sanding of the existing paint with 220 grit paper, so that everything was smooth and uniform.
Photo 5 - Primer!! Since the car had its original paint, there was no need to get "fancy" with sealer primer or the like, so I literally spray bombed the cowl, blending it in with the area above the drip rail. After it dried, I knocked it all down with 400 grit paper.
Photo 6 - Voila!! Having purchased correct factory matched Delstar acrylic enamel, reducer, and hardener, I decided it was time to paint. Now folks, I have never painted a car before. I have restored a car and painted primer, I have used lots of spray cans, and I have painted small parts, but never body surface. The garage I keep the car in has a nice compressor, and I had some new basic siphon type paint guns, and decided it was time. I carefully prepared everything, mixed it all, covered the engine compartment, masked everything off, and went for it.
WOW, was I surprised at the BEAUTIFUL results. This is in no way a perfect paint job, and it has some dust in the surface, but I gotta tell you - I was amazed at how well the paint flowed out and laid down, and its S-H-I-N-Y! I checked it tonite - it's dry, and just amazing - like a bright shiny copper penny.
OK, yes, I WILL be painting my whole car. This is getting exciting.
Hope you enjoyed tonite's offerings, much more to come.
Chris
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Ahhh... I know what a clean, freshly painted cowl feels like...
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3174/2551435467_d89eb6ddfa_z.jpg)
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alberto what car was that one?
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Chris - that picture is a lot better than the phone picture you had sent me. Makes that paint look even better !
Great job - now I bet you want to do the whole car!!!
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Yes - yes I do!!!!
Chris
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It is my '80 wagon that became my '80 CW.
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2789/4459357244_e3a5f64def.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4458579773_4c6162270c.jpg)
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Update for February 21st, 2011
OK all, been quiet. Been a harsh winter for Texas. Until this past Saturday, literally had accomplished NOTHING for several months. My buddy Rob and I pulled into the garage this past Saturday and Sunday, and with 70+ degree temps, went hard at the car for two datys. Sore backs, sore knees, sore quads. It's tough getting old.
I promised myself to attack the car this Spring with a vengeance. I just gotta get it done - I have had it almost three years, and being deep in it, I need to go the other direction (putting it all together again). Having saved some green, decided to jump in head first. On the menu? Why, the MOTOR of course. Can't have a clean, restored engine compartment and put a filthy motor in it.
Now, just a note - this engine is original, one owner, 65k miles. Ran super great before being refurbed, I am not ggoing to rebuild at this time, but restore/refurb, to get a running vehicle. I have a second motor to toy with later. On to the show.....
Picture 1 shows a revisit of the dirty, dirty motor on a cherry picker, in the daylight, driver's side. Yecch.
Picture 2 shows the motor, passenger side, just as dirty.
Picture 3 shows the pile of parts (some from the motor) that will be picked up from sandblasting this week.
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Continuing on, with hands getting dirty and the feel of grease and oil beneath the fingernails... .
Picture 4 shows a surprise! After remmoving the heat shields, voila! A cracked exhaust manifold! Texas heat you know...
Picture 5 shows the drivers side, now stripped of most parts, revealing a dirty block. Scrub, brush, lacquer, wire wheel....
Picture 6 shows the box of goodies I'll need to restore or replace after pulling the engine peripherals off...
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Picture 7 shows the passenger side of the motor stripped of parts. More cleaning, more work.
Picture 8 shows the motor sans the bellhousing and tranny. Flywheel is smooth but a little rusty...
Picture 9 shows the tranny sitting aside. It had been quite liberally coated with undercoating, there is much detail attention neede as well as maintenance
Picture 10 shows a very oily, dirty bellhousing internal. Gotta wash and clean this.
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Could not load any more pics, got an upload error message. Wrote the admin. More later!
Chris
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Chris its time for you to make a photobucket account and just put them there lol. it Looks absolutely wonderful im glad you have gotten as far as you have with it. Im getting ready to pull the Gas tank on the 78 Mercury we bought from fred, Already have the Carb off and up here, Just need to get the leak at the tank taken care of and ill be able to put it all back together again.
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Lookin good Chris! We've both been working on our wagons this last week it sounds....I spent five days in a row, nearly 16 hours each day, just trying to get things done on the car. Motor is next though.
Watching others do their motors makes me wish I had time to do my own, at least paint it. Watching you do yours makes it look so easy! :D
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It has been cool going through the thread here. Keep it going. You are doing a fantastic job!
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good to see progress again
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This has been a fun experience for me, and the car is not even mine...
I have also learned a lot about pulling the tranny and replacing the clutch - something my 78 will need soon. It cant last forever!
The real fun will start this weekend, when parts start being painted, and installed.
Yes, Chris, time for a photo hosting site!
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Update for February 27th, 2011
Well, this weekend's progress, though seemingly "less substantial" than previous work, was nonetheless a step in the right direction:
1) Floor noise reduction/padding at the right weel well was finished by Rob (78TXPONY).
2) Sandblasting on about 26 metal pieces was received Friday (everything from motor mount brackets to prop rod, battery tray, etc.), and was painted with POR-15. I also received my REsandblasted dashboard, which needs to be primed and finished out.
3) Oil was drained from the block, which is now sitting stripped of all parts.
4) I recieved several large boxes of new parts from RockAuto this week - including a new starter, distributor, voltage reg, hoses, fuel pump, water pump, and many, many other small parts/gaskets/goodies to refresh the motor and peripheral items.
5) I received a box of special coatings/paints from Eastwood.
With the weather looking to stay warm now, a steady stream of work will continue, as I plan gto get the motor/tranny reinstalled no later than April. Still LOTSS to do.
