Got a few more things done, I'm lining up a couple helpers to put the front clip back on in the next week or so.
I had a local machine shop heat and bend the pitman arm for me. I spec'd a 1-3/4" bend back but they said 1-5/16" (approx) was what they ended up with.
PicThats OK, the pitman arm kicks out a little but it's close enough for now. Power steering is definitely in this trucks future.
Pic I really liked how the left side 75 Camaro exhaust manifold fit. The runners route below the plugs and clear the OEM motor mounts just like they were designed to, matter of fact they were LOL. So I paid for it and ordered the right side. All plugs and oil dipstick were easy peasy except plug #5, still need to use a wrench but access is good. Just not enough room to get a socket on it. Those manifold's ports are the same size as the head ports so no loss of flow, plus they were spec'd fro the performance engines of the day.
PicPicI pulled those bowed monleafs, went through those used springs I got, used the best parts and decided to try removing the 3 smallest leafs and go with 5 leafs. It sits alittle higher and the reverse bow is gone and they pretty much sit straight, parallel to the frame and ground. With the shocks mounted it didn't bottom out on the stops with all my 200+lb's bouncing so I'm going to keep it like that for now. Should I decide to add the other 3 leafs back I can then go with 50-54 OEM shocks and mounts. Until then I'm running what I got.
PicAlso installed new U joints, the front is spec'd for a 79 Nova, the rear for a 57 Old's 88 (bastard joint).
Pulled the rear drums and discovered the springs were badly rusted and the right side self adjuster just laying in the drum. Bought a kit for a 79 Nova 9-1/2" shoes/drum and it seems to match up.
Dressed the engine up alittle and it's got the old school look I'm shooting for.
PicGetting closer.
