I know I haven't posted in a while. I'm still plugging away at my '59 project!
I wanted to pop in and mention that I cranked the 261 on the dolly this past weekend. The engine... wow. I tore it down, not expecting what I found. There were no ridges in the cylinder tops and the bores met factory standard size! I only had to hone!
The crank mains and rod journals... standard size with no mentionable wear on any of the bearings!
I did lap the valves and put in new seals. I also replaced the water pump... the seal was shot.
I rebuilt the Rochester Carburetor too... it works like a champ now.
Forgive me that I'm bragging... I know I'm a Texan but man I'm just excited after all this time, to be able to sing out about my progress. The engine was a major benchmark!
All I have to do is work the gas lever on the carb and hit it. It fires right off like it's excited to be awakened after all these years.
I'm still not there, the cab is still on a dolly in the garage, the driver door needs to be assembled, the entire truck needs to be assembled... but I'm seeing the light at the end of the tunnel! I'll be looking into paint and final assembly soon enough!

Jerry

1959 Chevy Apache 3200 Stepside
In the Stovebolt Gallery
Restoration Journal on Facebook

"A government that robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul." ~ George Bernard Shaw