April 2003

This month I tackled the engine compartment. Still not completely finished, but it's getting there. Originally, I planned on just removing the grille and painting it, and doing one part at a time. Funny how it's always easier taking something apart then putting it back together. Taking the grill off was a major pain...all of the nuts and bolts were rusted over, and I had to cut them off with a hacksaw. Once that was off, I decided, what the hell, just take everyting out that's bolted down, clean it up, repaint it, and put it back together. The radiator came out (it needs replacing too), all of the wiring, pulleys, belts, hoses, etc. Even the heater box. It had a 25 year accumulation of leaves, bullet shells, ballpoint pens, beer tabs, and mouse fur in it, so it was in dire need of a thorough cleansing. The major downer was the one water pump bolt that broke off in the timing chain cover. I still have to drill that out. but it looks alot better and it's starting to come together.