I apologize that I am not able to add photos. Last week I ran into a "folder upload full" error, and promptly wrote to the moderator to see what happened/what I could do. I have yet to receive any answer - maybe the moderator decided it was not worth answering. I do not know.
Have fun all!
Chris
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Chris, very exciting! I can't wait to see progress updates this year and more photos of the car and motor!
I have run into that problem twice now. Here is what Scott told me:
I have increased the quote limit for Charter Members from 3GB to 5GB on the gallery- you are currenlty at 2.8. I checked the stats and it looks like you have fewer photos in your gallery but taking up more space than most, if you can reduce the file size (not image size) of you graphics you will be able to post MANY MANY more photos...
Your images are large files size not image size. Someone else can have 200 pictures and not break the quota but if each individual image is large, say 1.2 Meg each- then they will not be able to get 20 Pictures online and stay within the quota limit. The photos you post in the forum must be less that 100k each for no more than 400k totoal for 4 phots in each post. Your shots are way too large (file size) to post in the forum but the gallery allows this. Think of it this way, I have have an postcard size (image size) graphic but the actual file size can be (due to quality setting etc..) quite huge, say around 5 Meg. If you take that same image and reduce the files size but keep the image size exactly the same (postcard) you can achive less than 100k as apposed to 5 Meg which is tremendous but you have the SAME visual especially on the web where it can take FOREVER to download a large files size image but only a few sec to download the same image with small file size.
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Dave:
I sure appreciate the reply and the clarity of the answer. My issue is, I took the time to write the moderator via personal message and wasn't even given the consideration of five minutes to address my question - even after a week of waiting. I sure don't mind a member like yourself helping out (hey, that's what we're here for), but when a moderator can't take the time to help, it really "says something" about how vallued (or not) your participation on the group is. Again, I >do< appreciate YOU taking the time.
Chris
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Update for July 20th, 2011
Good evening. Been many months, February being my last post. This project is still underway - slow (record heat here in Texas for the Summer as elsewhere), but much has been accomplished.
The goal for the past few months has been to complete the engine and tranny. Now, keep in mind this motor as purchased was a very, very filthy and worn 65,000 mile motor, which actually ran VERY WELL. Since dropping a filthy motor and tranny into a clean, restored engine compartment was NOT an option, the motor has been completely gone over and cosmeticallly/functionally restored (aside from the internals, which showed little wear). To that end, the following has been done:
1) All removable metal parts have been sandblasted/repainted and/or phosphoric rust treated/repainted (brackets, hoses, intake, exhaust manifold/EGR tube, valve cover, oil pan, fan, pulleys, timing housing/cover parts, bellhousing plate, lift brackets, motor mount brackets, air cleaner housing, heat shields).
2) Block has been degreased, scrubbed, cleaned, painted in POR-15 Ford Corporate blue
3) Carb was completely cleaned and rebuilt, along with hot water choke (COURTESY ROB, 78TXPONY, and GERHARD PLATA (TIGGER) choke parts)
4) Valve seals were replaced (COURTESY ROB)
5) Misc "factory" needed parts, however large or small were purchased (COURTESY FRED)
6) New parts added to date: New alternator, thermostat, distributor, distributor cap, plugs, plug wires, gaskets, seals, water pump, fuel pump, oil filter, belts, heater/water hoses, motor mounts, breather cap, emissions check valve, timing belt/hardware, EGR valve, negative battery cable, etc.
7) New/restored parts YET TO BE INSTALLED: New A/C compressor, restored air pump, restored emissions hardware, new starter, new clutch/hardware, restored transmission (cleaned up housing/cosmetics/oil/seals), A/C condensor, air cleaner housing, heat tube, air intake divertor.
I might also add that ROB has been INVALUABLE in this entire reassembly process, without him, truly this project would never have moved. THANKS ROB!!
I have placed 22 photos showing various details of the motor restoration on Photobucket through the following link. Enjoy, thank you.
http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Motor%20restoration/ (http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Motor%20restoration/)
Chris
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Hey Chris!
Glad to know you're still plugging away at it, although I can only imagine how difficult that must be in such oppressive heat! That engine looks fantastic!
Dwayne :smile:
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Thanks Dwayne. The only time to get work done is in the early morning - like 8 AM - when the temp is only 82 degrees .
Chris
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That engine looks fantastic!
Agreed! looking good :)
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Sheesh! I wish I could do such a super job! Way to go Chris! I'm glad you didn't give up on that wagon! Now come over to Oceanside (lots cooler here- I promise!) and clean MY Pintos' engines. lol :lol:
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Wish I could Blu! Would love to escape the heat here! Enjoy!
Chris
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Beautiful work! I can't wait until I get my own place and I can have an engine hoist and stand readily available to do this in my spare time!
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Update for October 2nd, 2011
Texas' record hottest Summer has given way to wonderful blue skies, moderate temps, low humidity, and much, much work. Across the three year period I have had this vehicle, I have greatly looked forward to completion of the major hurdles, knowing that ultimately, I'll have a beautiful vehicle.
Yesterday was one of those "milestone days". Rob, I, and the garage owner trudged through the very scary process of motor and transmission reinstallation - scary, because there you are hoisting this heavy block of iron over a fresh engine compartment, and you hope that the thing doesn't drop and kill all your hours of effort.
Aside from some scratches on the firewall behind the valve cover (unavoidable even with protection), the process went reasonably smooth, and it's back together. There are many small things yet to do before we fire it back up and it moves again (I painted the radiator today, for example), but it's a HUGE step!!
