REHAB

[Lostsailr]

Yay, ol' Bessie is in the body shop for front end work. Getting the suspension and front frame solidified, as well as some body work that won't need to be undone next winter when I hope to go "frame off" and put her back to "good as new". Guy was new to VW but very experienced with common and rare autos. SInce My VW guru (TLC in Nasau.Hoag's Cors., NY) wasn't able to do resto work this summer, this seemed my best option. Hopefully pics to follow (he said he photos all steps for customer follow up!)
I'll be so happy to hit a bump and not worry about the front end lying flat on the ground! ASlo the curves at speed should be a bit less nerver wracking!

[Lostsailr]

Here are some photo's of the project for the spring.
I'm replacing the front axle beam and front end body work. The read hatch (last photo) is getting the needed metal work as the window seal is replaced.

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53692%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D323%3A84%3C58%3A%3A28nu0mrj

http://images2c.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53649%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D323%3A84%3C5%3A463%3Anu0mrj

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp5368%3A%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3E WSNRCG%3D323%3A84%3C58%3A%3A29nu0mrj

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53682%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D323%3A84%3C5%3A4644nu0mrj

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53685%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D323%3A84%3C58%3A%3A2%3Anu0mrj

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53687%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D323%3A84%3C5%3A4648nu0mrj

[Lostsailr]

So, $3500 for complete front end parts including all suspension and steering along with new windsheild, outriggers and tin back past through the wheel wells. Now for all the labor $. Should drive like new...more pics to come next weekend.

[teabag]

Is your rig out in nassua getting worked on cause I saw a sage later style bus out at that place in nassua, I drive past there sometimes

[Lostsailr]

That's my go to guy, but he sold to his junior partner, and they didn't have a body guy for the winter, so I'm up in Burnt Hills... actually the shop sounds like one of the latest line up additions....
Guster's Auto Body :clapping:

Hope Monday to see all the pretty new parts as they start rolling in

Even a new windsheild...I'll be able to see again (now that my eyes are going...how ironic

[Lostsailr]

So, since we have been just waiting and receiving parts, there has been no metal changes to photo. Looks like there is plenty to do this week, so I'm saving for a big labor bill.
I kept busy using the old wood pannel from the rear hatch as a template to make a nice shiny new one, using nice 1/4" red oak plywood.

Missed having her at the show saturday, but she needs the "medical" attention.

http://images2c.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp5365%3B%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3E WSNRCG%3D32478%3A%3B%3B39336nu0mrj

The old pannel was ruined by leaking rear window seal. Notice the "picture" of wood grain was soaked off and the pannel was warped.

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53689%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D324788%3C8%3A9336nu0mrj


The new one is getting layers or stain/varnish inside and out.

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53678%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D324788%3C8%3A%3B336nu0mrj

http://images2c.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53645%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D32478%3A%3B%3B43336nu0mrj

[Lostsailr]

So, that parts are coming in (no thaks to bus boys who left us hanging, saying they had a new torsion beam, but in fact did not) and so the surgery begins.

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53677%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D3252647796336nu0mrj

here is the rust issue along back of wheel well. Arch is off and the A/C parts there will also be removed. Also you can see the outrigger is needing to be replaced. Now who wanted to buy this from me last year???

http://images2c.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53656%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D3252647797336nu0mrj

Here is the seat area. The seat belt bracket removed with a good tug, so thank God we never crashed!


http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53692%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D3252644687336nu0mrj

Here's the new arch getting ready to join the team!

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp5368%3B%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3E WSNRCG%3D3252647795336nu0mrj

Repaired rear hatch.

http://images2d.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp53679%3Enu%3D32%3B9%3E466%3E694%3EWS NRCG%3D3252644685336nu0mrj

And here's the hatch in paint getting primer.

[Jim]

Nice work!

Let's hope I have the funds to do my Syncro before it's too far gone.

jim

[Lostsailr]

Here we go. Finally seeing some reassembly... Had a struggle to find a new front suspension beam, but help is on the way from Cali.

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/561019.jpg

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/561020.jpg

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/561021.jpg

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/561022.jpg

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/561023.jpg
Now I know buying something from the west would have been easier (and far cheaper it seems), but that's what love will make you do.

[Mr_Pat]

:jamguy:

Very nice!

