PINTO CAR CLUB of AMERICA

Shiny is Good! => Your Project => Topic started by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 05:55:44 PM

Title: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 05:55:44 PM
OK, take two. first attempt didn't work.

I just got my new to me Pinto.
$500 and right now I am wishing I hadn't of bought it. But I will explain that later.

It is pretty complete, but the seller had told me they had the transmission in their shop and it turns out they don't. Didn't find this out until after the car was delivered. Called the guy to ask where it was and he just said he made a mistake, thought they had it but didn't. No apology, no offer to give me any money back. This will put a big kink in my plans. Transmission is not in the budget.

Needs entire interior. Been sitting in the Phoenix sun for too long. I knew that of course. Dash stuff is all there I think, between what is in the back of the car and still attached. Rear seat doesn't look horrible, probably not used much.

Engine. According to the vin, should have been a 2.0. It's a 2.3 that hasn't been completely converted. Missing the passenger side frame mount, and I don't know if the driver's side is 2.0 or 2.3. The car has been converted to electronic ignition. Ford, not aftermarket. I don't know if that was finished or not yet, need to pop the distributor cap to see. But I imagine they did it when they put this engine in. No carb. At least I didn't see one anywhere, but I wasn't looking for one.
Being a 2.3 is actually a good thing I think. Seems there are still lots of parts available for those.  But again, just another surprise.

Body. Here is the bad news. I had thought it was untouched. On closer look I could see that the driver's fender was replaced. It has primer on it, blended in with the rest of the body. However, there is a huge split on the driver's side inner fender well(doghouse) just above where the engine frame mount attaches. Probably 3 inches in length. That I can see that is. Could be more hidden.  >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
I was so concerned about rust I didn't even think about something like this.  :-[

I had more to add, but since I lost the first post attempt I will do that later on.

Russ

Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on July 02, 2014, 07:02:24 PM
Might not be too bad. You'll know when you get that fender off I guess and look.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 07:29:05 PM
yeah, but that wasn't really part of my plans. Main problem with this is I am not a welder.

I haven't shown that to my wife yet. I have a bad history of buying cars with hidden problems and don't need an "I told you so" right now. She is already upset about the lack of a transmission. I mean so am I, but she doesn't understand that I can't just go back to the seller and say I want my money back.

Russ

 
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 07:33:35 PM
Let's see if I can add more pictures. Been having a problem with resizing them. I think I got that fixed this time.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 07:35:30 PM
goody, that worked. 8)
here are some more.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 07:51:36 PM
and more. I have about 20 total for now.
If I duplicate any I apologize.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 07:53:24 PM
more.
BTW, what would have been attached to the top of the hatch/gate where the screw holes are in the first two pictures?
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 07:55:53 PM
and  the last for now.

Oh, I checked and I do have an electronic distributor. So far I am about breaking even on what I was going to add but already have and what I didn't want to have to do but will.  :-\

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: bbobcat75 on July 02, 2014, 08:55:40 PM
have the perfect seats for that wagon - deluxe olive two tone seats in great shape!! but they are in Omaha Nebraska!
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 09:46:25 PM
Thanks, but right now I don't even know what color it is going to end up being. :-)
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 09:48:11 PM
got some more pictures.
I hope the mount in the second picture is the one for the passenger side.
and then there is the key that won't come out.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 09:50:22 PM
more.
headliner, who needs a headliner? ;D
The driver side interior panel has a couple of decent sized holes over the tire. Shouldn't be too hard to fix.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 09:53:28 PM
yet more. Getting annoying yet? ::)
and then there is this one without a key.
The driver's side pop out window works. Haven't gotten inside the passenger side yet.
 
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 09:56:35 PM
more, isn't this nut done yet?
the second picture shows even more damage on the inner fender well. This has been welded.

last two show the electronic ignition. will have to look at the wiring later on.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 09:59:55 PM
this ought to be enough.
hey, nice hood prop.
the battery tray area looks good.
Did aluminum intakes come stock on a Ranger or Mustang with the 2.3? It is a Ford intake for sure, at least it has the Ford name and numbers on it.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 02, 2014, 10:12:04 PM
BTW, what would have been attached to the top of the hatch/gate where the screw holes are in the first two pictures?
Thanks,
Russ
Russ, this is what was on the there..

(http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b131/GoFastRacer/74%20Pinto%20Wagon/FILE0160_zps4b60a2c9.jpg)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 02, 2014, 10:14:52 PM
Did aluminum intakes come stock on a Ranger or Mustang with the 2.3? It is a Ford intake for sure, at least it has the Ford name and numbers on it.
Yes they did, I have one on mine also.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 10:26:15 PM
Thanks.
Guess that will be something to add to the wanted list.
Just had the car in my possession for what, 5 hours and that list is already longer than I had wanted.
Oh, well. If things went easily I'd have to wonder why. :-)
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 02, 2014, 10:28:58 PM
You gonna change that intake??, may as well go with a lower EFI intake that's what I'm doing.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 11:23:26 PM
Frankly, I don't have a clue what you are talking about.  :-[ I don't know bleep about these engines. Guess it is time to learn. Most of my engine knowledge is V8 stuff from the muscle car era.
I need a Ford 2.3L engines for Dummies book.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 02, 2014, 11:34:01 PM
I just realized that I need to go back to Summit Racing's site. I looked last night, but had thought the car had the 2.0. Have to see what all they have for a 2.3 now. Might as well fill up my wish list there.
This is something I will really miss. Summit Racing was easily within driving distance for me while I lived in Ohio.  Talking 20 minutes or so. That and the Pinto meet coming up along the Lake Erie coast this summer.  :(
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 02, 2014, 11:57:57 PM
Frankly, I don't have a clue what you are talking about.  :-[ I don't know bleep about these engines. Guess it is time to learn. Most of my engine knowledge is V8 stuff from the muscle car era.
I need a Ford 2.3L engines for Dummies book.
Russ
Don't feel bad until I got this Pinto I didn't know squat about these motors either, LOL, but I've learned a whole $h!tload since I came here and they are really very simple. I've always been into the V8's myself, bigger the better and still am really..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 03, 2014, 12:03:27 AM
Well, I just learned that these things have timing belts!
see, I am really lost.
Oh well, back to the Summit site. See what else I can find out.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 03, 2014, 12:39:35 AM
Hang in there, Russ!  Parts availability for the 2.3L is definitely better than for the 2.0 so that's a good thing.  It's probably safe to say that the project will take a bit longer and cost a bit more than anticipated, but it will be worth it in the long run.  That's really a shame about the transmission.. . the seller should have discounted for that since he told you it was there!  Pinto parts are relatively inexpensive compared to some cars, so shop carefully and patiently and it will all work out in the end.  Don't forget... lots of folks here have parts available. 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 03, 2014, 01:25:55 AM
Of course they do. When I don't have the money.  ;D

Yeah, going to take a bit longer than I had hoped, that is for sure.

Now the hard part is going to be finding time  to work on it. I tend to like to do things
around this time of night, but unfortunately the side of the house the Pinto is on is about
10 feet from the neighbor's master bedroom. And they seem to go to bed pretty early. Can't really
do anything noisy. Even dropping a wrench would be bad. Whoever designed this neighborhood did
a lousy job. Should have been driveway to driveway, bedroom to bedroom. Oh well, beggars can't be
choosers.

I am not handling this heat as well as I used to. Maybe I can get used to it again. Have to see what all
I can do without having to lay on the hot concrete. That I probably will never be able to do much of anymore.  :(

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: amc49 on July 03, 2014, 01:55:26 AM
The starter shown in earlier pic appears to be an early direct drive one with the bump on the side. You can probably tell which head is on the car by looking inside the intake plenum where the four intake runners begin, if bottom of port is flat then D-port head and '82 and later. Provided some person didn't mismatch intake to head too.

I feel your pain with the heat as well, it's slowing me down from working on things as well. At least I can work at night when I'm motivated enough.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 03, 2014, 02:18:11 AM
Thanks!
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Reeves1 on July 03, 2014, 06:14:29 AM
Weird crack in the inner fender.
You will need to have a close look at the frame rail.......


FYI.....it's going to take you tons of time & money to get this car back on the road.
Mine started with a "simple" engine/trans change.......a nd is now in the 3rd year !
I hope for a good / half good year, so the body work can be done this winter........ taking me into the 4th year !
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 04, 2014, 02:20:55 PM
I got a better look at the crack this morning. It LOOKS like it is only the upper sheet metal, not the frame rail itself. The frame mount there isn't completely bolted on, and I could see about an inch behind it, and no sign of any damage. Course there could be some further forward, won't know for sure until I can get that mount off.

I tried to get the passenger door open, no luck. The lock isn't working right, I think there is something bent or maybe disconnected inside the door. I wasn't in the mood to really crawl in the car and mess with it, so other than spraying with WD-40 I just left it for now. And I just noticed that there are no inside door handles. another thing to add to the list.

I gathered up all of my leftover parts from the Lemans project. Universal aluminum radiator, Lincoln MKVII electric radiator fan (which fits perfectly on the radiator) Mad Electrical wiring kit(relays and stuff), old school chrome 3 spoke steering wheel with soft black grip(had this on my other Pinto) and adapter kit, electric fuel pump and canister style filter(both used, not sure if the pump needs rebuilt), steel box trunk mount battery kit(no trunk though. I might use the box in the stock location. not sure right now. Hate to waste it, even on clearance from Summit it was expensive.). Also have a brand new never used dial back timing light from Summit.

The radiator might be overkill, but living in Phoenix I'd rather do that anyway. Will mean having to figure out what size hoses to use, but that isn't a big deal.  Getting one of the sales drones at the parts store to sell it to me might be the hard part.  ::)

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 04, 2014, 03:52:17 PM
Well, I finally got up the energy to go look under the car at the rear end. Getting down is hard, getting up is even harder. :-[
Was hoping I would get lucky and it would be an 8inch, but nope, it's the 6.75.
Oh, well, something else to buy later on.
There is one for sale here locally, but the guy wants $150. I could maybe do $20. Not going to make an offer.  ;D

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 04, 2014, 05:21:19 PM
I managed to get the front seats out. It was actually easy. It is really nice working on a car that doesn't have everything rusted. Didn't even have to use a breaker bar. Just a regular socket. Putting the seats in the cargo area was the hardest part.

Got a really good look underneath. Looks really clean and solid. Yay!

Bad news is that was all I could stand to do right now. Got to work up slowly to working out in the heat again. Would help if we had ac that was working, but that won't be til Monday. Thank God for sugar-free popsicles.  ;D

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: r4pinto on July 04, 2014, 07:47:38 PM
I just realized that I need to go back to Summit Racing's site. I looked last night, but had thought the car had the 2.0. Have to see what all they have for a 2.3 now. Might as well fill up my wish list there.
This is something I will really miss. Summit Racing was easily within driving distance for me while I lived in Ohio.  Talking 20 minutes or so. That and the Pinto meet coming up along the Lake Erie coast this summer.  :(
Russ

There is a way to fix that.... Come back to the Scarlet & Gray side lol. Ohio born & raised & won't leave, no matter how much I complain about the inconsistent weather & rust buckets around here.  ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 04, 2014, 11:20:07 PM
Well, I am Ohio born, raised there til I was 10 . Then we moved here to Phoenix. Always wanted to go back, did finally, and it just didn't work out. Tried for 8 years.  :(
My wife hated coming back here, can't say I blame her.
Of course now I can't get a job here, either. Maybe it IS me.  :-\
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on July 05, 2014, 10:56:57 AM
Well, I am Ohio born, raised there til I was 10 . Then we moved here to Phoenix. Always wanted to go back, did finally, and it just didn't work out. Tried for 8 years.  :(
My wife hated coming back here, can't say I blame her.
Of course now I can't get a job here, either. Maybe it IS me.  :-\
Russ

Not you, as the feds promote the fact that unemployment dropped to 6.1, they never mention the number of people that fell off the rolls and gave up looking for work. Just keep plugging away until you find something. Use Craigslist, the department of employment and so on. That's what you'll need to do is all. Just keep trying and don't give up. There are also apprenticeship programs if you need to be retrained in some other field. I don't know about Ohio, but Montana and Kentucky actually have programs around that will allow that.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 05, 2014, 11:28:04 AM
All you have to do is get to know someone and you're in..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dick1172762 on July 05, 2014, 12:47:36 PM
NETWORKING is what you need to do. That's the only way to get a job any more. Get someone to work on your resume to show what key words you should have on it, so the computer at job XYZ will pick it out and send it to a real person to look at. The days of the boss looking at all the resume's is long gone.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on July 05, 2014, 05:35:57 PM
NETWORKING is what you need to do. That's the only way to get a job any more. Get someone to work on your resume to show what key words you should have on it, so the computer at job XYZ will pick it out and send it to a real person to look at. The days of the boss looking at all the resume's is long gone.

I actually review them all Dick and then I review everyone that looks like it has the right qualification. We're still a small and growing company though. He should send a resume and follow-up with a call. That's gets the most attention from me depending on the position :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 06, 2014, 11:12:46 PM
NETWORKING is what you need to do. That's the only way to get a job any more. Get someone to work on your resume to show what key words you should have on it, so the computer at job XYZ will pick it out and send it to a real person to look at. The days of the boss looking at all the resume's is long gone.

My brother redid my resume. He is President/CEO of a fairly small startup company and he deals with tons of resumes. Got it down from 3 pages to 1 and a half. Been having better results since then, but I blew a couple three interviews. So he has coached me on my more problem areas. I am not a people person per se. And definitely not a sales type. And that is the problem, you have to be a salesman at the interview. So I am learning to be "creative" about certain questions that are always asked. Give the expected answer, and not what I really feel. Bleah >:( :( :-[

I used to be able to just count on my technical skills to get me the job, that isn't working anymore.

The other issue is I think I am just too "experienced". 20 years as a tech, and I didn't start until I was about 34ish. Although that last part isn't on the resume.  ;D I am not THAT stupid. I have always been a production type tech, which means fixing bad boards from assembly mostly. Most people with my years of experience have more engineering type backgrounds, so for more experienced jobs I am competing with techs more knowledgable in designing things. And at the other end of the spectrum I am competing with much lower experienced people, and hiring types think I want too much money for those jobs, although I don't, and if I did get the job I would be looking to leave asap, which again I don't want to do. At my age I just want to find a place that I can be productive at, make a livable wage, and hopefully stay at until retirement, which at the rate I am saving will be a lot past 65.

Hell, I would just start over as far as a career goes, but there I can't afford to live on like $9-12 an hour, and most places won't even consider someone older anyway.

Something had better come up soon, I am going nuts.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 06, 2014, 11:24:13 PM
I actually review them all Dick and then I review everyone that looks like it has the right qualification. We're still a small and growing company though. He should send a resume and follow-up with a call. That's gets the most attention from me depending on the position :)

Dianne,
The main thing I am dealing with is almost all of the companies here are using temp agencies. A lot of companies won't even hire you on direct later, all they want are temps. So I have to deal with temp agencies. Don't get a name for the company until I get an interview.
Even then, finding the person to call at the agency isn't easy. Most agencies don't even list the recruiter's name in the ad. Or pay or anything else other than the basic job description. And it must be working, they are just about all doing things that way. And they don't even reply to me at all if I had an interview but don't get the job. Or even if they tell me they are submitting my resume for review, I never get a reply unless the hiring company wants to interview me. Seems these people just can't be bothered with what we used to consider common decency.

Could I possibly do some calling and digging and find out more? Maybe, but that just isn't me. Like I said in the other reply, I have always been able to rely on my technical skills to get the job in the past. So maybe I am just a relic from the past now myself. I remember my dad always telling me years ago to " go door to door asking for a job". Guess my job hunting skills are as dated now as his were then.  :(

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 06, 2014, 11:30:04 PM
All you have to do is get to know someone and you're in..

Not always the case. I had an interview just over a week ago with a company where a former supervisor of mine works as a Product Manager. We always seemed to work well together, he tended to be the type to always come up and ask about meeting deadlines, but with me he stopped doing that because I had shown him that I could be relied on to do what I said I would do without having to be harassed about it, and do it right. Well, I didn't get that job either. He didn't even know they were interviewing me, and when he found out he said that they didn't get him involved in hiring but wished me good luck. He was on vacation the whole time anyway. I had mentioned knowing him and how, and the hr person couldn't even take the time to email or call him to see if I was a good candidate.

Seems like unless your network connection owns/runs the company it doesn't matter anymore.

Oh, well. At least I gave the "proper/standard" answers this time. So it was a good practice session anyway.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 06, 2014, 11:38:17 PM
Back to Pinto stuff.
I am looking for stuff I can do right now for no money. Not really wanting to just tear the car apart either. I asked a few questions along this line in the General Help section. Pushing the bumpers in, removing the cowl to clean up surface rust under it (if it isn't welded that is).
I have everything but the actual wire to work on the wiring (soldering iron, solder, relays, etc)(plan is to improve the wiring, not just restore). I would also need a battery though, will have to see if maybe I can find a used on for like $5 at a Goodwill or something, to use to see if lights work, etc. I do have a battery charger, maybe that would work without the battery. Just don't want to kill myself. (well, wait a minute. Accidental electrocution. Hmmm)(oops, no life insurance, scratch that)

Looking for any other ideas as well. Since I can't really spend any money on this, stuff like body work is probably out of the question right now.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 07, 2014, 02:32:09 AM
I came up with an idea of how to mount the battery using the trunk mounted battery kit I have. You may not want to know what I have thought of though. It would not be open to the interior of the car, or visible either, however. Not after I am done that is.  ;D (there needs to be a devil emoticon)
I have to do some investigating to see if the place I have in mind will be large enough.
Remember, this is going to be more of a restomod than a straight resto.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on July 07, 2014, 06:41:15 AM
OK, I don't get why all the temp agencies unless the companies are trying to keep under 50 employees so they don't have to do the Obamacare stuff. But keep plugging and check Craigslist and the papers. If the state has an online employee service, use that also. In Idaho, they have all kinds of resources for employees, call and see if they have any of those :)

Well good luck and back to the Pinto!
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 07, 2014, 01:05:26 PM
AZ does have an online resource. Problem is that all the jobs they have already show up from my search.
I guess the days are long gone where the state unemployment office had exclusive jobs.

As far as the Obama care stuff, most of the companies I have applied to are pretty large national companies. Just better for the stock holders not to have to lay off people. Getting rid of temp employees doesn't count as far as a reduction goes, so no hit to stock prices.  :(
Not too many small local only companies in this field.
Thanks.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on July 07, 2014, 01:23:58 PM
I just use temp agencies when I'm behind here for assembly work, otherwise I steer clear. It's actually pretty expensive on the markups on temp workers. Believe it or not, I do do insurance for my employees.

I hope you find a job though :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: chrisf1219 on July 07, 2014, 01:54:11 PM
russ I have been a truck driver since 1975 and found it real hard to find a good job that paid anything.most companies wanted to pay a wage that I was making at 1980 or so.i worked a temp agency for a year and then retired at age 63.if your close to sixty or so nobody wants you cause your too close to retirement age.i found I can retire and not work and make more that trying to work all week.that said good luck on your job search.  chris
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 07, 2014, 03:08:50 PM
Thanks. I wish I could retire, but I have absolutely zero in savings. Used up my meager 401k last fall to pay bills when I got laid off.
Most people think I am in my forties when they see me, so I am hoping I can avoid dating myself at an interview. But I know I have been a victim of ageism in the last few months. Problem is when there are thousands of people applying for a job, it is impossible to prove.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 07, 2014, 03:12:54 PM
Back to the Pinto.
I did some investigating and found out that the location I had wanted to put the battery in won't work without major mods. I am still considering it, but I haven't had the chance yet to do the serious checking out to see if it is even feasible.
Way too hot out right now to be crawling in and under a car. Which is too bad, I have some other stuff that I would like to get going on.
Russ
Title: well, that was fun. If you like S&M
Post by: russosborne on July 07, 2014, 08:57:34 PM
Went out to put a couple of quality hours into the Pinto. I got the front bumper off pretty easily, in prep for doing the bumper move in.

So I decided to see how my radiator fits. Short of major surgery on structural stuff, it doesn't. And even if somehow I managed to make it fit, the electric fan won't. I ended up taking all the hood latch stuff off, and the panel that runs across the bottom of the grille area too. Waste of time, for now anyway. Just have to put it back on tomorrow so I don't lose anything.

Now I will have to find a radiator that will fit and be an improvement. Someday, that is, when I have money to spend. Really was hoping I could do at least this with stuff I already have.  :(

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 08, 2014, 01:03:11 AM
here's a couple pictures. I didn't even think to take any of the fan, I was(and still am) really bummed about this situation. If the new radiator was only an inch and a half narrower, it might have been able to fit. But the fan never would have, it is thicker than the radiator.
The last one is of one of our girls, Molly. Just happened to catch the corner of the Pinto.

edit, that last one reminds me. When I took off that side's headlight bezel(had to, to remove the rubber thingie on that side only, maybe a result of the accident damage?)I noticed that it is split on one corner. But there is a good one that was in the trunk.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on July 08, 2014, 08:07:37 AM
Lookin' good Russ!!!
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 08, 2014, 08:08:08 AM
I got this one from the Zone, it's an AC unit  bolted right in no mods needed..

(http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b131/GoFastRacer/74%20Pinto%20Wagon/RadiatorInstalled.jpg?t=1371577891)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Pinto5.0 on July 08, 2014, 03:33:45 PM
I'm not a people person either. It's why I drove delivery trucks from age 18 & got my CDL at 23. I've never been out of work & never made less than 44K a year since 1990.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 08, 2014, 04:23:25 PM
So is the size difference on the radiator whether it has AC or not? The one that came with the car has the plate on one side to fill up the hole. I was wondering if that was the case or if it was since the original engine was a 2.0l.

I'll have to look and see what sort of aluminum radiators are available also. Living here in Phoenix most of my life I've had my share of overheating issues, and eventually this car will be my daily driver. I want the cooling system to be the best it can be. Especially since the car WILL have AC at some point.  ;D

This is one of those where since I am going to have to buy one anyway, I want it to be the best, even if for now it is overkill. I don't want to have to buy another one down the road after doing any upgrades.

I've got to run. Wife wants to go eat and do the grocery shopping. I would rather stay inside and enjoy our new AC. 8)

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 09, 2014, 12:40:50 AM
Well, I spent a whole $20 on the Pinto. First purchase for it.
Some of you may think I am nuts.
I bought a fuse box for it from a 1989 Toyota truck. Pictures below.
I really prefer this type of fuse, and I need to move the fuse box anyway, the stock location is just too hard for me to get to easily.
I am not sure yet about location. Thinking under the dash maybe, but have it on a plate that is hinged and comes down for easy access. I need to look around and see what will work the best for me.

Wiring is easy to me and I enjoy doing it, so I am going to mainly concentrate on doing that stuff for now. Along with the bumper moves. All I might need to buy for the electrical is maybe some solder, if I can't find mine. And possibly a little wire, depending on how good or bad the harnesses are on the Pinto.

Tonight I need to see if I can find the wiring diagram online for an 89 Toyota truck.
No, I don't know the model. That would be too easy.
And I will likely end up cutting off all of the harness attached to the new box except for about 12 inches, depending on where I am going to mount it. But I will check first just in case any of the connectors on it will work on the Pinto. But I am not expecting any of them to.

So tomorrow I look for a new fuse box location, pull the harness off, and clean off my modeling table in the house so I have a place to work on it. I do not enjoy trying to solder wires while under the dash.  ;D

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 09, 2014, 02:16:09 AM
Well, after much searching, learning more about Toyota trucks than I ever wanted to, wailing, and gnashing of teeth I finally found the diagram online. Only Toyota didn't bother putting the wire colors on it. So I will still have to trace them out manually with my meter. Not a huge deal, just takes time. But the diagram is still very useful to me.

If anyone here happens to have an 89-93ish Toyota truck and wants the link to a free online factory service manual let me know. Supposedly those years(may have been up to 95?) are basically the same. At least according to the Toyota experts.  ;D

Oh, thought I should add this. If anyone is interested in automotive electrical, especially about improving the older cars systems, I highly recommend going to this site and reading the info given in both the catalog and the tech sections. It is very good information.
http://www.madelectrical.com/ (http://www.madelectrical.com/)
I am going to be using a lot of his stuff in redoing the Wagon's electrical. It originally was bought for my Lemans project, but there was no way I was going to give this stuff away.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 10, 2014, 01:37:07 AM
I must be an idiot. Or a masochist. Or both. :-\

Ford hardwired the dash harness to the fuse box.  >:( >:( >:(

So I will end up doing some soldering in the car afterall. I am not going to remove that harness. What I will have to do is to cut it at the stock fuse box, and then I will get an inline connector for it to attach to the new box. Which is what Ford should have done in the first place. But why make things simple to service? ::)

Yes, I am going to have to do this. After finding the above I seriously considered not doing it, but I could barely get to the fuse box tonight with the front seats out of the car. Got to put the new one somewhere I can actually get to without removing part of the car. Thinking maybe the engine compartment. I would have to come up with a shield of some sort, ought to be able to come up with a plastic cover or even a metal one. Finding the right spot will not be a quick decision, going to have to sleep on it.

I should have read the manual first. I took the engine compartment harness out backwards. I still have to disconnect the stop light switch. Why that is part of the engine compartment harness beats me.

And the car is officially mine. It drew first blood tonight. It's never my car until I bleed for it.

Oh, and I found out that I will need either a new instrument cluster housing or will have to make one. It crumbles to the touch. Extreme crumbling.  :( Wish I had kept the gauge set I had for the Lemans. Had full gauges plus speedo and tach. But my wife keeps telling me hindsight is 20-20 and not to kick myself for past decisions that seemed right at the time. sigh.

Well, break time is over. Back to the Pinto. Even with the frustrations and disappointment s, I am enjoying working on it.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 10, 2014, 03:04:47 AM
Lesson learned ( I hope ). :-\
My eyes are not a tape measure. Used to be close, but not anymore.
Either the Pinto is smaller than I thought, the new fuse box is bigger, or most likely both.
And the fuse box is kind of ugly for that matter.  :P
I have a hidden place idea for it, but in the long run I probably should get a universal one from someone like Painless.
Or go find another 90 Buick like one I used to have that I took it's box. That box would be much better.
Out here though the junk yards would charge me for the harness as well. Even though I only want one foot of it.  ::)

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 10, 2014, 04:57:11 AM
Well, I just ordered a different fuse box.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/331249998398?item=331249998398&viewitem=&sspagename=ADME:L:OC:US:3160&vxp=mtr (http://www.ebay.com/itm/331249998398?item=331249998398&viewitem=&sspagename=ADME:L:OC:US:3160&vxp=mtr)
It should do the trick and was sort of in my budget. Way cheaper than the Painless one that Summit sells.
The Toyota one won't be a total waste. I will use the harness off of it and the fuses as well.

Still need to find a good place for it. I am still thinking about a hidden spot I am going to be creating later on. If that idea actually works out. :-[

Not sure what to do for a connector yet for the dash harness, as well as the engine compartment one. Finding connectors for that large number of wires isn't easy. I might be able to get the other half of the engine compartment connector off of the stock fuse box. If I manage to destroy it, I haven't lost anything really.  ;D
I found some, but way expensive. But I will figure something out sooner or later. I might have to go with a bunch of smaller conductor connectors, but that will add up fast also. :-\

This is our 9th anniversary, so I just sent her an Amazon gift card so she can buy some more books for her Kindle. She doesn't know she just bought me a present.  :-X
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dick1172762 on July 10, 2014, 07:11:54 AM
RUSS! Put 30 amp fuses in all the positions on the Pinto fuse block and then put your new fuse block where you want with the right size fuses. That way the Pinto fuse box will just pass the power on to your new fuse box. Sounds good to me.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 10, 2014, 07:23:34 AM
That would have been a great idea. Too late though.
Oh, well.
Thanks for trying to keep me from being stupid.
Russ
Title: Fuse box removal-wrong and right way
Post by: russosborne on July 10, 2014, 08:13:47 PM
Well, this may help others, so I am going to show what I did and tell how it should have been done.

I cut all the wires from the dash harness at the fuse box. You ought to be able to not have to do that, and I will tell how. I couldn't have figured this out without having the fuse box out of the car though.

The first picture shows the fuse box as it is assembled while in the correct location after removing the engine compartment housing, but obviously it won't have the wires cut.

The green connector has almost all of the dash harness wires attached. This is held on to the fuse box by that bolt that you have to loosen to remove the engine harness. This bolt itself is held on by a snap washer. See picture 2. (if I get them in the right order). IF you can remove that washer while the fuse box is still under the dash, the connector slides right off. I am not sure if I could have done this even if I knew about it. I don't bend and reach like I used to.

Once that connector is removed, you will have only the wires going to the fuse box fuses and buss. This leaves about a dozen wires that you will either have to cut, or possibly you could remove the fuse holders from the box :-\ to remove the fuse box.

Hope this might help someone from doing what I did. My original way is fixable, but will be a bit of a pain having to splice and solder all those wires.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 10, 2014, 08:19:53 PM
Oh, I guess I had better apologize to the Ford Engineers. They did use a connector. Just made it very hard to deal with.
Although really it isn't meant to be used that way. The manual states that you cannot remove the fuse box without removing the dash harness.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time-Operation RECONNECT begins
Post by: russosborne on July 11, 2014, 02:41:15 AM
I was able to get a fair amount done, but I ran out of butt connectors. And yes, that is the proper name.  ;D I ordered some more tonight, but won't get them until next week sometime. So I will have to work on other stuff until then. I have plenty of projects to do on this car, even with no money to spend. Once I get the new fuse box, I can find a home for it and start working on wiring it. Although I just realized that I will need to buy terminals for it. sigh. Well, I can at least do a rough layout. Money is going to be tight for the rest of this month.  :(

I am crimping, then soldering, then heat shrinking. When all connections are completed and test good then I will re-wrap the harness. These connections should never fail.

So far I have only had to cut and redo one because I forgot to put the heat shrink on before crimping the second half of the wire. I did put connectors on the wrong wires though. Wrong as in they don't go to the green connector. I started crimping them on before grabbing that connector and double checking. I had meant to do as many on the green connector as possible. I had 20 connectors, and there were about 22 wires.  Another sigh.  :-[

I am using a Kline crimper. It is so nice to use the proper tool for once. The combo stripper/crimpers you find at Walmart and the parts stores are garbage. They are fair for stripping when new, but I'd never use one again for crimping after using this Kline tool. I also have a Kline stripper, but it is really an electrician's tool, only has 12 and 14 gauge strip settings, the rest are for house wiring/romex. Somewhere I am pretty sure I have a regular style Kline stripper, but we still aren't completely unpacked yet. I am still hunting for tools.

Oh, almost forgot the best part. The steering column shaft works perfectly as a solder roll holder.  ;D

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 11, 2014, 08:11:45 PM
Just found out that there is a Pullapart in Tucson. I like them. Decent prices. Went to one in the Akron area a few times.
The Pickaparts here in Phoenix don't list the prices. And they charge you for each bit of an assembly. Pullapart has prices for the whole thing, like a rear end drum to drum. complete engine with accessories. Etc.
Going to have to do a road trip down there when I get some spending money.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 12, 2014, 05:23:28 AM
Guess what I started working on tonight? :D
This is the battery box/relocation kit I have. I bought it for the Lemans on clearance a couple of years ago for like $80 or so.
Maybe I should sell it? ;D
http://www.amazon.com/Lakewood-30301-Battery-Relocation-Mustang/dp/B0048C8KXK (http://www.amazon.com/Lakewood-30301-Battery-Relocation-Mustang/dp/B0048C8KXK)
Look at that price, holy cow. Apparently Summit doesn't even carry these now.
Guess I got a better deal than I had thought for once. Yay me. ;D

The instructions aren't so hot. They focus on the engine compartment side of things, and pretty much just say to bolt the box where you want it to go. Good thing I am not a complete moron yet. Working on that, but haven't made it all the way to complete yet. ::)
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 12, 2014, 03:24:59 PM
Fuse box came today. It is lighter than I had thought it would be. Double checked on the Bussmann site, it is rated for 30amps on each circuit. So that will be plenty. And it is a 12 circuit box, the Pinto has what, 6 or 7? So there is room for me to add some circuits.

I am thinking about mounting it in the glove box. Would be very easy to get to, and not very difficult to run the wires to the original harness. Just will make behind the dash a bit more full. I want to mount it on the glove box door, but I haven't checked yet to see if it will fit. If not then I will do it in the box, will have to see. It's way too hot out for me until the sun goes down. That is when I do things outside.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 13, 2014, 01:44:38 AM
Well, got some stuff accomplished.  :)

I have the battery box mounted (more or less) where it is going. I had to go buy some bolts to mount it, the hardware that came with it wasn't long enough since I don't have it on a flat surface. And of course I went a little short on the length of the bolts. Need a couple of 1.5 inchers. But it will be much more solid than what the instructions I found online showed how to do it. Oh, and before any says anything, the box is NHRA legal for no divider between it and the passenger compartment.  ;D

I will be keeping the metal part of the fold down seat. It will be the lid for the new battery compartment and the storage area on the other side. I have already figured out how to raise it up so it sits above the battery box. Just another thing that will have to wait until I get some spending money is all.
It should look just like the fold down seat is folded. From outside no-one will be able to tell any difference, I hope. Well, you guys probably would be able to.  ;D

I also got the engine compartment harness unwrapped. I really wish I didn't need to do that, but I have to move some wires from the passenger side to the driver's side, namely the passenger headlight. I am going to be using relays, already got them (part of the Leman's leftovers), and if I didn't move the wires it would take 4 relays instead of just 2. It'll look cleaner once I am done. Going to route all the passenger side light wires from the driver's side, and run them along the top of the radiator support like most cars I have worked on have been run. Or, I could be really different and run them all on the passenger side.  :o But since they come out of the firewall on the driver's side I think I will stick with that.

The starter solenoid is attached to the battery box, I don't want a large live cable running from where the battery will be up front. Means I am going to have to extend the wires that go to the solenoid, but that isn't a biggie.

Still thinking about where to mount the new fuse box. My brain isn't doing too well. I hadn't thought that mounting it on the glove box door would require sheet metal screws, or else having bolts sticking out the front of the door.  :(
I might use a piece of sheet metal and mount it inside the glove box area, removing the glove box itself.

This new Bussmann box is small enough to fit in the engine compartment, but it isn't the type for that really. Besides, I really want it out of sight. If I do put it in the glove box on a panel, I will likely put a battery kill switch on that panel as a theft deterrent. IF I route the cable so that I could do that. I have plenty of cable, I forgot I actually have 2 trunk mount kits, the second one is one of the cheaper ones with the plastic marine style box. But it came with lots of cable.

I suppose break time is over, need to get back out there.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 14, 2014, 06:00:29 PM
Well, I put the rear seat up on craigslist. I also put the radiator and electric fan on there. I really hate doing that, but they won't fit, and I could use the money.
The butt connectors I ordered haven't arrived yet, so it will be at least tomorrow before I get the harness stuff done. Once I get that done and the fuse box mounted and wired I need to come up with a cheap battery so I can test it all out. Won't be buying a brand new one, since it could be a year before the car is ready for one.