Forecast for the next several weeks? BODYWORK. Owner of the garage wants the car out "before it gets too cold to work on", meaning, I have about two months to get done what needs to be done, and bring te car home. Interior will be last, and that's fine, because I can do that here.
What a journey. Enjoy some more pics, thanks!
http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Motor%20and%20transmission%20reinstallation/ (http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Motor%20and%20transmission%20reinstallation/)
Chris
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Chris,
It looks fantastic. That looks like a new engine in a new car! All your hard work is definitely paying off! Can't wait to see the final result!!! Keep up the good work!
Dwayne :)
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I think I just left a big puddle of drool in my keyboard while looking at the pictures! lol
I can't wait until Brownie comes along this nicely!
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Update for October 12th, 2011
The days are getting short but the weather has been delightful. This evenings photos include a variety of things that are underway or have been completed. With my deadline looming, I will not be able to get the car repainted before winter, but it's OK, I plan to still get the required bodywork issues resolved before the car is tacked back together and basically stored for winter.
A few notes on the photos:
Bodywork - the photos show some small work that is being performed (some rust in the drivers rear door pillar, and removel/cleanup of the roof rack rivets on the roof), but the majority of shots involve reworking the heavily damaged passemger side quarter panel. This quarter panel had been >ahem< "repaired" previously, and resembled something akin to painted mashed potatoes. Ideally, I should have cut the metal out and replaced the quarter, but time and money will not allow, so I spent a great deal of time with a hammer and dolly set, trying to rework the already fatigued metal, then skimming it with bondo. I will say this - it's a very large area, but it's not deep, so don't be shocked by what you see. I should have it complete and primed tomorrow.
Radiator - radiator was stripped and repainted with Eastwood radiator black. Turned out beautiful.
Rear windows - the rear windows are being removed to rejuvenate the rubber seals and reinstall them with a proper seal. This also allows me the ability to repaint the interior trim.
Rear window trim - trim is being removed to prep for paint, get "grunge" out, and shine the pieces. I am also in the process of removing old body seal in/below the gutters to address rust and installl fresh new sealant.
Other - a few shots of parts being primed or painted - I had the catalytic and first part of the exhaust system sandblasted, and painted it in high-temp POR-15 manifold grey.
Enjoy! I have about six weeks to get this car back to a moveable state, still much to do.
Chris
http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Body%20restoration/ (http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Body%20restoration/)
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Lookin' good, Chris!!!
Dwayne :)
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Update for October 31st, 2011
With Halloween evening now behind, a few moments to update the progress on my vehicle. The Fall has blessed us with an abundance of warm, sunny days, and with temps in the low to mid 70's, it has been exceptional "working weather" in which to accomplish finishing touches to the car before it comes home from the garage it has been in the last two years. Alas, it will NOT be complete, but bringing it to home base allows me the priveledge of keeping tabs on it locally, and getting it ready for paint - which I hope to complete this Winter or early Spring.
Though the engine and drivetrain have been reinstalled, the body exists primarily as a shell now, with all panels removed and under restoration. Having completed the majority of the main bodywork (quarters, roof, rockers), I am now concentrating on the doors and fenders first, with the hatch door and hood to be finished last.
The elements took a strong toll on this car as it sat outdoors unloved near a lake, and under trees, allowing water to collect and sit without evaporating. The result are a series of hidden areas where water pooled and created some unique damage. While not shown in the pics, the passenger door suffered a large area of internal rust on the back of the door skin (water got under the undercoating), resulting in two pinholes in the door that needed patched, and areas at the "forward curve" of both doors that needed attention. Add the requisite plethora of scrapes, dings, scratches, bent trim, and rusty hinges, and there is plenty of work!!
Please enjoy 21 more pictures of door and fender rework, as these important panels go through straightening exercises to get them flat and smooth before they are rehung on the car.
Chris
http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Body%20panel%20restoration%20I/ (http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Body%20panel%20restoration%20I/)
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Wow, that's a lot of work! It will all be worth it in the end, though. Looks fantastic!
Dwayne :)
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Update for November 27th 2011
Time marches on, and along the road of the tedious path to restoration, welcome milestones happen. With a long 2011 near behind us, the hottest Summer on record in Texas, and a stint at a friend's shop for just over two years, I brought my car home today - to begin its final journey towards completion.
The bright, sunny cool day was a perfect one, and my buddy Rob was again helpful as he has always been, lining up local transportation with a friend who owns a car hauling trailer. Rob and I hit the road at about 11:45 today for what would be the final trek out to the garage in which a remarkable amount of work has been accomplished across the last two years.
Backing up the "tape" a bit, Rob and I had both been struggling to accomplish the goal of making the car mobile this year - as well as completing all of the bodywiork that could possibly be done, and hanging panels (doors and fenders) which had previously been reworked/primered/painted. The weather in North Texas had been very, very favorable over the last few months, allowing for these things to happen. Interestingly, I had also been out of work between July and October, and while not having a paycheck was challenging, I had loads of free time - and filled my hours with car work, which moved my calendar up considerably. Can you say "blessing in disguise?"
With the sun full shine, we arrived at the garage. The day prior had been cold, gray, windy and wet - so the timing was perfect. After adding fresh gas to the tank, the engine fired willingly, and idled smoothly. The car was moved from the garage out to the street - a long trek in reverse, but flawless in execution.
It was WONDERFUL to see the car move under its own power again - MANY thanks to Rob, who is far more talented in the mechanical department (whereas I LOVE body and paint work). Rob's friend showed up, and we headed home.
