Hi guys...i'd like to pick your brains to ask what would you do...here's what I have so far. First time poster so I apologize if I write a bit too much<grin>..
1959 Chev. Apache 3803 Stake Truck (still have original stakes in good shape)...all original...runs great..complete. Alright...the farmer DID do some body work...a rust hole here...he placed a piece of sheet metal over it...rust hole there...you get the idea. The usual headlight rot, rocker panel rot, rear cab rot, some floor rot...body work is something that I do fear...but that is another matter.
Alright...I know I do want to go down to the frame as some of the cab support braces are getting soft, but I am stuck. I hear sandblasting is the "best" way to go...but here's the thing:
1) The transaxle seems good
2) Transmission is good - manual
3) Engine is good...
4) Don't have the $$$ to buy a decent compressor that'd run the hoist & blaster yet...
I guess as a first time restorer I don't have a lot of experience...the thought of ripping apart a transaxle (GM service manual has all these bloody special tools...), transmission, blah blah blah...seems a bit scary. My #1 goal is to prevent any further rust and restore the truck to a useable showpiece so to speak. It is quite rare apparently and I want things to be done right the first time. I guess I am asking for a no-bull opinion here...do I 1) spend 400 hours wire brushing the truck or 2) spend 4 hours sandblasting/having it sandblasted and 396 hours taking everything apart, checking the seals (I have ALL the shop manuals, assembly manuals, etc.)...and hoping I can remove all the sand accurately (if it gets in the transaxle into the gear oil...how do you properly clean the grease out...just wipe it?)
Sorry for all the questions guys...it took me 45 minutes to manhandle the oil drain plug out (to give you an idea)...and removing the lug nuts from the wheels is well...very time consuming without a pneumatic wrench and just massive muscle force.
Thanks guys,
Justin
