REAL MAN TRUCKWORKS & SURVIVAL

VEHICLES, CAMPERS, and BOATS => Build Threads => Topic started by: TexasRedNeck on December 01, 2015, 09:44:07 PM

Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 01, 2015, 09:44:07 PM
So its time I fully matured and grew up.

My part time truck is a 2001 LB7 CCLB Dmax LT with 37s, a 12 inch Full Throttle Suspension lift, Weld Cheyenne Evo wheels, Longhorn Fab traction bars, side dumped straight exhaust and PPEI tuned and a few other mods.  Its a long story, which I will gladly relay, but the bottom line is I can't really use it for its intended purpose with a loading height for the tailgate at around 50 inches.  The plan is to neuter it and replace the 37s with 35s and the 12 inch lift with a 6 inch lift.

Here it is with the drop hitch for reference,  IIRC that is an 18 inch drop hitch...and a picture next to the LML dually for size

So, first for a little background.....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on December 01, 2015, 10:26:32 PM
Gigantor!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 01, 2015, 10:31:02 PM
I bought a 2001 K2500HD LT Victory Red and Graphite leather new in April of 2001.  I got the 6.0 gas because I was scared of the first gen Dmax.  Kept it and drove it for 11 years.  One day during a hurrican evacuation it hit me.  There was no gasoline and people were on the side of the road throwing rocks at each other while rednecks with their diesels were rolling up to the pump and getting fuel.  That's when it hit me.  I needed a diesel with an auxiliary tank.

Now my beautiful baby girls had grown up in that truck from babies and loved that truck because with a 6 inch lift and 34s they could see out of the truck in their car seats and see over most of the other cars.  When I mentioned selling it they cried.  So as I searched for trucks I ran across many diesels but decided between a 2003 7.3L Ford and an exact replica of my gas Chevy.  The girls voted for the Chevy.  It was the same year, same LT model, same color combo.  The only difference was the diesel engine and a long box bed.  It was in WA state and I discussed over the phone with the dealer who seemed reputable and because it had only 125K on it I assumed it was a safe bet that it was in great shape.  My gasser only had 130K on it after 11 years so I was pumped about getting the same truck with potential for many more miles.

So I wire the money and they agree to deliver the truck to the house.

This picture is the day I sold the gasser.  My little one was balling hysterically

They arrive with the truck and the first thing that I notice is that it looks MUCH bigger in person than it did in the pictures.  Apparently the long bed masks the true size.  It dwarfed my gasser short box with a 6 inch lift and 34s.

It was in great..no phenomenal shape.  The interior looked unused and the body was perfect as was the paint.  The tires were brand new Toyo OC MTs and I was pumped.

The very next morning I went to start it and .....spinning but no start......

And thus began the crash course in modern diesels.....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 01, 2015, 11:02:12 PM
So I was a bit panicked and depressed by a purchase that was not working.  I decided that I didn't know enough about diesels to really asess the situation so I thought I'd find a diesel shop to give it a thorough going through to help me understand if the issue was minor or if there were any other issues present. 

My intent was that if there was an issue, I'd send it back and squash the deal.

So the mechanic I chose went through it and pronouced the issue to be filter head losing prime and a weak CP3.  He also pulled a P0700 code which he said was no big deal because lifted trucks often through that code. (remember that little tidbit for later in the story)

I worked a deal with the dealer to split the cost of the repairs and went ahead and had the mechanic throw the ADII165 on it and a Banks Big Head turbo wastegate.  All was well in the world and since the split of the expense with the dealer came with a settlement agreement which meant they were washing their hands.

So....3 months later I connect it to a 10,000 pound trailer for the first time and about 150 miles away from home......I learn what limp mode is.

Apparently that "nothing to worry about" P0700 code was a clue to the previously limped transmission.  At this point I really begin to reseach and learn about modern diesels.  I settle on a shop 140 miles to the East in Sulphur LA, Calvin's which is also home base to Kory Willis of PPEI tuning.

I drop the truck off and $6000 later I have a bullet proof built tranny capable of holding well over 850HP at the wheels and EFI Live tuning with DSP 5 switch.

Suddenly I love my truck again.... despite the fact that Kory tells me that balance rates are not bad, but at some point in the future I'll be needing injectors.....