With the engine compartment complete and 95% of the bodywork done, I yet need to work on the hood and rear door, as well as finish some minor details at the quarters. The paint in the door jambs has already been finished, as well as on the door edges itself, and around the rear side windows. I will likely remove the fenders again and have them shot seperately with the hood and rear door before they are reinstalled.
The car sits now in my garage at home, not at all a perfect place for work (two cars in the garage), but I will do some interior work over the winter (floor finish, dash reassembly, new headliner installation) as the weather allows. This Spring? Paint is what it's all about!! Then, weatherstrippi ng, dash, windshield, carpet, interior panels, interior and exterior trim....all the "icing".
July of 2012 marks the four year anniversary of the purchase of this car, and I hope to make this coming Summer one in which I actually get to ENJOY this car a great deal - in driving it, not just working on it!!
Here's a link to a handful of photos from today's trip. Enjoy!
Chris
http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Coming%20home%20after%20two%20years/ (http://s1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Coming%20home%20after%20two%20years/)
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That engine looks amazing! I'm sure it was a thrill to see it move under its own power! I'm betting that you'll have it 100% completed by the time that four year anniversary rolls around!
Dwayne :)
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It's so good to "hear" the pep in your "voice" again, Chris. I know this was a long drawn-out project but you're doing a beautiful job on that wagon.
As for pinholes in doorskins... you should've seen Ruby RedHot's driver's door before it got replaced... a looooong ragged hole about the length of the door on the outside... lacy on the inside... :P
Dwayne gave me an idea of what might've happened in my case- drain plugs in the doors not removed upon delivery to the dealership, which equals lots of sitting water after rains came and went... well... you know the rest... ::)
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Dwayne & Blu:
I greatly appreciate the positive comments - folks like you keep me running "for the goal". More than halfway there now, never thought I'd get as far as I did. Years back, I did a frame off on a 1957 Chevy - got it to the SAME point I am now with the Pinto, and sold it before finishing. The Pinto WILL be finished...... it will not have the same fate! Hope to see you guys out there one day.....
Chris
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Well, when you're done with yours... come on over and I'll give you another project! lol You do a great job of painting, among other things. My '74, who is in the garage wasting away, needs a paint job stat! ;)
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Hi guys:
Yeah, been two years since I have been out here, progress is very slow but sure. This is my active time with the weather cooperative (too hot in Summer).
A quick synopsis of where I am at - I'll post pics later to Photobucket.
1) EXTERIOR: Bodywork is 95% complete. All body panels are on the car again, but all windows are out. The drivers side, hood and rear door have been painted - allowing me to get an idea of what I missed during prime/block/sand (a few spots); I will paint the rest of it within a few weeks. Then, I will repair, resand, and send to a GOOD painter who has the proper facilities for final coat.
2) INTERIOR:
a) The dashboard goes in this weekend. It is fitted with NOS outlets, NOS control for the heat and A/C, a NOS dashcap, NOS ashtray assembly, and NOS speaker. It's absolutely beautiful.
b) Floor, roof, and side panels have been lined with Fatmat Extreme. All other interior surfaces have been repainted to correct factory color.
c) New headliner goes in within two weeks.
d) NOS windshield goes in after headliner.
3) MECHANICAL:
a) Car purchased with horrible and falling apart dealer installed A/C. Found a rotten '74 wagon that had factory A/C and we pulled the whole unit, ductwork, restored everything, and installed it in my wagon. It will be powered with a NEW compressor.
b) Rear end!! The only thing that remains to be restored. Need new springs and have to restore the housing.
This has been a five year project so far - as close to "frame off (LOL)" as you can get. Looking back I would NOT have picked this car having found what was wrong (some pretty bad rust for a Texas car, deteriorating plastics, leaking gas tank, mechanically shot suspension), but all has been long since repaired and I have fought through it. Paid way to much for it to begin with, but I'll be very proud of it when it's done.
Thanks all.
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Paid way to much for it to begin with, but I'll be very proud of it when it's done.
And that's what make it all ultimately worthwhile!!!
Dwayne :)
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Looks awesome!!! I love the work on it and I'm sure your wife will appreciate driving it!
WOW, inspiring...
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Update for 10/21/13
This past week, the weather has been beautiful and I am taking advantage of some time off. Installed the dash, did some more bodywork and interior prep. Have a handful of photos to share for current status. Enjoy.
http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Interior%20and%20finish%20related/ (http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j350/popbumper/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Interior%20and%20finish%20related/)
Chris
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Looks great.
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Just checking in quickly. I have been maddeningly getting things done recently, trying to take advantage of the nice weather (it all changes Tuesday), so tomorrow I have to throw some more paint on the car. I'll put some more pics up tomorrow, but here's the latest:
1) Today - got some insulation in the ceiling, on top of the "fatmat". The interior is basically ready for the headliner install now.
2) Today - did some more minor bodywork/priming touches to the passenger side door, rocker, and quarter. I cannot tell you how many hours (probably 50-60 if I'd guess) I spent on that quarter getting it to look straight again. After a former collision and lousy previous owner body repair, the metal was SO beat and stretched, it would have been best to cut and weld, but I don't have the tools, skills and equipment for that. Recreating a body line, let alone a wheel well surround is REAL ART.....and a real challenge....
3) Recently - Scored an NOS AM radio; an NOS "faux wood" dash center panel; an NOS A/C motor cover (goes on dash beneath the glove box - THANKS RICHARD GALLINA!!); and NOS door pin switches. The dash will officially (except for the cluster and light switch/wiper switch)) have ALL NOS parts, including the radio speaker, dash pad, vent outlets, and heat, A/C bezel. Incredible.
