Project Steel Walrus

[Bugetexpedition]

starting working on the body. Hood was to be fixed, doors and fenders got replaced. I actually scored 2 doors that were used but in amazing shape, and then two brand new fenders that some guy bought from LMC several years ago and never used them.

Doors = $100.00
Fenders = $100.00

This is after one coat of primer. After this I blocked filled and primered 2 more times before it was ready for paint.

I welded in new metal on the drivers side floor and then sanded it all down and sprayed on some Dupli-color bed liner.

Here is a picture of the drivers side cab corner that I cut out and replaced with some new metal from LMC Truck

More updates to come

Scott

 

[BlueBomber]

that hood looks really good! you might want to rethink using aftermarket sheet metal. I know some of the aftermarket stuff is thinner than OEM. I dont know if yours is or not, just thought i'd let ya know. keep the updates coming!

 

[Bugetexpedition]

you might want to rethink using aftermarket sheet metal. I know some of the aftermarket stuff is thinner than OEM.

Actually the metal from LMC truck was spot on. welded like a dream. I was really happy because I did anticipate a thinner piece when I ordered it. Kudos to LMC truck.

 

[Bugetexpedition]

The truck got a new pair of shoes. I liked the dually, but I figured that it would not be all that great off-road. Threw on a set of Trxus 33X12.5X16s on my new rims that were donated by a buddy of mine. In this picture you will also see that the bodywork on the cab is done and ready for wet sanding and paint.

 

[BlueBomber]

what all did you have to do to switch it over to SRW?

 

[Bugetexpedition]

what all did you have to do to switch it over to SRW?

I did not have to do anything. The spacing is about 1 inch off on either side from front to back. I was thinking about using a spacer in the front, but I am not all that convinced that I need them.

 

[Bullseye240]

I did not have to do anything. The spacing is about 1 inch off on either side from front to back. I was thinking about using a spacer in the front, but I am not all that convinced that I need them.

Just my opinon, but it looks like someone just bolted a set of dually wheels on the rear of a 3/4 ton truck. Which would expalian why it had single steel wheels up front and not dually wheels. If you look at the rear hub it doesn't stick out much with the dually wheels on. Had it been an originaly DRW truck the hub would have stuck out farther.
Looking like it's going to be a real nice truck though.:smiley_drive:

 

[lostworldexpedition]

Skillz... :lurk:

 

[Bugetexpedition]

Well it was time to strip the frame from the cab back. It is getting new leaf springs, shackles, airbags, and shocks. First I need to clean the frame up a little and spray some black paint.

I needed to remove the side frame mount gas tank. Who came up with this brilliant idea? The cradle that held the tank was not only rusted all to hell, but it was full of debris. Wet sand, mud, and pine needles. Gee, I wonder why it rusted out. this tank will not be going back in.

Ahhh, Bare frame. Now I can work with this.

 

[Bugetexpedition]

Here is after I scraped, sanded and ground off the rust. then I shot it with some black chassis paint.

Time to start reassembling the suspension.

 

[Rot Box]

Looks good!

I really like the idea of "shackle flips" for the rear springs. If you wanted to go that route now would be a good time to do it :elkgrin:

 

[dzzz]

Nice.
You can build a truck faster than I can buy a truck.

 

[ujoint]

Lookin good!! Already looks like a whole new truck, can't wait to see the finished product!

 

[ntsqd]

From a years ago post by a guy who works for Deaver Spring, the spring rate stays more consistent with a tension shackle because of the way that the shackle moves when the spring moves. With a compression shackle you get a falling rate because the more that the shackle is laid over, the more vertical movement happens in the shackle for the same added load.

Just a question of which trait works better for your use.

 

[Bugetexpedition]

I got a wild hair up my *** this memorial day and had an idea for a bumper. This is only PART 1 of the bumper build, but I was wicked proud of myself and had to share it with you guys.

I have alot more to finish my bumper idea, I will keep you posted.

Scott