A year later, I'm back for all new Bosch injectors, all new injector lines, cups pulled and resealed...and another $6000 bill

So now I'm nearly $40k into a truck that's worth 18-20K.  Real smart financial move but I got a great education on diesels,right?

It gets better.  We decide on buying a trailer...a fifth wheel.  Well, that makes using the LB7 impossible without lowering it and doing a bunch of other work since the fifth wheel we want is really more than the truck is rated for.  Thus I become the proud owner of a new LML dually...and decide to keep the LB7

So 3 years into this truck and it runs great looks great and I put a total of 7,000 miles on it.

We bought a weekend/hide site and all the driving back and forth is putting too many miles on the LML.  Thus I want to be able to use the LB7 and drive it more often without looking for parking garages with 8ft clearance....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on December 01, 2015, 11:55:33 PM
You've probably got one of the nicest '01 LB7s in the country Charles... Will still look awesome dropped a bit too. The first gen front ends are still my favorite to this day.

My uncle has an 02, exactly like my LBZ in color and trim, but long box, with less than 75k miles on it. I told him don't you ever trade that in... Just call me


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 02, 2015, 07:50:53 AM
So here is the game plan.

Zone 6 inch lift
Used set of stock rear leaf springs of a 2010 (the currents are Deaver 10 inch springs)
All new front end joints and bushings
All new steering linkage
New AC Delco upper control arms (the FTS lift has the tubular with those fancy joints)
35 inch rubber (still debating but likely Toyo)
New exhaust...a real exhaust with a muffler that goes out the back
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 02, 2015, 08:01:04 AM
Oh and it got its name from the girls because it was a big, loud, smelly and bouncy as the school bus they rode to a field trip....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 02, 2015, 12:07:19 PM
Was your daughter crying because you were selling her truck?

Oh and zone lift??? Has lowered torsion bar s which will reduce ground clearance in the high center mode. BDS and some others make good kits tucked up as well. Cognito, Fabtech, Superlift...
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 02, 2015, 10:18:32 PM
Yep, Don.  She was cyring because she was attached the the "Big Red Truck",  that too has passed and now she wants to drive "the Bus" when she turns 16.

Yeah my other truck had a traditional dropped T bars.  I'm not spending another $1200 to tuck the bars up.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 04, 2015, 05:10:22 PM
Lift ordered from DMax Store today.  Leaf springs came in from LKQ today so I will pick them up Monday.

Next weekend I plan to start on the rear first which will put the truck at a better angle when I go to start playing with the front.  The good thing is that I had previously installed a lift on the 2001 gasser so prior lessons learned should be helpful.  I may have to find and weld some bumpstops or get some hydro bumps to install once the 12 inch lift is off.  I hope I can net the cost out to zero by selling the 12 inch lift and springs and tires.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on December 07, 2015, 07:40:55 AM
Looks like you have a plan of attack. I am looking forward to watching it's execution.

Removing that much lift can be done without drive shaft modifications?

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 07, 2015, 08:37:19 AM
I probably need to back up and show some history of what I have done to it, although not much.

I did replace the 2 section drive shaft with a very large one piece aluminium shaft from the DMax store.  It solved all my vibration problems at take off.  It needs no further modification and has successfully been run on stock height up to 12 inch lifted trucks.

The front is factory, which makes it only good to put in fwd below about 10mph because of the extreme angles.  Lowering that will be much better

You can see here the two compared.  Also had to change the rear yoke to accommodate the larger Ujoint.  Note the snap on 2x6 used to drive the new seal.  Pull the shafts out a bit to try to measure rotational torque so I could torque the pinion nut down to close to the same amount instead of re-setting the entire rear end.  It has worked so far without issue.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 07, 2015, 08:44:49 AM
and the final result.  Best $700 I ever spent.

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on December 07, 2015, 09:23:35 AM
I have one of those snap-on 2x6's also. Almost a requirement for a Dodge, it's used to adjust door hinges and injector pump timing and all sorts of stuff.

That 10mph thing with the front DS would be a real headache in my world. I bet your looking forward to a lower more "usable" truck.
Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 07, 2015, 01:07:45 PM
Yep. Sure am. Picked these up at LKQ today. Off. 2008 with 68000 miles.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/07/91a8ab93e5b7c593e2c591fcc5a5a70a.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/07/cd2722dace65e8546d2d5e460e7a2a3b.jpg)

This place is massive. 10 racks high full of parts.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 07, 2015, 04:33:13 PM
Looks good so far.