I have some electrical stuff I can mount tonight. No more working under the dash for a while though. My back has been hurting. Need to go slow on this, I am not 25 anymore. Hell, not 35, or 45. Will be 55 in about 3 weeks.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 14, 2014, 09:36:44 PM
Will be 55 in about 3 weeks.
Kids, I tell ya, lol... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 14, 2014, 09:57:17 PM
Yeah, laugh laugh laugh.  ;D

Believe it or not I just got rained out working on the Pinto. Wish I had the connectors, it would be a great night to work inside the car. I was trying to mount something on the firewall, started getting wet and decided it wasn't a good time to be using an electric drill. I might try again in a bit, these things usually go away fast, but much later and I won't be able to make that much noise. Plus I can't find the rest of my drill bits. The box I have isn't complete, and of course what  it has is either too small or too big for what I needed.  ::) The area I have the tools in is an enclosed carport with no ventilation unless the patio door is open, and honestly feels like a sauna. It is much hotter in there than outside, which being in Phoenix means it is really bad. So long story short (too late!  :P ) I don't stay in there any longer than absolutely needed.  It needs screens, but seeing as how the landlord just spent $4K on the new AC, I am not going to bring it up, even if he is my brother.  ;D

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 14, 2014, 10:22:30 PM
Yeah, I saw it on the news you were getting hammered tonight, looks like it's heading west probably get it here later tonight, sure has been humid and it sucks..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 15, 2014, 04:56:07 AM
Well, I think the worst of it missed us. At least it didn't sound like it was bad, and the dogs didn't go hyper. :-\

Maybe a good thing I stayed inside though. I ended up reading all of the instructions for all the stuff I bought 3 years ago from MadElectrical. A bunch of stuff I had forgotten about as far as properly doing all this stuff. I am really hoping that I can have pretty much all of the car's electrical done by this weekend. Tested will be another matter, can't do that until I can come up with a battery. And unless I find one on the side of the road it is going to be a while before I can afford even a cheap used one. the Pinto budget went from zero to absolutely not a penny no way no how until I get a job.  :-[
I might try the battery charger I have, but I think it is new enough to sense that there isn't something to charge and shut down. The really fun thing will be that I don't know if the stuff worked in the first place. And I definitely won't be able to see if the charging system works without a running engine. I'm going to be changing to the GM CS style of alternator as well, at some point before the car is ready for the road. Might as well since I bought the wiring kit to convert to that along with the other stuff.

I am not sure what to do about the dash. The instrument cluster housing is so bad it falls apart when the wind blows on it. I'd like to do a custom gauge setup, but I can't afford to do that this time. I had all new gauges for the Lemans, speed, tach, gas, oil, water, volt, everything, but sold them with the car. :(
 This housing is so bad the mounting points have broken off, and I can't think of a way to attach anything to it that wouldn't cause more damage. Will have to see if I can remove the housing and come up with some sort of panel or ??? to attach it to the dash. I can see it now. "Office, seriously now. How fast could I have been going in a little four banger old Pinto?" ;D

Two nights in a row of not really being able to work on the Pinto. Getting edgy already. :P

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 15, 2014, 10:17:47 PM
Thanks a whole frigging lot, Ford! Who'd have thought that they don't put the wiring diagrams in the frigging factory service manual?!!! I don't have $20 or more to go buy a wiring diagram that should have been in the manual.
Sometimes I wonder why I bother with these stupid Ford products.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 15, 2014, 10:57:33 PM
They're out there somewhere just gotta search it out "Google is your friend", LOL... ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 16, 2014, 04:40:58 AM
I've found plenty of them for sale. I really thought they would have been included in the manual. Heck, seems like even all the Chilton's back in the 70's included them, but not anymore. At least for the cars my friends and I were dealing with back then.
This is going to delay me quite a bit on the electrical side. Good thing I have no deadlines.
Oh, well. It is always something going wrong.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 16, 2014, 04:55:42 AM
Well, even with the stupid diagram issue I got quite a bit done tonight. Would have gotten quite a bit more done if I hadn't of spent an hour or two online trying to find one for free.  :-[ I will have to take some pictures tomorrow.

Got relays installed for the headlights, still need to route the output power from the relays to the lights. I need to get heavy duty headlight connectors, so that will have to wait anyway.

Got the engine compartment harness back on the car, with a lot of it missing. Intentionally, that is. Will be using an internally requlated alternator, so no more need for the voltage regulator. Also no need for the old alternator wiring. Redid all of that already, just need the new alternator to connect it to.

Got a relay set up for the horn, since I am using a non stock type. Course it would be a big help if I knew which wire was FOR the horn, but I guess that will have to wait, along with the rest of the wires that I need the stupid diagram for.  ::) The Pinto is a pretty short car, but it is still too long to ohm out the wires from under the dash by myself.  ;D

Still haven't received the butt connectors I need to finish the under dash harness re assembly. Hopefully later today. I have a few leftover terminal connectors from the relay kits that I can use to connect the new fuse box, but not enough. So that will be another lengthy delay until I can get those. Not working sucks. :-[

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 16, 2014, 06:41:51 AM
Why after hanging on to it for 3 years of no Pinto did I donate my Clymer's manual to a church rummage sale just before we moved back here? :(
I did find an online pdf of the 76 wiring diagram. I am hoping it is the same in the areas I am concerned with right now. And to make matters worse, I just went to print it out and our printer ran out of ink.  :'(

It just keeps getting more and more fun to be me. Next thing you know I will run out of my antidepressant s. I don't know why I haven't yet, but when that happens it will be really bad. And just fyi, if I sold the Pinto for what I bought it for, that wouldn't even be one month's worth. Not to mention the 2 diabetes meds I am supposed to be injecting myself with, combined, those 3 alone are over $2000 a month without insurance. Gee, why am I not on those again? >:(
Russ
edited on Wed 16July. ah, oops. I just noticed that my cat decided to help me post when I did this yesterday.  ;D


Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 17, 2014, 12:23:03 AM
Ok, less about me, more about the Pinto.

Got quite a bit done today. Not sure if I am done for the night or not, but I needed a break for sure. Been using muscles I haven't used in about two years or so.  :-[

I got the majority of the engine harness pretty much done. I still need to extend the wires for the passenger side front lights. I have the harness routed the way it will go when I am finished.  And I got my horn mounted. Once I get everything finished routed and connected I am going to wrap the harness in that stuff that is like the original factory harness wrap. It is fairly cheap on ebay, just not sure if it is as good as the original. But that is a bit away yet.  :(

If I do any more tonight, it will most likely be inside the car. I have a few butt connectors and a few terminals for the fuse block, but not enough of either to finish.

These first pictures are not for the wiring squeamish. ;D

I will post all the ones I have from tonight in the next couple of posts.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 17, 2014, 12:27:03 AM
Here are some more.
One of them is of my horn. I hope the stupid thing works, it is a Harbor Freight one that I bought about 3 years ago.  :-[
But I have to have my OOGAH horn.  ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 17, 2014, 12:34:50 AM
And the last, at least for now.
I haven't really done much yet with the wiring for the front lights. I re-did the ground for the driver's side, that's about it. There is one wire for that side's directional light that I need to extend, guess the way I am routing things is a longer route than original. Or I just flat screwed something up.  ;D But no biggie.

I am waiting yet to do these, for some reason I am not feeling like this is the time. Probably since I had to cut the passenger side some just to get the light assemblies off. Thinking once I get the new headlight bulb connectors (and headlights) I will just do it all at once.

Oh, I almost forgot. Seeing the last picture reminded me. I am going to route the passenger side part of the harness across the front of the radiator, along that panel that bolts on from side to side. Splash panel? My brain hurts.  :-[ ;D
I've had cars that have done it that way, and it will be shorter and easier to wire up.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 17, 2014, 12:45:03 AM
Oh. I had a thought that might be of interest to anyone doing the GM HEI module with the Duraspark.
Our voltage regulators have 4 connectors on them, and they are easy to get to from the back of the regulator. If you wanted to, you could put the hei module (also 4 connections) in the voltage regulator (assuming it fits, I don't have one to try), and use the stock Pinto regulator connector to connect to the distributor/power. I thought about doing it, but I think the Duraspark module's case is a better heat sink. Nice big chunk of aluminum versus a small and thin piece of tin(or whatever it is made of).
It would involve a bit of soldering, but from outside it would look just like a stock regulator. This is assuming you don't need the regulator to regulate.  ;D

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 17, 2014, 02:26:58 AM
Looks like you're making good progress, Russ! 
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 17, 2014, 03:50:49 AM
Thanks, Dwayne.
Getting there with what I have.
Sometimes working on this lets me forget about the financial/job stuff, and sometimes it really rubs that stuff right in my face.  ;D Today has been both.  One of the compromises I have to make for now is using very cheap hardware to bolt things on for running the harness. Once I have some money I intend to replace it all with decent stuff. But for now it is the cheap garbage or don't do anything. I won't cheap out on stuff like wire though. Just stuff easily replaced later on.

I went back out and got some more done. I finished reconnecting all the wires to the green fuse box connector that I had cut. I still have the wires that went to the fuse box, and some I am not sure of where they go to yet to do. I need to decide on the new fuse box location before I do those fuse wires at least. Otherwise I can promise that they will end up either too long or too short.  ::)

And I forgot, I don't want to mislead anyone on the engine compartment harness. I haven't done the starter solenoid, coil, or distributor wires yet. I am hoping to be able to get a newer reduction starter, better coil, and the GM HEI module, so all that will wait until I am sure about it one way or the other. I REALLY don't want to have to re-do any of this later on.

And I have one wire that isn't on the wrong year (76 wiring diagram that I found online) that concerns me. It goes to the green connector, is itself a very dark green, and is a single strand conductor that is apparently stainless steel. At least it couldn't be soldered. I am going to try to track down where it goes in the engine compartment. Problem is even before I started working on that harness, most of what the wiring went to wasn't there. Hopefully it will be so obvious even I can figure it out. Maybe it would be on a 73 or earlier car also.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 17, 2014, 05:44:58 AM
I'm glad to hear that working on the Pinto is theraputic for you.  I'm a bit in awe of what you're doing because wiring is one of those things that has always perplexed me.  Keep up the good work!
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 17, 2014, 05:46:52 AM
My wife is going to kill me, and I wouldn't blame her.
I just spent almost $22 for a wiring diagram for this thing, including priority mail shipping. 
I was looking at the original fuse box and noticed that it is a split buss type, meaning two different sources of power, divided between upper and lower fuses. It has gotten to the point where I can't go on with the wiring without being absolutely sure what I am doing. And I have found that while close, other years diagrams that I have found for free online just won't do it.
I don't think she will like the "it's an early birthday present" explanation.
I must be an idiot.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 17, 2014, 07:54:12 AM
I get killed quite often Russ, don't sweat it it'll pass.. ;D ;D ;D ;D

BTW, great job.. 8)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 17, 2014, 08:51:46 PM
Thanks.  8)
I will be happier when I get it all tested and wrapped (literally) up.  ;D

I should have waited for the diagram, but I get too wrapped up in what I am doing and need to keep going while I have the enrgy/drive. If I let it go for a couple of weeks it might not get done until much later. I might have to ask my mom for my birthday present early to cover this.  :-[
Now I just hope the thing gets here soon so I can use it. Unlike the connectors I had ordered, still haven't gotten them.  >:(

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 18, 2014, 05:20:11 AM
Well, considering I wasn't going to do anything tonight, I got a fair amount done.
No pictures. What I did isn't really obvious.

I went ahead and ran the power wires for the high beams. Started on the low beams, but I need to buy
some more pieces. Finally running out of what I had for the Lemans. Couldn't really decide on how to splice the
wires for the headlights coming off the relays, so I came up with a way where I don't have too. I am using another one of the bulkhead terminals, like what is on the fenderwell and on the firewall. I ran the power out from the relay to it, and then ran two wires from it, one for each headlight. Problem is I only had three, and now I need a fourth for the low beams. Easy to get, just takes money.  :(

I also fixed the directionals and the side markers.
But I might have a problem with the markers. The wire for the passenger side is not in good shape. Something has either corroded it or contaminated it. I cut as far into the harness as I could for now, and it is that way all the way. Some strand nice and shiny, and some black as night.  I might have to replace the whole thing. This is the brown wire that comes from the under dash connector at least and then splits for the driver's and passenger's sides. I didn't get to where it splits, I didn't want  to open that can of worms right now. But odds are I will be doing that eventually. If I am really lucky, it is just this one side and the bad stops at that splice.  ::)

Oh, and I got the horn wired up completely. Wish I had a battery, hearing that go at 2am would be funny.  ;D To me at least, probably not the wife or the neighbors.  :o

Speaking of neighbors, it felt like we were under attack tonight. Two very loud booms about a half hour apart. Both of them set off the alarm on a neighbor's car. I told the wife it was probably just kids with M80's, but the booms were really much bigger than that. Didn't want to worry her. The second one I saw a reflected flash from. But this is one of those things I will probably never find out what it really was. Could have been transformers going, but if so it was not ours.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 18, 2014, 08:15:20 AM
Been nice here not a cloud in the sky and it dried up yesterday, dew point back down in the low 30's... 8) 8)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 18, 2014, 01:59:31 PM
All I know is that it is hot here.  ;D

I am trying to avoid going out to the Pinto until later in the afternoon when it is fully in shade. Although for the most part I am doing most of the work after 8pm, except when I need to make noises like drilling holes. I always have been more of a night person, and when I don't have to be a day type person I always have defaulted back to a night schedule. But right now I would love to be a day person with a job.  :'(

And I screwed up in the last post. I should have called them junction blocks. Brain problems again. Maybe I shouldn't be holding the solder in my mouth to straighten it out while soldering. It has lead. Probably too late anyway for me. I think I fried my brain a long time ago.  ::)

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 18, 2014, 03:01:02 PM
Hot??, heck it's only in the 90's and most of the humidity is gone, nice day to be outside.. :D :D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 18, 2014, 03:20:30 PM
You're right. I just checked.  8)
I might have to go out in a bit. I do have a floor fan we bought when the ac was down I have been using out there. I have to turn it off when soldering, though. It is one of the ones that cost about $30 at Walmart, all metal, blows a lot of air. But it is too noisy for in the house as long as the ac is working, according to my wife.  :-X

I need to be shot.  :-[ I just spent another $16 on a couple of junction blocks for the Pinto for the headlights. These aren't fancy like the ones I have already, but they are about half the price. Just the stud and the mounting block. But they will work fine, and by getting two I can save the other "good" one for something else later on.

Oh, I finally got the butt connectors. Only 2 days later than it was supposed to be. Guess I have the post office to thank for that. At least they are here now.  ::)

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 18, 2014, 06:38:33 PM
Well, thanks to Art I went outside and got something done. ;D

It only took over 2 hours, but I finally got the fuse box where it will work.
I ended up mounting it on the glove box door after all. And remounted, and remounted, etc. 
I figured since Ford used sheet metal screws to attach lots of stuff, why can't I? :o

I also got the flasher where I want it, but the mount is only temporary 'til I get
something else. Need to look around to see what is available. I know what I would
like, but I will have to see if they come in a size big enough for that.

Gee, I almost forgot. I found an envelope from an insurance company with a previous owner's name and address on it.
I think the last name is Hendershot, but everything after the s is iffy. At one point this was a California car. According to the late payment notices inside it, he also owned a 78 Ford, but it didn't say which model.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 18, 2014, 07:24:51 PM
Russ, what you need to do is find an old swamp cooler and make a cart with casters so you can place it anywhere you work they really work good, that's what I'm doing for my general work area only my room that my machines are in is insulated and have A/C..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 18, 2014, 07:42:00 PM
Thanks.
If I had the room that would work. It's a good thing I got a Pinto, something like a large '60's Pontiac wouldn't have fit here. I can't even open the passenger side door all the way. This place wasn't setup to work on cars. What I would really like would be a roof, even something like a patio cover. But that isn't happening. Sometimes being a renter isn't so hot. Then again, when the AC breaks it is nice to just call the landlord.  ;D
It wasn't bad with the fan blowing on me. It was actually close to being comfortable. My body started aching too much to stay out there much longer.  :(
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 19, 2014, 08:16:33 AM
Yeah renting sucks, happiest time was when I moved in to my own place, although my first place had a tiny garage not intended to work in but it was mine, had to put up the swap meet canopy all the time in the summer, that did get old after a while though, LOL.. ;D Swamper did help even if it was outside..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 19, 2014, 10:14:06 PM
I got the wiring diagram today.
Found out a couple of interesting things with it.
The single stranded wire I couldn't solder is a 15 ohm resistor wire for the alternator warning light. And after I worked at getting it connected the other night it is the one I have to cut for the internal regulator alternator anyway or else the warning light won't work right.

The reason the fuse box has two power feeds is that two circuits are on all the time regardless of key position, and the rest are only on when the key is in the ACC or ON positions. So now I need two fuse panels to keep that function. Or I could just wire inline fuse holders for the two always on circuits. I have a fuse holder that I could use, it just isn't what I want to use. See picture below.
I'll have to think about this one. I haven't been able to find just a two fuse block, seems the smallest is four, and I don't want something that big. The glove box door isn't that big.
We'll see what I can come up with.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 20, 2014, 03:57:32 AM
Well, it was an interesting evening.  ::)

I went out to work some more on the Pinto even though I thought I was really at a standstill until I get a job and could afford to buy some stuff. Ran a couple of wires but wasn't really into it. I spent a lot of time at the kitchen table trying to figure out how I could get around the fuse box issue. I even tried thinking of how I could use relays for the stuff that is keyed on. But my brain just didn't seem to want to think that hard.

So I decided to finally strip the wiring from that Toyota fuse box I had bought so it wouldn't be a complete waste of money. I even took that box apart in hopes of maybe being able to use just part of it. I did end up with possibly enough wire to finish wiring the stuff I cut. And most of the fuses I will need. ;D

All the while I've had an idea at the back of my brain telling me to use the new fuse box, but make it a dual like the original Pinto. So figuring I had nothing really left to lose I went ahead and opened it up, thinking I would have to really butcher it up to get it to work that way. But I was surprised. It came apart easily (after messing with the Toyota one anyway, that thing was built to never come back apart after assembly) and all I had to do was to cut out a small section of the power buss bar and cut a bit of the top housing for access to another bolt. Got that all done, but I don't have the stupid 10X.75 or so hex headed (this is key) machine screw. All I have are slotted screws which will just spin when you try to tighten a nut down on them in this fuse box. It has a cutout for a hex head so that doesn't happen.
So off I go later today to Home Depot to buy ONE screw and ONE nut. Bet they will just be so happy with me.  ;D I have a whole $2 or so in cash/change I can spend.  ::)

Now, that all said, there is still an issue with the fuses. Two of the fuses are not connected to either power source at the fuse box. One of them (Fuse number 5 on the diagram) is for the instrument panel lights and it is just an inline fuse even though it was mounted in the original fuse box. The other (fuse number 6)is similar, but goes to more stuff. I don't remember what all stuff it is though right now.
So I still need to come up with something for those two. I couldn't modify the new fuse box to do that, it isn't set up so that can be done. :(
The Toyota box had an attachment for 4 fuses that would have been perfect, but it only had one fuse in it and didn't have the terminals in the other spots, just empty. I did try fitting the ones from that Dorman add on one, but no luck.
So I don't know what I will do about these two, the simplest way would be to just buy a couple of inline fuse holders. But doing all this other work on the wiring makes me feel like that is the wrong way to go. Who knows at this point? :-\

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Reddog on July 20, 2014, 04:51:50 AM
Don't worry, 2.3 is as simple as they come, you will learn to love it. Wish you were closer I have a good automatic from a 76 pinto I'd give you. I don't know how many pintos are around where you guys live but, even though yours may have problems, at $500 it's hard to go wrong, you just can't find them in Mississippi where we are. I drove to New Mexico to get ours and pulled it back with a tow bar! No motor and interior that was totally fried! I covered my dash with stretch vinyl, take the pad off fill cracks with body filler, cover with head liner material and then cover with stretch vinyl. Used 3m adhesive, got everything to do it at a local upholstery supply shop for less than $40. Pull that 2.3 and slide a 289-302 in and be done!
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 20, 2014, 01:38:37 PM
Thanks.

I was planning on a V8, but I don't know anymore. It's kind of nice having lots of room to work in the engine compartment.  ;D It will all depend on if this engine is even good I suppose.

I still want to just get this on the road as soon as I can, and then work on it as I drive it. It's hard though. I am constantly having to stop myself from the "let's take this off while we are at it" desire. I really don't want to end up with a shell and a thousand parts again. Especially since I don't have the money, it feels like making progress if I take things apart, but that is a false feeling.

I'm doing the electrical now because I had the stuff already and the car isn't going anywhere soon.

If I could get a hoist I would pull the engine and redo the engine compartment. The engine isn't bolted in at all, just sitting there on one mount. So I don't consider that taking things apart. :-)

But once I get the electrical done, the next thing will be removing all that's left of the carpet. I would do that now, but I'd rather sit on the carpet than the bare floor. Then I need to finish up modifying the fold down seat metal so it clears the battery box. I just need some spacers (steel tubing) and I have to figure out just how much I need to raise it. Probably an inch, maybe an inch and a half. Haven't looked that close at it yet. I am having to store parts in the cargo area so I can't get to it right now. Going to wait until I can buy the spacer stuff before clearing it out to work on it. Then I need to enclose that area. Already have that figured out as well, just a money issue again. Build a frame out of tubing, then use sheet metal. Then when I carpet the interior I will carpet that. The fold down will be the lid. That will also give me a hidden storage area behind the driver's seat.  ;D

I don't want to start re-doing the interior yet since this is Phoenix and I don't know how long it will have to sit in the sun until it is closer to being ready to be driven. I'd hate to have a new interior get ruined before I even drove it. I recovered my GTO dash in the 80's with a roll of cheap carpet that you get at like PepBoys and a bottle of Elmer's Glue. I didn't take the pad off either.  I got compliments on it often and it lasted for quite a while, was still good when I sold the car. But the Pinto one is a lot smaller and easier to remove so I doubt if I will do that. But you never know.  ;D I am debating whether I want to do a replacement headliner, or make a custom one. Thinking about a piece of masonite or similar with either that carpet from above glued on, or use the headliner you can buy that is for newer cars.
That is another one of the long term things I have a while to decide on. I have always liked the idea of an overhead console, and it would be easier to do if I do the custom headliner. But this is all stuff I can do after the car is running.  ;D Plus I still have no idea about colors.  I am not a fan of the green that this was. But to do a color change is a lot of work. And money. I can't spray the car myself.

I am really just sort of playing with it right now in a sense. Once I get a decent job (if ever  :( ) then after we get caught up on other things I can really get serious with this. Then things like finding a manual trans, going junk yarding, doing the interior, stuff that takes money. I just have to be patient. Which is NOT one of my virtues.  ;D

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 20, 2014, 07:31:29 PM
Well, Home Depot let me down, but I tried a newly opened True Value and they had what I needed. I spent a whole $0.91 on two screws and nuts, just in case I lost one. Bet I made that cashier's day.

But now the fuse box is better than new, in my opinion.  ;D

I'll just have a bunch of empty spots to use up later on. There are six on the always on side and six on the keyed on side. I will be separating the radio circuit from the others, that way if something else blows a fuse I will still have the radio to listen to.  ;D

I'm probably just going to go with inline fuse holders for those other two fuses. Cheap and easy wins out I guess. But I will locate them next to this box so they are all easy to get to.

Darn it. I just realized I should have gotten four sheet metal screws to mount this box. I have plenty, but they are all cruddy looking. Oh, well. Something to buy later on I suppose.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Reddog on July 21, 2014, 11:26:53 AM
I made a headliner using a backboard from a 2000s mercury mystique ( ford Taurus) trimmed it down and worked great in my 76. (Coupe)
I covered my dash pad with that new stretch vinyl after bondo was used to fill cracks and then wrapped in headliner material. 
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 22, 2014, 02:54:16 AM
Another night, another got more stuff done report.

No pictures, I had to stop early. I have to be up at 8AM to take someone to the doctor. That is way early for me.

I bought a couple of inline fuse holders at Autozone, got those wired in and I think I got all the wires run from the new fuse box. I didn't get the other ends soldered though, just crimped. Will get the soldering done probably tomorrow night.  And I haven't connected them at the new fuse box yet. But I did write down the colors I used and what they got connected to at the other end, since I didn't have factory colors to use. I didn't re-do the radio power wire yet either. I need to figure out how a previous owner attached the gauge holder, that stupid thing is in the way of a lot of stuff I need to do. I might just take a hammer to it. I don't feel like crawling around and trying to find his attaching stuff. I need to get the radio out so I can undo all of his custom wiring for it and add my own custom wiring.  ;D Aftermarket 70's radio. Craig am/fm/8track.

And I lost one wire. Driving me nuts. I know it was there, I cut the stupid thing at the old fuse box. I'll have to look for it again tomorrow.

And I caught one mistake. I had put a green with yellow stripe wire with a green with white stripe. OOPS.  :-[
This is why I am going to be testing it all out before wrapping it up and tucking it into it's final resting place.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Reeves1 on July 22, 2014, 04:31:02 AM
Quote
I have to be up at 8AM to take someone to the doctor. That is way early for me.

Day is half over ! LOL !

I'm up at 3 AM or before , each morning, even on days off !
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 22, 2014, 07:23:06 AM
Day is half over ! LOL !

I'm up at 3 AM or before , each morning, even on days off !
Wife get's up at 3:45 AM to go to work and I get up then too, on her days off we sleep in till 4 AM, LOL.. ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 22, 2014, 08:45:25 AM
I've always been a night owl so third shift was the logical decision for me when it came to work.  Have been at it for 34 years now with no regrets.  That makes 3:00 a.m. lunch time for me! 


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 23, 2014, 12:10:21 AM
No update today, just flat didn't feel like working on it.

The rest of this is probably something you won't want to read. I just needed to vent. A LOT >:(

Anyone want a very used Pinto?
Ok, probably not.
How about
anyone want a very used old man who can't find a job and is feeling totally depressed, useless, and unemployable(apparently)? Yes, I am only 54(for two more weeks) but I feel like I am 93. Worthless and would be better off dead.
No comments necessary, not looking for sympathy. Just a bullet to the head.
Why, yes. I am not having one of my better days.

Guess I should add more. The job situation sucks and is just getting worse for me.

If you are involved in hiring people in whatever sense, like a temp agency recruiter, if a company doesn't want somebody(me in this case) just tell that person the truth. Don't say that the hiring company has decided to postpone the job, only to still have it listed on your companies jobs available. Really, it is much better as the person involved to be told the truth instead of getting an automated email later on from your company with that job still active. I will call you on it.

Especially if you interview me, at least have the decency to let me know either way, as you stated you would.

I know a lot of it is ageism. You know, I know it. But being able to prove it in a court of law is something else, so don't be so damned afraid of letting me know I am not wanted.

I could go on. and on, and on, and on.
What is up with HR types today? Absolutely classless.

If you tell me I am not wanted, fine. If not, every single time I see an ad that I qualify for with your company I am going to apply. And apply, and apply. Funny thing is I bet you don't even get it.

Ok, back to our regular Pinto program.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 23, 2014, 03:55:28 AM
Russ,
 
Do you live near any hospitals?  Hospitals generally have a tendency to appreciate and reward the life experience of older applicants.  I work for a hospital listed nationally in the top 100.  The last four new hires in my department included a man about a year younger than you, a man your age, and two men who are older than you by 5 - 7 years.  Just a thought.
 
Working in the Engineering Department of a hospital was not something that I was really seeking back when I started, but I have to say it's been very good to me.  Will mark my 34th anniversary here in late September. 
 
As for the points you made concerning HR practices, it's a shame that can't be sent out as an open letter to all Human Resources Directors... perhaps it would inspire them to be a bit more "human" in their dealings with others.
 
Hang in there, friend!
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 23, 2014, 07:57:59 AM
It's the same ole crap, it's not what you know it's "who" you know, wife tried to get a job here at the Casino for a year checking with them once a week nothing, she finally met someone that worked there and she told her to put her name on her resume, so she did and two days later she was hired. I tried to get in McDonnell Douglas for five years and couldn't even get an interview, I met a driver on the road one day and we hung out for a while told him I been trying for five years to get in, he said nobody gets in without a name no matter how good of record or experience you have, I told him my history and he let me use his name, less than three weeks later I was driving for them, unfortunately after eight years it all went down the toilet. Then it all started again, almost 30yrs experience and clean as clean can be driving record and can't get a job, only places I could find a job is at places with revolving doors, if you lasted 6 months you were a senior driver, after 5 yrs of that crap I just had enough and packed it in..  >:(
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 23, 2014, 01:27:36 PM
Thanks.
I shouldn't have posted that I suppose. I just really needed to vent some.

Hospitals, yep. Been looking for BioMed tech, problem is no experience at all in that field. I don't qualify for pretty much anything else they have. Maybe janitor, I used to do that quite a bit. But at this age and the shape I am in I don't know if I could do it as a full time job. Not to mention the pay. That is the big issue. At $10 an hour, which is what my unemployment is, we are using every cent of my mil's retirement, plus food stamps. And barely eeking by. And they only take out 10% federal tax, nothing else. I really need to be making at least $16/hr just to pay all the bills with some help from mil.

I keep thinking I am going to have to change careers. At 55. I can't afford to change careers, if I could even find an employer willing to train someone as old as I am. If I can't find a job at this age in a field where I am fully experienced, I don't have any hope of starting over.

Gee, now I am getting depressed again. Maybe I should go read the jobs on Craigslist, seeing hundreds of jobs that I can't do makes me so happy. Not.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 23, 2014, 09:24:53 PM
Well, that was a waste of money. I had mentioned earlier that I couldn't think of a way to splice the headlight wires after the relays, so I ordered a couple of junction blocks/insulated power terminals, depending on who the supplier is. So I got them in the mail today and went out to install them. Got them installed, and realized that the stud was way bigger than I had thought. So I start looking around for a connector to fit it. Then it hit me. I don't need the blocks, just use the connectors I found, place the 3 low beam wires in one, the 3 high beam wires in the other other one, crimp, solder, and cut off the part that goes on the stud. Simple. Wish I had thought of that before, would have saved over $15. I will probably find a use for these things down the road, but I'd rather have the money right now. That would be a meal for me and my wife at Whataburger. My favorite all time hamburger. And they don't have them back east, at least nowhere near Ohio.

Hopefully tomorrow I will get the ceramic headlight connectors I ordered, then I can finish up that part of the electrical.
Still need to get in the car and do a bunch of soldering to finish  up the dash harness stuff. Don't know if I will go back out tonight or not.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 24, 2014, 12:12:49 AM


I shouldn't have posted that I suppose. I just really needed to vent some.


Hospitals, yep. Been looking for BioMed tech, problem is no experience at all in that field. I don't qualify for pretty much anything else they have.

There's nothing wrong with venting a little every once in a while, especially among friends. 

I suppose hospitals all vary in size, variety of services, etc., but the one where I work has electronics techs that are completely separate from the BioMed people.  They work on the nurse call systems, televisions, automatic doors, pneumatic tube system, security cameras/monitors, etc.  They work out of our Maintenance & Engineering Department.  The BioMed staff (who works on cardiac monitors, IV pumps, defibrillators, Radiology equipment, etc.) have a department all their own under the heading of Clinical Engineering.  They are more highly specialized and better paid I'm sure, but our run-of-the-mill electronics techs earn in the $20-30 per hour range. 

Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 24, 2014, 12:29:43 AM
Thanks, Dwayne, I'll look into that. I know nothing about a lot of that stuff you posted. Have to see if I can come close to qualifying for such a position here.

I am an idiot. I had posted quite a while ago about the key that wouldn't come out-the ignition key. Well, thinking if I have to take the column apart to work on it I might as well remove it I was looking in the manual to make sure I knew what I was doing when I read this little tidbit about there being a locking mechanism on the column so you can't lock the steering wheel by accident. Seems I forgot all about this little button. Sure enough, when I pushed the button the key turned and came right out. Just glad I found this out before removing the column.

Now I guess it is back to catching up on old posts. Reading the General Help section. It's depressing though reading my old posts from the other Pinto days and all the stuff I had for that car.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 24, 2014, 01:09:51 AM
 
That little button has confounded a lot of Pinto owners!  lol
 
When I bought my '72 sedan back in 2008, I struggled with the same thing before I suddenly remembered "the button".  After all, it had been 28 years since I had driven a Pinto and about 32 years since I had owned one!  Once you become accustomed to it, you tend to bump the button with the knucke of your middle finger while turning the key with your thumb and forefinger in such a fluid motion that you forget the button is even there!
 
Dwayne :)   
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 24, 2014, 01:43:41 AM
Yep.
When I was driving the 79, I just got into the habit of pressing the button. Guess it has been too long.  :-[

Speaking of the 79, I just read my first post here. 6 years ago this month. I had forgotten exactly when I had bought it.
Poor car, I wonder how it ended up after it left me and my destructive ways?   :(

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 25, 2014, 04:35:16 AM
Well, for the most part the electrical that I can do now is done. I just need to test it.
I got all the under dash stuff back together. Fuses in the fuse box and it is all connected.
Ceramic connectors on the headlights.
Oh, the engine harness and under dash harness connection is just temporary, as are the tie wraps on the harness. After I get them tested I will make it all nice, neat, and more or less permanent. ;D

Took out the Craig AM/FM/8track player. Finally got the aftermarket gauge housing removed, and guess what I found? The control knob for the passenger side mirror. I didn't know I had full sport mirrors. So I can scratch that off the wanted list.  ;D 8)

I have to reconnect the steering column wiring connectors and the ignition switch wiring connectors. I took those apart trying to track down a wire. The ignition switch wiring connector is really corroded. Going to have to clean that before I put it back together. The steering column connector is giving me fits, maybe I am just too weak.  :-\

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 25, 2014, 07:35:49 AM
Looks like you're progressing pretty good..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 25, 2014, 01:31:25 PM
Thanks. 8)

Not sure where to go next. I suppose just removing the carpet and general cleaning. Got a couple more wires to run from the battery box solenoid for the starter, including the main cable.  :-\

I found a heater blower motor squirrel cage in the back. Now I am worried about that. Why is it there? Hopefully it is just a spare. I also found that the temp control cable is not attached to the switch. Need to track that down. There is also a wire running to the heater blower motor from the engine compartment. Something else to track down and correct. I have been trying to avoid it but it looks like I should remove the heater box, it will be the best way to make sure that everything there is right. :(   Yes, we do sometimes need a heater even in Phoenix.  ;D

I suppose I should inventory all the parts that came in the cargo area. I need to empty it out anyway. Maybe I can find room in the enclosed carport for the seats.

Once I make up my mind on what to do next it will be easier on me. Then I can focus on that, like I did with the wiring. There is just so much that needs done it's hard to decide what I want to do. The wiring was fun. Right now fun is important.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 26, 2014, 01:04:14 AM
Well, this is what happens when I am not really clear about what I want to do. :-\

I'm calling it an early night, I left the car a mess, need to go back to it with a fresh mind tomorrow.

I got the heater box out. Probably should have waited, don't have the money for a new heater core right now. Don't know if it really needs one, but I'd just as soon replace it now.