Tomorrow, I will apply paint to the passenger door, rocker and quarter. The car will be fully painted EXCEPT for the roof. Since I have discovered a number of small but visible defects in the bodywork (hey, I'm not perfect :P ), the paint will be block sanded again, small defects will be repaired, and I will let someone who is a GREAT painter finish it - probably in the Spring.
NEXT WEEK I will make an effort to get the car to the upholstery shop for headliner installation, then major work for this year is complete. Over the winter I will do lots of small part prep (interior plastic panels, outside lenses, sill plates, seatbelt restoration, etc., etc.....)
Thanks all!! Exciting to see the light at the end of the tunnel!!
Chris
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I've got the same problem coming up with weather here in Idaho. I'm thinking the propane heater will do it!
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Fortunately I'm in Texas - this weekend we have weather forecasted again Saturday at 75 degrees and Sunday 80 - woohoo! I'll get my painting done :)
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Fortunately I'm in Texas - this weekend we have weather forecasted again Saturday at 75 degrees and Sunday 80 - woohoo! I'll get my painting done :)
Lucky you, I'm in Idaho and it's starting to get cold :(
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It was only about 48 today - we'll have little warmups until Thanksgiving, two months of "cold" (LOL), and then Spring starts. I'm "lucky" because I got laid off in September and I have been BUSTING HUMP trying to get stuff done. Paint this weekend, then off to the upholstery shop to install the new headliner. I'm not EVEN gonna attempt that!!!
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"Lucky"? LOL In a way I guess you are ;)
Well, looking forward to seeing more pictures ya know :D
Other projects give me a LOT of wanting to move forward on mine!
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Well, I'm truly pissed about being laid off, but with the weather PERFECT for the last few weeks, the amount of work I got done was unbelievable. Were it not for the "break" I'd not nearly be as far.
Now, if I can get paint on the passenger quarter, rocker, and door, I'll be a happy camper. I got all of that bodywork done this past weekend (MAN - that quarter was HELL - I probably have 50 hours in it) - I also got insulation up in the roof for headliner installation.
Over the winter I will finish out the dash, install the NOS windshield, and work on a variety of external parts (I gotta start polishing up all of my metal trim and brightwork), order carpet, have custom carpet made for the rear interior, work on the plastic interior panels. Still SO MUCH to do.....
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You're on your way, and honestly I'm glad I'm not the only one who is OCD with the repairs...
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OCD? Ridiculously so!! I knew the day I got the car and pulled the carpets up to discover the hidden rust beneath that I was opening the door to a LONG journey....bec ause I can't leave well enough alone. Seriously! I should have never bought THIS car (paid probably 5x too much), it was mechanically shot, and had so many hidden problems, but "do it right or go home". I committed myself to it....and I'm gonna see it through. The last owner (an elderly lady) knows I am working on it - I told here we'd take it for a drive when it was done. She was excited about it :D
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I got lucky with this one honestly. I'm going to more when the weather gets better but having to do the paint on it and 2 other cars, so little by little on each one :D
You'll love the OCD when the car is painted though :)
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Update for December 4th, 2013
Well, we had high temps of 79 degrees today with a BIG front coming, promising we won't be out of the 30's for a week starting tomorrow evening. This afternoon, I was fortunate enough to pull the car out and get some final sanding done on the roof prior to paint. It will have to wait until our next "warmup". In the meantime, progress will continue as weather allows. I wanted to get the first coat of paint on the whole car this year - got very close :).
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Update 5/6/14
Literally, the years have flown. This car is on the downhill side now of completion, and I'm pretty excited about it - it's hard to believe this all started in the Summer of 2008. Right now (as you'll see if you review the photos), the car has its first guide coat of paint - trust me on this, it looks good but it's nowhere near where it needs to be. Fortunately, paint reveals missed body flaws, and I have a few.
This past weekend I finally painted my roof, while the wind wasn't blowing (rare day in Texas), and in my garage. With this complete, the following things can happen:
1) Headliner installation - the headliner was purchased two years ago, it will go to the shop within the next two weeks.
2) Buy new rubber seals
3) Windshield installation - good Lord, you HAVE to do the headliner before the windshield - augh!!
4) Install rear body panels - being refurbed now
5) Get all stainless and chrome fixed/prepped/refurbed/whatever
I want to get the car in the paint shop this Fall, and drive it next Spring. You know, it's gonna be like a new car when done. My little MPG wagon has had some creature comforts added as well. I've packed it with every NOS part I could find, including an NOS windshield, NOS dash, NOS AM radio and speaker, and NOS faux woodgrain dash trim. Upgrades from stock include adding factory air, an underhood blanket with brackets, power brakes, a rear courtesy lamp housing, and Fatmat throughout.
Getting there - what fun! Enjoy the pictures of the painting being done last weekend.
Chris
http://s1081.photobucket.com/user/popbumper/slideshow/1976%20Pinto%20wagon%20restoration/Roof%20and%20general
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You've painted the whole car with a guide coat? WOW, I need to do that! Never thought of the whole car, I've been doing it in bits and pieces. What a GREAT way to find everything. It looks awesome!!!
Thanks for sharing!!!
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Thanks Dianne - yeah, it's getting there. I'm so happy to see it looking like a car again - it's been a long, hard expensive road - but it's a heck of a lot less than it would have cost to restore something like a Mustang, or a '57 Chevy or such - nothing wrong with them at all (I did a frame-off of a '57 back in the 80's), but I love having something so different and unique!!!
Chris
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Well, you certainly have it :)
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(Update 5/23/14 - well not so much but...)
Dah! I have been putting together a price list for things that remain in the restore. You know, after six years of work on this car it's really added up - but it will be cool to have a "new classic car" for under $10k.....