You can get the brackets to get your TB up in the frame. There are some that are universal and some made for other kits. Just a few $$ but sure helps. They just require you move the TB mount back a few inches.

I can't move mine back with the titan tank. I was lucky and got a cognito kit for the old price and I have the upper arms.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 08, 2015, 10:20:41 AM
Those weld wheels are absolutely terrible.  You should let me take those off your hands.   It's just me trying to save you from embarrassment.  Buy some bmf's or something better.


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: mjmbrown on December 10, 2015, 07:41:15 PM
I think I know what dealer you speak of..... being @ a WA state based dealership myself I happen to deal with them every so often :-X. Excited to see the transformation nonetheless!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on December 10, 2015, 08:13:54 PM
I bet I know the dealer too... they buy trucks, lift them, jack up the price... that one? :)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 10, 2015, 09:51:28 PM
I can say it. Northwest Motorsport. Tools


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on December 10, 2015, 11:37:19 PM
They do tons of volume... 4 lots now... Schmucks


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on December 11, 2015, 02:34:36 AM
Yup. Those tools. Exactly who I was thinking of :)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 11, 2015, 07:24:17 AM
Those weld wheels are absolutely terrible.  You should let me take those off your hands.   It's just me trying to save you from embarrassment.  Buy some bmf's or something better.


Raising boys into RealMen!!

Keep your fingers crossed that the back space is all wrong for the new kit....

The new lift kit I ordered from the DMax Store is going to be delivered today!

I think it may rain this weekend so it looks like I may try to get the rear done before my daughters BDay party on Sunday
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 11, 2015, 07:43:34 AM
 Good luck Tex


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on December 11, 2015, 08:01:30 AM
If I was closer, and didn't have to decorate the house, and paint my 45, and do office work, I would help ya in a heart beat. I've become fairly efficient at sitting in a chair with a cold one. :P
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 11, 2015, 09:06:06 AM
I've become fairly efficient at sitting in a chair with a cold one. :P

Its a tough job, but someone has to do it....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on December 11, 2015, 11:55:37 AM
"Tell 'em the Bone sent ya"... I'm so sick of those commercials. every time i hear one i want to call them up and blast them. your truck alone could fill pages of BBB complaints on those guys, let alone the multiple other victims I have encountered out here.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on December 11, 2015, 01:11:09 PM
Completely unrelated to the present discussion. But I had a dream last night that TRN posted a request for the best polishing compound to buff his drive-shaft. Musta been that old Hamms I drank.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on December 11, 2015, 03:17:43 PM
everybody say hi to norm, he shows up every blue moon from out in left field.  he normally drops off a doozie as he is travelin thru............;D
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on December 11, 2015, 03:43:51 PM
Completely unrelated to the present discussion. But I had a dream last night that TRN posted a request for the best polishing compound to buff his drive-shaft. Musta been that old Hamms I drank.
Me and you need to get together. Hamms was post wheeling beverage of choice, Olympia post hunting, Rainier during fishing. (less projectiles and vehicles involved.) Not sure how it started, but we never mixed things up. Don't know too many others out there that will even choose to drink Hamms. How do you feel about Yuengling?

oh, and i like the build thread RN.  8) I've got some flaming bags of dog byproducts w/ NW MS on it for ya.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 11, 2015, 07:09:14 PM
Loving the DOT!!  Nicely done. I'm. Big fan of yuengling BTW

NMS bags of poo. Love it


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on December 11, 2015, 07:19:47 PM
I have been compared to the hamms bear
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: mjmbrown on December 11, 2015, 08:01:09 PM
Haha.... tool was the word..  there a lot of right ways to be a reputable dealer. its also difficult to sell a lot of vehicles and not have any problems.  You have to know that its coming and be ready, ready to make it right and stand behind your product and your name 100%, that will set you apart from the sleazy dealers and keep your customers coming back.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on December 11, 2015, 09:09:41 PM
Hamms... My first beer may have been a hamms out of my grampas garage fridge!!


