Rueben (my 71 F 250) is getting closer!

[mkitchen]

Finally got the exhaust done on Rueben. I had the exhaust in but not the headers, but now all is in and with a new high torque starter, just in case. It is not going to be fun to replace that starter.

I replaced all the exhaust and re-routed the outlet to the rear bumper. I see so many 4X4's with the exhaust outlet just behind the rear wheel and any of them that are used off road usually end up with the rear quarter panel bent up as in this photo. Even as tall as Rueben is, I managed to find a rock that was taller. I have done the same with my 06 Taco as well. Now I just need to repair the quarter panel.

Next, I plan on doing the interior but at the same time, I want to start designing the camper shell area. As you can see, I have a lot of room to work with and am looking forward to building a good, usable area there. The truck is going to be for trips like the Relics run and for just getting out in the outback for long weekends. So come on folks, give me some ideas for a good build. NOTE, I do have to build the bed length wise since I am 6'7" and am tired of sleeping in a crunch from side to side, as I had it before.

Rueben has three tanks, all well protected from ground assault but it is a bit costly to drive. I will still be doing most of my trips with my Tacoma and an AT Horizon trailer but I still do plan on taking Rueben out.
Mikey

 

[bob91yj]

I love it!

That would be my Baja rig if it was mine.

 

[Deleted member 9101]

Holt cubic footage in the camper shell...lol.

 

[locrwln]

Nice truck. Have you updated the drivetrain? Does it have the single speed t-case or two speed? Still drum braked, low pinion, closed-knuckle front d44 axle?

Very solid trucks and it looks like you are on the way.

Jack

 

[truck mechanic]

SWeeeeeeeetttttttttt, I had a 69, other than no ps, I loved that truck, still miss it.
Paul

 

[mkitchen]

Pretty much stock.

Other than the engine, the truck is pretty much stock. It only has 75,000 original miles on it and it was ordered with the additional springs, fuel tanks, etc. The shell has been on it since it left the dealer in 71, except for a couple of years that my son had it and removed the shell. It has the two speed transfer case and D 60 rear with posi and the low pinion D 44 front with the enclosed steering knuckles. So yes it takes two football fields to turn it around.

No power steering but I am ok with that but I am going to put a gear venders overdrive unit in. Even with 35" tires, it is low geared. Power brakes with drums and I don't plan to upgrade to disks. The brakes work very well, even as heavy as the truck is.

I have seen some shells that were built up but they are not too well designed. They seem to be just a shelf with a lot of carpeting over everything. Not what I would want in an overlanding vehicle. I want to design something that will carry my recovery gear, food, supplies and pretty much anything that a fellow would need when out and away. And I really hope to get it right the first time since I don't want to build something twice because I didn't do it right the first time. So I'm open for suggestions.
Mikey