NEXT: Headliner install $275 plus whatever it costs me to get it there....proba bly over the next two weeks. Just sold off one of my prized bass guitars to fund it. It sat unplayed - it deserves love.....and so does the car
THEN: Buying all new door and windshield seals, and window whisker things ($300)? After that I can install the NOS windshield...
THEN: New condenser for the A/C system - have a new compressor and the evaporator and box are all restored/installed.......
In the meantime I need to finish restoring my interior real wheel well panels, and a variety of other small things.
Getting there.....!! More pics as things continue.
Chris
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"NEXT: Headliner install $275 plus whatever it costs me to get it there....proba bly over the next two weeks. Just sold off one of my prized bass guitars to fund it. It sat unplayed - it deserves love.....and so does the car"
To bad you are so far away, I did my own with a pre-sewn headliner. If you were closer I'd say come over and I would show you how and save you about $150.00. ???
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Now I feel worse because I already bought a presewn headliner a few years back - it's ready to install - the guy is going to charge me $275 JUST to install it.....oy! :o
But THANK YOU for the nice thought, surely I would have enjoyed knowing how to do it myself and working with you :)
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Now I feel worse because I already bought a presewn headliner a few years back - it's ready to install - the guy is going to charge me $275 JUST to install it.....oy! :o
But THANK YOU for the nice thought, surely I would have enjoyed knowing how to do it myself and working with you :)
That seems a tad excessive. You may want to check around, I had mine done in the Galaxie for around the same. It's actually an eight hour job I've been told. I don't know to be honest. But I think you're doing the right thing :)
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Chris,(or anyone else) where did you buy the headliner?
My car came without one, so having my wife make me one isn't going to happen(no pattern to use).
Thanks,
Russ
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Chris,(or anyone else) where did you buy the headliner?
My car came without one, so having my wife make me one isn't going to happen(no pattern to use).
Thanks,
Russ
I get mine on ebay, last one was for the Galaxie and it was perfect :)
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Wow,
I just read all of this from the beginning. I had forgotten I had even participated in this thread a few years ago, even though I posted just a couple of posts ago as well. :-[
Chris, you have really come a long way with this car. ;D Me, I have finally figured out that for me at least I need to concentrate on just one thing at a time or else I end up giving the car away in frustration.
Although going back and seeing all you have done is making me already have plans for my new Pinto. :P
Russ
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Update for August 6th, 2014
Russ, I missed your comment - yeah, I was reflecting today on how far it's really come, it's been a labor of love, no doubt about it. Thanks, and PLEASE DO keep up your own work - it is SO rewarding to make it across the hurdles.
UPDATE: TODAY I took THE HEADLINER plunge, and while like most things, I spent too much, I don't care. I rented a Uhaul pickup and trailer, cost me $102, and then $275 for the installation. BUT MY GOODNESS, the guy did a PRO job, and this WAS a major hurdle to overcome, because now I can get back to installing glass, and then getting the car sanded for the finishing coat.
My enthusiasm is outrageous as I see this car coming together from what it was - a sad hulk - with lots of hidden problems - to a beautifully restored vehicle. Still striving to get it done for Spring of 2015; each event gets me closer. ENJOY THE PICS please:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/u905j10mtmtga3t/AACDMK3N_gm987x7YFiIV-Bqa (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/u905j10mtmtga3t/AACDMK3N_gm987x7YFiIV-Bqa)
REALLY starting to look like a car again :).
Chris
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Wow, it is really getting there. Looking really good.
Russ
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Russ: Sorry, I never answered your question - I bought the headliner presewn from SMS fabrics in Oregon - don't recall the cost but it's was the exact material and color, and cut perfectly for the wagon. You can't go wrong with them.
Chris
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Very nice indeed..
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Chris,
Your dedication, patience, and attention to detail on this project never ceases to amaze me! The wagon is looking great and that headliner is totally awesome! I can't wait to see the finished product!
Dwayne :)
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Thank you all, I'm definitely a proud Pinto owner and I can't wait to share it with everyone when it's complete. I'll keep everyone posted. I promised myself six years ago I'd fight through this project, and it's wonderful to see it come to fruition :).
Chris
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Update for October 22, 2015
Yes, it's been seven years. Yes, the project never stopped - and I'm finally getting my '76 MPG wagon ready for paint. Block sanding is God's answer to the argument "gee I'm bored - what can I do that will take forever?" LOL. Anyways, I have been, over the last year, not only collecting as many NOS parts as I can find but also prepping the body for paint. I hope to get it in ONE COLOR of primer NEXT WEEK before we get colder - of course in Texas, it's reasonably warm until Thanksgiving.
There's so much to say here, I'm way behind - but this car WILL be like brand new when I'm done. Waiting in the wings I have the following parts to install:
1) NOS bumpers
2) NOS grille and lamp housings
3) NOS rock guards
4) NOS chrome headlamp surrounds
5) NOS door handles
6) NOS rocker panel mouldings
7) NOS wheel well trim
8) NOS tail lamp housings
With the headliner FINALLY installed, and a new windshield in, it's bodywork/paint/reassemble. OH! And I have an 8" rear end out at the mechanic, gonna replace the 6.75" unit in case I ever up my power. I have 3.18 gearing now, going to 3.4, no biggie.
What have I ADDED to this wagon, from how I purchased it?
