thanks much wrenchbender for the offer, but I'll save your partner the trouble and see if dave can send me one as he says he already has some on hand.
thanks much to everyone for your help on this. as usual, it turned into more than the simple project i envisioned, but its definitely a learning experience and fun too.
happy new year to all on the board from the mcgowan family!

Overland Blue, 1953 GMC 1/2T, 100-22, 228/1bbl, 4sp/4.10 6v, shortbed/fender side/5-window.