[Lostsailr]

My new - old beam is here. Thanks to ProVolks out in Cali for salvaging these parts and getting them shipped to us. Can't wait to feel the ride with all this new front end stuff between me and the road!
Here's the beam:

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/563806.jpg

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/563807.jpg

new arms and ball joints
http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/563808.jpg

[deadheadskier]

AWESOME!

Can't wait to see pictures when she's done. Though I suppose with a camper you're never truly done. :funny1:

[Lostsailr]

Well, the race is on (and here comes pride up the back stretch) to be ready for camping next Sunday. The new beam is in and the driver's side arch is getting welded in place. I have to get theat new wood venier onto the cabinet top, so I better get moving!

New bean in place w/o torsion arms.
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs105.snc1/4898_1155192566963_1442172950_415812_3968126_n.jpg

end view...note the torsion springs inside the tube.
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs085.snc1/4898_1155192446960_1442172950_415809_5304913_n.jpg

Note the bright new steering box on the floor. Less wheel play is expected!
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs085.snc1/4898_1155192486961_1442172950_415810_613891_n.jpg

Driver's side arch getting welded in.
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs105.snc1/4898_1155192366958_1442172950_415807_5962959_n.jpg

[Lostsailr]

new cabinet top veneer...real mahogany. I'll see how it holds up as car interior.

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/568955.jpg

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/568957.jpg

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/568959.jpg

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/568960.jpg

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/568963.jpg

[Jim]

The work is looking excellent!

I'm going to have to suck it up for another Summer watching my baby rust... but, it's very encouraging watching yours making it's comeback.

Prepare yourself for the many gawkers at the fests. :wink:

We're also camping next weekend up on Rooney Mountain in Deposit, NY. Gonna have to make a side trip to Butternuts Brewing on the way there to stock up on canned goods for VIBEs

jim

[Lostsailr]

Thanks. I am left with gas vapor line concerns with such tight timeing gettin her back and hitting the road, but we'll see how it runs. Next off season will be rocker pannels, quarter pannels, and engine compartment. It will make vapor lines much easier. I will have to do the suspension work myself, cause this job for the front end was $$$$$$$$. The body work will only be half the cost or less, but I sure will be happy with all new front suspension/steering/brake components. Those bumps won't be so scarey! but so much left to do :-(

Oh, and bus gawkers are always welcome! Otherwise I get isolated with my friends and forget to talk to all these great folks camped around us!

Oh, and the autobody shop working for me is...GUSTER'S in honor of the line-up !

[Lostsailr]

So, for the winter, the bus is going back to the shop. AMybe this time I can be a bit more $$$ smart, and stick to body/welding and paint. The entire front suspension killed$$$ me last spring.

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs215.snc1/8216_1243058923567_1442172950_700779_5260535_n.jpg

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs235.snc1/8216_1243058803564_1442172950_700777_1525269_n.jpg

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs215.snc1/8216_1243058883566_1442172950_700778_7071986_n.jpg

[ricksvw]

You are gonna have one awsome bus, not that it isn't now...Getting far and few between, I feel the $ put in now shall pay off many fold in the future for you, not that you would sell, but if you ever did!:V: peace of mind is priceless especally when your on the way to see some music! Your not goin to hell in a bucket for sure.

[Lostsailr]

:boardie: thanks. $400 in body metal this week...I have to price all those window and door seals!!!
I hope to avoid GDTRFB
and just be able to BIODTL!
I'm pondering , recarpet, or pergo wood floor. wood is easy to clean, but carpet is so nice on the bare feet. Think I'm going carpet. Going to keep pretty much stock, but looking into a cool pearl version of the pea green sage, so it looks like any other until it hits the bright sunshine!..here comes sunshine!!!!

[ricksvw]

I used an oriental carpet for rug...dead style. wood looks cool too.

[Jim]

I have the removable carpet/rubber mat in my Westy. Carpet was always getting wet/muddy etc so we keep it flipped to the rubber mat side. Much easier to clean and it looks fine.
For our Scamp16 trailer resto I'm using those puzzle piece looking 2'x2' interlocking foam squares... I found some at BJ's that look like aluminum diamond plate. :jim:

[Lostsailr]

well, flooring convcerns are on hold while we get matal work underway. I am bracing for a huge number of little things...lie seals for EVERYTHING, ne crome trim pieces that worked on the old set up but will look like crap when restored.
Soe here's the lates...pics up on the rack with glass (except for one piece) out.

