Time for a quick update. The front clip is back on the truck! Other than treat some of the underneath rust, I did nothing to it. All of the original dents are untouched. They are survivor badges of honor for a truck that is planned to be driven. Up next? Radiator and oil filter. The original radiator had developed a small leak when I drove the truck around in my video. The original bypass oil filter was for the 1961 Impala that this engine was originally in. It did not fit when the front clip was put into place. The inner fender hit it. I thought about moving it forward on the intake manifold (originally it was mounted in the center), but the Fenton headers are in the way and I want to keep them. So, I'm switching to a spin on bypass filter. I found a Wix filter (51050) that has the restricted orifice built into the filter itself. It does not fit on a standard oil filter bracket, so I bought the correct one (Wix 24755). I also found a brass fitting that has the 1/16" orifice. Seems they are made for aftermarket turbos. I'll install the brass fitting on the return side of the bracket. Between the two, I think my oil pressure should be ok. I will have to make a bracket to hold everything. I've got an idea in mind and will show everything once it is done and in place. After the radiator and oil filter, I'll need to do the front end wiring and add the headlights. I have all of those parts in hand, so it's just a matter of working through the punch list. I've attached a pic showing the front of the truck and her current status.