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 11, 2015, 09:36:53 PM
Guess what time it is?!(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/11/db89731bb425144f844becf9259d461a.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on December 11, 2015, 10:42:11 PM
Figured you'd have that knocked out this evening already. What's the hold up anyhow? :o
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on December 11, 2015, 11:13:09 PM
What's the hold up? he just got snockered up on something that came in a blue box!!


Hamms huh. My gramps drank those as well. I asked him why he didn't drink something a little more classy, like coors or bud, and he said without hesitation "I don't get paid a mechanic's salary, I live on social security".

 I miss that old man.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 11, 2015, 11:20:50 PM
Well there was a mixup and delay with the freight carrier. But I have been slacking for the last hour celebrating my birthday with the family. No drinking yet. Packed and making the two hour drive to the hide to begin surgery in the morning. After a drink before bed  Did score some Duluth Trading schwag.  (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/11/fa478cbaf1130237b2467cd43ef822f5.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/11/9b113587c3126c31e5fb361927ca5ceb.jpg)

Flannel shirt jack and a lined firehose vest. Red neck heaven


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on December 11, 2015, 11:24:11 PM
I'd sport that shirt, proudly.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on December 11, 2015, 11:24:32 PM
Nice, how is that fire hose material? Been wanting a pair of pants to try out.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 11, 2015, 11:29:12 PM
I have the pants. Tough as hell and stiff. No chaps needed for hunting


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on December 11, 2015, 11:31:30 PM
heres a couple of review for you shawn

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIV8qhsmqDs
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on December 12, 2015, 12:05:26 AM
Thanks Nate! Think I'll pull the trigger on a pair....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cruizng on December 12, 2015, 12:19:36 AM
I have several items from Duluth Trading and will buy over and over. The firehouse last a very long time. I have bibs and fleece line firehouse pants. Long tail thirst and two chamois shirts. I wear them all the time. Good stuff!


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 12, 2015, 01:01:02 AM
Only thing I would add is that the pants are cut like Wranglers and not Levis
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on December 12, 2015, 01:15:48 AM

Only thing I would add is that the pants are cut like Wranglers and not Levis

There's a term to describe that fit lol


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on December 12, 2015, 02:52:01 AM
Got a nice lined flannel shirt for my birthday too ;) not Duluth though, Costco :thumb
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 12, 2015, 10:10:56 AM
Well there was a mixup and delay with the freight carrier. But I have been slacking for the last hour celebrating my birthday with the family. No drinking yet. Packed and making the two hour drive to the hide to begin surgery in the morning. After a drink before bed  Did score some Duluth Trading schwag.  (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/11/fa478cbaf1130237b2467cd43ef822f5.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/11/9b113587c3126c31e5fb361927ca5ceb.jpg)

Flannel shirt jack and a lined firehose vest. Red neck heaven


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Bro,
I'm all over those free swingin' shirt...Dropped enough hints, hope I score one for the Christmas!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 12, 2015, 10:12:30 AM
DD-GO here (Decent DOT Goin' on)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 12, 2015, 04:36:01 PM
Ok. Bringing it back around.

Gave it a bath before taking it under the knife. Last time this tall. (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/75e1a3a918839a1027226ebef8f3bfc0.jpg)




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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 12, 2015, 05:04:26 PM
Let me know when I can get you a mailing address for those wheels


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 12, 2015, 08:22:27 PM
Roger.

In the mean time.

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/a6444d54ca03a36f2560995f28f5b622.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/3572faa4174d9eca78ee77baa0c32fc3.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/a82baf33da06ee25a56002786b305f09.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/fba1911584d9577e67be6d4ae2c619f2.jpg)

So I started with the rear to get a better angle on the front as it comes down.  Someone at GM should be shot.  The receiver hitch has to be undone to get the shackle bolts out.....

Note the Snap On jack stand platforms that allow my huge 6 ton stands to actually get high enough to contact the frame.  After pulling the wheels, I lowered it down so that when installing the smaller springs and blocks it would be easier to get it back down.

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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 12, 2015, 09:43:49 PM
So noticed the 3 inch block on the 9 inch Deaver spring was broken.  :-0

Sorings I bought only had 68000 on them. Got the new springs , shocks , blocks and u bolts put on. Took it for a short drive up and down the driveway to settle the springs and blocks and then torqued the UBolts.