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs061.snc3/12834_1254073918935_1442172950_733108_821821_n.jpg

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs061.snc3/12834_1254073958936_1442172950_733109_1999881_n.jp g

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs041.snc3/12834_1254073998937_1442172950_733110_8322720_n.jp g

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs041.snc3/12834_1254074038938_1442172950_733111_5762526_n.jp g

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs041.snc3/12834_1254074078939_1442172950_733112_658914_n.jpg

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs041.snc3/12834_1254074118940_1442172950_733113_1126291_n.jp g

[Lostsailr]

More time, more $$
Left quarter panel in, welded and getting smoothed
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs003.snc3/11068_1272117930024_1442172950_778831_3276677_n.jp g

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs003.snc3/11068_1272118010026_1442172950_778832_946020_n.jpg

Right side battery tray
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs003.snc3/11068_1272118090028_1442172950_778833_3788086_n.jp g


Here we are trying to work around the upper edge of door track to get rocker panels replaced.
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs023.snc3/11068_1272118130029_1442172950_778834_2745466_n.jp g

[Lostsailr]

Well, the new year is upon us, and I am going broke on the resto project. Approaching marital discord cautiously...:funny1:

But the beat goes on, and soon we will have a genuine cherry Westy (not that that's better than a loving wife mind you, just hoping we can all get along as a threesome! :wink: The road is more fun that way)

Here the front portion of f-glass is off for inspection...no rust, but could use a fresh coat or two...
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs132.snc3/17931_1304235972955_1442172950_856465_7139663_n.jp g
Rear panel replaced...reminder to watch weld sparks around the oil soaked engine seal foam...
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs132.snc3/17931_1304236052957_1442172950_856467_2403416_n.jp g

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs132.snc3/17931_1304236012956_1442172950_856466_5539932_n.jp g
Door slide track is back in over the new 3 layer rocker panel...quite a job. Thaks to Guster's Autobody in Ballston Spa for the effort on that one... you earned the $$$ there Guy.
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs152.snc3/17931_1304236132959_1442172950_856469_308337_n.jpg

Drivers side rocker panel done!
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs132.snc3/17931_1304236212961_1442172950_856471_2410140_n.jp g

[Lostsailr]

The bow end of the boat is getting cleaned up and prepped for paint! Have 2 rear arches to go in and all the real metal work is set!

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs152.snc3/17931_1311954525914_1442172950_876414_1494160_n.jp g

[Jim]

That looks amazing my friend, can't wait to see it close up!

I'm anxious to get started on our Syncro Westy, but the 1st order of business is getting the 72 Servicar (Harley production trike) assembled and sold, so we can use the proceeds to get the VW done.

I always thought that I'd like to do an SVX 6cylinder Subaru conversion 1st, then a nice resto... sadly now it's all about "get er dun" and get something we can both drive/tow with.

Well 1 thing for sure, if & when I ever do part with the Westy, it'll be to ONLY another fanatic, that much I'm certain of!

Maybe a "VW Westy/Dead Tour Bluebook exam" is in order before I'll even meet with them. :funny1:

[mayfly]

72 Servicar (Harley production trike) ???? ??? pics and price ? :jamguy:

[Jim]

72 Servicar (Harley production trike) ???? ??? pics and price ? :jamguy:

I can't find a photo from when it was all together... that was in 1991 a pre-digital photo era.

When I have all the parts gathered in one place I'll start a separate thread with it's progress.

It's this 72 Police model w/working siren, foot clutch and 3 speed w/reverse... but has the trunk altered with a rumble seat added to carry passenger(s).

http://www.sportscarmarket.com/auctions/getimage.php?scm_num=41286

[Lostsailr]

Now that would make a delux "festicab" for single passengers! ONe ILCC would even approve of!
When you get working on it, maybe I can swing down and give you a hand (or 2). Would be fun to rebuild!
I'm looking for a good electric fridge unit to fit into the westy set up...to look stock, but perform much better! Off to West Marine online.

[Lostsailr]

Okay...right rear arch is in. Waiting for the left from Bus Boys

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs132.snc3/17931_1319324990171_1442172950_892638_7603303_n.jp g

[Lostsailr]

So here's my uphostry work from last night...
seat portion of rear seat was shot. need more fabric for back portion, but this was a good start (since powdered cushion used to blow through the old fabric).