1) Factory AC pulled from a '74 hunk and completely restored (just bought an NOS condenser :))
2) Power brakes (it's a four speed manual, but I liked the feel of the power brakes)
3) Cushioning under the hood (including the crossbars to hold it in place)
Other NOS parts I have already added, or things done:
1) Power brake booster
2) MPG transfers (after paint)
3) Entirely rebuilt suspension, now working on rear suspension (have new leaf springs sitting waiting)
4) Entirely rebuilt dashboard, pulled, sandblasted, repainted, NOS cap, NOS speaker and bezel kit, NOS dash trim, NOS AC/Heater controls
5) Floor fully "fatmatted"
6) Gas tank removed, patched (welded), flushed, lined, painted, NOS sending unit
7) NOS horn cap (to be installed)
8) New headliner
9) New windshield
10) All trim buffed and polished (to be installed)
11) Motor and tranny removed and refurbed, new starter, alternator, solenoid, battery, regulator, water pump
12) NOS battery tray
13) NEW steering hardware
14) Interior trim repainted
15) New undercoating
16) All connector (bulb terminations) replaced; all wires reloomed
17) NOS right inner fender welded in (old one was DESTROYED from battery corrosion)
18) New firewall padding
19) Laser cut door panels (mine are all warped, I'm gonna redraw them in AutoCAD then have them cut
Yeah, that's about all I can think of. Anyways, here's a few pics of me nitpicking the heck outta the body. Man, I'm working SO hard to make this body perfect. Enjoy! I'll try to stay in touch more often. (SORRY FOR THE PICS - DONT KNOW WHY THEY WENT VERTICAL).
PS - RENEWED MY MEMBERSHIP HERE TOO :)
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It looks good :D
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It's coming along good..
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It's coming along good..
Yes, indeed! Finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, eh? Fantastic work!
Dwayne :)
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That's going to be a very nicely done pinto , 👍
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Update for February 21st, 2016 (don't know why pics posted SIDEWAYS and UPSIDE DOWN) - I put them in correctly
Hi guys/gals:
I could not POSSIBLY tell you everything that has happened with my car to this point, but after eight years it's on its way to being completed. I will drop a few pics here to show you current state. A couple of important notes of things that I have found that will be added to this car:
1) Have since purchased NOS bumpers, AC condenser, stone shields, wheel well trim, front parking lamps, door handles, and one rocker molding
2) Have installed headliner and a new windshield
3) Busted HUMP on the body and finally got it straight - have three coats of EPOXY primer on it now
4) Have restored an 8" rear end from a hatchback, completely ripped down, sandblasted, have repainted with POR-15 chassis black, need to reassemble then install (replacing the stock 6.75" rear)
5) Also have new rear springs, bolts, shackles, shocks - the entire suspension will be new once these parts are in
Getting excited. Need to start sanding body (hood and fenders are in another room, they are also primered); gonna build me a temp paint booth and do it all in urethane.
Stay tuned :)
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One more post with a few more shots.....actu ally when I was working on it prior to the shots above (I sprayed an enamel guide coat to help with bodywork, then put on epoxy primer)....
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Lookin good.
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Lookin good.
INDEED!!!
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Update for March 16th, 2016 (aka when the %&^* is this car gonna get finished)? :)
Just a little something I picked up recently to "garnish" the car when I finally finish paint. Yes, the two without tires are NOS 5.5" four lug Cragar rims with caps. The ones WITH tires have new B60-13's, are used 7" rims, and are in beautiful shape. Good Lord who knew I'd be able to find NOS Cragars in 2016? I HAD to have them. And the car will have that classic "70's rake" with A70's in the front and B60's in the rear. CAN'T WAIT!!!
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Love them Cragars....
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Update for June 20th, 2016
Apologies again for my lax efforts to post, it's because of too much going on, waiting on lawyers to finalize my divorce, moving stuff, ughhh. Anyways enough about my personal issues, please enjoy these photos of my 6.75" to 8" rear end swapout including all new springs, shackles, UBOLTS, brake line, etc. I even have classic Cragar S/S wheels now, one pic is of the B60-13's on the back. Enjoy. Eight years people - I'm down to needing a new exhaust system, front end alignment, install my A/C hardware, paint, and interior. Everything else is DONE. What a LOT of work.
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Here's some more......
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FOOTNOTE: It was a big job, but my buddy Rob (whom without this car would NEVER have gotten this far) and I whipped all of this in about four hours, It was LOVELY to see that beautiful *' rear end go under there, and all the associated hardware. All that's left under the car to do is the exhaust system - EVERYTHING ELSE has been restored or replaced or rebuilt new. So exciting.
Still more work but Texas summer heat, and a divorce to get through. Car will be stored until Fall when I can work on it again; trying to get myself reestablished so I can have a place to live, job, you know - all that CRAP> This car WILL be finished if it's the last thing I do. I've put too much time, effort, and money into it to get it this far. More pics soon.
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Nothing says "retro" like Cragers. Gotta love them. Nice work..er job...er fun?
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Chris,
You have invested a phenomenal amount of time, energy, and money into this project and, believe me, it shows! Keep up the good work!
Dwayne :)
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Chris,
You have invested a phenomenal amount of time, energy, and money into this project and, believe me, it shows! Keep up the good work!
Dwayne :)
X2, looks great..
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Hi guys!
Been a hell of a long time - nearly a year and a half since posting. Things have changed substantially, hence my disappearing act. Was divorced in August of 2016. After years of engineering experience, moved out to work in an Auto Parts store, then a gameroom supply house. In February of 2017, received an email from a contractor to work in Seattle at Microsoft in the XBOX group - to which of course, I said HELL YES!
Have been in the Seattle area since. Absolutely LOVE it here, but my contract ends this June. My car still sits, unfinished, in my former home (thanks to my very kind former spouse), but she wants it moved - SOON. All of my STUFF is in a packed storage garage in Dallas, including all my NOS parts to finish the car.