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/792b82bb69acdf4946a10394c81dd4f7.jpg)
And a little Cali lean

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/13/150d911f32e77561ba1552776e31b00a.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 12, 2015, 09:46:52 PM
That's a 5 inch block.

Here are some measurements before I started.

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/fe2718af3c141e1caf20edc82ae2b0c2.jpg)

Tailgate
Front and rear wheel well from center of hub
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/afb29de34968e1ace4664299d1fb39fc.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/a94a61355e700912c990539f92a03eae.jpg)
To door for ground
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/12/5dc61de0c87b9369c66dcdbb5d2e2716.jpg)


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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 13, 2015, 12:00:45 PM
End build day 1 and 1/2. Had to knock off early for the daughters bday party. (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/13/4db1a9047a9edf4cf927f87ea18caa2f.jpg)

Everything is off but the cage and front diff


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 13, 2015, 12:58:48 PM
I recall a conversation on the forum about who makes the best wheel bearings for these trucks. Anyone recall? And a source would be nice


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 13, 2015, 01:19:12 PM
Timken bearing have life time on them.  Other then that I don't recall a post


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 13, 2015, 02:50:57 PM
All I'm seeing online with Timken is a 1 year warranty.  Is there a vendor that extends that?   I'm going to replace both of them while I have it torn down.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rasimmo on December 13, 2015, 03:26:39 PM
I have read good things about wheel bearing inc. no personal experience, but worth looking into.

http://wheelbearingsinc.com
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 13, 2015, 04:38:04 PM

All I'm seeing online with Timken is a 1 year warranty.  Is there a vendor that extends that?   I'm going to replace both of them while I have it torn down.

I ordered mine from the dmax store I want to say they told me it was a lifetime.  I might be wrong


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on December 13, 2015, 05:47:52 PM
Timken's will go way past a year Charles. Even if you find a place that will warranty for 2 or 3, it's a waste unless it's the same price.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 13, 2015, 05:48:26 PM
Thanks Dave.  I found them there.  DMax Store warranties them, but the Mfg is 1 year.

I bought them from a seller that was on Ebay for $137 (timken) as opposed to the Dmax Store at $199.  I'll take the chance for the $124 difference for 2.

Now I'm trying to research torsion bars.  Decided that I would do the "Anti-Norm" ....gonna replace everything, bushings, bearings, torsion bars, sway bar, brakes, etc..
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 13, 2015, 05:58:29 PM
Torsion bars? Why would I think those need replaced?


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 13, 2015, 05:58:54 PM
So here's a moment for you Ken,

I'm breaking the ubolts loose on the rear and I have the axle lowered down.  As I hit the trigger with the gun in the vertical position, my left hand is supporting the gun with my little finger under the rear.  It breaks loose....and then threads down....and then pins the gun to the shop floor...with my little finger underneath.  And the reverse switch is ...you guessed it...on the back of the gun.

So my finger is pinned to the floor and I can't reverse the gun....and no one is around to help...

Fortunately after a moment I realized I could roll over a bit and use the floor jack to raise the axle......
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 13, 2015, 06:05:20 PM
Torsion bars? Why would I think those need replaced?


Raising boys into RealMen!!

After 14 years and heavy wheels and tires, I think they are probably worn out.  one had a lot more preload on it than the other

There are about 50 different spring rate bars listed.  I know I can read off the ends of mine, but anyone have OEM application information that might help me make a decision?  I may want stiffer or softer depending.

The lift kit will add a hundred pounds or so to the front and if I go with an aftermarket bumper at some point I may need to consider a slightly higher rate.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 13, 2015, 10:06:59 PM
So since I've decided to do all new, I'm going to need a press.  Tired of fighting with those little C-clamp ball joint presses and also want to do the a-arms.

Would a little 12 ton press be enough for most minor things?  The bills are about to rack up fast and wanted to cut costs where I can.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 13, 2015, 10:14:23 PM
I have never thought or heard of anyone doing it is all.  But it makes sense. 



Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 13, 2015, 10:22:43 PM
No worries, BD, I plan on keeping this one for quite some time so doing it right this time, with only 137k on the clock, I should be GTG for another 10-15 years.