I did find that the blower motor has been replaced. That was why the wiring for it in the engine compartment was funky.
I took the motor out and no signs of critters, or even anything except dirt. This car is covered in dirt, but since it sat for who knows how long here in the desert that isn't surprising.

The box came out easy enough. The real pain was the defroster vent. It was just sitting loose in the dash, so I thought "Let's get it out of the way, how hard can it be?". After trying for quite a while to maneuver it, I finally had to take the dash support off from the trans tunnel. I can't wait to try to get it back in place.

I took the yellow box out that seems to be 74 specific. It just has a connector and a small circuit board that has one IC and a whole bunch of resistors and capacitors, plus a few other things. I am going to try real hard to eliminate it from the car, 40 year old electronics like that don't fill me with confidence. I might have to get into the wiring harness again.

And a strange thing. I had noticed a while back my driver's fresh air vent duct was shot. Came apart at the ribs. But looking at the passenger side tonight, it seems really solid. Makes no sense to me. ???

I'm going to need a new heater control eventually. This one is really bent up along the face plate. And I found the reason why the temp control cable wasn't on the lever. Seems there is a metal bracket that holds the two cable housings motionless and also attaches to the control near where the cables attach to the levers. Mine is broken at the temp control side. A previous owner tried to fix it with baling wire, but that won't hold it enough. I imagine I can make one out of sheet metal, the hard part for me will be to get the ends curled over to hold the cables.
Page 36-14-2 figure 2 of the 1974 Manual (I can't seem to copy that page) shows this being two separate pieces, one for each cable. But mine is one piece, or was until it broke. ??? Not the first time I have found a difference between the manual and my car. The control that is in that figure doesn't look like mine, either.  ???

I think tomorrow I need to concentrate a bit more on general cleaning and putting parts back where I got them from before I forget where that was. I try to keep hardware in baggies with a 3x5 card stating what they are for, but we are a bit low on baggies right now. :-[

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 26, 2014, 07:49:57 AM
I thought my heater box was going to be a btch to get out but it dropped right out, straighten the little tabs on top and the defroster duct fell out and went right back up the same way, I was surprised how easy it was to replace the heater core.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 26, 2014, 04:41:54 PM
I was surprised how easy it was to replace the heater core.

Art, I think you're the only person I've ever heard say that! 

Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 26, 2014, 06:33:52 PM
I thought it was going to be a lot harder. ;D Maybe my subconscious remembered doing it on the 79, because it came out pretty easily.
I hope those tabs for the vent are still there, the vent was just laying loose. I haven't crawled under to look. Not sure if I even can anymore. I can't do a lot of stuff that used to be easy for me. :-[ I can see the headline now. "Man dies under dash of Pinto because he couldn't get back up." :P

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 26, 2014, 07:44:20 PM
I thought it was going to be a lot harder. ;D Maybe my subconscious remembered doing it on the 79, because it came out pretty easily.
I hope those tabs for the vent are still there, the vent was just laying loose. I haven't crawled under to look. Not sure if I even can anymore. I can't do a lot of stuff that used to be easy for me. :-[ I can see the headline now. "Man dies under dash of Pinto because he couldn't get back up." :P

Russ
Russ, the tabs will be up there they are steel, if they are bent that means the duct may have bad slots and that's why it was just laying there, that or the last person to put it back up there just didn't  bother to twist the tabs if they are straight.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 26, 2014, 07:51:03 PM
Art, I think you're the only person I've ever heard say that! 

Dwayne :)
Dwayne, when I first looked at it I thought it would be a nightmare, lol, then I looked at the diagram in the Ford manual and it all came together, took less than 20 minutes and it was on the bench.. Maybe it was just one of them days when everything goes right,LOL.. ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 26, 2014, 08:35:42 PM
Thanks, Art.

I feel a little better now. I got everything out of the cargo area, and it doesn't look like a scrap heap anymore.  ;D But now I have to find room for everything. The seats are going to be the main problem, the rest I can find cubby holes to put them into.

I'll be back out later on to do some more work. I want to see how high I am going to have to raise the folding seat (w/o the cushion, of course) to clear the battery box. Two inches will probably be too much, but one inch might not do it. The idea is to keep it as close to stock as possible so those who don't know Pinto's won't know what I did, since the driver's side of it will be my secret hideaway spot.  ;D Small toolbox, jumper cables, etc.

I found the spare tire cover. It is broken, and I am afraid I might have done it when I put the seats in the back. :( I didn't know it was under there. Still, I can use it for a pattern later on. Although I don't think my spare (when I get one) will fit there. Speaking of which, I have 14 inch rims on the car. Was that a station wagon thing? I thought these all came with 13's.

Also, this car has a bumper hitch. Funny. Rated for 1000 lbs. Can a Pinto with a 2.3 even tow that much? At first I was going to get rid of it, but now I am not so sure. Would be nice having a car I can use to tow. Although when I do the bumper move that might force me to lose the hitch. I'd hate to have the bumper get pulled off. But that won't be tomorrow at least.

Oh, another strange to me thing. The alternator that was in the cargo area is an AC/Delco. Did Ford use those, or was someone putting a GM one?

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 26, 2014, 08:37:21 PM
Just a few more pictures.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 27, 2014, 01:32:51 AM
Well, I need two inches for the folding seat. So I need to get some 2x2 tubing. Once I have money that is.  :(

I also got the corrosion cleaned out on the ignition switch connector, nothing like baking soda and water.  ;D Had to use WD40 to get the water out. Somewhere I have one of those little $75 compressors that have a tank about the size of 1gallon. But it was way too late to make that kind of noise, even if I had remembered I have it. Note to self. Find the compressor.
Had to use channel locks to get the connectors back together. Then I thought why not try my battery charger to test the electrical, but being an automatic type it wouldn't work, which I had already pretty much known. I've got to get a cheap battery somehow. I really want to make sure everything I changed works.

Then for some reason I decided to take the exhaust manifold off. Mainly so I can see what it takes to get the battery tray off. It looks ok, but underneath the car from the wheelwell I could see that there is some damage to the fenderwell under the tray from corrosion.
Plus, I really want to find one of those Ranger factory headers for this. Got almost all the bolts off, then a monsoon storm started to hit and I chickened out and came inside. Right in the middle of House of Hair, too. Can't listen to it in here, my wife hates metal and loves country. I am just the opposite. We are constantly saying to each other why did we get married again? :o

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 27, 2014, 08:11:54 AM
Russ,
I can't answer all your questions, but I CAN tell you that all Pintos originally had 13" wheels.  I'm happy to see you continuing to make progress with your wagon!
Dwayne :) [size=78%]  [/size]

Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dick1172762 on July 27, 2014, 12:51:22 PM
Save that grill because you can cut out the teeth to fix a better grill. Most used grills have a tooth or 2 missing. Doint let that stop you from buy a grill. Easy fix.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 27, 2014, 04:40:52 PM
Thanks, Dwayne.
Dick, I had never thought of that. I was just going to toss it. Thanks!
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 27, 2014, 11:40:54 PM
Well, got a very little done. I had to play plumber in the house.

Got the exhaust manifold off. Guess what I found out? The engine was using it for some support. The engine didn't fall out, but it did move a bit. I had the hood support bar I am using propped on the head just in front of the valve cover, and all of a sudden the engine starts tilting forward. Took me a second to figure it out. Was almost funny.

I also got the battery tray off. It is damaged, I didn't see it until I start to take it off. Missing part of one corner, probably would still be fine to use if I was going to have a battery there. Pictures below. Any one want it, let me know.

What else? I decided on the route for the starter cable from the battery box. Now I need to go to Harbor Freight tomorrow to get a cheap step drill bit, I have to make a 3/4 inch hole, and the biggest bit I have is 1/2. The grommet for the hole needs the 3/4 inch. They have one on sale for like $5.99 that goes to 3/4. That's about my whole Pinto budget right now. Hoping to get a little fun cash on my birthday coming up.

I'm a little mentally tired. This whole job situation is really getting to me, and I am running out of fun free stuff to do on the Pinto. There is a lot I could do for $10 here, $20 there, but I just don't have that most of the time. I have to register our Subaru by the 5th, and here in Phoenix it will be a lot more than the $50ish it would be in Ohio. Also need to get legal and get an AZ driver's license. Oh, well. Life goes on, whether we want it to sometimes or not.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 27, 2014, 11:41:39 PM
One more picture for tonight.
I need to go out before I forget and plug those holes.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 28, 2014, 07:43:51 AM
No tranny hooked up, probably why it moved on ya..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dick1172762 on July 28, 2014, 08:56:20 AM
You got lucky!!!! That's a fox body mustang cast iron header you have there. Very good header. Got one on my 80 Pinto. Sell new for over a $100.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 28, 2014, 02:16:22 PM
Really? I never get lucky. Look out, the world may be coming to an end. ;D
Maybe I should plan on using it instead of trying to buy a Ranger one.
I am thinking this engine came from a Mustang, or a Ranger. It is definitely not a Pinto 2.3. Newer, from what I have been told. Whoever started the install never finished it. Seems they just dropped it in the engine compartment and quit.
Thanks!
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 28, 2014, 02:18:16 PM
No tranny hooked up, probably why it moved on ya..

Art, the engine is just sitting there. Not attached to anything. I'm surprised it doesn't fall out. ;D
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 28, 2014, 02:42:43 PM
Art, the engine is just sitting there. Not attached to anything. I'm surprised it doesn't fall out. ;D
Thanks,
Russ
Oh ok, LOL...
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 28, 2014, 11:02:07 PM
Got a little accomplished today. I guess that is all I can ask for.  :-\

I got that step drill bit I needed from Harbor Freight. That thing went thru the firewall like it was nothing. Not bad for $6.48 with tax. So I made a hole for the starter cable and routed it. I can't do the ends yet for two reasons. One is I am going to need a propane plumber's torch, my little soldering gun could just barely handle the 8 gauge wire, no way will it be enough to do the cables, and two, I don't have a starter attached to the engine so I don't know how long I need to make the end coming out of the firewall. No biggie, there really isn't a great rush.  :(
I really like the way I was able to route the starter cable. That wireway along the door is perfect. I really didn't want to have to go underneath the body.

Oh, I used Accel Lightning Cable. It came with the Mustang trunk mount kit. I looked it up today when I couldn't decide which cable to use(have 2 trunk mount kits) and found out this stuff is EXPENSIVE, so I figured I would splurge. ;D
It's just 2 gauge, which is what the other stuff is, but this stuff is supposed to be 50% lighter.

Please excuse the mess in the pictures. I am messy when I work.  :-[

I also took off the valve cover. I honestly don't know what I am looking at here. Don't know if it is a plain jane cam, a roller, or something that fell off a UFO.  ;D
Picture is attached, but I am going to try to search around for the answer as well.


Tomorrow I plan on going to a metal supply place in Mesa. They have a remnant section, hoping I can find a 4 foot piece of 2inch square tubing, prefer steel but aluminum would work. I would love a piece of solid aluminum, but I imagine that would be way out of my budget. I'd like to get that folding seat taken care of. I have some used angle steel (was the frame our old AC unit sat on, on the roof) that I am going to use to make a frame to box in that area from the floor up to the seat back. But I don't have any tubing for the spacers I need.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 28, 2014, 11:12:38 PM
Well, darn.
It looks like it is just the plain jane cam.
I guess having the Mustang cast iron header is all the luck I am going to have.
Which isn't bad. :-)
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 29, 2014, 08:05:43 AM
Tomorrow I plan on going to a metal supply place in Mesa. They have a remnant section,
Russ, this is the place to go for metal...

http://www.industrialmetalsupply.com/Locations/Phoenix-Metal (http://www.industrialmetalsupply.com/Locations/Phoenix-Metal)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 29, 2014, 12:40:35 PM
Thanks!
That didn't show up in my search for some reason.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 29, 2014, 11:06:31 PM
Well, I finally got the steel tubing I need. Ended up at the first place I was going to try, the one Art suggested didn't have any in the remnant section that would work and I could afford and I was in a hurry because my wife was in the car and very hungry. So after we ate (at my favorite Chinese place of all time, which is in East Mesa   ;D )  I went to the other place and got a 5 foot piece for $11 something. Not bad. Did some other stuff over there while we were there afterwards.

Haven't gotten anything done to the car though. When we got home I was so tired I fell asleep on the couch for a couple of hours, then we had to go to True Value hardware to get some screws for the car.
I hope they work, I hadn't realized until we got there that the ones off the car are sheetmetal screws, not bolts. Talking about the two on each end that is. I think I got the right size, it was hard for me to compare them. If not, I will have to do something else, like use bolts and nuts. Which is hard to do when you are the only one working on the car and one is inside it and the other end is underneath. Will worry about that tomorrow after I cut the tube to size. It's a little too late for that tonight, the grinder makes a tad too much noise. :(


Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 31, 2014, 11:31:01 PM
Sigh.
Well, so much for that idea. :(
I won't be using the stock folding seat stuff after all. Turns out that putting the 2 inch spacer on to raise it caused other clearance issues I didn't think about in regards to the folding function. Probably for the best, that stuff weighs a ton and I was going to have to widen it somehow anyway. So I will still use the long piece  of tubing (maybe, see below) I cut to fit between the wheel wells, and the steel angle to make a frame, I will just have to buy some sheet of some sort for the lid and box, and a sturdy piece of piano hinge. I still want to be able to toss stuff in the cargo area, so it will need to be somewhat sturdy.

Speaking of the wheel wells, did you know that the tops of them are closer to each other than they are at the floor? I didn't.  :-[  They are like /  \ not l   l.
I measured the distance between them at the floor, but then tried to put the cut piece in from the top. It was only after shortening it twice that I figured that out by accident. I had the piece laying on the floor and realized it just slid into place. I stupidly just assumed I made a measuring mistake instead of double checking it before cutting them again.  :-[
Still useable, just not the perfect fit I was going for.

Also, I took the inner quarter panels off before doing this. I really like the look of the sheet metal vs. the panels. I think I am going to leave them off(they are garbasge anyway and I was going to have to replace them), and just fill in the little holes for the panel clips. Maybe install access panels for the holes for the tail lights. I've seen some that are for cars/trucks in the past, hopefully I can still find them when the time comes. If not, the holes aren't that bad looking.

It's too late tonight to start cutting the angle for the frame, so I am probably done for today.  :( Yes, I tend to focus on one project at a time. Otherwise I end up forgetting stuff when I get back to it.

Speaking of cutting, I spent yesterday cutting the tubing. I couldn't find the wrench for my grinder, so I ended up using a hacksaw. My arm still hurts and this was only 16 gauge.  :-[
And then after I was all done I did find the stupid wrench. Idiot me, I put it where it belongs, there is a slot in the handle of the grinder for it. I never thought to look there, I never ever kept it there in Ohio, but when we were getting ready to move I must have thought that it was a good idea but then forgot about it 4 months later.

I might end up replacing the tubing I have with a larger gauge. I have an idea I want to think about/research that would require a thicker gauge metal. I just need to find out how thick it should be. It's a crazy idea :o but I think it might solve some of my issues with stuff I want to do with the car eventually.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 01, 2014, 02:32:46 AM
How to get really depressed without trying.
Do a search on subframe connectors.
Read the search results.
Read the ones that you were involved in.
Read the one that was about your 79 Pinto project.
Read the one in that about having to put your dog down.
Instant and total depression without trying.
And I still can't find the posts I am looking for.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 01, 2014, 06:48:35 PM
On to more cheerful stuff.

Can you guess from the pictures what I am going to be doing a bit later?

Yep, pulling the engine.  ;D

Of course for my wife it is more of a  >:(

I am hoping that I won't find the frame rail is damaged along with the fender well. That could put a big downer on all of this. But I need to know, and the sooner the better.

I have had some stuff for sale on craigslist that I won't or can't use on the Pinto.
Last night I added that I would trade for use of an engine hoist, if the person brings it to my house. Well, that did the trick. I've had like 4 people interested. This is for the other battery relocation kit I have, the one with the marine style box. It still goes for almost $100 on Summit's site. I paid like $40 for it on the clearance table a few years ago. the guy is supposed to bring it over this evening. Should take all of 5 minutes. In the one picture below you can see a white piece of clothes hanger. That little thing is all that is holding the engine in place.  :o


Now if someone would just buy the radiator and MkVII electric fan so I could have a little fun money for my birthday next week.  :( I am almost to the point of scrapping the radiator just to get a little cash. I have that and one slotted aluminum rim that was in the back of the car. Short of pulling a tire off and putting the rim on I am not even sure it is for a Pinto. I don't even know how to measure it, it could be 13-15 inches, depending on the spot I measured it at. Plus now the folding seat metal. Maybe I could get enough for the dollar menu somewhere.

I also decided that I want a Harbor Freight flux core welder. I know, I know. But it sounds like it would be the right tool for me. Cheap and it does work, although like most I think they over rate it's capacity but I wouldn't be doing 1/4 inch stuff. Not more than 1/8th at most. Simple, cheap, and easy. Three very important considerations right now for me.
Since I found out how cheap and easy steel can be to get I have a few things I would like to do with a welder.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 01, 2014, 08:22:08 PM
Well, my luck with people is consistent, if nothing else.
Still waiting to hear back from the guy if today is going to happen or not. I seem to have this happen frequently when dealing with others. One of many reasons I tend to try not to have to do it.

I did find out I have the correct 2.3 frame mounts, so that is one less concern. Finally found a picture in the manual of the two types.

And unless I am really wrong, I don't have a transmission crossmember to go along with the missing transmission. I sure haven't seen it anywhere. Another thing to buy later on.

So I sit here and wait. sigh.

Update, I will be waiting until tomorrow now. I hate relying on others.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 01, 2014, 11:31:17 PM
I got just a little done.

I got the tube going across the rear floor installed. More or less. It is as good as the factory did the fold down hinge there, but I am going to just consider this temporary. I will probably be changing the tube for a 14 gauge, if not a 1/8th inch later on. I am using the factory holes for the two larger screws at each end. I am planning on welding the tube in place once I decide on the thickness I want to use. Yes, I do have other plans for it besides just this.  ;D Not going into details yet, it all depends on if I get a welder and learn how to use it.

Decided to see if I could use the smaller piece of the fold down as a base for the new lid. I think it will work.
The three little tubes are mainly just to make sure for now that the lid that is there stays there. Although I may end up doing something similar to this later on. There will be a frame for the lid going all the way forward to where it will end.

These wagon cargo areas are pretty small. I can barely be in there on my hands and knees, my back is scraping the roof.

I'd probably be out there doing some more, but some guy named Noah is going around looking for pairs of animals.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 02, 2014, 03:16:23 AM
This is more or less me trying to convince myself. And somewhat of a ramble about what I need to do versus what I want to do.

I am not going to take the car any further apart.
I am not going to take the car any further apart.
I am not going to take the car any further apart.
I am not going to take the car any further apart.
I am not going to take the car any further apart.


Help! It isn't working. I WANT to take it apart.  :o

I keep reading other people's posts and it is making me want to do more than I have planned.
It is already much further apart than I had planned when I bought it. But then I thought it was complete and just needed some stuff finished up to at least be drivable.  >:(

I still need to take the rear bumper off so I can do the bumper move. I just can't decide which way to go. :-\ I'd like to remove the reinforcement stuff for weight. But the other way seems easier to me, even though it is more work. ??? I guess part of the problem is that I can't picture how to reattach the bumper once the inner stuff is gone like some have done. And I really want the bumpers tucked all the way up against the body. But with the inner stuff still attached, the stupid things are really too heavy for me to work with.

Interior is out of the car except for the dash. The dash doesn't need to come out, there is nothing wrong with it or the body behind it. Repeat that until it sinks in Russ.  :-[

Trans is missing >:( , and engine will be out later today, I hope. Yet another thing I hadn't planned on doing, but it is really a must so I can check out the damage on the driver's side inner fender. Once the engine is out I can really start work on the engine compartment. That shouldn't take much cash. It is really pretty clean, not a lot of grease. Give it a good scrubbing, should look much better. Then I have to figure out what to do about the damaged area. Replacing the inner fender  is beyond me. Most likely I will do what I usually do in these situations. Patch it up the best I can and live with it. I am thinking putting some sheet metal on the outside of it and seeing if I can weld up most of the holes. I've got two grinders, so grinding down the welds isn't a problem.  ;D
As long as the damage isn't structural I am not too worried. I'd just like to make it look better and make sure it doesn't spread. If it is structural, I am going to cry. :'( And then figure out how to make it safe at least. I can't lose another car to something I should have seen before buying it.  :-[


About all that is left is suspension and glass. And doors. I am NOT taking them off, I can't lift that much weight anymore. Although I do need to rebuild the hinges. If I could get an 8 inch rear I'd take this one off. But I am not doing that until I have one. Glass will need to come out when I have the car painted, but that is a long ways off. Better to keep it installed and reasonably protected. And to keep the water out when it does rain like it did tonight. About had to man the lifeboats.  :D

I see a couple of people who have done the wooden body tilter that I had posted about a few years ago. I keep thinking that I can do that, I HAVE done that with a much bigger car. But since there is no rust on this car I don't NEED to do that. I don't think I have the room to do it anyway. Besides, I don't NEED to do that. Lather, rinse and repeat, Russ, until it sinks in.

No point in taking the front suspension off yet. I want to rebuild it, but until I have the money to do it I need to keep the car rolling at least. I haven't even really looked at it. I am just going to rebuild it, it has to be bad at this point. Rubber doesn't do well here in the desert.

And I need to work on the battery box/storage area yet. I have it pretty much planned out in my head, just need to do it. I'll have to bolt the framwork together for now, but eventually I'd like to weld it together. At least this is something I can do most of the work now. I'll have to decide what to use for the box at some point. Needs to be strong enough so that it won't collapse if I set something on it. I will have lots of framing to help prevent that.

I might as well remove the gas tank. I have no idea how long the car has sat, but I am sure the tank needs cleaned at least. i don't even know if there is any gas in it.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 02, 2014, 04:21:40 PM
 :'(
There is frame damage. But it looks like that at least was welded correctly.  :-\ I need to take pictures, but won't get to that until later. Wife needs to go spend money. ::)

Good news is that the guy who came with the hoist is building a '72 Chevelle, and the radiator I had was setup for a chevy. so he bought both it and the MKVII fan. Only $40, but at least now I have a little spending money. Maybe I can go out to eat for my birthday. Or spend it on Pinto stuff.  ;D
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 02, 2014, 07:44:31 PM
Maybe I can go out to eat for my birthday. Or spend it on Pinto stuff.  ;D
Russ
Spend it on Pinto stuff, probably need to go on a diet anyways, LOL.. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 02, 2014, 07:54:01 PM
  Maybe I can go out to eat for my birthday. Or spend it on Pinto stuff.  ;D

Whichever you decide to do, enjoy!  And, by the way, Happy Birthday!

Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 02, 2014, 11:29:50 PM
Thanks, but it isn't for a couple more days. The fifth. Speaking of fifths, I could really go for one. But I don't drink alky anymore. O'douls is it for me. Well, St. Pauli's Girl has a good N/A. I really wish Heineken did though. I miss that stuff.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 02, 2014, 11:56:50 PM
Here are the pictures of the damage.  :'(
I do think that it looks like it was fixed more or less properly. But please feel free to give me your opinions. I am most definitely NOT an expert on that stuff.

I guess one good thing about the location is that the 2.3L mounts will bridge it. There is a gap though where one of the upper mounting bolts should be. I am going to have to pull that tire and take a look from the outside. I am thinking about getting a piece of plate steel  to put on the outside of the frame, and run the bolts for the mount thru it to sandwich it a bit more, if that wasn't done already.
Plus, then I can check that aluminum rim to see if it fits the Pinto. I wish I had 4 of those, I like that style. Had them on my 69 Mustang in high school, and my 70 GTO in college.  ;D That style is second only to the original Centerline style from the 70s to me. And depending on my mood it can be first somedays. Got to be deep dish on the rear though.  ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 02, 2014, 11:58:47 PM
and here are a couple of pictures of an empty engine compartment, and the engine out of it's cave.
I do have a tarp to put over the engine. Just need to dig it out. And it is only about 10 sizes too big, I had bought it to cover the Lemans before I was able to garage it back in Ohio.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 03, 2014, 04:56:59 AM
Russ, step away from the Pinto.  :P

I can't help it. I need a 12 step program.

I took the fenders off tonight. BTW, thanks for nothing Ford, nowhere in the body manual does it show how to remove them.  >:( Everything else yes. Down to the littlest piece of trim, but no fenders.

Anyway, I wanted to see just how bad the damage was on the driver's side. yes, it is on both sides of the frame. I guess worrying about it is worthless. It looks reasonably well done. I hadn't noticed before that the radiator support has been repaired, about 2/3's of the way  towards the passenger side. Guess that was why I hadn't seen any repairs to it near the driver's side.

So having taken off the driver's fender I figured why stop now? I had wanted to take the passenger side fender off to route the starter cable a different way but had decided not to at the time. But being in the mood now I went ahead. I found some damage that I had noticed before, but I hadn't really seen how much there was.  :(

 Under the battery tray and behind the spot welded support piece ( or whatever it is called) there is corrosion damage to the fender well from battery acid. Where it "L's" from vertical to horizontal. So now I guess I finally get to use the spot weld cutter I bought years ago to take that panel off, and then I'll probably have to cut out a section of the fender well and try to make a patch panel. You would think that someone would sell those.  :-\

The fenders themselves seem to be in pretty good shape. I just need to find a better storage place for them than what I did tonight.

So I guess the new plan is to remove all the wiring I just did, along with pretty much everything else that is attached to the firewall or fender wells. Then go to town on the metal, cleaning and repairing. Then paint it. I guess it will be the somewhat normal semi gloss black. I'd rather do body color, but painting the car is probably years away yet and I don't even have a clue about what color. Then reattach and reroute everything. I am hoping that this shouldn't take more than a few weeks, if I can get a cheap welder and learn how to use it. I really don't want the car stripped like this for very long, and I for sure don't want to have to redo it properly later just because I got in a rush now.  :(

The good thing about all this is that my $500 Pinto is actually in better shape than the $3000 Lemans I bought in Ohio. I just didn't know how bad that one really was until getting into it. I just wish I had the kind of money that I had when I was doing the Lemans. I hate having to scrimp and make do.  ;D And I can't do a frame off on the Pinto. It doesn't have a frame! ;D ;D ;D

Anyone know what this bracket is in the first picture? I am guessing starter solenoid.
And shouldn't there be a grommet on the mirror cable in the second?

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 03, 2014, 05:01:09 AM
more pictures.
That brown stuff in picture 1 and 4 is dirt.
Very temporary fender storage in picture 3.
Picture 2 is the corrosion damage.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 03, 2014, 05:04:27 AM
And more pictures.

I took picture 4 because I thought I was missing most of the wheelwell. I guess these didn't have full ones?
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 03, 2014, 05:06:47 AM
Last of the pictures for tonight.

These are all from the backside/outer driver's side showing the damage/repair. I wish whoever did this had taken more time with the fenderwell. Oh, well.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Reeves1 on August 03, 2014, 06:58:32 AM
Something serious happened to the front of that car, for a frame rail to brake off in front of the cross member.
Cannot help but wonder how far the damage goes backwards.
Also wonder if it will ever drive properly again.
Cross member may well be knocked out of alignment.
Check the lower fire wall / floor area for un-natural bends / wrinkles, where the frame rails attach.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 03, 2014, 07:37:13 AM
Wow, wonder what happened with that, I'd be looking at that very closely and doing some measuring, doubt very much that it handled well probably ate up tires too..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 03, 2014, 02:26:26 PM
Everything to the rear of it "seems" ok as far as I can tell. No obvious signs of wrinkled metal other than the fender well right at the point of damage, the doors open and close normally, the fender fit well, the bumper was on straight without excessive spacers.
 
As far as measuring it goes, about all I could do would be from the firewall forward. One of the pains of working by yourself, you can only do what you can reach.

I just seem to have this knack of finding cars that have hidden or at least not obvious serious issues. My wife hates when I say this, but I have my own personal black cloud.

At this point all I can really do is move forward I guess and see what happens once it is on the road, if I ever get that far.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 03, 2014, 02:36:52 PM
Oh, this did make my engine decision for me. I will be keeping the 2.3. No way would I put a V8 in this car at this point.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 03, 2014, 05:05:45 PM
I took a couple of quick unscientific measurements and things seem good.
I looked at the manual and found a few other measurements I can try to take.
but for the most part I think I am going to bury my head in the sand on this one. Emotionally I just can't deal with the thought of having bought another piece of c r a p right now.
Worst case scenario is that I build the car and end up having to remove everything down the road and try to find another. I'm just going to try to enjoy working on this one for now.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 03, 2014, 09:50:35 PM
Sounds like you lucked out, as long as everything back is ok no wrinkles anywhere and the doors fit you should be good, front shouldn't be too hard to straighten if needed..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 03, 2014, 10:44:28 PM
I'm just going to try to enjoy working on this one for now.

Russ,

For what it's worth, I think you've got the right idea on this!  Hang in there, Buddy!

Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 04, 2014, 12:44:37 AM
Thanks.

I took another measurement based more or less on one from the manual. It seems really close. Within an eigth or less as far as I can tell, but again these are just me and an old tape measure. It is hard for me at least to make sure I am doing it exactly the same going from side to side.
All I can really do at this point is carry on and see what happens down the road. Literally.  ;D

I wish I had some history of this car, but I don't. It could have been driven like this for 20 years. Or not.  :-\ The tires that are on it don't show any signs of uneven wear, but again I don't know if they were driven on or not. All I know about it is that at some point in the '90's it was still being insured.  :-\

On a possibly brighter moment, I got some birthday cash from my parents  ;D and I am going in the morning to look at a welder. Still the HF brand, but I think that is what I need at the moment. Nothing fancy until I get some skills at welding. Or if I just flat can't do it I won't be out too much. $125 for the welder, an auto darkening helmet, and some extra tips and wire. The wire I won't use, I do know better than to use HF wire.  ;D Although Lincoln wire that has been sitting around for who knows how long at Home Depot might not be a whole lot better. But everything I have heard about the HF flux core wire says to avoid it. I'll have to buy some gloves and stuff. All stuff I had in Ohio and got rid of, again.  :( Seems to be an ongoing trend with me.

I didn't get anything done to the car today other than those measurements. Had to go to my parent's for my birthday dinner, they will be out of town Tuesday. When we got home I was just exhausted for some reason. So I veg'ed out on the couch. Now I am feeling like doing something, but what I am ready to do is too noisy for this time of night.
Besides, I have to get up at the unholy hour of 8:30am to go look at the welder.  ;D
And then we have to go to the DMV and get the Subaru registered here, and I need to get an AZ license finally.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 04, 2014, 07:30:26 AM
I have to get up at the unholy hour of 8:30am
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

BTW, Happy B-Day and many more to come.. (http://www.hotboat.com/frm/images/smilies/beerchug.gif)

                               (http://www.riverdavesplace.com/forums/images/smilies/RDP/birthday.gif)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 04, 2014, 09:17:33 PM
Thanks.

Been out trying out the new to me welder. Boy have I got a lot of practicing ahead of me.
But I now know how to change out the spool of wire. There wasn't a whole lot left on the roll it had installed. It came with another roll, but 035 instead of 030. Looked up the manual online, pretty simple operation even for me. So far it looks like I am a puller vs a pusher. Had to stop, the duty cycle on this is only 20%. Silly me thinking I would be welding on the car tonight. Probably not this week. Plan on using up this 2 lb roll practicing, but when it is gone I may not be able to get anymore for a while. Have to see how expensive the good stuff is.  And I also know how to read the setup guide. When I started I just left it the way the seller had it, but turns out he was doing thicker stuff and the wire speed was way too fast for 16 gauge metal.
I need to get some leather sleeves or some long sleeved cotton shirts. Probably go with sleeves. I have gloves and an apron(that doesn't have long enough ties for a fat person like me) but that is leaving bare skin on my arms and I am feeling it.
I need to learn to go slower. I was blowing thru the metal before I reset the speed, and now I need to stay in one spot longer to get the puddle going, but I keep wanting to rush it and that doesn't work. I tend to want to rush everything. Trying to focus on keeping a constant distance going as well, I tend to roller coaster my holding hand.

I am now officially back to being an AZ resident. Got the Subaru registered and my AZ driver's license today. Well, the temp license. They now mail the real license. Seems like a really good way to have ID theft to me, but I am not a gov't official.

Well, back out to burning wire. ouch ouch ouch.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Reeves1 on August 05, 2014, 06:46:43 AM
Mine came with flux core. Hated it. Quickly converted to gas. Love it now.
I have a 10 lb spool of flux core I'll never use. Too bad shipping to you would be too much....

Wear long sleeves & closed to the neck. You can burn quick & bad.

I too have the auto darken lenses. Was welding under the dash of Ugly Yellow & was blocking the sensor & it wouldn't darken.....til l I figured out what was going on.
Watch for that. Flash burn your eyes & it will feel like someone wire brushed your eyes.

I was stick welding as a kid. Worked for Dad's heavy const. co.
Likely burned a million (or more) lbs of rod !
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 05, 2014, 10:14:49 AM
Congratulation s on the welder!  Take your time and I'm sure you'll develop a technique that works just right for you and what you want to do with it.  Also...




       HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!





Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 05, 2014, 05:58:48 PM
thanks. ;D
I am now what used to be the national speed limit.  :-X

I got a battery for the Pinto to test out the electrical. Problem is that it cost me $155. Went and got the oil changed on the Subaru and they suggested I keep an eye out on the battery, it was starting to get weak. So figuring that I had better do it while I had the money( my brother is ok with taking it out of the rent.  :-[ ) I went ahead and got one. Man those things have gone up in price since the last time I had to buy one! :(

I kept the old one, I know it still works. For a $5 core charge that was a no-brainer. A used one around here would have cost around $40 since they all charge the core charge and I didn't have one to trade in. Got this one at Pepboys. Bosch with a 3 year full replacement, and then 5 more years prorated. I was going to get one at Autozone, but they couldn't install it until later on today. Glad I didn't, got the same warranty and a cheaper core charge (they wanted $15) for about $15 less. The battery in the Subaru was the factory original, made by Panasonic. After 4+ years I guess it did good.  :)

I also got some Lincoln wire at Home Depot. $12.99 for what most places online charge over $18 for, and no shipping. Just one pound of the .030 wire. But I figure it is worth it to see if that improves my welding at all. Problem is I am so wore out I won't be doing any welding today.  :-[

I also got a basic set of gauges: volt, oil, water temp. Mechanical. Used, got them for $15. I shouldn't have gotten them, but I couldn't resist that price. Guy was just using them while he setup the car, then he went with higher end ones. But they are just what I had planned on using, so a good deal for me.  8)

I think it is nap time.  ;D

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: chrisf1219 on August 05, 2014, 07:13:19 PM
off topic a little I have a 05 ram with the oringal battery still going strong. good luck on project and happy birthday.  chris
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 05, 2014, 09:15:11 PM
Thanks.