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs383.snc3/23425_1392857668442_1442172950_1061751_7375031_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23425_1392857748444_1442172950_1061753_4668597_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs423.ash1/23425_1392857788445_1442172950_1061754_6375626_n.j pg
electric carving knife the key to a smooth cut!
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs383.snc3/23425_1392857828446_1442172950_1061755_2285623_n.j pg

Corners came out sharp imho
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs383.snc3/23425_1392857868447_1442172950_1061756_7289866_n.j pg

The finished product.
http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs363.snc3/23425_1392857908448_1442172950_1061757_2862575_n.j pg

[Mr_Pat]

Looking nice dude!

[Lostsailr]

Today I started sanding and got a first (of 3) coats of paint on the luggage rack. Will have to do the pop top too.
I also got one of the jalousie window screens repaired... other frame is at the shop, but will get it tomorrow when the engine drops (in a good way).

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs425.snc3/24535_1395221967548_1442172950_1068026_194980_n.jp g

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs405.snc3/24535_1395222007549_1442172950_1068027_4730618_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs405.snc3/24535_1395222127552_1442172950_1068029_5894830_n.j pg

[Lostsailr]

So the tins are off and the engine ready to drop (I think)... a bit leary of the job, but I have to get to the gas tank and clean all the oil from earlier bad main seal.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs437.ash1/24125_1414004797107_1442172950_1111624_1243290_n.j pg

http://hphotos-sjc1.fbcdn.net/hs377.snc3/24125_1414004837108_1442172950_1111625_5238861_n.j pg

http://hphotos-sjc1.fbcdn.net/hs397.snc3/24125_1414004597102_1442172950_1111620_4533970_n.j pg
last coat of primer has been added to this, so paint is nearly at hand.
http://hphotos-sjc1.fbcdn.net/hs397.snc3/24125_1414004757106_1442172950_1111623_7695250_n.j pg

[ricksvw]

that is going to be the awsomest bus when you are done, wait... you are never done! It's a bus! Can't wait to see it! Think it will be rollin by the Vibes?

[Lostsailr]

what happened to my reply??????


anyway, I've been to EVERY Vibes, and the bus has been there since 99, so if I have to push it, the bus will be there, shined up and ready for company. Hope everyone stops by to christen it with a few libations!

[Jim]

I think that can be arranged.:wink:

[ricksvw]

Libations to be had!

Love the term,

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Libation

Thanks for the friend request!

[Lostsailr]

great! but I don't plan to do more than "offer it" to the gods...if they don't take it, then I drink it!
Hope that works for you too!

[jamiebear]

great! but I don't plan to do more than "offer it" to the gods...if they don't take it, then I drink it!
Hope that works for you too!

looks like someones gonna need to take this on a road trip
sf!!:rose:

[Lostsailr]

THE ENGINE IS FINALLY OUT>>AS IS THE GAS TANK!!!!

Now I'm askeered, lookin' at all those wires and hoses. I have to trust I marked enough to get everything back...but found several sources of gas leakage behind that fire wall. And It was such a PITA that I didn't get pics yet.
Soon I'll get the pics...for now is first aide for a few knuckles, ibuprofin for some sore shoulders...
a beer to celebrate the success so far...
anyone have valium to calm me down from the stress, LOL!

JamieB, I think you are right. this is all so I can do more than just pray my way to Vibes each year. This summer I want to log some distance with this baby!
And I'll be sporting a cool Jerome bobblehead on the dash! :wink:

where the engine was...
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs304.snc3/28787_1434232902797_1442172950_1153616_1335806_n.j pg

where the engine is... for now.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs304.snc3/28787_1434226782644_1442172950_1153605_2933247_n.j pg

where the fuel tank was...fuzzy but you can make out the surface rust starting. Good time to clean it up!
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs324.snc3/28787_1434232782794_1442172950_1153614_6635064_n.j pg

wher the gas tank is now...looks like outer coating may be all I need to do, but I need a better light to check it out.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs324.snc3/28787_1434226742643_1442172950_1153604_3571910_n.j pg

[Lostsailr]

