Hi Steve,
I have been concerned about the burn-out effect simply because I'm a network geek, not a mechanic. I tried being a mechanic when I first bought this truck.
As I look back, it was classic. I couldn't drive a stick so my Dad had to drive my crusty old new purchase home. It was late but I was excited to get started teaching myself how to drive a stick shift the next morning. Alas, the truck wouldn't start. My Dad just laughed at me and told me I get to learn what a tune-up was all about as I didn't have a clue.
But I did get her running and after working a few weekends as a busboy and saving up whatever I could, it was time for me to learn how drum brakes get replaced. This kind of thing continued with the muffler, the rear axle housing (the u-bolts were so loose they gouged great big holes in the housing), the exhaust manifold, the head, 5 carbs ... all rebuilds and I could never get any of them working right. Single barrel carbs at that. New windshield, left driver door, glove box door, lower front bumper and radiator. That was in the first two years.
I mention all of this because I feel that I've already made it through the "setting small goals" phase. I am taking this beast down to the frame as I will be replacing the frame so I can get IFS, disc brakes, all new hydraulic brake lines and a working E-brake. It will sport a new crate LS1 with automatic transmission so I can put the "Hydramatic" emblem back on and feel good about it. The interior will be all updated, keeping the bench seat, excellent sound system, electric windows, with heating and cooling.
I still haven't decided what type of wood planking I will use with the chrome metal strips for the truck bed and I'm still trying to visualize exactly what my dash will look like. I will not cut the existing dash as that has never been done.
So I think I do qualify in having goals set along the way and I plan on boring all of you as I do it. Now I am more worried about how I will feel when it is complete. Will I still have my high school nostalgia or will I feel the job is complete and sell the truck. It's too soon to be thinking like that so scratch that last bit of insanity. I'm getting old.