Being where it is 115 or so everyday seems to kill batteries. So better to be safe than sorry.
It's getting to the time where I am going to have to  start spending money on the Subaru. Over 93000 miles. We've put about 91000 of those on it in 3.5 years. Original everything except for the battery and tires now. One of my license plate lights is out it seems. I know it could use brakes, they are a little softer than they used to be. Stuff like that. I've got to get a manual for it soon I suppose.  Can't let it start falling apart on me, too many more payments to go.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 06, 2014, 03:27:34 AM
I've got headlights, taillights, dash lights and some emergency flashers-although the switch is really touchy.
Got some bad bulbs. Not too surprising.

No turn signals. I don't know if there is a different flasher for just those or if it is something in the steering column.

Didn't get to try the horn tonight, will have to wait for daytime on that one.

Stop light switch is still disconnected, so I haven't been able to check those.

I might have to see if the starter that was in the back of the car works, and if so hook it up to the starter cable and see if that circuit works. Not much else I can test right now. Heater is out of the car, and so is the radio. Both of which I have no clue if they work or not anyway. But it seems at least that the engine compartment wiring that I modified is working.

I suppose I could check at the fuses and see if that part of the circuit is working.

And no fires. That is a good thing.  ;D

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Reeves1 on August 06, 2014, 04:23:45 AM
Test the ground wires. Likely your problem.

I have a deep cycle battery for my electric trolling motor I bought in the mid 80s. Still going strong.
On the other hand....the 07 truck I had the batteries only lasted 4 years.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 09, 2014, 12:02:02 AM
Slight update. I honestly haven't felt like leaving the house the last few days. The depression is winning. Just took a while. Having a birthday in the middle of all the c r a p that is going on just magnified how much of a failure I am feeling like.
I did check the horn. It works, and is extremely loud. Maybe too loud.
I have been looking online at stuff. I have a wish list at Speedway approaching $2000. I'll never see most of that stuff.
I was thinking of changing the tail lights, they have some neat ones for older cars. Then I remembered I have a wagon and the tail light is totally different than the one I had on the 79. So much for that idea.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 09, 2014, 01:11:11 AM
Depression around birthdays and holidays is not uncommon.  Hang in there, Russ!  We have faith in you!
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 09, 2014, 07:57:51 AM
Hang in there, Russ!  We have faith in you!
 
Dwayne :)
For sure, better days are coming....

Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 09, 2014, 06:30:43 PM
For sure, better days are coming....



Thanks, but sometimes the light at the end of the tunnel IS a train.  ::)
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dennisofaz on August 09, 2014, 07:22:31 PM
Hi Russ,


I think there is a Flasher inside the dash above the glove box. 
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 10, 2014, 12:48:01 AM
Thanks. I found the hazard flasher, but not a turn signal one. But I haven't really looked hard yet.
There is also a chance I didn't get the steering column connector back together all the way. Or even that the turn signal switch itself is bad.
I need to get busy on this.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 10, 2014, 07:39:46 AM
Thanks, but sometimes the light at the end of the tunnel IS a train.  ::)
Russ
Just have to make it turn around and go the other way. ;) :D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 11, 2014, 06:18:38 PM
Yeah, that way it can run me over twice.  ;D

I got the front bumper apart, although now I am wondering what I am going to do with it since the "simple fat bumper fix" isn't going to work for me. Thinking about slapping the front fenders back on and mounting the mounts to the frame and seeing how close things line up.  :-\

Lost my train of thought. My wife just interrupted me to ask if I had heard that Robin Williams died.  :(

Back to important stuff (unless you are related to him or a friend of his that is).

I took a couple of quick pictures of the carnage. I am wondering if there is a market for the bumper bumpers? My mind is blanking on the right name, getting to be a common problem for me. I never liked the looks of them anyway, so they won't be going back on. Neither will the rear ones once I get that far.I hate getting old, my mind is going away.  :(

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 11, 2014, 08:18:28 PM
WOW, I actually did something other than take apart.  :o

I did a lot of cutting with the grinder ( I really need a chop saw bad) and got the basic box done that will be the battery/storage area. It needs lots of fine tuning, I am not that great of a cutter with a grinder (or hacksaw sometimes), but I cut it big intentionally so I could trim it down to the exact size after fitting it in the car.
I do plan on adding more support along the middle, both upright and along the top.

And yes, this is the old AC roof mount from last month's AC replacement. Free metal is hard to beat.  ;D

I am going to have to move the starter solenoid to the side of the battery box though. Not a big deal, just another OOPS.  :-[

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 11, 2014, 09:51:34 PM
That's looking pretty good..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 11, 2014, 11:32:50 PM
Thanks, but it has a long way to go before it is finished.
Once it is all fitted I will be sanding and painting it.
I hope to be able to weld it up also, but that is iffy. So it is nuts and bolts for now. Although I might have better luck welding this. It is a lot thicker and I wouldn't be so concerned about blowing thru it, so maybe I can relax and get a decent bead. I have some leftovers that I plan to try welding later on. Once I see just how much is leftover that is. Still need quite a bit of structure. I want to be able to sit on this and have it support me, it would never see that big a load again.  ;D

Still don't really have a clue what to use for the skin. Thin stuff for the front is fine, but the lid does need to be able to support some weight. Might have to go woody on it.  ;D Whatever I end up using will be covered with carpet though. The goal is stealth.  8)

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 12, 2014, 06:35:16 AM
That's looking pretty good..

I agree!

Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 12, 2014, 07:49:21 AM
Thanks, but it has a long way to go before it is finished.
Once it is all fitted I will be sanding and painting it.
I hope to be able to weld it up also, but that is iffy. So it is nuts and bolts for now. Although I might have better luck welding this. It is a lot thicker and I wouldn't be so concerned about blowing thru it, so maybe I can relax and get a decent bead. I have some leftovers that I plan to try welding later on. Once I see just how much is leftover that is. Still need quite a bit of structure. I want to be able to sit on this and have it support me, it would never see that big a load again.  ;D

Still don't really have a clue what to use for the skin. Thin stuff for the front is fine, but the lid does need to be able to support some weight. Might have to go woody on it.  ;D Whatever I end up using will be covered with carpet though. The goal is stealth.  8)

Russ
Myself I would use wood for the top and maybe 1/16" aluminum sheet on the front.

Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 12, 2014, 04:14:21 PM
Yeah, wood would definitely be easier for sure.  ;D Probably the strongest as well. Plus it will be easy to cut it to fit the curves. The plan is for the lid and the front of the box to go completely across from side panel to side panel. I don't want this to look like a hack job.  :-X
I am going to take off the one part of the folding seat that is still there. I thought it would help me, but it really won't. Especially if I go with the wood.

I will have to go to that Industrial Metals store again when I get some extra cash. They had some aluminum that would be perfect for this at a good price.  ;D

We need to go out and about soon, I am hoping to get home in time to do some more cutting for the box frame. I need to buy some quality nuts and bolts to put it together, going to try to squeeze that out of the budget. Pretty sad when spending $5 is a major event.  :-[

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 14, 2014, 12:24:54 AM
Oh, woe is me. This is just me complaining again.

I would say I am depressed, but that word might trigger a bunch of stuff right now.
So let's say I am down in the dumps. And not the dumps where you can find neat stuff for free.
 
I want to go work on the Pinto, but right now everything I want to do makes too much noise for this time of night and location.

Can't drill holes.

Can't run the grinder.
 
Can't run the drill with a wire wheel to clean up the engine compartment.

Can't watch anything much on TV, we just had to lower our service to local only channels. Finances. Haven't been watching much on TV anyway. But it is still a kick in the crotch.
 
I suppose I could take the engine compartment wiring harness back off the car. Everything I modified so far on it works and it needs to come back out so I can do the engine compartment cleaning/painting. But that should take all of 10 minutes, if I go slow.

I could take the rest of the carpet out, but actually it is kind of nice to have it to sit on when I am working inside the car.
 
I suppose I could put the good steering wheel on the car and go "VROOM, VROOM for awhile, until they come to take me away, haha,hehe, hoho, to the funny farm, where life is beautif...    STOP IT RUSS!!!!!

Or maybe I should go clean and organize the enclosed carport, what my wife calls the garage room.  Probably the thing to do, I need to do laundry anyway and it is out there.

Or just stay here in front of the computer and veg. But that is what is making me crazy.

Will Russ do laundry? Will he just watch more "Whose Line Is It, Anyway" on Youtube? Will he just sink lower into insanity?

Stay tuned tomorrow, same Pinto time, same Pinto station.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 14, 2014, 07:25:30 AM
I think at 12:24:54 AM it's time to get some shut eye not work on the Pinto.. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 14, 2014, 03:33:17 PM
That's early for me.  ;D

I am really internally wired as a night person. That is like 5pm to you day types for me. I can and have worked day shift before, but even then on weekends I would go into my night person routine. That would drive my wife nuts.  ;D
If I ever get another job  :'( I will go with whatever schedule that has.

If anyone is interested I ended up doing laundry and unpacking a few more boxes. Found a couple of missing tools, but now I am worried. I am out of boxes to unpack from my garage in Ohio, and I seem to be missing quite a lot of tools. A wrench here, a socket there. I could have lost them years ago for all I know. I've never been super organized when it comes to keeping tools in one place. Trying to work on that, it can be expensive to keep losing things.  :-[ Problem  is that I can set something down and then in 5 minutes I can't remember where I put the stupid thing.  :-[

I need to get a bit more awake and go out and make some noise.  ;D

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 14, 2014, 07:40:06 PM
Don't feel bad I only moved 180mi and I'm still looking for stuff after 2 1/2yrs, LOL.. ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 14, 2014, 11:48:46 PM
I did get a bit done today.

While I was working on the storage box I noticed that the lid for the battery box might not be able to be removed if I installed the frame I am building at the height and length I had planned. The storage lid would have cleared, but the frame itself would have been partially blocking.  :-[

So, with not lowering the top as much as I wanted to puts the height at about 4 inches above the cargo floor counting the wooden lid once I get it. I was hoping for just 2 at most. But I guess it just means I will get a little more hidden storage out of all this. Just going to make this a bit more obvious.  :(
It's a good thing I hadn't trimmed the uprights of the frame earlier, that would have caused a do over.  :-[ :-[ :-[

Plan is that tomorrow I will do what I can with what is left of the metal to do some extra bracing, and then wire wheel it and paint it with some Rustoleum rusty metal primer I bought. I actually bought it for the engine compartment, but I need to practice brushing it on. Then it will sit until I get some more money for the lid wood and the front aluminum.

The bad news is now that I have cut up all this metal, I don't have a "work bench" anymore. I was using the AC mount that all this metal is from as a bit of a work bench. Maybe someday I can build another bench like I did in Ohio. All it takes is money. Or a truck. I have seen a few free ones on craigslist here, but I'd need a truck to get them. And a friend to help load and unload, and I am a bit short on that end here as well.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 15, 2014, 07:27:08 AM
Russ,


Glad to know you are back working on your Pinto!


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 15, 2014, 02:00:10 PM
Yeah, off and on a bit. Being out in the heat yesterday really took a toll on me.  :-[ I was even working in front of a fairly big fan as much as possible. Burning myself on a hot drill bit didn't help I am sure.  :'(

Today's plans got put on hold. I got woke up at 10am with a phone call asking if I could interview today. Of course I said yes. It's the opposite end of town from me, Chandler. I'm northwest valley, that is southeast valley. But it could be a really good job. So I likely won't get it.  ::)

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 15, 2014, 08:56:54 PM
I was in Cave Creek today and picked up a parts truck, that was an interesting trip. :D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 15, 2014, 11:38:44 PM
Gee, and you didn't even drop by.  ;D

The interview went ok. I didn't stay focused enough though, talked about the Pinto and Ohio.
It's a new position for this company, whoever gets it will be doing all the startup stuff to get a test bench going. Equipment, procedures, spare parts. The company repairs/refurbs mechanical airplane parts and is just starting to get into the electronics side of aviation.

Hopefully tomorrow I can get back to the Pinto. Shouldn't be any unexpected calls about interviews for sure.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 16, 2014, 07:48:54 AM
It was a quick turn around. ;D

Sounds like a good deal, fingers are crossed for ya..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 16, 2014, 08:55:02 AM
The thing about interviews is you just never know.  Here's wishing you luck!


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 17, 2014, 02:36:37 AM
Thanks. I need all the help I can get.  :-[

A friend came over today to see the Pinto. He's been my best friend since we were freshmen in high school. Another car guy. He owned a Pinto wagon back in the 80's for a while. His wife made him trade in his high school 67 Mustang for it. grrr. I had a 69 in school, and another really good friend had a 64 and a 1/2. This was in during the 1976/77 school year.
Anyway, he brought over a copy of the Peterson Pinto book he had from back then. Nice book, but even though the date on it was 79, it really seemed only for the 70-72 Pintos. 1.6 and 2.0 engines only. a bit disappointing to me, was hoping it had the later models as well.  :(

I didn't get anything done on the car today. However I did buy some sort of wood for the lid. Attic/roofing sheathing. Was $4.19 or something for a 2x4 piece 7/16th's thick. I bought two. I had really wanted 3/4 plywood, but even the 2x4 of that was over $19 each. It would have been cheaper to buy a 4x8 of the plywood than 2 of the smaller plywood ones, but I can't handle or transport anything that big.  :-[
This cheap stuff will work. It is going to be covered anyway. Maybe I won't be able to sit on the lid, but realistically, how often will I be carrying well over 300 lbs of cargo on the lid anyway? I just have to remember to save money where I can even when it goes against my grain.
I will probably just use this for the whole box, not just the lid. Again, going to have carpet on it whether I use this or aluminum. And wood is easier for me to work with since I don't have much in the way of metal working tools. I need to do the lid first. Plan I guess is to split one of the pieces in half, and cut each half to follow the inner quarter panel curve since at the front I need about 53 inches wide. The part in the rear is about 43inches wide. Then use some of the second 2x4 piece to fill in the center, and see what I have left for the rest of the box. At $4.19ish, I can buy another one if I need to.  I may end up making a false front for this box as a subwoofer box anyway. I just don't want to use up all the space behind the front seats. Makes me a tad claustrophobic doing stuff like that. Seriously. I wasn't real claustrophobic before I served on the submarine, but afterwards I have noticed it getting worse as I age.

I did some thrift store shopping today as well. I sold a remote oil filter kit (would be ridiculous on a 2.3L with the filter right there) I had saved from the Lemans project. Got a whole $20 for it, but I only paid $25, so I am not upset about giving something away for once. This was the last of the Lemans stuff I had saved. Kind of a sad moment really. :'(
 Anyway, one thing I found at a Goodwill was bagged house door hinges and doorknobs. 3 hinges and a doorknob in a bag for $4.99. So now I have hinges for the lid. No, I am not going to use the doorknob.  ;D
 I had bought a pair of hinges that are more like gate hinges, but I think these will be better for what I am doing. Stronger as well. I also bought a cheap used clock radio. I have been using my wife's alarm clock in the car, but she wanted it back. Go figure.  ::)

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 17, 2014, 03:04:33 AM
You and your friends had some pretty cool cars in high school.  I'm a couple years older than you and I got my '74 Pinto new in my Junior year.  I dated a girl at the time who had a metallic blue '68 Mustang convertible.  I was a Senior during the 1974-75 school year and probably the coolest car of all in the student parking lot was my buddy's black '55 Bel Air.  Believe it or not, there was another kid who drove a black '48 Packard!  That was different!  The guy I ran around with the most in school drove a '74 Mustang II Ghia which was a pretty neat car too, although basically not that different from my Pinto.  They had the same engines but his car was automatic and mine was a 4 speed and could actually outrun his any day - a fact that we proved more than a few times, much to his dismay. 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 17, 2014, 03:15:02 AM
Yeah. Although the REALLY cool car was an early black Camaro owned by a guy whose last name was Logan. All anyone had to say was "Logan's Camaro" and everyone smiled.

I don't remember anyone driving anything new. My 69 was one of the newer cars in the student parking lot. But I don't remember anyone driving a 48 anything either. One guy I knew slightly from PE class did drive a 50's some year or other Studebaker truck. Most kids though had mid 60's stuff.

I traded my 69 Stang for a 69 Torino Cobra Jet that spring. Neither car was running. Now THAT car would be worth a ton of money these days. But I still miss the Mustang the most. Well, that and the 70 GT0 I bought on payments from the one friend who had the 64.5 in school after I got out of the Navy and he was going thru a divorce.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 17, 2014, 11:46:39 AM
Well, actually, the new Pinto wasn't exactly my first choice.  I started working (lawn mowing, leaf raking, painting... whatever) and saving for my first car when I was about ten.  By the time I was sixteen, I had amassed a small fortune; nearly $1200. Laugh if you will,  but that was goodly amount of money for a teenager in those days!  I got my driver's license in June of 1973 and set out to buy myself a car.  A family friend was selling his 1964 Chrysler 300 which I could easily afford with money left over. Beautiful baby blue color, push button transmission, and a sort of rectangular steering wheel!  What a ride!  Unfortunately, my dad got involved and decreed that he wasn't going to allow me to buy somebody else's trouble... I could have my own car when I could afford a brand new one!  Because I couldn't legally buy a car without his signature, he had me over a barrel.  By that time, I was employed both as a school bus driver for the county school system (I still shudder to think about them allowing us students to drive buses full of children) and as a sales associate in the toy department of J.C. Penney.  With my healthy down payment and my dad as a co-signer, I took on a 36 month car loan with a payment of $72 per month to buy a car that met his criteria; my '74 Pinto Runabout.  Actually, I started out ordering a '73 model but it was accidentally destroyed in transit and had to be re-ordered so I ended up with a 1974 instead.  As for my friend with the new Mustang II Ghia: he just had rich parents.  I was never so lucky! 


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 18, 2014, 07:08:08 PM
I barely had enough money to buy my 69. Paid $400 for it on superbowl sunday 1976. We had to drive to Tucson to buy it. The kid who owned it got the join the military or go to jail speech, he went into the Marines I think. His dad sold the car.

I have to keep reminding myself I wanted to move back here. I've been trying to wire wheel the box frame so I can paint it. It's been about 5 minutes wheeling to about 20 of sitting in the house.
I was going to try to do some welding on this frame, but I think it is galvanized so I am not going to. I know better than that. Even being outside I don't want to mess with it. I already have COPD, Asthma, and other lung issues.

Well, guess it is time to get back out. getting close to being done. But I need to add another piece or two yet, so there will be more wire wheeling before paint. I should have it done today though.

I need a different drill. This is a cheapo I bought a few years ago, but only took it out of the box recently. It's too small and doesn't have a handle for using a second hand. When I do try to use both hands, I cannot avoid covering some of the vents. Oh, well. I had to toss my good drill before we moved, it finally died after about 10 years.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 18, 2014, 10:34:35 PM
Sigh.
I really really should know better.

The drill I was just talking about is now kaput. A drill bit came loose and went off center in the chuck, and I cannot get it out. I just have no luck at all when it comes to these keyless chucks. That is what caused me to toss my "good" drill back in Ohio. That one, the chuck quit working all together.

The worst part is I was on the last hole I needed to drill before I was done with the box frame.

I really don't have and don't want to spend the money to buy another drill right now. If I do it won't be a cheap one. I don't think this one was really meant to drill anything much more than wood, no matter what it said on the box.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 18, 2014, 10:41:05 PM
Nothing wrong with the drill, just buy a good "Jacobs" chuck for it and $hit can the china junk chuck and you're in business..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 18, 2014, 10:45:40 PM
I don't think this one is worth it, but I will check into it.
This one is just a B&D 5.3(8?) amp little dinky thing.
Thanks
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 18, 2014, 10:51:18 PM
I still have a B&D I bought back in the 80's and it's still going strong, I did replace the cord a couple times though, LOL..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 18, 2014, 10:51:40 PM
Are you talking about something like this one?
http://www.amazon.com/Taper-Mounted-Medium-Jacobs-Series/dp/B0067BSHUG/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1408420029&sr=8-6&keywords=jt3+chuck (http://www.amazon.com/Taper-Mounted-Medium-Jacobs-Series/dp/B0067BSHUG/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1408420029&sr=8-6&keywords=jt3+chuck)

The description doesn't mention plain old hand drills, but if it works that would be great.
 
I almost had a heart attack  :o when I googled the Jacobs and saw a bunch in the $100 or more price range before I found this one.

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 18, 2014, 10:53:32 PM
Yep, just get one for you're shaft thread size.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 18, 2014, 10:56:59 PM
Ok, time to look stupid.
How do I find that out?
btw, this is the drill I currently have.
http://www.amazon.com/Black-Decker-DR260B-8-Inch-Driver/dp/B004FRXWRW/ref=sr_1_4?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1408420674&sr=1-4&keywords=drill (http://www.amazon.com/Black-Decker-DR260B-8-Inch-Driver/dp/B004FRXWRW/ref=sr_1_4?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1408420674&sr=1-4&keywords=drill)
I don't think it is worth the effort after reading the write up on amazon.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 19, 2014, 07:56:13 AM
Take the chuck off and measure the shaft :D, Put a key in the chuck and whack it with a hammer it should pop off..

Don't know about that one, my old B&D is about 30yrs old, lol.. ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 20, 2014, 12:43:11 AM

Thanks.

My B&D is for "light duty" according to the online description. It didn't say anything like that on the box when I bought it. I am sure I thought it wasn't the best, but at the time it was affordable.  :( I wasn't planning on drilling holes in a bunch of fairly thick steel angle. This drill is best for driving screws and drilling into walls to hang curtains and stuff.

I'll have to see if I can get the drill bit out. It is blocking where the screw is for the chuck. I don't have much to lose, it isn't going to work the way it is now.  ;D

I did get another drill today, got home too late to try it out. I honestly should have just waited, but that is something I have never been good at.  :-[
I did get a new set of drill bits. I haven't been looking for bits for quite a while. They have these ones now that are shaped to fit the chuck, instead of being round.Yes, that is news to me.  :-[ So I got a $15 set of Milwaukee bits. I might have had better luck with the keyless chuck with this style.

While we were out getting "craft stuff" for the wife, I got a call for an interview tomorrow. It is for a job I had written off, I had applied for it about a month ago. So maybe things are picking up in the job front. Although until I get an offer it won't have picked up enough.  ::)

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 20, 2014, 03:19:36 AM
I got a call for an interview tomorrow. It is for a job I had written off, I had applied for it about a month ago. So maybe things are picking up in the job front. Although until I get an offer it won't have picked up enough.  ::)


Good luck with the interview!  Hope it all works out!

Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 20, 2014, 08:02:57 AM
I got a call for an interview tomorrow. It is for a job I had written off, I had applied for it about a month ago. So maybe things are picking up in the job front.

Russ
Best of luck Russ, hope it works out for ya..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 20, 2014, 06:38:05 PM
Thanks.
The interview went well. I am one of 5 people they are interviewing, there is just one more to go. I should hear something by Friday. Would be a good place to work.

Problem is now I am tired out and need a nap or at least a lay down before I can go try out the new drill.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 21, 2014, 02:32:07 AM
Well, I didn't get anything done. My nap turned into a 3.5 hour snooze.  :-[
I have to get up early again tomorrow(well later today now) to take my wife to the dr. So maybe I can get some done afterwards.
I need to, I am starting to feel like a slug. Tuesday would have been a great day to do some except for the rain. But it was the rain that caused the temps to be in the 70's. Not bad for a mid-august day in Phoenix.  8)

I had a strange thought. :o I was looking at the bumper mounts, what the manual calls the isolators, and was wondering why couldn't I take them to a machine shop, have the inner part pressed out, take the rubber off, and then reinsert the metal part. This would let me easily move the bumper while using the stock mounting points on the frame. Would just have to drill some holes once I got the position right.
Any thoughts on this?  :-\

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 21, 2014, 05:04:02 PM
Almost done with the battery/storage box frame. The new drill works well so far. It has a LOT more torque than the other. The bit grabbed and I almost went flying.  :o Next time I will be ready. No more toy drill.  ;D

Got it primered. I want to paint it even though it won't show. Just have to decide if it is worth the money right now. And the wait. Not supposed to recoat over the primer for 24 hours. Being in Phoenix normally I could cut that down, but today is pretty cool for here and high humidity. Not exactly oven like conditions.  ;D

I used Rustoleum heavy rust primer, the brush on type. I would rather use spray cans, but that gets expensive fast. I will probably have to use the brush on for the color as well. Only $8 a quart, not too bad even for me. The spray cans are like $6 or so and don't cover as much. I guess I will paint it black, that way if any shows after I am done it won't stand out, going to be a black interior. I think. Either that or a dark gray/black combo. :-\

I was looking at the battery tray area from the outer side. I think I am going to just cut out all of the tray area, so I can just use a flat piece of steel to patch it. Remove all the part that "sticks out" into the wheel well area, if that makes it clearer. Sucks that the battery corrosion ruined it. But it is ruined, it isn't worth repairing it back to stock for me since I won't be using that for the battery.

Still no word from either of the two interviews yet. I'm not holding my breath. :(

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 21, 2014, 06:26:41 PM
I decided to be constructively destructive.  ;D

I went out and cut out the bad area on the passenger side. I cut more than was bad to a point, but my intent was to make the replacement be as flat as possible. I think I did that as well as I could. I will have to see how it looks once I get some sheet metal. That may not be for a bit.  :(

I left a bit of the tray mount bracket (?) at the top. I didn't want to cut that far up. So I will have to get out the spot weld bit and see if I can get it off without doing too much damage. And hope there isn't any corrosion behind it.

Now I am ready to remove the harness and all bolt on stuff I can and start wire wheeling the engine compartment inside and out. This is what I bought the primer and will be buying the black top coat for. The battery/storage box frame is just practice painting. I just have to decide how much to remove. I want to remove EVERYTHING, brakes, front suspension, anything that bolts on. But I just am not sure I should at this point. Decisions, decisions.  :-\ It will be a LONG time before I can buy new suspension stuff, and I know I won't want to put the old stuff back on once I get everything nice and painted. But this car HAS to stay a roller at the very least for my sanity.  :-[

Going to head out to get some liquid supplies in a bit. Cans of diet pop/soda. I am almost out. Can't work without it.  ;D   I will get the black paint as well. Then that is it for spending for now. With the drill I have spent way too much this week as it is.  :(

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 21, 2014, 09:50:21 PM
I think I got a little carried away.
Pictures later tonight.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 22, 2014, 12:32:16 AM
Here are some lousy pictures. It is currently raining here.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 22, 2014, 12:37:26 AM
Here's the last couple of pictures for now. I'll see if I can get better ones during daylight tomorrow.

I took everything off that is bolted on except for the suspension and brakes. Even the steering column, clutch and throttle cables. OOPS, I just remembered I haven't taken the windshield washer squirters off yet. I meant to earlier, I forgot to grab a phillips screwdriver.

I really don't want to mess with the brake lines, will have to see how it goes. Suspension/frame I am going to try to wait on until I have new parts to put on. But then again I said early on that I wasn't going to take this car apart.  :-[

thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 22, 2014, 06:36:08 PM
I got an email a little while ago. I didn't get the job I just interviewed for. This is getting very depressing. :( :( :( :( :( :'(

I found a couple more things I missed taking off. So I took them off. I hope I am doing the right thing. I have this voice inside saying I will never get this car back together, and I certainly have the history to back that up. :-[

I also found something I hadn't noticed before. The driver's side front half of the fender well (from the repair) is from a different car. I should have realised that before. I think I really am getting stupider as I get older. :(

I was hoping to get a lot done today, but frankly I just don't feel up to it right now.

here a few better pictures.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on August 22, 2014, 08:32:32 PM
Keep looking and don't give up on the job front! More aggressive applicants, for me anyway, are the ones I look at the most and put a lot of weight on.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 22, 2014, 09:34:54 PM
Thanks. I wish I was dealing with hiring people like you. Most of the applications I put in are online with no name to even contact. Or with recruiters from temp agencies, and when I ask how things are going after a week or so I get the "I'll let you know when I hear anything" response. I have had very few contacts with anyone at an actual hiring company.

I think I have 8 weeks left of unemployment, I need to double check that. After that it is time to panic. Although I am already panicking. Let's all say "would you like fries with that?".
 
My brother (the CEO/President of his company) asked the person who does his recruiting to look at my resume and to give any thoughts. The resume is good(it should be, he did it) and the only recommendation s she gave were things I am already doing. She generally just does higher level job types, we were hoping she might know people who are recruiting more at my level/job type.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 22, 2014, 09:41:31 PM
I forced myself to go out and do a little.

I wire wheeled the passenger side inner fender, just the engine side. Got it primered. And I painted the battery/storage box frame. I can't decide if I am going to paint the underneath part of it or just go ahead and mount it. I am thinking just mount it, so at least I can point to something and say it is finished. I have the wood and hinges for the lid, so once the frame is mounted that will be the next step. I really need to get something completed just for my sanity.  :-[

I still need to get that last bit of the battery tray piece off. I just didn't feel up to being destructive right now. No rush, the car certainly isn't going anywhere any time soon.  :-[

They both look a lot better in pictures than they do in person. Although I did learn a bit, I was trying to make the paint go to far. It works better if I just do a small area with a lot of paint instead of trying to make that same amount cover a larger area. I would really be better with a spray can, but I need to learn to do it this way. Using cheap foam brushes, which isn't helping I am sure. I'll check out both tomorrow after they have fully dried and see how they turned out. The fender well actually doesn't look too bad now, it is much better than the frame was after I primered it, so I am getting there.  ;D

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 22, 2014, 09:58:18 PM
Looks good..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 23, 2014, 12:53:13 AM
Thanks.

I am really hoping to get it done this weekend so I can put it all back together. I obviously won't be able to get it completely done until I can get some metal to replace what I cut out, and I want to try to make the repair on the driver's side look better. But that can always be done later. I just need to not let the car sit like this very long. Too depressing. Plus too much of a risk of me forgetting how to put it back together.  :-[ :o

The new drill is holding up so far. But the wire wheeling is harder than I thought. That is why I only got the one panel done today. Hopefully I can get an earlier start tomorrow, we (meaning my wife  ::) )don't have any other plans that I know of.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 23, 2014, 07:38:22 AM
Well, it's a good time to get things done weather is great for the next few days.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 23, 2014, 11:44:45 PM
Well, I got a little done today. I primered the front side of the radiator support.

But I actually got better news.  ;D

First, my car guy friend brought over my old compressor I had totally forgotten about.  ;D
I had given it to him around 11 years ago when I bought a big vertical one. He never really used it and just had it in his storage shed. It is a CH 3.5 horse 11gallon. It still works, but it seemed to get really hot. So I will have to see if it lasts. I don't remember if it needs oil or anything else. Don't have the manual, maybe I can find it online. One real problem I can fix right away is that the plug is tarnished. I need to find my emery cloth and clean that up. That could be why it is getting hot, working too hard with too little current.
And I kept my air tools when we moved from Ohio. So I have an air ratchet, an impact wrench, and I think a sander. Plus lots of compressor rated sockets. Not the highest quality, almost all is CH stuff. But not that bad either.  :o

Second, I got a GM alternator.  ;D ;D ;D
l have been wanting a CS 130 or 144, but didn't have the money to get one. I have the hook up kit for this left over from the Lemans, which is the only real reason I didn't go with a Ford 3G.

Even used on CL they have been out of my price range. :(
 Last night for some reason I checked out an ad that said 3800 stuff. Turns out the guy had an alternator from a 96 Pontiac Bonneville and only wanted $5. So this afternoon off to Mesa we went. I am not absolutely sure, but according to what I have found online this is a CS 130. External cooling fan eliminates the 144 according to everything I have read.

One of the things I do is read the CL ads just in case, and for window shopping. Keeps me busy sometimes.  ::)

It is possible that it could be a CS 121( I think that is the third option), but even that will work.

I am going to try to find out for sure, I have a few websites saved about this. I never thought I would find one so cheap.  :o It is supposed to be good with 80K miles, but even if it isn't it will work as a mockup for the mounting. And be a core charge. But unless it is just totally shot, I am going to do the Iceberg modification to it, either the standard or the 140Amp version, both are relatively inexpensive. Did I mention I only paid $5? ;D ;D ;D

Mentally I am doing the happy dance.  ;D :P

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 24, 2014, 02:11:23 AM
Well, I can't be 100% sure, but it is looking like my engine is at least an 86. I posted about the bellhousing in the General Help section, it has an E6 part number and I was told it is for a T5. So I did some searching and lots of reading and found the Joe Escobar fix for using this bellhousing in a Pinto. Seems to be the way to go instead of hunting for a D9 and doing all the stuff for that.

Gee, with the Mustang cast iron exhaust header and the T5 housing, too bad it doesn't have the EFI manifold. And of course the stupid T5 trans itself. I wouldn't bet against the former owner having sold it. Yes, the one who didn't even say "sorry" when I discovered there was no trans like he said there was.  >:( But it gives me something to look for once I can start junkyarding again. I want to go to Tucson, they have a Pull a Part there. I like their way of upfront pricing. None of the Phoenix upull yards seem to do that.

Now if I could only get a job.  :'(

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 24, 2014, 07:13:22 AM
Great score on that alternator (and air compressor too, for that matter) - maybe things are starting to turn around for you! Hope so anyway!


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 24, 2014, 08:17:01 AM
Great score there..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 24, 2014, 03:00:44 PM
Thanks.

Now I am scared to go out, something is liable to fall out of the sky and hit me. Not kill, just maim.  ::)

It looks like the alternator is a 140A unit. At least all of the replacement ones I have found online are rated at that for that car. But even if it is just 120A I am very happy.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 24, 2014, 05:38:09 PM
I hate getting old. I am not sure if it is from the wire wheeling or a pinched nerve or something, but I woke up today with my right hand numb from about the middle finger out. Several hours later and it is still numb. It's happened once or twice before.
So anyway I am not going to be doing much today. I am going to see if I can get that battery/storage box frame bolted in place, and start working on making a template for the lid. I've got to get something accomplished at least. Although even for this I need to run to the hardware store and get a few more grade 8 nuts and bolts. I forgot to account for the installation when I bought the ones I have been using.

Man, it is even very hard to type with my hand like this.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 24, 2014, 07:39:21 PM
Sounds like a pinched nerve, I have the same thing in one foot it's from sciatic nerve in a once screwed up back, my foot is half asleep all the time very irritating..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 24, 2014, 10:11:56 PM
I need to get to a chiropractor, but that takes $. I'm stupid, I spend it on the Pinto instead of me. But the Pinto is more fun than I am.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 25, 2014, 01:36:11 AM
Am I this confused, or is someone else, or are these cars really so different between certain years? :-\
I have a 74 wagon with the 6.75 rear, if that may make a difference. Came with the 2.0L from the factory(but is long gone now).

I was reading a 4 year old post about wagon shocks, since I have a wagon.  ;D
the last post was from someone who said he was using 1977 Nova shocks on his 75 wagon. Well, the 77 Nova uses this type of shock
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/parts/KYB-Gas-a-Just-Shock-Strut-Rear/1977-Chevrolet-Nova/_/N-inbleZ8oxxx?itemIdentifier=754887_6880_7413_ (http://www.autozone.com/autozone/parts/KYB-Gas-a-Just-Shock-Strut-Rear/1977-Chevrolet-Nova/_/N-inbleZ8oxxx?itemIdentifier=754887_6880_7413_)
that has Upper Mount Type:    Eyelet with slotted barpin Lower Mount Type:    Eyelet with bushing and metal sleeve.  (http://www.fordpinto.com/Upper Mount Type: Eyelet with slotted barpin Lower Mount Type: Eyelet with bushing and metal sleeve)
I went out and got under the rear of the car for pretty much the first time, other than a quick glance at the rear axle early on. My car certainly does not use that type of shock. It uses the "stud" type at both ends.