Well, it's been a busy spring and early summer. Tomorrow I get the engine back t the body shop. Today I trecked out to the VW shop in the Rennselear woods to get the front door hinge plates, as mine were tossed with the old door we replaced. Bad move, as the 74 door did not match and a nice kit is (finaly again) available to use the older bay door on the later bay body, BUT WE NEEDED THE HINGE PLATE FROM MY DOOR! overzelous metal recycler picked it up and we had to scramble...but we got a set. I also finished painting the gas tank, made new sender wires (mine were bare in spots as the mice chewed the insulation of both. hot and ground wires, bare, close together and in the presence of a gas tank with leaky filler hose... lucky we're not roasted!), checked in most of the body rubber/seals I ordered, with a few on backorder. Tomorrow I'll get picks of the tank and engine space as I nuckle down to the task of replacing the engine into the bus! Hope I recall all my coded tape labels!
The engine got new push rod tubes, seals, valve cover gaskets and a new belt while it we were at it. I also found a muffler heat sheild to replace my rotted one while out at the VW yard! at $35, not a "ground score" but close enough for this type of part!
Getting ready in time for Vibes is going to be tough, as I head out of town for a week. Hopefully the body shop will have everything pretty close to ready so I can get her back home and get the interior back in.
"Rust never sleeps?
Well neither do I!"

Think good thoughts untill and of the month and hopefully I can give you a tour.
Old Bessie is emerging as Rocinante! (Fatty Lumpkin was already taken...by someone here a long time ago I believe)

[Jim]

I'm actually considering throwing enough parts back on the Westy just so we can use it at VIBEs.
It'll actually be quite roomy without 3/4 of the cabinets... going to need a dash though!

[Lostsailr]

Ok kids...here's the week's efforts. After running around for door hinge kits and parts, we should be set. I got the engine back in (after lowering the transmission to get it all to allign and fit back) and she is ready to get painted next week. My arms are in a bit of pain after replacing all the gas vapor lines in every nook and corner you can see (and some you can't).

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs108.snc4/35766_1501193536771_1442172950_1326887_1404354_n.j pg
Dash clean up
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs072.snc4/34978_1501201136961_1442172950_1326898_5916731_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs108.snc4/35766_1501193616773_1442172950_1326889_3130362_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs107.snc4/35737_1501196816853_1442172950_1326893_5532288_n.j pg
Tank cleaned up and new wires made for sender unit
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs032.ash2/34978_1501201216963_1442172950_1326900_1387104_n.j pg

Firewall back covering the tank and the engine lifted into place.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs088.snc4/35766_1501193696775_1442172950_1326891_3236335_n.j pg

Now ready for tins, wires and fuel line hookups.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs088.snc4/35766_1501193656774_1442172950_1326890_3562199_n.j pg

Paint this week while I'm away then I have to get her running the folloing week.
Pressure is on...but after one frustrating day trying to get the engine ready to go back in, a better day proved that...
"when push comes to shove....
she fits like a glove!"

[Jim]

I bet you have scrapes and scratches all over your arms.

Heres to not creating a stress monster, and actually enjoying putting your baby back together.

[Lostsailr]

No scrapes, but many bruises starting.
Eliminating gas vapors, and leaks is one way to kill the stress monster that lives in the rear of all AC Westies as far as I know.
SO soon I should be able to drive with a) no worry about the front beam collapsing when I hit a bump, b) no fear that the whole bus will explode with the smallest spark (you should have seen what mice did to the gas gage sender-wire insulation) and c) that rust is no longer eating away at the bus at a great rate.

Now a little vodka is calming the work stress monster.

[TakeAStepBack]

Def. thread *1 thread.
Awesomeness. :smile:

[Lostsailr]

So now I have the sink wiring back in shapre, reday to ground and hot wire in.
I also cut and mounted the carpet to a new backing. I'm going to have to reuse the old underlayment, as the stuff I bought was too think, hard and heavy (read "FAIL").
AS paint dries tonight I prep for a long day of engine hook-ups to get her running while Guy buffs the paint and installs windows.
Tomorrow I get paint pics!
opting for quick connects for pump servicing
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs035.ash2/35132_1514739435410_1442172950_1361832_2904035_n.j pg
and need a fuse holder in there

reused the original wire clamps
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs202.snc4/38454_1514739355408_1442172950_1361830_7622923_n.j pg

old carpet on backing with cut outs...see the fading compared to the area under cabinets.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs132.snc4/36942_1514751475711_1442172950_1361897_5096762_n.j pg

and the new carpet on new backing. color is better than it looks as it is washed out by lighting here...
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs064.snc4/34560_1514739915422_1442172950_1361836_3670908_n.j pg

Here's the old underlayment that I must reuse, since I didn't find the right stuff in time...
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs094.ash2/38018_1514751515712_1442172950_1361898_8147505_n.j pg

Keep your fingers crossed kiddies!