I am seeking full time employment in either Washington or Texas, and the future of the car remains unsettled. I had never dared thought to sell it, and still don't want to, but push MAY come to shove, which would make me sick, as this would be the SECOND car I've "nearly restored" then let go of.
At any rate, I hope everyone here is well and still working on their projects. I won't have any updates to the restoration anytime soon, but, I wanted to stop and say hello. IF I decide to sell the car, I will let everyone here know about it.
Blessings, all!
Chris
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Welcome back, Chris! It's good to hear from you again!
Divorce can wreck all kinds of plans, but it sounds like you've weathered the storm fairly well. Hope it works out that you won't have to part ways with your wagon. You've done SO much work on it, I know you want to see it through to completion!
Take care and stay in touch!
Dwayne :)
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Thank you Dwayne, and very nice to see you again! I absolutely wish to continue on this car, it's been almost ten years since I purchased it, and I wish it to be completed. Thanks for the continued interest, and I do hope the logistics will allow me to continue. All the best!
Chris :)
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Welcome back Chris!!!! Glad to see you still have your Pinto. Please start up your posts again. We really need them again.
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Chris , I knew we were missing something, I couldn't find the motivation that you've shown on the restoration and It's had me in a constant state of amazement :o Sorry to hear your circumstances caused so much disruption.. Great to hear that you still have the car and pieces to finish it. ;D Keeps me hopeful that My 72 will roll out of storage within the year, ( Employment dependent , of course)
I have faith that you'll find this course correction in living to your benefit.. :)
Welcome back to the Ranch..
Pintosopher
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Dick, Pintosopher, it sure is good to connect with you guys again! As I get settled I'll get back on this gem, I MUST finish it!!
Last time I was in Texas (May of last year), I took the car out for a drive around the neighborhood. LOL - no lights or markers/turn signals, no seat belt, no gauges, no bumpers, no windows except for the windshield.... and she ran GREAT! A neighbor (formerly unknown) down the street was in his front year and flagged me down, had me pull the car around the back of his house - he was blown away at the restoration and the detail level I had gone to. He couldn't believe he was seeing a Pinto!!
Here in Seattle, I visited a number of car shows lat Summer - NO Pintos!! Can't wait to show mine off :). There is, however, just down the street from Microsoft, a home that has a blue Pinto wagon sitting in the driveway. I've been intending on stopping by and introducing myself/finding out more about the car. Geeze I LOVE seeing these cars!!!
Thanks again guys - have missed being here.
Chris
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Chris, GREAT to hear from you!
Sad about some stuff yet glad things are looking up for you now.
Any chance of them extending your contract, or even better just hiring you?
I really truly hope you can figure out a way to keep the Pinto. You've gone through so much with it I bet it has become a real part of you and there would be a huge hole if it has to go.
I understand all too well about life getting in the way. I had to park my Ranchero almost 2 years ago. Was making good progress getting it back on the road and then I had a major health issue pop up Oct 2016. Ended up having triple bypass surgery in Dec of 2016. That killed a good job I had just started. As well as ANY working on cars for a good while. So even though I started feeling better, with no employment I couldn't really afford to do anything other than some minor puttering. But I have just recently gotten a real job with benefits and more money than I have ever made in my life and am hoping to get serious on the Ranchero soon. My health is still sucky, I get tired way too easily. But I will get back into this game. I just need to learn to be patient with myself, lack of it is my biggest fault.
Hoping to get the Ranchero out of the way by the end of this year so I can move the Pinto back and start on it again.
Russ
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Thank you so much for checking in Russ, I'm glad to hear that you got through your own issues and are healthy again, and that you have a great job. I am looking at two different job opportunities right now, we'll see how they bubble up in a short time - will advise when I know more. I definitely intend to keep my car, it would be a very big oss for me given the time and love I've invested in it.
Appreciate seeing you again! More soon! Be well, my friend!
Chris
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Glad to hear from you again. Hope you are able to get back to the pinto.
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Chris,
Any updates car or job?
Did you notice I have gone totally insane?
Russ
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Thanks for asking, Russ.
I have been verbally offered a permanent position at Microsoft, the background check is underway, but I've not yet had my formal offer letter. It's been ten weeks since I started this process, and it's been harrowing. It's GREAT news, but not perfected until the signature has been laid down, and the ink has dried. I've never been through such a painful hiring process.
The car sits alone, unattended, in a storage garage in Dallas. It had been at my former home, but required being moved, even though I credit my former wife for allowing me to store it in her garage for a year. Now it costs me $142/month to store it. I plan to bring it here and finish it once everything is squared away. More unnervingly, my buddy Rob in Dallas, who was instrumental in helping with "all things mechanical"on the car, will no longer be available to assist me. I need a new, skilled Pinto friend in Washington, and quick!
Since I, too, have gone totally insane, I have not noticed that you have. Sorry! ;)
Chris
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Send a note to Tigger as he lives up there in the NW. Knows all about Pintos and has spare parts too. Glad your back ( I hope ) Chris. I moved out of Texas to NW Arkansas and have never looked back. Been here 18 years now. No other Pintos here but lots of street rods. If things don't work out up in the NW try Bell Helicopter back in Texas. They hired me at 71 years old. So much for age hurts getting a job. Only thing that matters is what you have to offer a new employer. I was a metrology tech with over 30 years on the job. Bell hired me on the first interview. Keep us up dated on what's going on up north. ~~~Dick
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Dick:[/size] Thanks for all the info and well wishes, I'll be sure to send a note to Tigger. :)
Chris