BTW, I have air shocks. I did not know that until now. But the lines are cut, so I have no idea if they still work. But that makes sense with the bumper hitch it has. As far as I could see with the flashlight, it is all pretty clean and solid under there.  ;D

I also found out that there is a crossmember going across the car right where I put the rear most piece of my battery/storage box frame. I had drilled 5/16th holes to bolt that down. I had looked just enough to make sure I wasn't going to hit the tank.
This is the same place that the factory folding seat hinge went( the rear most piece that goes between the rear fender wells), I was using those 4 larger holes, 2 per side. Now I see why sheet metal screws were used from the factory. grrrrr. Guess I will have to default to my other idea of using L brackets to attach that 2x2 tube to the floor. I want it bolted, not screwed. Enough of what I do ends up screwed.  ;D

I thought these cars didn't have a rear subframe, maybe technically there isn't one, but there sure is enough support to be close.

Thanks,
Russ


Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 25, 2014, 02:20:50 AM
This is turning into a real hit or miss weekend.  :-X

I just found out that the "simple fat bumper fix" won't work for the rear bumper either. Maybe the 74 is the red headed step child of bumpers in the Pinto world.  >:( ::)

I thought I would go out and maybe pop the rear bumper off. So out I trot, and then realize that with the hitch it is more complicated than I want to deal with tonight in the dark. ::) Then I take a good look at the way it is mounted, and I think that it isn't the same as the one in that fix is. :-\ So I take the camera and get a couple of pictures best I can for now. And low and behold it IS different. Once again it is totally different than the later years. Pictures below. I need to really put the car on jackstands to get under it better.

I am not going to give up on getting the bumpers moved in. But it looks like I will have to come up with my own way of doing it front and rear, instead of the nice simple way Bill found for his and apparently everyone else's.  :(

To answer my question from the previous post, I guess they ARE that different.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 25, 2014, 02:33:54 AM
And just to make this complete, here are pictures of the 74 front bumper shock.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 25, 2014, 07:52:17 AM
Seems like you could just slide that bracket in????..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dick1172762 on August 25, 2014, 02:44:15 PM
Why not just put the front mounts on a press and make them shorter.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 25, 2014, 07:52:56 PM
That's what I was thinking???..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 25, 2014, 08:25:09 PM
Well, I'd have to have a press handy to get it just right. Which I don't.
My idea is to take them to a shop and have the inner pressed out. Then get rid of the rubber, which should allow the inner part to just slide in and out easily. Then I can find the sweet spot and drill and bolt it at that length.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 25, 2014, 09:54:17 PM
Is a press the only way to get that stuff out??, no way you can beat it out?, I've never seen them apart so I don't know I just saw the pic and it seems like a simple deal just slide it back to where it should be and put a bolt in done deal???..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 25, 2014, 10:46:23 PM
Those things are SOLID. I tried dropping one onto the face of it on concrete from about 3 feet and no movement at all.

Doesn't really matter anyway. I just got rejected for another job I interviewed for, they even said this"If we find a match, we will contact you. Otherwise, we will keep your resume on file for one year. We will review your resume against any positions that become available during that time. Please do not resubmit your resume."
In other words don't call us, we'll never call you either.

I'm beginning to take this really personally. I'm about to give up applying for electronics jobs. Maybe I can get a job stocking shelves for $8 an hour. Or maybe I will get lucky and have another, even worse heartattack. I've frankly had enough.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 26, 2014, 03:44:46 AM
I found out more about the rear bumpers. I also posted this in the simple fat bumper fix.
There IS a difference with the rear mounts, wagon vs the sedan/hatch. :o I found it while studying the factory manual. Thanks again, Art, for that. It's been a car saver.  ;D

Oh, and I figured out a way around the box mounting problem. I just drilled through the cross member from inside the cargo area. My 5/16th drill bit was just long enough to do the job. Now all I need are 4 of some probably 6 inch long 5/16 inch bolts. I've been using 5/16th, so I already have the washers and nuts. And then I have to try to rig up something so I can tighten them by myself, cause my arms are NOT that long.  ;D  More of the fun of working entirely by myself. With my wife's physical limitations she can't help with most stuff if it involves bending and crawling around inside the car and this fits that description.

I am a bit cooler than I was earlier tonight. But I am still not happy with the job situation. If I don't find a decent job soon I am going to literally go insane.  >:(

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 26, 2014, 07:56:03 AM
Sorry bout the job, hang in there though something will come up..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 26, 2014, 03:59:41 PM
Thanks.
I got a lead on a job, but it is not a tech job. It is working at the Target distribution center here. I don't know if I should apply or not. It sounds like they have a lot of turnover, so there isn't a real deadline to apply.

Once I take another kind of job I am admitting I can't find a tech job and throwing away my 20 years experience. I may have to do that soon, but it is very hard to think about.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 26, 2014, 05:48:31 PM
Yep, they have a revolving door but what the heck could be something to tie you over until something good comes up..

I also found out over there that it's easier to get a job if you're already working, seems nobody wants to hire anyone that's unemployed, at least in my field it was.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 26, 2014, 11:12:31 PM
Yeah, I wish I knew who this last place hired. The guy had told me that 3 out of the 5 interviewees were unemployed. But that is one of those things I will likely never find out.

My brain really isn't doing well. I think it is going soft from lack of use. I bought some longer bolts today for the frame I built and just went out to use them. I had drilled the holes yesterday, but it seems I forgot to go up to the final size I needed for them. Grrrr. I'll have to fix that tomorrow, too late tonight for that kind of noise.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 27, 2014, 07:19:40 PM
Well, been busy on the car. I actually started at about 9am, been working on it off and on all day.

I really only meant to finish up mounting the frame for the box. I got one side done, then started on the other. Then I realized I drilled through a gas line. I think it is either the return or the other emissions one, it isn't the main supply. Either way, I think that made the decision I have been debating on about whether or not to use the electric fuel pump and filter from the Lemans. I am going to go ahead and do that. Not now, but at some point. Can't afford to buy any gas line right now.  :( I gave away 25 feet of aluminum half inch line back in Ohio before the move.

Anyways, while looking at the now broken line, I decided to go ahead and drop the tank. I was going to have to do it sooner or later so I decided sooner works.  ;D So I get that done. The tank had just a little gas in it, but it sure stinks like varnish. My eyes are still burning. I have it sitting in the sun, I hope that bakes the stuff so it quits stinking. Not sure what else I could do with it right now without spending money.

While I was under there I was looking at the rear bumper and the trailer hitch.  So that ended up coming off next. I had to use my air impact wrench for a couple of the hitch bolts. Then I started using the air ratchet. That was really nice up until the air hose broke. Not a big surprise, I am pretty sure it was the original yellow plastic hose that came with the compressor a dozen years or so ago. But it does end the air tool use for a while. I am pretty sure I did not bring any of the hose I had in Ohio with us.

These wagons do have what seems to be to me a subframe. It just doesn't extend forward under the seating area. I honestly don't remember if my 79 had anything like this or not.

Darn it. The tank picture doesn't show what I found when I dropped it. There was a 2-3 inch nail and a small bolt sitting on it. Oh, well.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 29, 2014, 12:54:04 AM
I need to quit thinking. I am seriously thinking about going the 302 route. Mainly because I can't seem to get a good grip on the 2.3 I have. For some reason I just have to know all about it and I can't seem to find out what I need to know. I ask questions in the other areas here and pretty much get nothing that helps. I know Ford V8s and I am way more comfortable with them. The main problem though is prices have just gone sky high compared to what I was used to even 5 years ago. but since I am going to be at a standstill anyway until well after I get a job I don't think trying to save a few hundred dollars is going to be worth it. But it almost seems like there are more V8 Pintos than 2.3. I don't want to be just "oh, another V8 car" either. And even going that way there are still issues that have to be solved like headers.
I'd really like to go 351C 4V, but I don't have the money anymore. That was the engine I had to go into my 69 Stang about 10 years ago. Needed rebuilt, but I had all the neat stuff for the outside of it. Coated headers, aluminum intake, etc. All long gone now. Besides, that would be too much work for me to be able to handle for the Pinto to be able to fit it in.

The whole idea behind this Pinto was to build it so that if I went with a V8 later on everything else would be up to snuff. I still want to do it that way. I just don't know if I will ever have this car ready to drive the way things are going right now.
Depressed? Who, ME? Heck yes!!!!! I thought I would come back to Phoenix, have no problems getting a $19 or more an hour job like I had when I left 8.5 years ago, and money would not be an issue. Now I may be looking at a $10 an hour job for survival and never have any extra money  to spend on a Pinto, or even going out to eat.

And I don't even have the Pinto in my name. The guy I bought it from never put it in his name, so the title has the previous seller's name on it and dated over 2 years ago. I don't know what the state of AZ is going to say about that, even if I lie and say I bought it back then but lost the title in a move just afterwards and have just now found it. I don't even have the money to pay for the regular title fee, much less any penalties. And they could insist on inspecting the car. It has two vins on it, the original and the one on the replacement fender well. And who knows what vin is on the engine.

I just always seem to buy cars that have some sort of serious issue. I must be cursed. Or just incredibly stupid.

And most of all I am really frustrated because I didn't have a chance to work on the Pinto today, and it is too late to go run the air compressor now.
I got a call about a job I sent my resume in for this morning from an agency. I had to go there and fill out a whole bunch of stupid paperwork, only to find out they haven't even submitted my resume to the hiring company yet. I did splurge with our credit card (yes, I am stupid) and buy a new hose for the compressor. Only an HF one, but I did get the rubber vs the poly like the one that just split apart. And I want to go play with it right now! :-)

and who am I kidding? the rear axle is next to come off. And then probably the front suspension. I have 6 jackstands, might as well use them. Who needs a rolling car when it can be up in the air?
I do have some furniture dollies (about $10 each) that work pretty well if I need to move the car around. The doors and hatch and glass are NOT coming off though. Even though this is Phoenix it still rains here. And the car is out in the open, so it needs to stay watertight. For now at least. Once I get to the point where painting is about to happen it is all coming apart.
If I am still around that is. I am in so much pain from yesterday. Every time I move I groan or yell.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dick1172762 on August 29, 2014, 12:15:33 PM
Pull the intake off and you will know what model engine you have.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 29, 2014, 04:50:25 PM
Thanks. I did that and now I am more confused than ever. :-[
Attached are pictures.
The Mustang intake ports match the head ports perfectly. Yet the head has the D4 part number, and the intake has the E1 number.

First picture is the block number.
Second picture is I don't have a clue. What is that black thing?
Third picture is intake part number.
Fourth picture is intake ports.
I will post the head ports in next post.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 29, 2014, 04:52:42 PM
Here is the head port picture.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 29, 2014, 08:12:53 PM
That is for the PCV valve, there is a section of formed hose from that fitting to the PCV valve then another formed hose to the EGR spacer, the valve is inline.

(http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=24574.0;attach=51576;image)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 29, 2014, 09:46:24 PM
Thanks.
More of the fun of not having a complete car when you start.  ::)
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 29, 2014, 10:08:44 PM
I am changing plans midstream. Not sure about the engine at this point, but I am going to go ahead and set the car up like I am going with a V8. Which I probably am. Anybody want a really mixed up 2.3l? ;D

The gas tank, 6.75 rear, and the bumper hitch the car came with are going to go away. I'd like to sell them, but shipping would be an issue. Unless someone like say ART were to be driving here anyway.  ;D ;D ;D
I won't scrap the tank, that would be insane. :o But the other stuff probably will be scrapped at some point.
The rear would be off the car right now,except I forgot about the ebrake cable. OOPS. I may go out later and finish that. I disconnected it from the handle, and took the cable off of the brackets at the rear. Guess I missed something in the middle. :-[

I am going to be removing the spare tire well. I worked on that today, but my spot weld bit died, and I can't find all of the spot welds either. I was going to just cut it out after that, and my very old jigsaw broke. And I don't have any cutoff wheels left for the grinder. Where is that little violin playing "My Heart Bleeds For You" when I need it? ;D

I am thinking about trying to fit an efi tank with an internal pump there. A fuel cell isn't my first choice, but is an option if all else fails. I'd really rather have a stock type tank there that I don't have to worry about foam, weird fuel filler locations, etc. I figure without the spare well, there should be lots of room for a tank from a Mustang or something? Of course I don't know any dimensions yet. And I need to figure out the fuel filler, which probably eliminates the Mustang tanks, I think they all fill in the center rear of the car. Wait, I could do like GM did and have the filler behind the license plate. That is a good idea, Russ! The bumper reinforcement is also going bye-bye. So I could do that. I really like that idea.  ;D So there is probably something about it that won't work.  :(

Wish I had $150.  :-[ Someone local has been trying to unload an 8inch Pinto rear for several months. I am hoping they still have it around October. They had taken the listing down, I thought they had finally sold it, but it is back up as of yesterday.

I just can't believe how bad the prices have gotten on this stuff. >:( I bought a complete 8 inch from a 67 Mustang back in Ohio about 5 years ago for $20 (yes, TWENTY)from a friend of a friend on the Mustang forum. Was for the 79 Pinto.
Now, at least here, people are asking $150 and up for a bare 8inch Mustang housing.  >:( And I mean BARE. 9inch rears add about $100 for the bare housing. I have tried asking on the Mustang forum, but even there things have changed. Maybe it is here in AZ. I really don't know. Oh, well.  :-\ :( >:(

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 31, 2014, 11:35:36 PM
Well, I got some stuff done. I never imagined doing all this when I bought this car. Oh, well.
I did something I will regret later on, I had to cut the ebrake cables, I couldn't get them off of the trans tunnel brackets.
I'll let the pictures do the talking, my fingers are sore and tired.
I also put a bunch of stuff up for sale here. I'll probably put it on the Phoenix CL later on.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 01, 2014, 06:16:47 PM
No pictures yet, but I just finished taking off the front suspension. I even got the strut rods off. Used the ol' manual effort. Sometimes my air tools just don't cut it, I think it is because I don't have a decent sized compressor.

I put the stuff for sale here on craigslist, one of the things I said I would trade for would be a bigger vertical compressor.

But I don't think I will have any luck selling this stuff. I see the same Pinto/Mustang II stuff for sale that has been up for months. Just doesn't seem to be a big Pinto group here. If I could take this stuff back to Ohio I bet I could get rid of it all real quick. Oh, well. At least I might have a chance of buying that Pinto 8 inch rear that is on there.

I am about to run out of stuff to do on the car now. At least the free stuff. There is lots I can do with money. It is as apart as it can be without taking the doors and glass off, and that is not happening any time soon. Not sitting out in the open it isn't going to happen. Hopefully once I start my new job I will be able to spend a little on the Pinto. But we have lots of bills we are behind on, so that takes priority. But I ought to be able to buy a little sheet metal here, some paint there, etc. I am hoping we will get caught up before Christmas.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 01, 2014, 07:28:34 PM
Just gotta be patient, you'll be caught up before you know it..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 01, 2014, 11:02:40 PM
Patient? I keep telling my wife I don't have patients, I am not a doctor. ;D

I actually got something positive done! I mean, I need to take the car apart to do what I want to do with it, but that still feels like a negative.

I got my box working. ;D ;D ;D It is probably about 75% done, but it is functional. I need to fill in some areas with wood, do some more bolting and nutting( I still! need some longer bolts :-[ ). I had hoped the wrong ones I bought last week would work for what I did today, but they are just short if I want to use washers, which I do. Plus I hadn't planned on using them for this so I didn't buy enough. Hopefully that will be fixed tomorrow. Then I need to carpet it, which will have to wait probably, and find a handle for opening the lid, and something to prop the lid open. I am thinking about a hood strut type setup, but it might just be a stick for now.

One thing I am a little bummed about is that I didn't get the cut for the trans tunnel just right. It's about a half inch to big. But it is even all the way around, and I can fill it with something. Going to be carpeted, so I am the only one who will know the truth. I just really thought I could do better.

It doesn't look like it in the pictures, but the front piece is flush with the crossmember on the floor. It was mostly luck. I am not that good.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 02, 2014, 07:33:36 AM
Looks good to me..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 02, 2014, 11:11:23 AM
Yeah, Russ, it DOES look good.  I'm sure you'll get up to speed on the Pinto once you're all caught up on those bills.  Glad to see you are still finding little things you can work on now.


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 02, 2014, 04:47:52 PM
Thanks!
I might be a little too proud of it, :-[ but since most of my projects end up a total cluster I am really happy and excited that this one actually works well and doesn't look like doodoo. 8) I may see if I can squeeze the budget for a roll of the cheap carpet that you can buy at Pepboys or other places. It used to be only $10, I am afraid to see what it costs now though. And of course this is another of those "I had one in Ohio and tossed it" things. I had actually bought it for the 79 and just held on to it until before we moved back here.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 03, 2014, 12:52:12 AM
If anyone is interested, the roll of cheap carpet is now $14.99 for the smaller roll at PepBoys, something like 3x6 ft. Yes, I bought some.  ;D

Got what is there of the box carpeted. I got home too late to run power tools for very long, so I didn't get the little nooks done. But I did get the longer bolts and got the wood front bolted to the metal frame using the holes from the original 1 inch bolts I used to bolt it together. Just had to drill the wood to match. I do have one left to try to get, I did the others from inside the box since that is where the metal frame is, but this one I just couldn't get the drill to work that way.

I did screw up though with the carpet, I cut the lid piece a little too wide, which didn't leave me a nice single piece for the front. So I had to piece that together for now. I may redo that part later, but I will have to buy more carpet. I do plan on buying the larger roll, which is I think 6x9ft for about $30 to do the rest of the cargo floor and I should have plenty left over to redo the other. I think I will put some sort of padding under that though, just in case I have to crawl around on it. And of course I need to HAVE a floor before I worry about carpeting it.  ;D

I used staples to attach it. Already had them, so no brainer even if I wanted to use glue. They show a bit more than I had thought they would, so I will have to go back and either paint them or use a Sharpie. I just didn't want to mess with glue and the fumes, I have asthma and no insurance, so I need to try to avoid certain things.

Oh, I totally forgot to mention my handle. I got it at True Value when I bought the bolts. It was $2.99 I think, in the cabinet hardware section. I really like it, but it doesn't show well in these pictures. Maybe in the sunlight tomorrow.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 03, 2014, 02:01:12 AM
That doesn't look bad at all! 
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 03, 2014, 03:32:42 AM
Thanks.
I think it is one of those better in pictures than in person, but I am slightly prejudiced. My eyes go right to the bad parts.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 03, 2014, 07:22:57 AM
That doesn't look bad at all! 
 
Dwayne :)

X2.... 8)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 03, 2014, 10:05:18 PM
Thanks.

I'm a bit bummed, although I expected this.
I offered the guy selling the 8inch Pinto rear $100, he wants $150 and didn't even make a counter offer. I guess he is one of those who "knows what it is worth" types who would rather keep it than sell it for less. Oh well. He's had it for sale since I have been here in Phoenix, if not longer. I probably should get a Mustang 8 or 9 inch anyway. I don't think anyone makes a disk brake kit to fit the Pinto rear.

I only have the $100, and that is even iffy. I have supposedly sold the 2.3 for a whopping $80, and the intake for $25. Maybe I will just spend it on a birthday present for my wife instead.

And on the job front, I have an interview tomorrow afternoon for that job I went to an agency about last week. Got the call this morning. At least now I won't be under the got to get a job pressure. Maybe this one will be better. Not knowing anything about the Intel job makes it hard to judge though. I just can't have anything go smoothly in my life. There is always some hiccup or another. Although the only job offer I have gotten so far has been one that they have not interviewed or even met me.

and I didn't get anything at all done on the car today. I always do a roadtrip when I have an interview the day or two before so I know exactly where the place is. Then we had some shopping to do, haircut for me, etc. Didn't get home til about 7pm, and I am beat.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on September 04, 2014, 12:38:42 AM
I need to quit thinking. I am seriously thinking about going the 302 route. Mainly because I can't seem to get a good grip on the 2.3 I have. For some reason I just have to know all about it and I can't seem to find out what I need to know. I ask questions in the other areas here and pretty much get nothing that helps.

Although a little late now, there's not that much to know about 2.3s. Yours was obviously an early oval port head with a carb intake for  '81-89ish d-port heads. If you decide to part with the 2.3 block and/or frame brackets, send me a PM. ;) I have a set for my car, but want another pair I can use at my leisure to build some jigs with.

I just can't believe how bad the prices have gotten on this stuff. >:( I bought a complete 8 inch from a 67 Mustang back in Ohio about 5 years ago for $20 (yes, TWENTY)from a friend of a friend on the Mustang forum. Was for the 79 Pinto.
Now, at least here, people are asking $150 and up for a bare 8inch Mustang housing.  >:( And I mean BARE. 9inch rears add about $100 for the bare housing. I have tried asking on the Mustang forum, but even there things have changed. Maybe it is here in AZ. I really don't know. Oh, well.  :-\ :( >:(

It's a problem everywhere.

I never imagined doing all this when I bought this car.

I feel the same way about mine.

Although the only job offer I have gotten so far has been one that they have not interviewed or even met me.

Those are strange ones for sure.

Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 04, 2014, 01:47:54 AM
Thanks.
I'll let you know about the frame mounts. I'm pretty sure I won't need them. The engine is supposedly sold. It had better be after what I just did. :-[ ;D

I've been thinking all evening about rear ends. I just sent an email to the local guy with the Pinto 8 inch for $150 saying I'd take it. It doesn't look like I can find another killer deal for any 8 inch rear these days. The only one I am seeing locally for a 67-70 Mustang the guy wants $150 for the bare housing. Another $150 just for a pair of 28 spline axles. This is a Mustang guy in Tempe here. I am surprised he isn't selling the spring mounts separately the way he sells stuff. Or at least tries to sell stuff, I don't see much change in his postings over the last few months.  :P
So I am better off buying this one that is complete for that, even though it is going to hurt the finances a bit. I'll clean it up and do a quick paint job on it and get it back under the car asap, that way it still looks like a car. I'll have to save up to convert it to a 5lug pattern though. Maybe I should just keep the 4 lug, but I really wanted to do the Granada disk swap from Speedway Motors. I don't think they offer that in a 4 lug, but maybe they do. The other issue is rims. Having the 5 lug makes it easier to find used ones, but I have seen ones I want in a 4 lug being sold here on CL. Lots of Foxbodies running around Phoenix. I almost was tempted to buy one as a project, but for me  Mustangs are really only 64.5 to 73.

Great, I am rambling. Sorry. :-[ I am trying to avoid thinking of how I am going to tell my wife about this purchase.  ::) I did have permission to spend the $100 I am getting from selling a couple of things, but the extra $50 is going to be difficult to explain.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 04, 2014, 07:46:32 AM
Just tell the wife she can buy a couple more pieces of Craft junk and she'll forget all about the $50,lol.. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on September 04, 2014, 10:23:44 AM
I hate to say it, but $150 for a drum-to-drum Pinto 8in is not a bad price in this inflated market. The MII 8in I got was $100 OTD on the junkyard's 50% off sale. Add a few hours of pulling it out, $20+ in gas, new seals, oil, and an inch-pound torque wrench I had to get in order to reset the pinion preload.

It adds up so fast...
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 04, 2014, 10:27:42 AM
It adds up so fast...
Man, ain't that the truth.. :o :o
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 04, 2014, 03:28:18 PM
Yeah, it really does.
Especially when I wasn't expecting the prices to have jumped the way they have. Even doing the Lemans things didn't seem that bad, but then I pretty much quit spending on it after my heart attack in Dec 2012, so it has been a bit. My last purchase for it was actually a Ford 9 inch rear converted for the Lemans/Chevelle with 3.92 or .93 gears with a mini spool for $500 just around the heart attack time. That car was going to be really fun. :-(

As far as my wife, she already thinks if I spend $20, she automatically gets to spend that same amount. I have to remind her in this case that I sold stuff to spend money, so she doesn't get to spend all $150, just part of it. She has actually sold some of her stuff thru Facebook, and she is trying to get a store set up on Etsy (spelling?).

OOPS. Time to get running for the interview.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 04, 2014, 08:08:35 PM
Russ, your wife needs to hook up with mine, she has a ton of stuff that she's getting rid of from when she had her store in Mesa, she finally figured out that she'd never have time to mess with it, wish she would have figured that out before we moved I wouldn't have had to haul the junk, LOL.. ::) ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 04, 2014, 08:18:49 PM
Yeah, we need more of her craft junk.  ;D I don't have room to build a model if I wanted to. You need my gas tank(you should have a spare) and my wife wants more c r a p. Maybe we can work out a trade. ;D

I'm sitting here not too happy right now. I hurried home from Tempe so I could change and be at the guy's house at 6 to buy the rear and I can't get ahold of him, and he didn't give me his address yet so I can't just go there and see what's up.  >:( My luck, the guy sounds older and something has happened to him.

When I have money in my pocket to buy something I really want to get it done.

Update: the idiot was watching a football game and had his phone off.He forgot about making money.  So now I have to go there tomorrow at noon. If I had any other options I would tell him to forget about me buying it.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 04, 2014, 09:41:04 PM
Yeah, we need more of her craft junk.  ;D I don't have room to build a model if I wanted to. You need my gas tank(you should have a spare) and my wife wants more c r a p. Maybe we can work out a trade. ;D
Sorry don't need a gas tank got a new one on the car, but all this crap here would probably do more good at your place, lol.. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 05, 2014, 12:29:09 AM
Wish I could find someone who wanted that tank that could get it. I'd let it go really cheap. Seems a big waste to scrap it but that is probably what I will end up doing to it.  :( I just don't have room to store stuff I won't use. Heck, I don't have room to store stuff I will use. :-[

If I get paid for everything, I have sold $135 of parts, so I am not into the rear end for much. Engine is sold local, a couple of other things are from here and I will ship them tomorrow. Guy is supposed to get the engine tomorrow afternoon. If he backs out I my be sleeping in the Pinto. My wife keeps saying "couldn't you have waited until after you get all the money before buying that other part?". Of course the answer is no.  ::) She has been to JoAnns twice this week, and wanted to go again tonight. I said not until I get the $80 from the engine. One of us has to be the adult, this week is her turn.  ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 05, 2014, 04:03:12 AM
Now this is just scary.  :o

I was looking at how to remove the dash(hey, why not at this point? As long as I can do it without removing the windshield.) and came across my old 79 Project posts. I had totally forgot about a lot of what I was doing/planning on doing with that car. And a whole lot of it I am doing/planning on doing with this one. Even the battery box! And I still need to learn to weld.  :-[

Although I will NOT be trying to put a 4.6 engine into this. This time I'll stick with a nice simple (ha!) 302 swap.
And no Mustang II tail lights. Honestly, they were too big for the Pinto.  Being a wagon I am having a hard time finding any custom options for those.

But one major improvement is NO RUST!  ;D ;D ;D 8) 8) 8) That makes life so much better.  ;D

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 05, 2014, 07:43:13 AM
But one major improvement is NO RUST!  ;D ;D ;D 8) 8) 8) That makes life so much better.  ;D

Russ
Got that right, I can't deal with that stuff.. :(
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 05, 2014, 02:58:03 PM
I still think stuff is going to involve cutting and prying due to my experiences with Ohio cars. Even daily drivers are rust buckets there. Replacing shocks on one car took me several hours, just for the two rear shocks. Course I didn't have power tools for the most part. But it involved lots of cutting and swearing.

I have the 8inch rear at home now. Pictures later.
The seller has a Pinto he is making into a drag car, but he didn't seem like he wanted to talk and I forgot to mention this group to him. He also has an 8inch Maverick rear end, but he wants more for it and I don't want to deal with the perch issue so I didn't try to get it. Bolt in works best for me. I'll deal with converting to 5lugs instead of cutting/welding.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 05, 2014, 06:08:34 PM
Well, I am really committed now. Just sold the 2.3l and parts. A whole $80, but it is hard (at least for me) to ask for top dollar for something that I haven't seen run. I'd rather get some money now instead of holding on to it for maybe a few bucks more at some later unknown time.
The buyer is putting it into a 1930 Ford four door. I hope I didn't just sell him a paperweight.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on September 05, 2014, 06:37:25 PM
Even if you did, it's worth $80 as a core.

Does the 8" still have a tag on it?
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 06, 2014, 12:53:51 AM
As far as the engine, I try to tell myself the exhaust and bellhousing were easily worth that alone. but I still don't want to sell somebody garbage.

Re the tag, I'll have to look. I got it out of the Subaru by myself, (a major victory, I've gotten some of my old strength back apparently, I was able to lift it up and set it down without doing it or me any damage) and on a pair of dollies and parked it under the front of the Pinto and haven't looked at it since.
I'm kind of doubting if it does, there are a lot of the pumpkin to housing nuts missing from what I remember seeing. Not sure why.

Update-Nope, no tag. Only has two nuts on it as well, about 10 and 2 o'clock. Guess that will just make it easier on me later on. I need to at least pull the axles, have them redrilled (it looks like), and definitely have the axle bearings replaced. I had a 68 Ranchero that I lost 2 wheels/axles  (on 2 different rears) from the bearing disintegrating while driving. Doing around 60mph each time and just after a highway speed curve. Never again. the first time was funny seeing the tire and axle pass me, the second time I had my first wife in the car with me and was NOT funny.
Plus I will want to check out the pumpkin, and if I have the money change to something like 3.90 or 4.11 gears.
But for right now, the plan is to paint it up and get it back under the rear of the car.

Oh, my leaf springs are apparently not broken, if what I have been told is true. I haven't taken the center bolt out, but have removed them from the stock axle/ubolts and nothing looks broken. I might still take them all the way apart just to make sure. I guess it can't hurt anything?

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: jburt on September 06, 2014, 10:44:45 AM
Now would be a good time to disassemble the leaf springs to de-burr any wear, clean the rust, and basically freshen them up.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 06, 2014, 01:32:45 PM
Thanks.

Yeah, I am wanting to do that. I just don't really know what I am doing with those. Never taken any apart before. I imagine it is less complicated than I am making it out to be. I just always have this fear that I will take something apart and not be able to put it back together.

I'd really like to get new bushings for them too. I'll have to try and see where to get them and how much they are. I haven't tried to find them yet.

Honestly I probably won't get the rear installed this weekend, I want to, but I also would rather only do it once so I should just wait until I get everything ready.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on September 06, 2014, 03:41:24 PM
That's why I'm months behind on my own project. Cutting corners to save time and/or money always costs me twice as much of both in the long run, so I don't do it.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 06, 2014, 04:38:11 PM
Yeah, I know. Boy do I know. ::)

My problem is that I really want to see this thing going back together, and I am having to fight myself about it. I hate having it all apart. But then I hate having to do something twice.
I can't win. :o

On the other hand, at least the front leaf spring bushings seem to be affordable for me in a week or so. Not having a lot of luck with the shackle bushings yet. Still looking for those, I really want poly. These are the front leaf ones, they say Pinto so they hopefully work without a problem. http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Chrysler-Pinto-Leaf-Spring-Bushings,7206.html (http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Chrysler-Pinto-Leaf-Spring-Bushings,7206.html)

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 07, 2014, 12:19:52 AM
Sometimes I think I shouldn't be doing this stuff.  >:(

I took apart one of the leaf springs. It was a royal pain opening up the clamps (3 of them) that go around the leafs. But I got it done without breaking anything. That was the first one. The second one I broke the center bolt trying to get the nut loose.  :'(
 By that point I was just about exhausted, a storm was heading this way with lightning, and it was after 8pm. I had to make quite a bit of noise getting the clamps off the first one, so I decided it was time to give up for the night.  :o :(

Been searching online. Looks like there are only universal center bolts. I imagine they will work, but they are definitely not close to the Pinto ones.  :-\

And it seems that the front bushings on these are press off ones. grrr.  >:( >:( >:(
I hate not having a press. I really hate having to wait until I have the money to have them pressed out. That money would be better spent on the new poly bushings.

I spent a little bit  of money tonight. Bought some emery cloth, sanding sponges, paint, and some masonite and 1x2s. The sanding and paint stuff is for the leafs and the rear end.

The masonite and the 1x2 are for a console. I've decided that with the price of the Mustang II consoles I'd be better off just making a custom one. I may run it all the way back to the battery box, I haven't decided yet. But somehow that idea appeals to me. Going to run it all the way up to the bottom of the dash. I have to mount 4 gauges somewhere. I really thought I could put them in place of the stock cluster, but I forgot just how little room there is. Only the aftermarket speedometer and tach will fit there. I don't really want to cut the dash that much, not that I am a purist, obviously, but that I just am afraid I will screw it up. So I am going to see about mounting them just below the radio in the console. Or I may mount them in the radio opening and move the radio into the console. Kind of depends on what radio I end up with. I have found one that I really like, it looks totally stock, but is digital with all the MP3, USB, etc stuff. But it is also pretty costly. So the odds are I will just end up with a used one off of CL. If I do that I would have to cut the dash at the radio location anyway. Have to see what happens.

The other option would be to build a totally custom dash. I did that once when a friend gave me a complete set of SW gauges, with tach and speedometer. It was for my 68 Ranchero. I made it out of wood. It actually turned out pretty good, but then I bought a 69 Mustang and gave up on the Ranchero. I put the steel dash back in before I gave it away. Yes, I have a history of giving cars away. Me idiot. Technically the guy gave me some Mustang pieces, but I was going to give him  the car regardless.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 07, 2014, 01:06:37 AM
This http://www.jegs.com/i/Classic+Dash/197/150-67-50922/10002/-1 (http://www.jegs.com/i/Classic+Dash/197/150-67-50922/10002/-1) is the general idea of what I want to do with the gauges. I couldn't find any dimensions on the overall size of that panel. But maybe I can do something similar if I don't try to reuse the Pinto cluster face. I'll have to check and see. It's a bit hard since I only have 3 of the 4 small gauges, and neither of the larger ones. But maybe I can work around that issue.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 07, 2014, 01:30:19 AM
Anyone here near Benson AZ?
Someone just posted a bunch of Ford parts on CL. Including a 9inch rear without differential from a 67 cougar, with 31 spline axles, for $50. If I hadn't just spent all my money I would be road tripping tomorrow for sure.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 08, 2014, 03:58:39 AM
This is how to be smart and stupid at the same time.

I was out with our girls (two dogs) and leaning on the Pinto like normal while I wait for them to do their business. Then it hit me. I can just make a pattern of the dash where the instrument cluster goes, and make a sheet metal piece that fits there with the 6 gauges installed including the tach and speedo. Won't have to cut anything up.  ;D Smart.

So I (being completely stupid here) decide to pull the dash out so I can make the pattern easier since I wasn't having any luck holding the poster board up to the dash.
I get the two screws by the windshield out on the driver's side. The one by the speaker stumps me. Now I get REALLY stupid.  :-[
I go "well, the windshield has to come out eventually to replace the gasket, so.....". By this time it is raining decently here. And it's well after midnight. But I still try to do it. After I cracked the lower passenger corner a little bit I come to my senses and stop. The gasket is really hard in a way that you people from back east will never see. I was having to try to break it apart in chunks. This is our equivalent to your rust. Anything rubber or soft gets ruined easily in the heat and sun. But having been through both, I will gladly take this over rust anyday.