[ricksvw]

Gonna be Shrowroom new!:clapping:

[Lostsailr]

Mihgt not smell like mice have lived in it 1/2 of every year for the past 33 years!
Interior will be a work in progress with all the last minute delays...
I'll be happy to have all the beds in....sink/stove and storage...optional
engine running and road worthy...priceless!
c'mon weather, dry out for my new paint!!!
The race is on and here come's pride up the back stretch...

[Lostsailr]

Green is the colour of her kind...
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs196.snc4/38155_1515470213679_1442172950_1363324_3361464_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs079.snc4/35337_1515470253680_1442172950_1363325_2626356_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs196.snc4/38155_1515470133677_1442172950_1363322_236719_n.jp g

now the shiny green is getting scuffed and buffed. I'm noticing all the little things that have to go on along with all the big stuff...man...a labour of love.

[Lostsailr]

and in the afternoon I got many hoses and wires attached...
here is the engine seal, in as much as possible as a new section of tin must be made up.
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs114.ash2/39025_1515886584088_1442172950
Here's the charcoal canister and the S-boot connecting the aircleaner and the intake, asong with many vacuum hoses
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs234.snc4/39025_1515886504086_1442172950_1364193_8206722_n.j pg
Coil on and wired in
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs114.ash2/39025_1515886544087_1442172950_1364194_484862_n.jp g
Here's the gap in the engine tin where A/C used to be. Now we need to fill it
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs063.snc4/34511_1515886624089_1442172950_1364196_2603645_n.j pg
Blower mounted and wired in, also right side duct connected
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs234.snc4/39025_1515886464085_1442172950_1364192_6133525_n.j pg
And the pesky oil fill spout installed...thanks for the special piers (bull nose?) for springing that retaining spring!
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs228.snc4/38741_1515886744092_1442172950_1364198_3695437_n.j pg

Tomorrow it's starter, fuel pump wiring, stray wires and maybe she starts?
But if paint is dry enough...buffing will be the prime order of business
Keep thinking good thougts, click my wrenches together and maybe the wizard will get the bus to B' port next Wednesday!

[Lostsailr]

Oh look. She's getting glass....
all right side done
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs179.snc4/38265_1519171506209_1442172950_1372929_3203379_n.j pg

New windshield to replace my scratched up old one. (looks pretty dirty, I know)
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs115.ash2/39089_1519171346205_1442172950_1372928_6576663_n.j pg

Left side is done except for the rear window that needs a new vent window seal (Damn these overnight delivery charges)
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs115.ash2/39089_1519171346205_1442172950_1372928_6576663_n.j pg

So close to ready, but so much left to do!
Vibes shopping today...back to the shop Monday!
One wire to reconnect (now that I have figured out the wiring diagrams)
Now to track down Bus Depot and find out why my juggage rack seal isn't in here when invoice says it was shipped! aaaarrrg! :lol:

[Lostsailr]

Well, I can't say I'm done, as one never is with a bus, but I am packing her up for camping the next few days. Still have a pesky gas smell, and found there are 2 flex hoses I missed...and can get to in a pinch (literally) so must try when I get back...asuming I don't flame out between here and Indian Lake!
Hope you can get some of the feel for the pearl in the green!

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs240.snc4/39343_1544661503443_1442172950_1445038_5054546_n.j pg

Son helping me install sink! Making Papa proud!
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs134.ash2/40054_1544661343439_1442172950_1445036_6982044_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs205.snc4/38593_1544661623446_1442172950_1445040_2077015_n.j pg

cut some of the extra carpet for the front of cabin
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs150.ash2/40858_1544661743449_1442172950_1445041_2427596_n.j pg

Watch for me along a road near you soon!
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs296.snc4/41115_1544661223436_1442172950_1445035_5224049_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs130.ash2/39858_1544661823451_1442172950_1445043_999764_n.jp g

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs147.ash2/40673_1541663628498_1442172950_1436994_5743350_n.j pg

[Lostsailr]

And this trip told me I had to replce the fuel filler neck with the engine back in (fool that I am)...but not as bad as I thought.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs380.snc4/44311_1549269098630_1442172950_1460153_962890_n.jp g

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs385.snc4/44864_1549268578617_1442172950_1460146_7866146_n.j pg

After this past weekend I am free from gas fumes...heat works and smells free of exhaust, running like a top and life is good! Where should I go Friday? Got a weekend off...who want to roll? :dance: