Thanks. I've recovered from the inital disappointment and shock and have started to move forward again with the project. I've learned there are bumps on the road of life and we have to keep on moving. As for the rebuilder who died, he was just a very nice old motor builder who took the time to see the value in my old firetruck and wanted to help. It was a shame he left us.
As for the motor, we'll pull it, rebuild it and reinstall it. It will take a little more time and alot more money but I'll get it done. It will be drivable once again and the "good news" is it will not take almost three years to reach that point. Again thanks everyone for your support.