So I try from inside again to get that screw out (with two more on the passenger side to go yet) and can't do it. The gasket is really in the way here, on the first two the gasket came apart close enough to the windshield so I could get to the screws. But from the middle over to the passenger side it didn't. I finally totally give up on this for the night, I was making more noise than I had planned anyway. So I clean up the tools, shut everything down, walk into the house and realize " You IDIOT! You have the instrument cluster and all the dash pieces for it right here."  :-[ So it takes me all of 10 minutes to cut out a pattern on a piece of poster board, and lay out the holes for all 6 gauges with a $2 compass. Back to smart.

The other smart thing I did while being stupid was that I knew the windshield screws would be a pain, so I didn't do the others yet. So the dash is still solid.

Sometimes I am stupid.  :o And then there are times I am REALLY REALLY STUPID!  :-[ :-[ :-[

I didn't even want to really take the dash out right now, although it will need to come out eventually so I can tidy up the wiring I did, and redo some more of it since I am eliminating the instrument cluster. I need it in so I can do the console. Sometimes I tend to focus too much on the "right now" and forget about the plan.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 08, 2014, 07:59:12 AM
Don't feel bad, we all do stupid things now and then, lol.. ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 08, 2014, 08:24:38 AM
We ALL have times like that!  lol


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on September 08, 2014, 11:50:06 AM
I stumbled across this photo in my travels:
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 08, 2014, 12:13:48 PM
I like that.. 8)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 08, 2014, 01:34:22 PM
What year dash is that?
I wish I had the black part that is under the gauges on it, that would make this really simple.
Right now mine is two 3 3/8ths gauges (speedo and tach) with two 2 1/16ths gauges in between and two more along the bottom. Subject to change positioning a little bit. I could run all four smaller ones along the bottom. Just not sure until I start playing with the real gauges.
On the 74 the bottom of the stock piece (my pattern) is angled back. |
                                                                                                    /
I will have to use wedges cut from pipe (most likely pvc) in order for them to be facing straight on. I could make the panel more of a box to avoid that, but I really want it to fit totally in the stock position so it looks as little clunky as possible.

I found the gas gauge and tach I had wanted on ebay last night cheaper than summit/any store so I splurged. Something like $40ish total. SunPro, which is what my other gauges are. They don't make a speedometer so I have another  brand picked out. Analog for now. If things improve financially I'd like to get one of the GPS ones, or at least one of the electronic types. Makes it easier to hook up to the trans.

We just heard from the realtor about the Warren Ohio house. She got an offer that the bank may accept. Yay! The offer is still on the low side, but only $6000 from the appraisal. I just am wondering if my having a VA insured loan makes the bank less willing to take less. I really don't know how that all works.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on September 08, 2014, 02:10:46 PM
I don't remember how it was made. It was saved when I was doing major project research and probably just kept it as an idea for gauges down the line.

Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 08, 2014, 11:36:58 PM
Hmmm,. I thought I had posted about these leaf spring bushings here. Maybe it was in the general help section.
Anyway, I found these
http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Chrysler-Pinto-Leaf-Spring-Bushings,7206.html (http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Chrysler-Pinto-Leaf-Spring-Bushings,7206.html)
I had thought that they were for the front eyes. Turns out they are for the rear/shackles. And they require a 9/16 bolt. I don't know what size bolt is stock. Not sure if I want to do change shackles. And all of Speedway's shackles are too short. Center to center they are 1.5inch, mine at least are 2.5 inch c to c.
And I won't be reusing the stock shackles. Bolt is 1/2 inch, and pressed in or maybe welded. Either way that stops me from modifying them.
Now I have to try to find the front poly bushings that seem common.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 09, 2014, 12:43:15 AM
I was doing some searching on the leaf spring bushings here and came across the 73 Pangra Project thread where TurboPinto72 posted about using these(not from amazon when he bought them)
http://www.amazon.com/Prothane-6-1051-Spring-Shackle-Bushing/dp/B002P8RJYA (http://www.amazon.com/Prothane-6-1051-Spring-Shackle-Bushing/dp/B002P8RJYA)

For that price I am using those too unless there is a major difference between the 73 and 74. And I can keep the stock shackles.  ;D

OOPS, I just read some more and he stated that you have to turn down the shackle bushings. Still, I guess that is easier/better than trying to use other shackles. Looks like I will need to buy a caliper set.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 09, 2014, 03:24:50 AM
I've been a very very naughty boy the last hour or so. :P
Let's just say I will be able to reinstall the 8 inch rear with the leaf springs having all new stuff in about a week.
Shame on me.  ;D
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 10, 2014, 02:00:43 AM
I did nothing at all with the car today.

But I did something that should really help in the future. I built a workbench.

I didn't start out the day with that in mind. I had to go out and about, and one of the places we stopped at was a local thrift store called Savers. I just had a gut feeling I needed to go there and we were right by it. So we go in looking for dvd racks, and I see one kitchen cabinet. Looked at the price, it was $9.99. I told my wife there is my bench. Got it home, it barely fit with my wife's wheelchair in back. Then I went to Home Depot to buy some 2x4s. $76 dollars later (ok, I did buy something for the Pinto, I bought a 2 inch and a 3 inch hole saw for the gauges) and about 2 hours of fun work (I like wood working) and I have a bench. It certainly isn't the best I have ever built, but at about $55 total into it it is definitely the cheapest. And it will do what I need it to do. I wouldn't stand on this one, but I didn't build it to be that sturdy. No need to right now, and no money to either. At least one bench I built, the one I had in Akron when I had the 79 ran over $200. I at over 300lbs could jump up and down on it and it wouldn't budge.
But now I have a place to drill, cut, and just work with things other than the radiator support of the Pinto. Yes, I was clamping stuff onto it so I could do stuff like drill and cut.  :-[

Not sure what is up with the middle picture, but the cabinet is closest to the color in the first and last pictures.

And yes, the Coke machine does somewhat work. It gets cold, but the change taker has problems. We aren't using it right now, restoring it is another down the road project. Brought it from Ohio. At least I didn't get rid of it, although I came close. But my wife really wanted us to keep it if we could, so I managed to make sure we had the room for it. And no, the workbench isn't attached to it. It just came right up to it.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 10, 2014, 03:15:27 AM
Nothing beats having a decent place to work!  Looks good, Russ!
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 10, 2014, 07:31:38 AM
Looks good, a bench makes life a lot easier, so can a Coke machine with the right ingredient in it.. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 11, 2014, 01:45:15 AM
Well, the right stuff in this one would have to be non alcoholic.  :(
O'Douls is ok, the amber is much better to me than the regular. St. Pauli's Girl was one of my favorites back when I drank the real stuff, but the n/a version isn't that good. Haven't found a dark version of that one. Now if Heineken would make one that would be perfect.
It is setup as a bottle dispenser, not sure about the actual age of it, but from what searching I have done it looks like early to mid 70's. I'd be seeing it it works ok here (only tried it in Ohio) but afraid it would run up the electrical too much right now. I need to move it, it is on an east facing outside wall right now. One of these days.  :-[ I could barely get it inside as it was by myself. When we first moved in the room was too full to have the nephews helping us do it. So I ended up doing it alone, as usual.  :'(

I have my first project on the bench. ;D I tore down the 8inch rear and the housing is on the bench (on plastic trash bags) waiting to be cleaned up/stripped/painted. There is quite a bit of grease/grime on the bottom where the pumpkin goes. Otherwise it is pretty clean of grease/grime.  The housing was very clean of gear oil, this rear had to have been apart recently, or at least since it was last used. Which I figured on seeing as it had only 3 nuts on the pumpkin. Problem is I seem to be sensitive to gear oil smell. It's making me feel pretty bad even though there really isn't any liquid. I have the rest of it in the same enclosed carport as well. Health-wise it would be best for it to be outside for me, but I don't want to get anything ruined either. I'm already ruined. :-\

I still haven't finished taking the second leaf spring assembly apart. I need to do that soon, my plan/hope is to have the rear and springs ready to go when I get all the bushings and hardware in the next week or so. I will just put the bare rear housing on, the plan is to get different gears for it, and also I need to have the axle bearings replaced. Along with having them re-drilled for 5 lugs. Plus it will just plain be much easier for me to deal with a bare housing when I install it. I can deadlift the full rear, but I doubt if I could bench press it. Working alone I have to keep safety in mind, even when it is a hit to my ego.

I'm also supposed to be getting the tach and gas gauge I just bought in the next couple of days. That will be everything but a speedometer. Oil pressure, H2O temp, volts, gas, and rpms. If this was a race car I wouldn't need the speedo.  ;D
I am going to try to get the new instrument panel made before I start working. Still debating from the thread in the off topic section about using aluminum or wood. I have the wood I would want to use. Would still have to buy the aluminum. I think the aluminum I would be getting would be too thin to be used without a backing anyway. So wood looks like the winner, but I feel like I am cheating by using that. I have found some engine turned vinyl that would be going over the panel no matter what I use to make it, so it really doesn't matter, it will look the same either way. Only I would know for sure. Or is that only her hairdresser knows for sure. ? ;D (something for the older ones (like me) among us)

On the job front, I got my first day instructions but still have no clue about my actual schedule. The first day is just orientation and things like safety training. It is looking like I start at 6am. But I don't know if it is an 8 hour or 12 hour day, and what days. This is very stressful to me. I haven't even started and already part of me wants to tell them to "take this job and ..... it".  >:( Problem is it really does seem like if I get interviewed I don't get the job.  :-[

Oh, and in other news, I found that the small window that the enclosed carport has (in addition to the patio doors) does have a screen frame. Screen is totally missing though. I meant to get to HD today to buy some new screening and the rubber insert thing that holds it in, but didn't make it there. I am hoping having that window open will help with both the heat and now the gear oil odor. It isn't a huge window, maybe 12x16 or so, but it's a lot better than nothing. I was out there last night organizing my sockets in the drawers of the new bench with a fan blowing and both the patio door and the window open. It wasn't too bad. Felt like it dropped the temp at least 20 degrees over when it is closed up at the same time of night.  8)

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 11, 2014, 08:08:30 AM
Humidity went down big time yesterday, could work outside without flooding the place with sweat, lol..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 12, 2014, 02:15:10 AM
It was still pretty bad here, at least to me. Although tonight I didn't get anything done, so I don't know how it was.


Depression ess you see kks.
For no apparent reason I just went into a really deep hole tonight. One of those "if I had a gun" types.
Then I find out that I have about a few days if that left of my antidepressant . Oh joy. Starting off a new job I already hate and I won't be on my "barely keeps me from killing myself" pills. Should be a fun week.

On a different note I got the tach and gas gauge today. Have to see if I can get the dash panel done or not. Right now when I look at the Pinto all I see is a pile of scrap. Yes, due to the depression, but odds are it is going to get worse, not better.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 12, 2014, 08:09:17 AM
Hang in there Russ, better days are coming..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 16, 2014, 11:01:29 PM
Hang, he said. HAHAHAHAHA.
OOPs, probably not funny.

I got the leaf springs completely apart finally yesterday. Had to take a BFH to get the larger bushings out. One of these days maybe I can get another hyd. press.
That's about all I have gotten done.

I had my first day at Intel today. Was just an orientation, about 6 hours. I still don't know anything about the actual job yet. I may not find out until Thursday.

I probably will be a lot slower on the Pinto now. It will take me quite a while to get used to working again, especially if it is for 12 hours a day.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 17, 2014, 07:52:03 AM
Wife did that 12hr thing at Motorola 6-6 nights for a year, they called it "compressed work week", work only 4 days but never had 3 days off in a row and always had to work either Saturday or Sunday your choice, that sucked big time.. :( :(
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 17, 2014, 08:04:47 AM
I do 12 hour shifts every other weekend, but it gives me an extra day off on the opposite weekend.  The end result is that I never work more than four consecutive days... and often only two or three.  Not bad.  It's all in what you get used to. 


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 17, 2014, 08:10:26 AM
Not bad if you can work it all in a row, but when they split it up that sucks you never can do anything.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 17, 2014, 10:44:55 PM
Intel's general way of doing it is 4 days one week, 3 days the next. Like Wed thru Sat, then Wed thru Friday. All days are in a row.
I still don't know. I am going to be working what Intel calls shift 7. But no clue yet about days/hours. Find out in about 10 hours I guess. Been trying to find that out on line, but haven't been able to yet.
I'm really worried about some physical problems I have. Bad back, bad knees, bad bladder. The last could be a real problem if I have to get out of the bunny suit every hour to go to the restroom. Taking a bunch of Saw Palmeto, but don't know if that is going to help enough. I might be back to unemployed this time tomorrow.

the job search continues regardless. This job has a countdown clock already started on it by Intel. I don't want to be in this position in a year from now, or even sooner. Having a job takes some pressure off of the search, but knowing that it is a job with no future puts some of the pressure back.

Thanks
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 17, 2014, 11:59:47 PM
That's understandable, but best of luck regardless!
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 18, 2014, 08:02:00 AM
That's not bad working straight through, wife hated that bunny suit or the job she said it was a Zombie job, LOL.. Anyhow, best of luck in the quest..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 19, 2014, 10:23:35 PM
Thanks.
I am beat already.
Schedule is: 6a to 6p. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. And then every other Wednesday.
No clean room. Thank God. I'd be gone already as much as I have to go to the restroom. I'd be suiting and unsuiting for most of the day. But where I am at I can take as many restroom trips as I need to. Averaging about 12 per 12 hour shift so far. That should come down once I get adjusted to this new schedule and the saw palmetto kicks in. Job is too easy, no electronics. I am testing micro processors, but it is a setup and let the computer run the test thing, and no troubleshootin g if they fail. for me this is a real brainless job, but it is a job for now.

Don't know when I will get back to the Pinto. I don't think I could lift a screwdriver right now. I should be in bed already, I have to get up at 4am. I just need more than one hour to decompress when I get home, so 8pm bedtime isn't working so far. More like 9-10. Eventually I will get so exhausted I will be able to just come home and collapse. I was doing that at GE back in Ohio. It was not good for me though. That was when I tried to kill myself. At least here it is only 3 or 4 days a week, there it was always 5. I need a mental relaxation break every day.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 20, 2014, 12:47:29 AM
Russ,
 
I am definitely NOT a morning person, so I can sympathize with you on the shift you're working.  On the other hand, the working conditions sound like they are better than you had feared.  As you said, it's a job!  The money it brings in should help lessen the tensions that unemployment caused.  I've always heard that it's easier to find a job when you're employed than when you're not, so let's hope this will be the springboard to something better!
 
Get some rest and take care.
 
Dwayne :)
 
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 20, 2014, 08:10:53 AM
Don't sound bad at all and a good shift :D you'll get used to it before you know it, you're lucky not to get that clean room.. Good luck and get some rest. 8)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 23, 2014, 02:29:35 PM
Well,, I agree with your wife about the Zombie Job comment.
This job is pretty much brainless for me. It's like taking a jet mechanic and having him work on tricycles. Literally. And being told that people find it difficult.

And further proof I have my own personal black cloud. Payday is supposed to be this Friday. Well, since my manager or whoever didn't approve my time sheet I am not going to get paid this week. Next payday is two weeks after that, which will be when I get paid. Going to be rough, was really counting on that money this week.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 23, 2014, 02:38:49 PM
Look on the bright side, when you do get paid you'll have an extra week's pay.lol..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 23, 2014, 07:56:35 PM
Yeah. If I have enough money for gas. If we don't starve. If the people we told we would pay some on the bills we owe don't freak.  Etc.
We were really counting on that money being here Friday. I really should know better.

Russ' Law. Murphy and Jones were on happy pills.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 23, 2014, 08:10:14 PM
I had actually bid on a fuel cell listed on ebay Sunday night. I was the high bidder for quite awhile, but just after I bid I was like "you idiot, what the heck are you doing? You had better get outbid or else." fortunately I did.
Like I said, I should really know better. If there is any possibility at all of something getting screwed up, I will be the one it happens too.
I strive to be as happy as Charlie Brown. Maybe someday I will get that happy.
About 20 some odd years ago I had a counselor I was seeing. He couldn't decide if I was Charlie Brown or Eeyore.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 23, 2014, 09:43:34 PM
Yeah. If I have enough money for gas. If we don't starve. If the people we told we would pay some on the bills we owe don't freak.  Etc.
We were really counting on that money being here Friday. I really should know better.

Russ' Law. Murphy and Jones were on happy pills.

Russ
Don't worry it'll all fall into place.. ;)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 24, 2014, 09:31:00 PM
We'll see. If I don't get paid Friday it will be borrowing from the parents again. At 55 I had really hoped that I would be past that.
But at least for now we aren't living with them
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 24, 2014, 09:45:36 PM
We'll see. If I don't get paid Friday it will be borrowing from the parents again. At 55 I had really hoped that I would be past that.
But at least for now we aren't living with them
Russ
Well, that's something to be thankful for.. :D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 25, 2014, 12:24:35 AM
We'll see. If I don't get paid Friday it will be borrowing from the parents again. At 55 I had really hoped that I would be past that.
But at least for now we aren't living with them
Russ

Hey Russ,
Lots of us have been there at one point or another along the way!  I'm sure they understand.  Be thankful you have parents and that they are williing and able to help.  I lost my Dad 10 1/2 years ago, and Mom just a little over 2 years ago.  Both were only in their seventies when they passed.  Then, one year ago, I lost my only sibling, and in June and July of this year, two of my very best friends.  I feel rather alone sometimes... thank God for my wife and children!
When you finally get that first paycheck, it will make up for the two-week delay!
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 28, 2014, 12:24:08 AM
well, I got the check in the mail today. So one less thing to stress about.
I have to do the back brakes on my Subaru before Thursday. I should replace the rotors, but I am just going to do the pads for right now. Should be fun (not), the Pinto is on the only flat piece of concrete. And it isn't moving anywhere soon. Maybe I can get back to it a little this week before I have to work Thursday.

this shift bites, and Intel has a caste system, and contractors are low in it. But it is a paycheck for now. I'm still looking, but nothing at all is out there right now.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on September 28, 2014, 07:40:51 AM
Better than no paycheck, something will come up eventually..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 28, 2014, 10:04:53 AM
Hopefully.
I really need medical insurance.
Thanks,.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 28, 2014, 10:10:12 AM
It's funny. I am a green badge at Intel, which is second class. Not the best thing.
Yet I am now a green name here, and that is a great thing.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 01, 2014, 04:28:45 PM
sigh. 4 days off and nothing happened with the Pinto. Had a semi family emergency that wasted Sunday and part of Monday. Yesterday I did the rear brakes on my Subaru finally. No more metal to metal squealing.
Today was more family stuff related to Sunday. It involves my wife's ex.
Still more to do today, so no chance of Pinto stuff. I feel guilty, but nothing I can do about it.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on October 01, 2014, 06:07:52 PM
As the saying goes, tomorrow is another day.. :D Hope everything is ok with the family.. 8)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on October 02, 2014, 01:37:42 AM
As much as I enjoy my cars, family matters always come first.  Don't feel guilty about it... that's the way it's supposed to be!  You'll get back to the car next time you're off.
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on October 02, 2014, 07:53:08 AM
As much as I enjoy my cars, family matters always come first.  Don't feel guilty about it... that's the way it's supposed to be!  You'll get back to the car next time you're off.
 
Dwayne :)
Family always comes first no matter what..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on October 02, 2014, 07:59:08 AM
Well, at least we Andersons are in agreement on that!  lol


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on October 02, 2014, 08:04:51 AM
Well, at least we Andersons are in agreement on that!  lol


Dwayne :)
Yes indeed, LOL..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 02, 2014, 10:12:18 PM
I don't feel guilty, just sad.
Well, some guilty too.
I miss my late nights working on the Pinto.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 12, 2014, 02:28:32 PM

Just wanted to let you know I am still around. Nothing at all going on
with the Pinto. The job pretty much has me drained 24-7 like I was afraid it would.
I don't even have the energy to shop for it.

I did have one thought though. I think that I will use a pickup truck bed floor replacement panel for the rear of the cargo floor where I cut out the spare tire well. That way I won't have to deal with a flat piece of metal, since I don't have the tools to form it.

Been dealing with my wife's ex's health problems. They have been friends since the divorce, my wife says they should just have been friends all along. they have a son who is about to turn 30 in Jan.

He was in the hospital and now is in a nursing home for 4 weeks for rehab. He won't be able to go back home alone again. Mainly due to mental issues. What brought all this to a head was that he was sick, fell and couldn't get up off the floor about 3 weeks ago.

The  plan is for him to move to Myrtle Beach SC to be with his son and his family. He has to have someone to check on him daily. There is a chance the state is going to commit him, which would really screw up the plans.  The guy was living in total filth the last couple of years apparently. Knee high garbage in his house. Toilet not working so he was wearing depends. Rat infested, big rats. He essentially just gave up caring I guess. He has the money to fix things up, but wouldn't allow anyone into his house. Not even before all this started.

We are also wondering if he has had a stroke, his mental capacity isn't what it used to be. He has no insurance and hadn't been to a doctor until he had to go to the hospital a few weeks ago. The house is so bad the firemen didn't want to go in to get him out, and they had to carry him out, couldn't get a stretcher in it. One of them, I think it was the captain, said it was the worst house he had ever seen. One of them wore a respirator into the house. Wish I had one for today.
I have to go over to his house today and get some valuables out. Not going to be fun. I literally have to shovel a path in the house wherever I go, and having the rats watch me is creeping me out. I go over there every night after work to check on the cat and feed it. We had to put her outside so the rats wouldn't eat her food or her. They are almost as big as she is. I want to bring her here, but my wife is right saying we don't know what her health is, and she probably has fleas and stuff and we don't want to get our cat sick. But I really hate seeing her there. She is better off outside, but still I am sure she feels abandoned. At least the weather has turned to fall finally for the most part. She does have a big covered area.
My wife is supposed to get a power of attorney so she can take care of his business, including selling the house.

She would like to have that house, they lived in it when married. It is paid off, he inherited it from his mother, but he is needing the money from a sale to help him move apparently, and we don't have any. Even in the shape it is in the lot itself is probably worth close to $100K here in Phoenix. He does have an inheritance worth quite a bit, he is considering giving it to her. We would have to spend probably at least $20K just to get it livable. NO heat/ac, the roof had been leaking for years and the ceiling caved in above the kitchen. The rats are what are called roof rats, which are a problem in that area (24th ST and Indian School for anyone familiar with Phoenix), the walls are all bad(plaster), bathroom and kitchen need complete renovations just to use. I don't like the area, but if my wife wants it and can get it I would do it for here. Not likely though. Since he won't tell the state he can afford treatment, they are likely to go after his stuff and take the house. He has always been secretive and extremely stubborn, so that hasn't changed much. Although now he has told my wife about the money and is letting her pay his bills. So some good has come out of this.

Wow, I didn't mean to let all that out, guess I needed to talk to someone about it.








Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on October 12, 2014, 07:09:35 PM
WOW that sucks, best of luck sure hope things work out.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on October 12, 2014, 08:02:44 PM
Wow!  You hear about these sorts of things happening, but you never think they will happen to someone you know!  You are a good man Russ Osborne for doing what you can to help out with the house, the cat, etc. 
 
The friendship that can develop out of failed marriage is an interesting thing.  My ex-wife and I have been apart for 24 years this month, but we get along better now than we ever did when we were married!  We live less than half a mile apart, so tend to see one another frequently.  We are both in much healthier marriages now, and are both happier people because of it.
 
I think your idea of using a pickup bed floor for the rear compartment of your Pinto wagon is an excellent one.  It is bound to look better than anything that could be fabricated out of flat sheet metal.
 
Hang in there, buddy!
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 13, 2014, 10:43:46 AM
Well, thanks, but I didn't post that to be praised.
It is just something that has to be done. I am doing it for my wife, since she still cares about him.

Went over to that house yesterday intending to try to clean it up some. Got two trash bags full and had to stop, couldn't take the smell any longer. I did get a couple of supposedly valuable paintings out that he wanted. Couldn't find some other smaller stuff like checkbooks. It might take going thru the trash by hand to find some stuff he needs, and I am not sure I am up to that. He isn't even sure what room the stuff is in. Need a dumpster to put the trash in, would make things much faster. I uncovered a dead microwave in the living room while working yesterday.
But we may end up just selling the house as is to some company here that advertises they buy such houses. He won't get as much for it, but then he won't have to spend money on it either. The other reasonable option is to have a real estate agent list the house, but realistically the house needs gutted at the least. My wife is waiting for him to get some more strength before she talks to him seriously about what to do, it is his place afterall even though he told us to do what we thought best about it. Me. a cleansing fire would be a good start.

Pinto stuff. I put a bid on a 15 gallon fuel cell on ebay. Find out around 5pm local if I got it. Then I find a similar one as a buy it now with free shipping that would be about the same price if the one I bid on goes to my max with shipping. I don't know why I want to get one now, I guess I am thinking if I got one that would motivate me to get it and the battery installed and get that part done. Maybe it would. I am trying to get some energy to go out and work on the instrument panel I am making. I think I am going to bite the bullet on the leaf springs and take them to be sandblasted. I should take the 8 inch housing as well.  I am just worried that the price will give me a heart attack. Suppose I should just call and see if they can give me an estimate.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 13, 2014, 12:56:03 PM
i should know better I suppose.
Tried to do the instrument panel, found out I got hole saws that don't have the pilot bit. Tried anyway, one hole is way off.
It is only cheap material, so no big loss other than time.
I might have to see if they sell a hole saw around 3.25 inches. I got the 3 inch one, but it is a lot smaller than the 3and3/8ths the tach is.I thought I would be able to just file the hole bigger, but it is probably too small for that.
The 2 inch is pretty close to the small gauges, that will be workable.

I had used a compass to draw the circles, I may not have had it set right or the tach is a bit bigger than advertised. Not sure if the layout I had is going to work, the holes seem a bit too close to enlarge the proper amount.

This is going to be one of those things that takes several attempts to get right I think. Not what I had wanted. Sometimes it seems that when I just eyeball things and go it works out better than when I plan and measure and do all the proper things.

Speaking of, I might go back and redo the battery/storage box since it looks like I am going to put the battery next to the fuel cell like some have done here. Without the battery, I can lower the box to be flush with the floor. Not sure yet, it is nice the way it is and usually when I go back and modify stuff it doesn't end up as nice as it had been before.

Main problem right now is I seem to have lost my confidence in my abilities. I thought that the instrument panel was small enough to fix that, but oops.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 13, 2014, 11:50:38 PM
Well, interesting day.

I found and bought a larger air compressor on craigslist for $100. 5hp and a 20gal tank. Both are major improvements over the little one I have. It is a DeVilbis(sp?). It is sitting by the Pinto for tonight, then I need to move the old one and put this one in it's place. The cfms are also much better. Now I have to hope it doesn't trip the breaker when used. I will find out tomorrow. Then sooner or later I need to buy a small HF sandblaster for it. Should be ok for smaller things like the springs and axle housing if I go slow.

I also got outbid on that fuel cell. The other one I had mentioned was only 10 gal, I hadn't noticed that earlier. So I bought a 15 gal one, buy it now. $160 with free shipping. Polished aluminum, -10 an fittings. http://www.ebay.com/itm/201154322213?item=201154322213&viewitem=&sspagename=ADME:L:OC:US:3160&vxp=mtr
I hope I didn't buy a pos.

I shouldn't have bought anything, but I did. Going to see if I can buy some angle steel to mount the cell and battery with what cash I have left to spend. Then no more spending for quite a while.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on October 14, 2014, 07:33:56 AM
They're ok, friend of mine put one in his truck feeds a 496 I'm sure it'll take care of of a 2.3, lol...
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 14, 2014, 12:12:04 PM
What's a 2.3?  ;D

I'm more worried about the quality of it, but I imagine the only thing that could go bad would be the sender.

Trying to wake up and get over a dream I had. Used to have these frequently, this is the first time in a long time. Was driving my high school Mustang, only it wasn't high school.  I hate those dreams. Very depressing to wake up and find the car isn't here. It has always been either that Mustang or the GTO I used to have in those kind of dreams. Usually I find it, drive it for a bit, and then it disappears again and I am looking for it and can't find it where I left it.

Oh, I forgot. I also bought just under 5 yards of marine grade black vinyl from JoAnn's for 50% off, so only $9 a yard. Wanted a couple of yards more, but that was all that was on that roll, and the coupon was for a single cut. But it ought to be more than I need for the door panels and dash pad. Hope to use it for the console as well, once I get one built. Now I need to get the foam for the pad and panels. No rush, got a long ways to go before I am at that point, but I have been wanting to at least get the vinyl. It won't go bad sitting in the house until it is time to use it. Might not be the greatest type to use, but it should be good.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 14, 2014, 11:59:32 PM
another day, another spent more money on the Pinto confession. :-[

I bought 20 feet of 2x2 14 gauge tubing for the subframe connectors. I would have liked to have gotten 1/8th thick, but just too much money. This should be plenty strong for this purpose. If not it will be a good practice session.

I also bought 20 feet of 1x1 1/8th inch thick angle steel for the fuel cell and battery mount. This might be too small. :( I thought it would be big enough, but after seeing it I was like "oh shoot, that might not work." Probably should have gone 1.5 inch, but hopefully this will be usable. I didn't want the mounting to be the thing that catches the eyes.
The angle was only 68 cents or so a foot, so not too bad if it doesn't work. I can always use it for welding practice.
$70 total for all the steel counting the cuts I had to pay for. Having an enclosed vehicle limits the sizes I can transport. Had the 2x2 cut into two 7 foot lengths, and then a 6 foot leftover piece. Figured that 7 is probably too long for the connectors, but it is a lot easier to cut off than to add on. Plus I plan on going as far forward in the front subframe as I can. I am planning on these being one piece from front to back.  The angle is cut into 5 foot sections. That is more than any one single length will be, so should be fine. I'll be able to cut them with the next paragraph.  ;D

Then I bought a 14 inch 3.5hp cut off saw at HF for $100. It was on sale, normally $150(prices rounded off). I can't do the connectors free hand. My metal cuts have not been very straight.  :-[ I also bought a face shield there. Not the best quality I am sure, but better than nothing. The saw is rated for over double the sizes I am cutting so hopefully it won't be a strain for it. It comes with one cutting disc, I need to get some quality ones. I don't like buying grinding or cutting discs at HF. Heard a lot of horror stories.  :(

Now I am really done spending on the Pinto for a while. Unless I find a really good deal that is. OOPS, did I say that out loud? :P

The fuel cell should be here by Friday if not sooner. So I hope to get started on mounting it and the battery during my next weekend, which will be Sunday-Tuesday. I think I need a different fuel gauge, pretty sure the one I just bought last month is a Ford style. I need a GM one now for the sending unit that comes with the cell.
Only a 3 day weekend this next time, then work 4 and off 4. I am going to be on my own at work starting this Thursday, so that will be a big relief.  ;D ;D ;D
The trainer I had is very nice and very good, but has a hard time letting me work on my own, so it has been stressful at times. The job is too simple, but I think he has had some real idiots come through there. I came up with an analogy. Take an F1 driver. Set him on a kids tricycle. Then don't let him pedal or move without supervision and instructions. Really, it is that bad. But I keep trying to tell myself it is a paycheck. Problem is I need more than that to feel satisfied. And my career certainly needs more than this.

Oh, almost forgot. I ran the new to me compressor until the tank was up to 120psi, and the breaker never tripped. Looks like I got lucky with that.  8)

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on October 15, 2014, 01:20:55 AM
It sounds like you have your upcoming weekend pretty well planned out.  I'm glad to see you excited about working on the Pinto again!.
 
It's funny; you talking about those dreams.  I had a recurring dream for decades... finding my long-forgotten orange '74 Pinto Runabout sitting in the garage, a little dusty but otherwise just as I left her back in '76.  In dreamland, of course, she fired right up on the first try and I was so happy to be driving her again!  Interestingly enough, I haven't had that dream since I bought another Pinto!  Last night I dreamed I was trying to get away from somebody or something and driving a rusty '48 Packard.  Go figure!
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 15, 2014, 02:20:18 PM
Yeah, when I had another 69 project I quit having the dreams about the high school Mustang. Now they are back. Same for my 70 GTO. When I had the 70 Lemans project those dreams stopped, now they are back as well. I'll be driving the car, park it somewhere, and then can't find it again.
Didn't you have an old Packard, or was that someone you went to school with?

I've been excited to work on the Pinto all along, it is just not having the energy to do it. Not having the energy to do anything really. And then when I do try something it doesn't work out right, like the instrument panel. Speaking of, I did find and buy a pilot bit for the hole saws. I wish I had seen them when I bought the saws, but I didn't. Only a couple of bucks, I would have bought one then. But I did learn that my layout isn't quite right, so it wasn't a complete waste of effort.
The fuel gauge I had bought only cost $7 something from Pepboys on ebay. Can't find a 0-90 ohm one for anything close to that with a black face, which is what the other gauges are. I could but don't feel like messing with adding resistors to change the sending unit's ohm range. I'll just have to bite the bullet and spend more on a gauge later on when I need one. Oh, can't find a 2 inch one either, going to have to be 2 and 1/16th. I hope that difference won't really be noticeable since the others are 2 inch. Still need a speedometer also. That will really have to wait for now.

Got to go, it's the wife's turn to spend money. JoAnn's, here we come. At least we have a coupon, 20% off entire purchase including sale items.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on October 16, 2014, 12:29:54 AM
Actually, I DID go to high school with a guy who drove a black '48 Packard in 1973-74!  His was nice and shiny.  Hard to realize now that it was only about 25 years old at the time!  It was so big and round!  lol  It definitely stood out in the student parking lot!  Unfortunately, the one in my dream was a rustbucket and wouldn't run worth a darn (which is bad when you're trying to get away from someone/something).  Don't know where that came from... I've never actually driven one.  The mind is a strange and complex organ!   
 
As to your instruments, I can't see 1/16th of an inch making much difference to the naked eye... I think you'll be just fine, there.
 
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 18, 2014, 04:14:21 PM
Well, I think I did screw up with the 1 inch angle. I kind of forgot that the cell will be holding 15 gallons of gas.  :-[  OOPS.
What little of instructions there are with it also state that the bottom of the cell needs to be supported. I guess that means I will have to have a bottom piece on the mounting frame. Maybe I can get the larger angle this Monday. I shouldn't need anything like 20 feet, 10 feet should be plenty I hope. Although since this is a short weekend for me and we have lots of things to do I might not make it to the steel store. Buying the metal at HD or Lowes is way too expensive, and I don't think there is a steel place near Glendale.

Maybe I should just surround the whole cell with some sheet metal. But then no one would see the nice polished aluminum it is made of.
 
The cell has mounting tabs on the bottom of it. Something I will have to remove. Apparently the makers of it assume you are going to be mounting it on the trunk floor.
 
Not sure if I will get anything done with it this weekend. Besides having to buy some larger angle, I feel like doodoo. This shift at work is not good for me physically. I am at work right now btw. Got a dr.'s appt Monday afternoon. Cost $100 for the office visit. I am willing to bet he is going to want to run a bunch of tests which I can't afford. I am hoping he is willing to go to one of the med's I am supposed to be on website and apply for me to get the meds free. It has to be a dr. to do it, and the meds go to his office, not straight to me. Wish my antidepressant had such a program.
 
Well, back to work. If I don't fall asleep on the way back to the test room.
 
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 19, 2014, 01:14:04 PM
Speaking of dreams, I had one about the Pinto last night. Not sure exactly what I was doing with it though. I think this was the first with the Pinto as the car. :-\

I slept for over 12 hours, although I have to get up every couple of hours these days(more often if I remember to take my water pills). I am feeling much better than I did yesterday. Good enough to maybe do something with the Pinto.  ;D

I've only been getting about 5-6 hours of sleep a night this past week. Not good, especially when I can't take a nap during the day.  :'( :-[
We've (my wife really, but I have to drive) got some running around to do, but hopefully I am still feeling better later on and can do SOMETHING with the Pinto. Strip the carpet out, work on the instrument panel, start fitting the fuel cell, something. Even just taking pictures of my latest acquisitions would be a start. I haven't posted any pictures for a while now.  :-[ :(

Weather wise it has still been a tad warm out, I like it better once it stays in the 70's during the day. Right now the Pinto can still be a bit hot to the touch. Yes, I have turned into a temperature wimp after living in Ohio for 8 years. :o

I was reading Dave1987's posts, he is doing what I had planned on doing, driving the car and working on it at the same time. So much for those plans, huh? ::)

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on October 19, 2014, 01:49:09 PM
Glad to hear you're feeling better.  Sleep is a great healer!  I scrape by on 4-5 hours sleep per day most of the time, but then every couple of months I'll come to a day when I might sleep fifteen or more hours straight.  Heaven only knows what that does to our bodies, but sometimes it just can't be helped.  Hope you get to spend some time with your Pinto this evening.


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Pinto5.0 on October 19, 2014, 08:40:59 PM
1x1 angle should be more than sufficient. 15 gallons is under 125 pounds so it will be plenty.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 20, 2014, 01:19:37 AM
Wish I had read this earlier, I just got back from being out and about, and one of the things I did was to go to HD and buy 16 feet of 2 inch x 2 inch 1/8th inch thick angle. Oh well, it is only money. I will go ahead and use the bigger stuff  for most of it, the smaller stuff will work for the battery and miscellaneous supports. Plus welding practice. I haven't touched the welder since a couple of days after I bought it. At least now I have thick enough metal that I shouldn't have to worry about burn thru. Learn on the thick stuff, then work my way up (down) to the thin. At least that is my plan.

didn't get anything done today on the Pinto, we were just out way later than I had planned. Hopefully tomorrow evening.

Sleep. My problem is that the 12-15 hour sleep day comes about once a week if I keep on like I have been this past week. Started out in the Navy doing that. We called it an "equalizer". There were no drills or training on Sundays on the sub, so that was the day to catch up on sleep. If an alarm went off on Sunday, it was for real.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on October 27, 2014, 09:39:46 PM
Got a little more in the way of tools. Bought a sand blaster at HF, the one that is on sale for $34.95.
Then I went to Tractor Supply to get some blasting sand. Got out to the car and realised I bought glass bead instead. I thought I had grabbed the sand. I imagine the glass bead will work, but just another sign my brain is going bye bye.

Why did I buy the blaster? Because I realised that I should have the rear end installed before I mount the fuel cell. And the rear end and leaf springs  need blasted and painted before I put them back on. So hopefully I can get that started tomorrow.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 10, 2014, 09:21:07 PM
Boy, been a while.
I tried out the sand blaster today. I don't know if it is me, the glass bead instead of sand, or what, but it didn't go well. Took 45 minutes and didn't even get one of the largest leafs done. It does work, just takes forever. And I have it on the ground, which got old really fast. Don't know what to do.

I bought another tool. Got a decent floor jack off of Craig's List yesterday for $65. It will come in handy later on. Been using one of those little Walmart kind for several years. They work, but are a pain. Nice to have a decent one again.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 10, 2014, 10:14:18 PM
Glad to hear you're still on the up and up..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on November 11, 2014, 08:47:52 AM
Glad to hear you're still on the up and up..
... and working on your Pinto!

Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 11, 2014, 01:44:54 PM
Thanks.
With all the other stuff going on I just haven't had the energy  to do anything with the Pinto. Still dealing with wife's ex, he is out of the nursing home and in a hotel. He shouldn't be on his on though, they released him way to early. And his mind isn't all there. Sigh. Now he is saying he isn't moving back east yet, which means we are going to have to be his keepers. Starting to cause some issues. I am not the most patient person around and this is getting really old. He needs a day nurse really to help him with his meds, he can't keep them straight. Don't really know what else to do though. An assisted living place would be the best thing, but I don't think that is an option.
Spent pretty much all day Sunday and Monday dealing with him, had an hour yesterday at home during daylight so that was when I tried the blaster.The rate it went it will take a full 8 hours just to do the leaf springs. Unless it is a technique thing that I can improve.

I really wanted to get more done on the Pinto these days off, but I am going to have to figure out a way to raise the stuff I need to sand blast off of the ground. If I had an engine hoist that would be perfect, but the prices on those have just gotten too high. One of these days I will need to get one but can't do it right now. I just can't bend over for hours anymore.  I should just give up and take it somewhere to be done I suppose, or else totally give up and just reassemble it as is. I just don't want to start doing that though.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 11, 2014, 09:11:11 PM
Thanks.
With all the other stuff going on I just haven't had the energy  to do anything with the Pinto. Still dealing with wife's ex, he is out of the nursing home and in a hotel. He shouldn't be on his on though, they released him way to early. And his mind isn't all there. Sigh. Now he is saying he isn't moving back east yet, which means we are going to have to be his keepers. Starting to cause some issues. I am not the most patient person around and this is getting really old. He needs a day nurse really to help him with his meds, he can't keep them straight. Don't really know what else to do though. An assisted living place would be the best thing, but I don't think that is an option.
Spent pretty much all day Sunday and Monday dealing with him, had an hour yesterday at home during daylight so that was when I tried the blaster.The rate it went it will take a full 8 hours just to do the leaf springs. Unless it is a technique thing that I can improve.
Russ I gotta commend ya, I would not put up with all that drama, keep the spirit up..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 12, 2014, 12:30:10 AM
well, I am doing it for my wife. she is worth it.

I did buy a card table at walmart tonight. That should be plenty strong enough and high enough to blast on. And I took a quick look at the back of the car, I think I may have to change how I was going to make the frame for the fuel cell . I was going to run two pieces from left to right as the main support, but I think I might need to go from front to back instead. Not sure, I need to take a better look. Front to back would eliminate any chance of having it interfere with the leaf springs, which would be good so I don't have to worry about getting them back on right away..

I am going to try to get up early tomorrow and get something done with the Pinto. I'd really like to get the cell mounting stuff done at least. But getting up early is not something I am good at doing.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 12, 2014, 12:34:46 AM
Oh, while I am thinking about it.
Please excuse any typos I may make. I am finally on some new diabetes meds, and my blood sugar count has gone way down. Still nowhere near where it should be, but about half of what it was. Anyway, my eyes aren't working so well, I will need new glasses once I am stable, but for now everything is a bit of a blur.
thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on November 12, 2014, 11:05:31 AM
I can understand that!  My sister was a very brittle diabetic and the one thing I learned from caring for her was that a relative low could have just as bad an effect as a true low.  When she skipped her insulin (which was most of the time), her blood sugar ran upwards of 800.  Consequently, if it dropped down to around 300, she had the same symptoms other  people experience when their blood sugar bottoms out.  Her death at age 53 was largely due to her refusal to take her diabetes seriously.


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 12, 2014, 12:10:35 PM
I have gone from the mid 400's to the low 200's. My A1C was off the chart.
Yeah, any significant drop messes up the eyes, and my equilibrium to a certain extent. Gone from being able to see the letters on this screen with no glasses to it all being blurred with or without them.

I ended up doing some more blasting this morning. I looked at the rear of the car and decided my brain wasn't awake enough to make decisions, so I didn't do anything with the fuel cell. I definitely need to get a water separator for the compressor.  Other than that I found that if I didn't pause things went better. I have three more leafs to go. Although I had done some of the others with the drill and a sanding wheel. I am going to need to get some leaf spring clamps.

 Funny thing is I have a feeling I am going to end up having to get new springs, but for now I am going to go with these and see what happens.

Even with the cool (for Phoenix) temps, I was soaked in sweat after an hour and a half. You wouldn't think that just basically standing still would do that.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 15, 2014, 11:37:46 PM
Well, this is interesting. Not really related to the Pinto at all though. Although it may end up helping when I need to get larger parts/tools.
My wife is going to have to be helping her ex for probably several weeks. He right now has paid for a rental car for another week. I suggested to her to talk to him about giving us the money to buy her a car so she can get to him. He actually has agreed to give us $5000. I am really wanting to buy a Ranchero. Wife doesn't mind a truck type vehicle. She wants an automatic trans. Our Subaru has a 5 speed manual.

I have found several on Craigslist. Including a 72 that is in Parker. A 72 is the Holy Grail of Rancheros to me. Otherwise it will likely have to be a 78 or 79. There are a couple of older 60's models I wouldn't mind having, but if my wife is going to be driving it it has to have things like power disc brakes and ac. she might be talked into driving the Subaru as her car, but the clutch isn't easy for her to deal with.

It also has to be ready to go, no projects. I told her if it was cheap enough something like tires wouldn't be a big deal. But no none running/not fully drivable projects.

Another option would be an F100. I am trying to keep the thing older than computers, or else I would think about a Ranger. Don't really need or want a full size truck.

I found an interesting F100 on CL. A 1963 that has had a newer 4.6L engine.  http://phoenix.craigslist.org/cph/cto/4745889223.html
Looks really interesting, I emailed the guy asking about it.

I also emailed the guy in Parker about the 72, asking what he meant when he calls it a project. http://phoenix.craigslist.org/wvl/cto/4759372895.html
The Ranchero is what I really want, but the 63 F100 would be fun.

We are supposed to get the money on Monday. Wish it could be tomorrow. Going to be really stressed out.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 16, 2014, 06:44:11 AM
I took a quick look at the Ranchero don't look bad, drivers door is beat in a bit but didn't see any rust but didn't look underneath, didn't open the hood or anything, it says it sat for 10yrs so I'm sure it needs a good service, tires look good. Going into town this afternoon to meet the wife for lunch after she gets off work, I can take a closer look and take some pics if you're interested in it.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on November 16, 2014, 07:44:10 AM
I know your wife has physical problems... it seems to me that the Ranchero would be easier for her to get in and out of.  You also have the advantage here of Art (74PintoWagon) being there to look it over up close and personal.  I generally always assume that the seller rates his car a step above the truth, so it bothers me that the F100 seller says its condition is "fair".  Just my thoughts. 


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 16, 2014, 09:23:47 AM
Thanks.
Art, I hate to put you out like that, but if you have the time I would appreciate a closer look. My main concern is if everything works and if it runs well.  If I had the cash in hand i would be on my way to Parker right now. I got the guys phone number, but I always hate to bother people until I have the cash in hand. This is one time where working the schedule I do is going to hurt. But I will see if he is available tomorrow afternoon.

Dwayne, the F100 is more of a "that would be cool to have" thing, but not practical really. At least that is what I am trying to convince myself. :-) the Ranchero is definitely not only more practical, but is what I really wanted.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 16, 2014, 11:06:44 AM
I am rambling a bit here.

Am I being stupid wanting to get a Ranchero? the problem is that this is likely a once in a lifetime chance at this point to get another one, at least one that isn't a major project. And after the Pinto I think I am through with major projects. That was supposed to be a drive it and fix it up as I do thing. hahahahahahaha . We all have seen how that turned out.

Not the best fuel mileage for sure.
But darn it that is what I want. However I just don't seem to make the best choices.
On the one hand, getting something like a newer Ranger would seem the smart thing to do. But then you have to worry about things going wrong with it and then having to spend a ton of money to repair it. The Ranchero has a lot less that can go wrong and would be cheaper to repair because I can do it myself.

My wife says it is up to me. She will probably just drive our Subaru, although that is up in the air. I drive close to 40 miles each way to work, so it would be cheaper for me to drive that instead of the Ranchero.

Sorry, I am just so confused right now. And we need to make a purchase in the next week to 10 days. Has to be before Thanksgiving.

Would buying and driving the Ranchero, especially this 72, make me extremely happy? Heck yes! But does happiness override smart? I guess that is the ultimate question.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 16, 2014, 11:10:07 AM
No prob Russ, he's been parking it in two places and I go right by both places I'm sure it'll be there today, I'll stop and take some pics and look at it better.... BTW, you wouldn't want to out here today the way the wind is blowing, LOL..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on November 16, 2014, 01:19:57 PM
I'm a strong believer in following your heart.  There are very few good, reliable, late-model cars available in the price range you're talking about and, as you noted, repairs on newer cars can be very expensive.  If the Ranchero runs good, it's probably a good choice.  It will give you a bit more utility with it's truck bed, while still having the handling and comfort characteristic s of a car.  Personally, if I were in your situation, I'd go for it. 


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 16, 2014, 05:02:22 PM
No prob Russ, he's been parking it in two places and I go right by both places I'm sure it'll be there today, I'll stop and take some pics and look at it better.... BTW, you wouldn't want to out here today the way the wind is blowing, LOL..

thanks, Art. I really would appreciate it.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 16, 2014, 05:07:24 PM
Thanks Dwayne.
That is my thinking, I just always second and even third guess myself.

I just called the seller, the car needs an ac compressor and a wiper motor. And the gas gauge doesn't work. All should be fairly easy fixes. Most cars I have looked at online that have ac the ac doesn't work.  He said someone stole the wiper motor. And the gas gauge can only be a couple of things, sender/wires/gauge itself. I actually have an aftermarket on that I had bought for the Pinto before I got the fuel cell I can use if the gauge itself is bad.

The stuff he says is new has been put on after the car came out of storage, so recently. Not 10 years old new. :-)

I am just trying not to stress too much about this, but waiting like this is NOT one of my strong points.

The guy is retired, so I plan on being there around 1pm.  Art, how far are you from there?

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 16, 2014, 05:43:04 PM
Well, it wasn't out there but with this weather I can see him not putting it out there, don't know where he lives but I'm only 6 miles from where he parked it.. BTW, did he say where he lived???..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 16, 2014, 10:50:15 PM
Nope, he wants me to call him when I get close to Parker and he is going to give me directions.  I did ask.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 17, 2014, 06:44:30 AM
Well, at least the wind is gone should be good for traveling, just too dam cold gotta stay in the sun.. >:(
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 18, 2014, 01:15:57 AM
Well, I am now the proud owner of a 72 Ranchero. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

$3800. I have put $200 into it already. New battery, cables, and related. I am getting a 100 amp alternator this morning, the 24 hour Autozone didn't have one. The car acted like the battery was low from the beginning, and then at a rest stop on the way home I had to jump it. Good thing I took jumper cables with me. No other problems on the trip home. I don't want to mess with doing this one thing at a time, so while I have the money I am just giving it an all new charging system. Wish I could do that for everything else.

All the gauges and clock are not working, so most likely a fuse issue.

Steering is a tad loose, I need to look into that. I don't remember how the steering is setup on that year.

There is some rust. Doors in the rear lower corners for sure. Quarter panels the corner at the rear of the tires.  Likely there is more. The car had been repainted at some earlier point in it's life, but it was long ago. No signs of any major accidents. Just the dent on the door.

Bumpers are straight, but would need rechromed.

Needs new hood hinge springs, they barely hold that huge hood up.

Has a tow hitch.

I think the headliner was replaced, it is in too good of condition for that old.

got to replace the steering wheel, too hard for my delicate hands. I am going to use the one I was going to use in the Pinto for now. I'll have to see if I can find another one on Ebay.

Horn doesn't work, not sure why.

Plus the already noted ac compressor and windshield wiper motor.

Car runs like a bat out of hell.  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

too keep this somewhat on topic, while I was at AZ buying the cables and stuff I saw and bought a gas gauge for the Pinto.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 18, 2014, 06:56:47 AM
Well, I am now the proud owner of a 72 Ranchero. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

$3800. I have put $200 into it already. New battery, cables, and related. I am getting a 100 amp alternator this morning, the 24 hour Autozone didn't have one. The car acted like the battery was low from the beginning, and then at a rest stop on the way home I had to jump it. Good thing I took jumper cables with me. No other problems on the trip home. I don't want to mess with doing this one thing at a time, so while I have the money I am just giving it an all new charging system. Wish I could do that for everything else.

All the gauges and clock are not working, so most likely a fuse issue.

Steering is a tad loose, I need to look into that. I don't remember how the steering is setup on that year.

There is some rust. Doors in the rear lower corners for sure. Quarter panels the corner at the rear of the tires.  Likely there is more. The car had been repainted at some earlier point in it's life, but it was long ago. No signs of any major accidents. Just the dent on the door.

Bumpers are straight, but would need rechromed.

Needs new hood hinge springs, they barely hold that huge hood up.

Has a tow hitch.

I think the headliner was replaced, it is in too good of condition for that old.

got to replace the steering wheel, too hard for my delicate hands. I am going to use the one I was going to use in the Pinto for now. I'll have to see if I can find another one on Ebay.

Horn doesn't work, not sure why.

Plus the already noted ac compressor and windshield wiper motor.

Car runs like a bat out of hell.  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

too keep this somewhat on topic, while I was at AZ buying the cables and stuff I saw and bought a gas gauge for the Pinto.

Russ
Congrats on the buy.. Steering box is probably loose, should be a screw and a jam nut on top you can take up the slack there, had to do that with the Falcon..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 18, 2014, 09:04:23 AM
Thanks.
I need to look at it while my wife turns the steering wheel. Should be simple enough to see where it is.
I ordered a shop manual on cd last night.
Looking online at parts I also found that the gauge issue could be the voltage regulator there. I had forgotten that these things have that. If the fuse doesn't fix it then I guess that is next.
going to see if it will pass emissions today.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on November 19, 2014, 02:24:04 PM
Congratulation s, Russ!!!


You can't go but so far off-topic; after all, it's a Ford, isn't it?  One of the things I really love about this site is that folks are interested in your projects and interests... Pinto or not.  I'm looking forward to watching your progress on the Pinto, of course, but am also interested in what you're doing with the Ranchero, so keep us updated.  Again, congratulation s!


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 20, 2014, 09:34:33 PM
Thanks,

I still haven't gotten any pictures.
This is a long work week and I am already wore out.
Hoping to get the stuff I have ordered for it in time to do most of the work next week. Short 3 day week, but I do have to work Thanksgiving, and not even time and a half.

Driving it to work is really fun. :-) Not totally sure, but I think I am getting a bit over 16 mpg. Just based on about how many miles I drive and how much gas I had to put in tonight to fill it.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 21, 2014, 06:51:42 AM
I do have to work Thanksgiving, and not even time and a half.
That's what happens when you work for a 24/7 operation, Thursday is the wife's Friday just another day, of course she's looking forward to it becuse she'll make money, lol...
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on November 21, 2014, 10:42:21 AM
Working in a hospital, my holidays are whenever I celebrate them.  Will be working Tuesday through Friday next week but I do at least get paid a little more for working the holiday.  The exact same scenario applies for Christmas.  Will be off Saturday, Sunday, and Monday following both holidays so if we do any celebrating, it will be then.  Glad to hear the Ranchero is doing well.


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 24, 2014, 10:06:22 PM
Let's see. Good news first.
I can see again, sort of. I bought some 3X reading glasses at Walmart and I can see this screen pretty clearly now. Plus I can read menus again. Haven't been to work since I got them, I am hoping they help on that computer as well.

Took the Ranchero Sunday to show my dad. On the way home I saw a sky/baby blue Bobcat wagon on the road. Not sure of the year. Had one fender in primer.

Ok, now the bad news.

As I expected, my dad thinks the Ranchero is a POS. He didn't say that, he just said I could make more than it was worth by parting it out, and then he got online and showed me some "nice" Rancheros. Sigh.

And I was putting on a 3 point seat belt so my wife can ride in it, and I found serious floor pan rust. I don't know how I missed that when I looked under it in Parker. I am doing my side tomorrow, now I am expecting more rust.

I got my RetroSound radio installed. But the speaker thing I bought yesterday at Pepboys is bad on the right side. Almost no sound. Of course I did NOT test it before mounting it and removing/cutting the neon rings, so now I can't return it. The left side sounded really good for a $41 dollar speaker set. It is one of those two woofers and two tweeters in a wooden box with a handle things. I am debating trying to find a cheap woofer and tweeter that will fit, or just giving in and cutting the very expensive door panels for speakers. Can you tell I don't want to do that? Problem is that I have reached the spending limit on the Ranchero for now. Wife spent a bit of the money on clothes and Christmas presents. Oh, well. It did come from her ex, so I guess she is entitled to some of it.
This is the speaker thing I bought
http://www.pepboys.com/product/details/9250390/00748/electronics/car_audio/speakers/hardwired
I am seriously tempted to buy another and if only half works then combine the good speakers into one box.  If I do buy another I guarantee I will test it before doing anything else to it.

I guess the plan of attack for tomorrow is to install my 3 point belt, and add relays for the headlights. And hope that the rest of the dash stuff shows up, but I doubt if the speedometer I bought over the weekend will get here in time to do that dash this week. I really just want to take it all apart once and not have to do it several times.  I am worried that the gauge cluster housing is going to be as brittle as the Pinto ones are. Worst thing that can happen is I have to use the tach and gauges I bought for the Pinto. They are all rather cheap, so it wouldn't be a great loss, but something I would rather not have to do. I am really trying to keep the Ranchero essentially stock.

And still no pictures. :-( I worked on it from 7:30 AM til 6pm. Didn't even take a lunch break. I tend not to think about eating when I get into a working on car mode.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on November 25, 2014, 02:08:02 PM
Sorry your Dad wasn't more supportive, but it sounds as if that came as no surprise to you.  That being the case, I wouldn't lose any sleep over his opinion.  Too bad about the Ranchero's floorpan rust, but I'm sure it's fixable.  I say keep following your heart, live your dreams, and move onward!  With a couple of projects to work on, you sound more upbeat than ever! 


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 25, 2014, 11:36:35 PM
The Ranchero is NOT a project! :P
It had better not turn into one, I don't have a good track record with those.

I worked on it some more today. Fixed a couple of things, broke another.
Installed led lights in the dash. One of the lights has a problem still, maybe it is the printed circuit board.
These lights are 15 led bulbs, but they don't seem very bright. But at least I can see the gauges now, and particularly the speedometer. maybe I need to remove the blue lens covers? Or maybe they aren't getting a full 12 volts. That is the main reason I want to do the headlight relays, along with brighter headlights.

I also changed the dash voltage regulator. I now have oil pressure and temp. Looks like the fuel gauge sending unit is bad according to the tests I did per the manual. Ammeter doesn't work, I am just going to replace it with a volt meter. Don't like ammeters to begin with.
If the oil pressure gauge is to be believed, I am getting about 60 psi. I ought to put a mechanical on it just to double check.

I broke the speedometer cable retaining clip apparently while removing it from the instrument cluster.  >:( It never fails.  >:( :( :-[ :'(
So instead of getting speakers I have ordered the cable and the sending unit, and even paid $25 extra for 2 day air. I better not break anything else, I can't afford it.

I have relays for the headlights, but given the above I am going to wait to install those until we have some money, just in case. Cutting into the harness shouldn't be an issue, but since this is a 42 year old car and my daily driver I need to be certain I can keep it on the road.

I got the other 3 point seat belt in. I really like them. These are the same ones I plan on putting into the Pinto. Not too bad at about $60 each. But they do take an extra (total of 4) mounting bolts, so getting the hardware kit is a good idea. http://www.summitracing.com/parts/aaf-all98115
I had bought a cheap ( and no good) lap belt from Pepboys, the only thing I used was the mounting kit from it. This one the ends weren't sewn, you had to loop them through a couple of plates. Not something I was comfortable putting my wife in for sure.

I did a lousy job installing the radio. Once it is totally working I need to go back and solder connections and route wires better.  :-[

This is what the Pinto (and the Lemans before that) were supposed to be. Something I could drive and fix as I felt like.  I think being able to drive this is the main reason I am feeling pretty good about life right now. I am actually wanting to take it to a local car show that is held every Saturday night at a Kmart on this side of town. I haven't even wanted to go look at a car show for a long time.

Wishing I could get back to the Pinto, but I need the Ranchero to be as finished as I can afford it to be first. I hope my enthusiasm for working on cars continues when that happens. I honestly haven't even thought about suicide since I got the Ranchero, other than thinking I haven't thought about  it. It being over a week is a record for me since I can't remember when. yeah, the rust, my dad, breaking things is a downer, but nothing taking me back down to where I was before. I do worry about this being temporary, but my wife and I are enjoying it now.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on November 26, 2014, 01:19:48 AM
That all makes sense to me!  I've toyed with the idea of replacing the seatbelts in my Pinto with three-point belts.  It would surely be a lot simpler to fasten.  In the summertime, I've actually burned my fingers trying to get the lap and shoulder belts hooked together.  On the other hand, the car is totally stock and in really nice shape so I hate to modify it just for convenience.

Glad to know you are feeling well.  Enjoy it! 

Dwayne
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 27, 2014, 05:01:09 PM
Thanks.

I did go back yesterday and properly redid the wiring for the radio. Still no speakers though. I wish at least the dash stereo speaker (two speakers in one) would get here.
I need to replace the turn signal flasher asap. The stock one does not like the leds at all. Found out I need an electronic one. Less than $20 at PepBoys, so that is doable tomorrow.  Would do it today, but NOOOOOO, they just had to close for a holiday. :-)
Found enough good wire left over from the Pinto rewire to do the headlight relays and add a junction block for a power source for the headlights so I will likely get that done early next week. I only have 3 days off, so I am going to be busy, if everything I have ordered shows up on time.
Also found out that the dash led's that I bought off of Ebay zoop. Not even as bright as the stock light bulbs. So I am going to have to buy "good" ones, that may cost about 3-4 times what I paid for the cheap ones (that was $7 for ten).

I had to go to my brother's house yesterday and took the Ranchero. He at least understands that I am really enjoying it and don't need a "perfect" one. But he wasn't that impressed with it either. Oh, well. My cars have always tended to be beaters because that is what I can afford, other than the new cars that I have had (with nice large payments). Shiny paint is nice, but a car that runs like a bat out of hell is more important to me.

Well, guess break is over. Back to work (not on either car though).  :-( 
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 29, 2014, 10:44:24 PM
I have had a crazy thought about what engine to put in the Pinto.  8)
I truly am thinking of putting a 351C in it now. The Ranchero has a 351C and a C4. And it is a ton of fun.
Just think what that would be like in a Pinto, only with the 4V version.  :o ;D
Although I would prefer a manual trans, I could live with a manual valve bodied auto.
With the Ranchero being my daily driver, I can go wild with the Pinto since it will be a weekend fun car only.
OF course, at the rate I am going it won't be done before I am 65 or more.

Went to the local car show tonight. Found out that it ends about the time I got there. We ate first, next week we won't. I can't get there before about 7:15 pm. But I did meet another 72 Ranchero guy, although his is waiting on a 351C to be finished before he can drive it. Didn't see any Pintos, but most cars had left before we got there about 8:30.  :(
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on November 30, 2014, 07:38:34 AM
Too bad you were late to the car show but, since it's a regular event, now you know!  Actually, a car show sounds like a lot of fun.  We don't have any around here this time of year; especially with snow on the ground. Will have to wait until Spring (sigh).  Hope you are having a great weekend.


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 30, 2014, 08:33:45 AM


Went to the local car show tonight. Found out that it ends about the time I got there. We ate first, next week we won't. I can't get there before about 7:15 pm. But I did meet another 72 Ranchero guy, although his is waiting on a 351C to be finished before he can drive it. Didn't see any Pintos, but most cars had left before we got there about 8:30.  :(
Russ, did you go to Pavillions?, that's every Sat lot of nice machinery there.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 30, 2014, 09:06:00 AM
Art-not the Pavillions. This one is at a Kmart at 67th Ave and Bell.
I need to go the the Pavillions though and see how it is going. I used to go there off and on for a while about a dozen years ago when I had my 69 Mustang project but haven't been there since. I'm not sure how a driver like mine would be accepted there.

Dwayne-Snow? That sounds like a four letter word to me! One of the advantages to moving back here for sure.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 30, 2014, 09:28:56 AM
I went to that one once, it was a nice gathering just a bit far to go from my place all the time, used to go to Superstition show that was less than 10 minutes away from the house.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 30, 2014, 08:54:30 PM
Sometimes I am worried the Ranchero is going to become a project. But as long as I keep it drivable I am ok.

I spent a few hours working on it today.

I got the steering wheel changed, but I am going to have to take it off again. Something is causing it to be very hard to turn. I think it is the adapter cover, it looks like it is hitting the steering column. I thought it was far enough away, but once I tightened down the nut that holds everything on it wasn't.  It came with a spacer, but according to the instructions I am not supposed to use it. But I might have to.
Plus I didn't get the wheel on straight anyway, I didn't have the front tires perfectly straight so the steering wheel is off. And the fact that there is some play in the linkage or box doesn't help.

I also worked on the horn problem. Turns out the horn itself is bad. I tried to put an aftermarket oogah horn on it I have for my Pinto, but couldn't find a place to mount it that I liked. So I will just buy a replacement horn at some point.

Tomorrow will likely be the headlight relays and a junction block for them. Was starting to do that today, but I had to buy some sheet metal screws to mount everything. I would rather use nuts and bolts, but where I am putting them I just can't get to the backside to install the nuts.
Here is the bad part. I couldn't help myself, I took part of the harness from the Pinto that I had made and am using it for the Ranchero. Money is a bit tight right now, I will go back and replace the stuff later. Took one relay and one junction block. The horn circuit essentially. Although since I am going to have to get a replacement horn I may not use that relay. But I am going to use the junction block.
I would just use the relays that are for the Pinto headlights, but I have the low/high beam sockets already soldered on, and the Ranchero has 4 headlights, not 2. I was going to see about doing a Thunderbolt type of ram air, the one that uses the inner headlight locations, but on this year Ranchero, I would have to cut holes into the radiator support to do that, and that is not going to happen. So I am going to use 2 cheapo relays I bought from Summit Racing for the Ranchero headlights, at least for now.  I think. Tomorrow I may see things differently. I just hate to have to undo all the work I put into that harness, but maybe I should. Better to use the best stuff on the driving car, and then re-buy the good stuff later on when I get back to the Pinto. I could do that harness better as well, there were a few things I didn't like about how it ended up.
 I do want to replace the headlight sockets, but that will have to wait. Not sure if they even make the 4 bulb type in the type of material that I got for the Pinto. Something to start looking for I suppose.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 30, 2014, 08:57:26 PM
Kinda seems like a project to me, LOL.. :D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on November 30, 2014, 09:08:32 PM
Yeah, but I have seen every "project" car I have had the last 15 years be towed away. That is not something that can happen with the Ranchero.
Like today, instead of leaving it somewhat in the middle of working on it I cleaned it up and made sure it is drivable, (well, the steering would be difficult, but doable. I could always put the stock wheel back on in a few minutes if nothing else.). I just have to make sure that at the end of every day I do that.
Except for Sundays, which have been taken up with the wife's ex to some point, on my off days I am trying to get up around 8 and work on the car until about dusk.

I almost forgot. I bought an engine hoist today. got it for $75 off of craigslist. The only thing wrong with it is that it is missing the pins that hold the legs in position. I can use bolts for that if I can't find the pins. And I won't need it for a while, so I have time to hunt for them. This is one of the main reasons I wanted something with a bed. Hopefully I won't need to use it until it is time for putting an engine in the Pinto.

I have got to get back into the habit of taking pictures. Lots of tools, and a new car, that I need to document.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on November 30, 2014, 09:19:15 PM
Yeah, I can relate to driving projects, lol, going thru that with the Falcon, can't get the wife out of it, lol..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on December 01, 2014, 10:11:52 AM

Dwayne-Snow? That sounds like a four letter word to me! One of the advantages to moving back here for sure.



Snow is definitely a four-letter word!  We got five inches on Wednesday; the day before Thanksgiving.  The temperature rose up into the sixties yesterday and today however, so it's all gone now.  Good riddance as far as I'm concerned!

Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on December 01, 2014, 03:13:38 PM

That change in weather always tended to get my wife sick. Glad we are out of that. Miss lots of stuff from back there, but not snow and the drastic weather changes.

I've got horns on the Ranchero. Found a guy selling lots of Fox body stuff. Got a pair from the late 80's for 12 bucks. Almost a perfect fit, but had to flatten out the locking tab on the mount and rotate the horns just a bit. Was only about half an inch away from being perfect. Afterwards I realised I could have left that tab and just drilled a new hole for it, but I doubt if it will make a difference. That isn't going anywhere.

The steering issue is definitely that adapter cover. So for now I am running without it. Looks like crap, but works. I need to grind/file off about an 1\8th inch from the bottom of it. Not going to mess with it for now. Steering wheel is still off center. I found out my puller doesn't have bolts that fit the adapter. So that will have to wait for another day as well.

I'm on lunch break, after I eat I think I am going to do the relays. Or take a nap. Not sure which yet. I have enough cash to go buy another one of those speaker boxes. It's either that or buy some 6x9s and just have them laying on the floor behind the seat. Actually, I just had an idea. I could use "L" brackes and mount them to the back wall, down above the spare tire area. Hmmmm. Have to think about that. Not sure if I can get decent 6x9s for around $40, which is what the speaker box thing costs. Well, $41.99 or something.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on December 01, 2014, 10:37:38 PM
I ended up mounting the relays for the headlights. Started getting late, so I didn't start the wiring for them.
Turns out I can use the headlight connectors from the Pinto. the low beams have the 3 terminal bulbs. And the high beams only have 2, but these will work, just have an extra unused terminal. Have to see if I can find who I bought these from. Either was on Ebay or Amazon. They were under $10.
The way these headlights are wired is interesting. Not what I would have thought. I bought one of those laminated wiring diagrams that have the wires in the actual colors. Big big help.

And then I ended up buying another one of the speaker boxes. This one works. I tested it in the parking lot of the PepBoys I bought it at. Now I just need to mount it. Decided on a different way. Going to cut the loop mount off of the tunnel that is for the bumper jack and set the speaker box there. Will have to find a way to mount it to the back wall, probably just cheap brackets.  They didn't have any 6x9s that were worth buying in my price range. Eventually I will come up with a better arrangement, but this will get me sounds for now at least.

I did take some pictures today. Need to download them onto this computer.  Although I only took pics of the Ranchero, no tools. Not even of the new horns. Can't see them where they are mounted without removing some stuff.

I feel bad about cutting the Pinto engine compartment harness, although it is just pretty much back to stock except for several wires that are now shorter. I will redo it completely when I get back to working on the Pinto. Like I said, I wasn't totally happy with it anyway.  With a V8 of either W or C config, the relays were going to have to move since they were on the radiator support where it will have to be cut away for a larger radiator.  And I didn't totally like the routing of the wires. I went the easy way when I did it, not really the best way.
Plus, I need to pull the dash and totally redo that harness.  Maybe I should just get a Painless or Ron Francis type wiring kit and start from scratch. I just have no experience with those and don't know if the wiring sizes are up to my standards. I am of the "bigger is better" point of view. Probably don't need to be, but that is just how I am.

I am also going to have to get a 9 inch rear end for it with a Cleveland engine.  Guess I should sell the 8 inch. Could use some cash right now. Have to put it back together first I suppose. Although maybe it would be better for potential buyers to be able to look at the gears and axles? Maybe I will just try it apart first. Probably will lose money on it, but that seems to be my standard operating procedure with car stuff.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on December 02, 2014, 07:13:28 AM
I bought a Painless for my Nova(haven't installed it yet)and if you can read and pay attention they are re pretty much a no brainer, instructions are very detailed and all the wires are marked where they go the whole length. When it comes to electrical I'm about as dumb as it gets and even I can understand it.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on January 24, 2015, 11:29:01 PM
gee, been so long I am seeing the warning about this being an old topic.

It is hard for me to justify paying for a Painless or similar since wiring for me isn't a problem, but it may make more sense. I would probably get one of the universal ones if I do go that route. Definitely would be quicker using them. Just not sure their wiring would be up to my standards, I am a bit picky when it comes to that.

As you may have noticed I have posted my 8 inch rear for sale here. I also posted it on CL locally and have someone interested in trading for it. He has a couple of things that I listed as possibilities, a pair of aftermarket bucket seats and a tach and speedometer. The bucket seats would be for the Pinto, the gauges probably for the Ranchero, although I am not positive. It is an either or thing. Don't know if the seats come with the mounts. The speedometer is pretty beat up around the outside, not sure if that would show when installed. The tach is WAY more than I need for the Ranchero, goes to like 10 grand, and has a reset and stuff that I would never use. Could use them for the Pinto. If I got the tach/speedo for the Pinto I would be able to actually finish the instrument panel I started on a while back. I was really hoping to get a full set of gauges with electrical sending units for the Ranchero right now, I hate the mechanical ones I have. Haven't even hooked up the oil pressure, and the water temp is stopping me from removing the panel to redo the wiring on it unless I remove the sending unit from the block. I have to flush the cooling system anyway, so I may just do that. It is just that it doesn't leak and I hate touching it.

Decisions, decisions. I really really wanted cash or stuff I could use right away on the Ranchero, but then this might get me back on the Pinto a bit.

Although I may need to make some sort of dolly for the Pinto to move it off of the slab it is on. Looking at partnering with my wife's ex on buying and fixing up Mustangs (semi newer(1990's and up ones) at least for now) to sell. This would be in addition to the other flipping my brother, dad, and I are going to do. We are going to be either working with a licensed dealer who flips or get our own license and start doing auctions. We bought a car from this guy who does this for a living and may work with him for a bit to get up and running. He wants a fee for using his license and a set amount per car. I figure we would be paying for an education since he would be showing me the in's and out's of this. Yet to be determined though.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on January 25, 2015, 07:07:14 AM
Paying some fees in exchange for learning the ropes is probably a wise investment.  Good luck!
Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on January 27, 2015, 08:22:27 PM
Thanks.
I need to get my brother to commit one way or the other. Problem is he is CEO/President of a company and that takes up most of his time. Heart is in the right place, but...

Anyway, if you guys have read my other post I made today in the off topic section, it looks like working on the Pinto just took another step backwards. I have to get my time organized so I can work on all 3 cars now. I'd like to at least get the fuel cell installed since I have all the stuff for that. I'll even try to weld the mounting frame for it, since it is 1/8 inch angle it will be hard for me to burn through. And I do have the tubing to make the sub frame connectors, I can get them cut and fitted, then get them welded later one.

Problem with all of this is I am just flat out tired and over stressed and don't have the energy. But I had better find it soon.

Haven't heard back from the guy who wanted to trade for my 8 inch rear. I'd really rather have the money than what he had to trade anyway, right now. The seats he had would be good for the Pinto, but they would likely be taking up space for the next year, and they aren't uncommon so not getting them isn't a big deal.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on January 28, 2015, 07:05:53 AM
Sounds like you're getting your spirits up Russ. I hope this works out for you with everything. Hope you get to keep the rear end also!
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on February 13, 2015, 08:07:57 PM
I could use some spirits, too bad I can't drink anymore.

I won't say what he said, but my dad and I got into a screaming match about the Pinto, which he only saw last weekend. I think he has had one stroke too many. All he cares about these days is "value" and Rush Limbaugh. Heaven forbid I do something that I enjoy and have fun doing. I have been told by my mom to never mention that I am on "Obamacare" as he will go off and never calm down.
I will be avoiding him as much as humanly possible, and will just be polite when I do have to have contact with him. but as far as I am concerned, my real dad died a few years ago.this is just an alien in his body as far as I am concerned. to everyone else in my family I guess the change was slow enough and over a few years so they don't really see it, but having been gone for over 8 years to me it is like getting hit in the face.

I need to get something done to the Pinto. Maybe I can organize my days to have some Pinto, some Mustang, and some Ranchero time, as well as some work around the house time. Or maybe I will just stay a slug and get nothing accomplished. "Death where is thy sting" I think is the quote.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on February 13, 2015, 08:13:21 PM
Oh, I forgot.
Dianne, I don't want or need the 8 inch rear. I do need a 9 inch one though. I would really like to sell the 8 inch, could really use the cash, but I have it listed on CL here for sale or trade, depending on what someone wants to trade for. Looking for stuff for either the Pinto ( a 9 inch housing would be good) or the Ranchero (set of electric gauges or a 4bbl intake for the 2V Cleveland as an example) or some shop tools (could use an engine stand of the 4 legged variety or a hyd. press). But have not gotten any real interest.
I just don't do real well on selling stuff it seems.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on February 14, 2015, 03:36:27 AM
Russ, I understand about selling stuff. I have just sold my Spitfire and have 5 cars left LOL I want a 65 SS Impala I saw and want. I don't sell stuff good either, the convertible I have listed at 3500 and it books for 4100 and no calls. My Impala no calls and no calls on my truck. People are waiting on tax returns I think. So, when it comes to selling cars, it takes time sometimes. My mom, and I'm almost 60, is getting on my case because I'm doing cars and learning to weld LOL My kids are in their 20s, mid to late, and I still throw in my 2 cents all the time, I think it's something we all, past, present and future, get into.

Keep plugging and chasing your dreams, I certainly am!
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on February 25, 2015, 02:31:43 AM
Yes, you certainly are.  ;D

My wife gets mad if I chase my dreams.  :P Oh wait, those aren't cars. ;D Hell, I am too out of shape to chase anything anymore anyway.
Cars she doesn't have a problem with as long as we have the money.   

I am wanting to build a body cart for the Pinto so I can roll it off the slab and work on other cars and use it as a patio also. Not a big deal to do except for the money right now. I built what I called a rolltissorie for my Lemans back in Ohio so a cart is nothing. Just need some 2x6s and some hefty casters since it will be rolling on gravel. I tend to do this sort of stuff in wood, since I work well with it normally.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on February 25, 2015, 07:22:41 AM
Yes, you certainly are.  ;D

My wife gets mad if I chase my dreams.  :P Oh wait, those aren't cars. ;D Hell, I am too out of shape to chase anything anymore anyway.
Cars she doesn't have a problem with as long as we have the money.   

I am wanting to build a body cart for the Pinto so I can roll it off the slab and work on other cars and use it as a patio also. Not a big deal to do except for the money right now. I built what I called a rolltissorie for my Lemans back in Ohio so a cart is nothing. Just need some 2x6s and some hefty casters since it will be rolling on gravel. I tend to do this sort of stuff in wood, since I work well with it normally.

Russ

You built a rotisserie? I am talking to another shop about building one together :D Those rock!!! Building a test engine stand first :(

You get get rollers and put the tires on those and roll them around. We use those now on the cars that have engines pulled, they work pretty good actually! I have very heavy duty ones, but you can get them at Habor Freight for like $49.00 for two, but you really need 4. Car moves so easy on these!
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on February 25, 2015, 01:24:36 PM
The casters on those Harbor Freight ones zoop. I bought those while working on my Lemans and they couldn't even handle the weight of a bare Lemans chassis. Once I bought some good casters they weren't bad. But honestly the $12 furniture movers work much better. But the casters on those won't work with gravel.
the Pinto has no suspension anyway.
I built a rolltissorie, not a rotissorie.  ;D
Thought I had more pictures. It hurt having to go back on the Pontiac forum. That was a lot of money and effort wasted. :'(
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on February 25, 2015, 05:08:44 PM
Pretty cool!
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on March 01, 2015, 08:31:51 PM
Well, I just deleted the CL ad for the 8 inch rear. I think I am going to slap the leafs back together and bolt it all back on the Pinto so I can put some tires on the car to roll it backwards off the concrete slab for now. Still have the front end stuff, maybe slap that back on for front tires as well. I hate to go backwards, but I have that stuff and don't have the money to buy the stuff for a dolly. Still have the 4 lug 14 inch rims/tires that came with the car too.
I need to get it out of the way before I just call a scrapper to come get it. I'd hate myself later if I did that, but I tend to do stupid stuff when it is expedient instead of taking the time and effort to do something right at times. See my post on the 79 Pinto for a perfect example of being expediently stupid.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on March 04, 2015, 07:32:03 PM
I got the Pinto off the slab and into the yard. Yuck. It's sitting on concrete blocks. does that make me a redneck?  ;D
Did not put it back together, I just used some of those furniture dollies. I had some pieces of a cabinet I had found being tossed, used them for the dollies to roll on when it got to the end of the slab. Ground is way too wet with all the rain we have had lately.

I am not really happy about this, but I guess I needed to get it done. It looks like I will be buying that wrecked Mustang for parts, so I need to put the current Mustang on the slab where the Pinto was. Going to try to do that tomorrow. At least that one rolls.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on March 04, 2015, 07:48:21 PM
I got the Pinto off the slab and into the yard. Yuck. It's sitting on concrete blocks. does that make me a redneck?  ;D
Did not put it back together, I just used some of those furniture dollies. I had some pieces of a cabinet I had found being tossed, used them for the dollies to roll on when it got to the end of the slab. Ground is way too wet with all the rain we have had lately.

I am not really happy about this, but I guess I needed to get it done. It looks like I will be buying that wrecked Mustang for parts, so I need to put the current Mustang on the slab where the Pinto was. Going to try to do that tomorrow. At least that one rolls.

Redneck LOL Lots o rednecks out this way ;) Being one is NOT a bad thing mind you. Hope you have the farmers tan also!

You can sell parts off that other Mustang also and maybe recoup some of the money!

Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on March 16, 2015, 01:21:22 AM
Just when I think I have a plan....

I was out trying to move the wrecked Mustang. Wanted it turned around. Wouldn't start. Anyway, after messing with that for a half hour or so (seeing what works on it, ie just playing around) I thought I should fire up the Ranchero. I haven't even started it for like a month. Since I got home after the heater hose fun in fact.
Sitting in it listening to the engine I am thinking "how can I settle for a V6 in the Pinto?". I am not sure what I want to do. Part of me still says to do the V6, and use whatever else off of the Mustang I can. The other part says wait for the Cleveland to happen. Problem with the latter is it may never happen.

I'm looking at using lots from the Mustang. I know for a fact that the dash will NOT fit. Been there done that. Well, it fits if you are willing to move the doors back about a good foot so you can get in the car. And you'd have to drive it from pretty much the back seat. But I am thinking maybe the instrument cluster, the heat/ac, etc. Not sure just how big the underdash part of the heater stuff is, but it would be nice if I could use it since it is available. Maybe the bucket seats, but I found out tonight that the driver's seat does not move back and forth, which is the main thing I had wanted to use them for. Has a tilt column, kind of ugly but then so am I.
Maybe I'd be better off just taking the engine out and selling the rest. Put the other 3.8 in it (in the trunk) so it is a complete car and scrap it.

Heck, I don't even have a clue if the 3.8 is feasible. I wouldn't even be considering it if it wasn't here and free.

Sometimes I think I should just let the Pinto go. Being broke is a bad thing when you want to play with cars. Being depressed and off the meds doesn't help either. But that goes back to being broke.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: fordpower on March 16, 2015, 07:06:20 PM
You need to join us at gran torino sport.org with that 72,
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on March 16, 2015, 10:46:54 PM
I'm there. Been there for a few months.
Same user name.
Just haven't posted much lately since the Ranchero has just been parked the last month or so.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on May 05, 2015, 01:32:04 AM
Been working on my Ranchero a bit and I am feeling guilty about not doing anything with the Pinto. There are a couple of things I want to do and can afford to do, mainly doing some measuring for the fuel cell install, but since the Pinto is literally sitting on blocks in the yard I am not feeling comfortable getting inside of it.  :-[
I am thinking maybe I should just use the gas tank from the other 96 Stang, but in reality either one will probably take the same amount of work to mount, and that tank IS almost 20 years old now and it may be too wide. Besides, a fuel cell is cool.  ;D

I need to come up with some sort of welding table so I can start working on the fuel cell mounting frame. I am not up to welding on the ground/floor at all. I have two metal cabinets that I could use for the base, but they have wood for the tops right now. Welding and wood are not the best combo. And I don't have the money or the energy to get a quarter inch thick plate to put on top. Those things are too heavy, even a 2x4 foot section, which is what I want to do. And if I took the wood off these things don't have a solid top. It's always something.  :-[

Thanks and sorry for not having much positive to say.
Russ

Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on May 22, 2015, 04:28:32 PM
So much has gone on lately.

I have to sell the Mustangs today, family member financail  emergency. Details on the Mustang thread I have in the Non-Pinto section. So there goes the engine and trans I was going to try to use. Along with a bunch of other stuff I had planned on taking from them to use. I did snag a couple of things for the Ranchero though. The power distribution box from the engine compartment with about a foot of wire harness, the alternator harness, and a spare tire that actually has decent tread and holds air. No where near what I had hoped to take and use. So I guess back to working towards putting a 351C engine in the Pinto.

No more newer cars for me to try to fix and flip. Early 80's is probably the newest I will go.No computers/electronics.  Older Fox bodied Mustangs, or preferably 60's and 70's Fords. Wouldn't mind doing some more Pontiacs and Oldsmobiles as well. But only ones leaning towards the muscle car side of things.  If the wife's ex is even willing to give it another shot. He lost about 2grand on this deal.

Good part of that is I can put the Pinto back onto the slab this weekend.

I bought a portable welding table from Harbor Freight this week. So I can start working on my welding and get going on the fuel cell frame for the Pinto and something for the Ranchero. 

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on June 26, 2015, 06:38:04 AM
Well, Pinto is still where it was. I have however bought 4 decent casters (4 inchers I think, I forgot already) from HF to use to make the Pinto rollable versus dragging it. Plan is to mount the casters on some 2x6s I have and mount them to the car somewhere and use the Ranchero to pull it forward. Only need to move it about 8 or 10 feet. Going to try to get that done this weekend. I still haven't taken the welding table out of the box, hard to believe it's been over a month now since I got it.  :-[ At least I did get a new barbecue grill assembled. Haven't used it yet though.  :-[ I didn't get the "grill" gene or something, but I don't enjoy cooking outside. I do better inside. I am better at things that have instructions (recipes) than things that take more of a feel. One reason I don't play much bass guitar. I can play the notes if they are written, but I don't have the "feel for the rhythm" I even had to look that word up for spelling.  :-[ :o

I am going to try to make the frame for the fuel cell and battery. I feel the  need to burn something, so it might as well be metal. Better than the house I suppose. I can at least do the basic frame, I am still not sure how I am going to mount it to the car. :-\   I do know the basic frame layout, but might have to have the cell partially above the floor, depends on how far it sticks below. Fuel cell dragging on the ground might be a bad idea. Pintos already have a bad reputation for fires. :P

Been trying to sell the extra stuff one last time. The stock rear, the stock front suspension/brakes, gas tank, etc. Thinking it will be going to scrap however. I need to clean up the place quite a bit and this stuff is not helping. Probably have a snake living under the pile.  ::) I've found several people who will come and take it for free. I was going to take it to a scrap place and get some cash, but I would have to do a lot of work to most of it before they will take it, and it just isn't worth the limited amount of money I would get for it.
Too bad no one locally seems to have any interest in all that stuff. I would pretty much give it away to someone who could use any of it. HINT-HINT! :'(

The way I have been feeling I am wanting to just scrap the whole thing, but honestly that wouldn't make me feel any better. It's paid for, and if I ruin it by learning to weld on it at least hopefully I will have learned enough to make it not a complete loss.

Thanks,
Russ
 
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 07, 2015, 02:24:26 PM
Well, I have got none of the above done yet. :-[
But, I did make progress on the Pinto. ;D

I bought a center console for it from a 77 Mustang II. Red, will have to be changed to either black or grey, most likely black.

It is complete (except for the mounting brackets) and in decent shape (except for the foam arm rest piece, it is all there but really feels rough to the touch). And it is an automatic console. I can get a manual insert for it later on assuming I can go manual as planned. Will have to look for the brackets at some point, but I am not going to be spending more money on this right now.

I hadn't planned on buying one of these, didn't think I would be able to afford one.  :o But someone had some parts from the 77 for sale cheap on CL and he only wanted $25 for this. It had been for sale for well over a month, I think the reason was he is about an hour's drive south of Phoenix, about half way to Tucson. Funny thing was gas was priced 30 cents cheaper there than the cheapest around here.

I'll try to take some pictures later on. Still trying to wake up completely, my mind isn't really functioning yet.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 08, 2015, 07:20:48 AM
Sounds like you got it in Casa Grande.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 08, 2015, 11:43:23 AM
That's the place.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 28, 2015, 12:46:22 PM
Finally got around to taking pictures of the new to me console.
going to take a few posts to get them all. If I can remember how to post pictures.


Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 28, 2015, 12:47:28 PM
more
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 28, 2015, 12:48:41 PM
and more, guess I got started on the wrong end of the pictures list.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 28, 2015, 12:50:13 PM
Before you say how bad it is, remember it was only $25 (and about half a tank of gas).
And I am not even sure if I am going to use this for the Pinto or not. Still thinking about making one.
And, no, I don't have the brackets. But that is a long ways away for now so I won't worry about it.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 28, 2015, 01:48:38 PM
Little clean up and it'll look like new, I'd say you did ok on that deal..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on July 28, 2015, 03:41:16 PM
I agree.  I have two here that I paid a lot more for than that, and don't really look any better! 


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on July 28, 2015, 09:22:03 PM
If I use it for the Pinto I will have to change the color anyway, so it shouldn't be a big deal. The arm rest is a bit rough. Not sure what I would do to fix that. Maybe use the same naugahyde on it that I am going to use on the dash pad?

If I keep it red I could put it in the Ranchero. Not sure how it would look or fit. Might try it just for fun. Only I don't have a floor shift or a floor emergency brake. Although I would like having the ebrake be a handle instead of the foot pedal. It's something I've been thinking about but haven't made up my mind on. And I would like a floor shift, but only if I can put a 5 speed manual trans in it.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 28, 2015, 09:38:25 PM
Should clean it up and put it in the Pinto, I would if it were mine..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dianne on July 30, 2015, 06:53:16 AM
If I use it for the Pinto I will have to change the color anyway, so it shouldn't be a big deal. The arm rest is a bit rough. Not sure what I would do to fix that. Maybe use the same naugahyde on it that I am going to use on the dash pad?

If I keep it red I could put it in the Ranchero. Not sure how it would look or fit. Might try it just for fun. Only I don't have a floor shift or a floor emergency brake. Although I would like having the ebrake be a handle instead of the foot pedal. It's something I've been thinking about but haven't made up my mind on. And I would like a floor shift, but only if I can put a 5 speed manual trans in it.

Thanks,
Russ

I have a 79 and it's going to be a pain to get it fabed in there. I was thinking that it would be better to build one from scratch for the 79. The 72 will require less fab though, so it will probably go in the 72. I have the brackets, could probably fab one for you, just need to bend some steal and drill it out.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Reeves1 on July 30, 2015, 07:11:38 AM
I have two here that I paid a lot more for than that, and don't really look any better! 


Dwayne :)

Had one I tossed into my burn pit. Good shape. Didn't think anyone would have wanted them.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on July 30, 2015, 07:54:57 AM
Had one I tossed into my burn pit. Good shape. Didn't think anyone would have wanted them.
I'd a taken it.. :D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on December 01, 2015, 12:00:10 AM
A bit of an update, although maybe a negative step.

I posted in the General section a few weeks ago about trying to sell the front suspension stuff. It's all been sitting on a table in the front of the house since then. Tonight was set the trash cans out night, and I finally decided to just toss the stuff. Got it all tossed except for one side of disk brake/upper control arm/spindle. I am keeping the sway bar.

Been so effing depressed I haven't done a thing to the car even though the temp has finally gotten cool. It's still sitting on blocks in the back yard, haven't even gotten the concrete slab cleaned off. I haven't even taken the welding table out of it's box.  I look at the Pinto several times a day while I take the dogs out back and wonder if I shouldn't just scrap it. I haven't even gotten anything done to the Ranchero other than drive it once every week or two. At this point I am worried if I do anything to it I won't be able to drive it anymore.

Never mind me, I am just totally depressed.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 03, 2016, 05:12:49 PM
woo boy.
Just when you least expect it.

I went to a swap meet today looking for Mustang and Ranchero parts. Was really hoping to find some tires for the Mustang. I did find a pair of brand new electric radiator cooling fans for it( I have a dual fan setup given to me, but the fans are questionable).

However, I came across one of those "way too good to pass up" deals for the Pinto. Note, I didn't want or expect to buy anything for it. But....

I'll leave you in suspense until I get some pictures taken. This is stuff I have on my Speedway Motors wish list.

Be back soon.

Thanks,

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 03, 2016, 05:54:23 PM
Well, guess no one was around to get excited.  :o

Anyway, here are the pictures. Upper tubular control arms with bushings and ball joints (screw in), spindles, and a nice shiny rack and pinion with tie rods.
All supposed to be new from Speedway Motors, just used for mock up. And stock MII dimensions. We'll see.
Best part. $150 for ALL of it.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 03, 2016, 05:55:44 PM
A couple more pictures.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on April 04, 2016, 06:54:06 AM
Wow, that's quite a deal, they USA made parts????..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on April 04, 2016, 09:05:23 AM
I do believe your luck has finally made a turnaround!!!  Congratulation s on a great find!


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 04, 2016, 09:59:01 AM
Well, it was just good luck enough to make me feel like there was hope.
Hope is a very bad four letter word in my world.
I got let go from my job this morning. Posted more in the General section.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 04, 2016, 09:59:41 AM
Wow, that's quite a deal, they USA made parts????..
Don't know, they came from Speedway.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: r4pinto on April 04, 2016, 10:01:42 AM
Nice parts. I've been following silently on your posts and that's a lot to go through. I wish you nothing but the best and hope things get better. Keep your head up and don't give up no matter how easy it can be. One day at a time. We may not be family but our group genuinely cares. I truly believe that.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 28, 2016, 03:17:03 PM
Thanks Matt.

Right now I am working on my Ranchero, and it is very tempting to yank the engine and trans out for the Pinto. Stupid thing has rust like an Ohio car, yet it is a California/Arizona car. Not sure what part of CA though, and some places there do get wet. And it sat for several (8 or so) years, could have been sitting over a swamp. Problem is I need the Ranchero both mentally (it really is fun to drive) as well as a future parts runner for the Pinto.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on April 28, 2016, 09:50:58 PM
The car could have been originally a beach car, if so it will look like it came out of the rust belt in no time with all that salt air..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 5.0 Chero on April 29, 2016, 01:46:32 PM
Thanks Matt.

Right now I am working on my Ranchero, and it is very tempting to yank the engine and trans out for the Pinto. Stupid thing has rust like an Ohio car, yet it is a California/Arizona car. Not sure what part of CA though, and some places there do get wet. And it sat for several (8 or so) years, could have been sitting over a swamp. Problem is I need the Ranchero both mentally (it really is fun to drive) as well as a future parts runner for the Pinto.

Russ

Lots of rust on coastal cars....Salt air and Fog 
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 29, 2016, 01:55:21 PM
Another lesson learned by me.
Can't assume a CA car is solid.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on May 08, 2016, 02:55:44 PM
Hmmm.
I was searching for something to make someone shut up on another forum who doesn't like this forum although he owns a Pinto. He's posted here some in the past, but I think he is expecting way too much. These are not that common of a car, and he is looking for parts mostly. And he seems to want instant answers.  :-\
(the guy is currently looking into drilling the bumper shocks (he has the cylindrical type) to let the gas out so he can shorten them to move his bumpers in.)

Anyway-
While doing so I came across the thread on "simple fat bumper fix" by joebob, http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?topic=19149.0 (http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?topic=19149.0)


I had forgotten about it to be honest. Reading through it I saw that I had posted about needing a press to try to modify the bumper supports I have since his fix doesn't work with station wagons. Well, I have a press now.  ;D 8)

Although I really want the small bumpers, I never got around to scrapping the large ones from the car. And I have a large bumper budget.  :'( So I may just play around and see what I can do with the bumpers now.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on May 08, 2016, 07:11:38 PM
Can't beat the small bumpers, but when they're tucked in the big ones don't look all that bad, especially for the cost, lol..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on May 28, 2016, 02:57:00 PM
I tried quickly to get the inner part of the bumper support out with my press. I may still have to take them somewhere. I need to move the press to get better access to it and will try again first. I only have the cheap a$$ plates that came with it, and they are pretty small and want to go flying easily.

Got the shelves put up in the room, need to work on boxing/sorting stuff now. Going to have one 5 shelve unit for the Pinto, and one for the Ranchero. Poor Mustang is left off the list. But I don't have much for it anyway, and most of what I do is sitting in the hatchback area anyway.
I should be out there working on the room now, but we were supposed to go somewhere. That got cancelled ( no free lunch, darn it) and I am still trying to wake up. I need to make a couple of trips to the storage place and bring back boxes that are going on the new shelf, and take the Ranchero passenger seat there. I just realized I should take the Pinto seats, although at this point they are probably toast. Been sitting on the hood of the Pinto for at least a year. Not sure how long we are going to keep the storage since it will be all of Karen's ex's stuff and a bit of my car stuff, nothing worth paying $50 a month for for very long, unless he decides to help pay.
I like the style of the Pinto seats, but it will be much cheaper to just replace them with something like the 98ish Mustang seats that I put into the Mustang. Depends on money. What doesn't?

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on May 29, 2016, 07:37:05 AM
Sounds like you're getting organized, I'm still working on it after 4yrs, LOL...
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on May 29, 2016, 02:52:35 PM
getting being the key word.
if and when I get that room done, there is still the rest of the house to do.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 01, 2016, 01:27:56 PM
I need one of these. I plan on building one, just not sure I can do it for the price he wants.
Plus just flat out easier if one is already built. Even if it isn't exactly the right size, but it has to be close enough.
http://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/pts/5634519896.html
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 01, 2016, 11:28:22 PM
Wish he would have shown it without the car on it, wouldn't cost much to build one either, only bad thing is the casters they develop flat spots real easy..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 02, 2016, 09:21:41 AM
Yeah.

The wood is cheap. Good casters can be really expensive. I have some cheap HF ones (not their cheapest, I think they are 5 inch ones) I bought a while back just for doing this that were like $6 each. I need to get the car off of the gravel first, or else I have to get some really expensive casters, the ones with real air filled tires, but I think even at HF those are well into the $20 each range or more. The ones I have won't really go through gravel well.

Maybe one of these days. The Pinto is the only car I WANT to work on yet it is the one I can't do anything to right now.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 04, 2016, 07:58:33 AM
I found some good 4" steel ones with grease fittings online for $30(can't remember where now)for a boat dolly I made, they worked great well worth the money. I tried the China Freight ones first and they went to the dumpster real quick..
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 04, 2016, 12:23:50 PM
Just a tad over my budget if that is $30 apiece.
Although right now my budget is $0, so pretty much everything is over that.  :o

This is the style I want so I can go off roading ;D , but not necessarily the brand.
http://www.harborfreight.com/10-inch-pneumatic-swivel-caster-38944.html

 Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on August 07, 2016, 06:55:30 AM
Wow, talk about depressing and encouraging at the same time.
I just for some strange unknown reason went back and read this whole thread.
After 2 years I am still broke, unemployed, depressed, and not working on the Pinto. Although I had forgotten a lot of what I have done on it and I want to get back to it.
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: 74 PintoWagon on August 07, 2016, 07:50:11 AM
It's easy to get disgusted with a project, that's why it's good to take a break once in a while and do something else, when you come back you have a better outlook on it and get motivated again.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on August 07, 2016, 11:35:24 AM
Wow, I didn't realize you'd had your Pinto wagon that long!  Art's right though, it's often a good thing to take a break from a project and then come back to it later.  Here's wishing you the best!


Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 01, 2018, 01:02:14 AM
 :'(
Gee. Almost two years. And posting here to pretty much put the nail in the coffin on this one.
If you haven't seen my post in General talk, I just bought another 79 Pinto. No engine/trans. But full roll cage, subframes, 4:10 8 inch rear. Needs lots of work but solid. Something I've wanted to do with a car for a long time.
So the 74 is going to have to go. I'll be keeping the good stuff I bought for it, fuel cell, tubular upper control arms, etc. Can't actually get rid of it until I get the Ranchero at least on all fours and moveable again, but that needs to get done soon.
Might see what will work on the 79 from this one as far as sheet metal goes. Need inner fenders and radiator support. But with the full cage it might be more work than it is worth. Just don't know yet. I will be posting a new thread for it once I get it home.

Odds are I will be trying to get rid of the 74 shell the way it is soon. Good glass except for the windshield, doors are decent, body pretty good. Luggage rack. Don't know if it has gotten any water in it, will have to check out the floors soon. 8 inch Pinto/Mustang II rear (disassembled). Spare tire well cut out as shown somewhere above. And it has that repair on the driver's front frame, which probably makes it a better candidate for a parts donor. Will have to see.

Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 05, 2018, 05:56:46 AM
Hold on there.
I've just been reading this thread looking for some information (which I never found?) and I don't think I can cut this car up. I've got too much heart and soul invested in it.
My wife really wants it gone, but I can't do anything about that until the Ranchero is at least moveable, which won't be tomorrow for sure.
It just might still have a life with me.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: popbumper on April 05, 2018, 11:47:13 AM
Wow Russ, I went through this thread as well - what an utter ordeal your whole project has been. Man, I can relate to the problems, though my car was in much better shape "complete-wise" than yours when I bought it.


But thinking back, when I bought it TEN YEARS AGO, the amount of rust repair I had to do was absurd, especially the passenger side inner fender, which was DESTROYED from battery acid. The radiator support was swiss cheese, the cowl had a lot of rust, the quarter panels were both beat, the doors had rust, the floors were rusted from leaking water around the windshield, the gas tank was leaking, the sender was shot, all rubber parts were toast, headliner was ripped, the heater box was full of leaves, there was a colony of ants living on the top of the gas tank, the brake system was shot, the radiator leaked, the suspension was shot all around, the interior was fading, the sun had destroyed the rear inner plastic panels, the steering wheel was utterly broken.....


BUT THE CAR RAN AND DROVE.


Geeze, these projects are so crazy. Hope you get done what you want to get done!!


Chris   
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on April 07, 2018, 10:20:22 PM
Thanks, Chris.

I don't know right now what will happen with this one. My wife really wants it gone. Have you seen my thread about the 79 I am getting in the morning? I really think I must be insane. Maybe a nice insane as opposed to a homicidal maniac, but insane none the less.

I'd like to keep this one, but at the moment it wouldn't take too much for me to get rid of ALL the cars.

Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 11, 2019, 11:51:53 PM
Well, I thought I was going to junk this. I may still. Later.
But I just got reminded of something.
Can we all say Pinchero ;D
Be fun to cut it up and see if I can do it. No stress if I screw it up.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 12, 2019, 04:23:20 PM
Well, I thought I was going to junk this. I may still. Later.
But I just got reminded of something.
Can we all say Pinchero ;D
Be fun to cut it up and see if I can do it. No stress if I screw it up.
Thanks,
Russ

Well now, there's an idea!!!  Like you said, no stress if it doesn't work out.  Plus it would be a super-neat ride if it does!

Dwayne :)
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 12, 2019, 06:52:55 PM
I will still have to deal with the driver's side front frame, if I want to get it on the road.
But it would be really cool to have it and the Ranchero parked next to each other at shows.
Definitely would be a long term project.
Reading old threads here can be dangerous.  ;D
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 12, 2019, 06:59:36 PM
Great, now I am thinking about this.

Speaking of the frame damage/repair, I now have a sheet metal
bender that can do eighth inch steel. I could grind down the weld on the frame and make a c channel patch to go over it.

That might be the best idea I have had in quite a while.

Russ

Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on September 13, 2019, 07:41:52 AM


Speaking of the frame damage/repair, I now have a sheet metal
bender that can do eighth inch steel. I could grind down the weld on the frame and make a c channel patch to go over it.

That might be the best idea I have had in quite a while.




Yup, that's a good one!!!

Dwayne ;D
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: Wittsend on September 13, 2019, 05:20:00 PM

... Can we all say Pinchero ;D ...

... Definitely would be a long term project. ...


NO! I've watched for many years now as you have dreamed, purchased, regretted, and dreamed again, purchased, regretted, etc, etc.. Please, for your own sake just get one car done so you can enjoy it. It has been painful to watch you torture yourself spinning in this revolving door. We are all only given so many days on this rotating rock and it is necessary to choose how we spend them. Between employment issues, health issues, a less than desirable climate to work in, code enforcement etc. your road has been more up hill than most have to deal with.  Pick your target (I assume the 79 ESS) and stay the course without deviation for your own good.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 13, 2019, 07:55:16 PM
Won't be started until after the 79 is done.
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on September 22, 2019, 11:18:07 PM
Actually, probably won't be started period.
I should just get rid of it when I get the Ranchero out of the way.
Fun to think of doing, but probably not doable for me at this point.
Besides, wife would like to have a yard to do stuff with.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on January 19, 2020, 12:29:00 PM
The end is nigh.
The guy who is buying my Ranchero will take this as well. No money, but I need it gone, and would probably have had to pay someone to haul it off otherwise.
Plus hoping for some Karma with him to trade for the Mustang.
Plan is for this week, I just need to pull the Ranchero's engine which shouldn't take more than a day the way my stuff goes.
Yet another car the I have killed. oh well. It was a lot of fun for most of the time I was working on it, which is all that really matters.
thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on February 20, 2020, 08:17:02 PM
It's gone.  :-\
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on February 21, 2020, 04:40:02 AM
It's gone.  :-\
Russ

But you still have the '79, right?
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: russosborne on February 21, 2020, 06:16:24 AM
Oh yeah.
In fact now I can get it behind the fence so I can work on it whenever I feel like it. Got to move it this weekend.
Thanks,
Russ
Title: Re: 2nd try at a Pinto-74 wagon this time
Post by: dga57 on February 21, 2020, 07:27:56 AM
In that case, it sounds like a step in the right direction!


Dwayne :)