Anyone have recommendation on brake pads?  My first 2001 had 125k on the clock on the original pads and there were a lot left.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on December 13, 2015, 11:11:13 PM
So since I've decided to do all new, I'm going to need a press.  Tired of fighting with those little C-clamp ball joint presses and also want to do the a-arms.

Would a little 12 ton press be enough for most minor things?  The bills are about to rack up fast and wanted to cut costs where I can.

It should, I would probably opt for the 20 ton unit as bigger is better imo.

Edit: plus with the larger unit you can get a press brake add on etc & bend steel with it.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on December 14, 2015, 07:55:42 AM
I can't add much here.....Other than my 80 ton press at the shop can shatter a Ford 9" axle shaft and the bearing never did move. I have a 20ton HF model at home here, it's handy at times, and was like $140 with coupons and sales and such.

The 20 ton HF is also well supported by the aftermarket. You can add a HF air/hyd jack and buy plates to turn it into a brake and all sorts of things.



Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 14, 2015, 08:12:20 AM
Funny you should mention that.  There is  a printable coupon on line for 20% off a single item December 14-16.  That'll make it $160 for the 20 ton.  Looks like I'm headed to HF.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 14, 2015, 09:23:45 AM
So since I've decided to do all new, I'm going to need a press.  Tired of fighting with those little C-clamp ball joint presses and also want to do the a-arms.

Would a little 12 ton press be enough for most minor things?  The bills are about to rack up fast and wanted to cut costs where I can.
I'd say one thing if you are planning to purchase a harbor freight press. I would not use their press plates, then are cast and will fail violently. Get a set of good press plates like the ones I showed and use from Swag Off Road.
I wouldn't want you to get injured and those HF plates will fail on you some day
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on December 14, 2015, 09:26:36 AM
Lol on the impact....glad I've never done anything like that! ...hard not to panic when it happens.

Used the HF 20 ton for 7 years. Took everything I threw at it until the last job...ironically a Ford bearing....twisted the main upper beam really bad . Yeah, could've stopped to prevent it, but gave an excuse for a new 50ton.

The benifit to a ball joint kit is getting the adapters. Even with a press, you need adapters (hope you have multiple sizes up pipe around)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on December 14, 2015, 10:51:01 AM
FWIW my HF press I got last year had steel plates not cast...not sure what they presently are being sold with. I use some 1" steel plates personally because they have handles I welded on them to move the SOB's.

And Dons right, Swag has some cool stuff. I might someday buy their kits to modify the press. But...I am considering widening it LoL

If I ever actually build a real shop building here, I will drag my 80 Ton up here to wreck stuff properly.



Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 14, 2015, 11:36:01 AM
Caught my finger or such a few times and who brought up Hamms?? Dang Norm hadn't heard of them them in years, loved the bear commercials.

HF ha a 25% off sale up until sunday night, I scored a few items.

Nice arch in those old springs, but 5 inch blocks? Shackle flip!

I got the timkens from the same guy on Ebay for my max and my brake pads are fine after 110k like yours.

OK, got to post pics of my S10 on the other thread,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 14, 2015, 11:42:54 AM
I have a HF 30 ton press which is going strong

I use the 1.5" thick arbor plates from Swag Off road

Check out their site...Look at the pic of the face injury from failure of the cheapo plates.

Caveat: If the HF press now uses steel plates in lieu of the cast ones they might be OK

http://www.swagoffroad.com/Arbor-Press-Plates_p_7.html
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 14, 2015, 02:52:39 PM
Ha. That dude probably took the last piece a chicken at the family dinner.  Or insulted Nate's lineage.....

Good advice and thanks. Will inspect and proceed accordingly. 


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on December 14, 2015, 06:54:57 PM
no hitting from big nate, i am a scorpio and i do like to get revenge in more creative ways............;D
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 14, 2015, 08:28:27 PM
You saying "no hitting" is like Ted Nugent saying he never did drugs.....

Reminds me of a Robert DeNiro line from Ronin when the guys were all trying to prove what bad dudes they were.  When asked "have you ever killed anyone"  DeNiro says "I hurt somebody's feelings once"
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 14, 2015, 09:03:13 PM
I love that movie Ronin. Thats when he put Sean Bean in his place,,,,,,,,,,,

Seen Killing Season yet??
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 14, 2015, 09:45:14 PM
Nope, but I will look and see if its on netflix.  Need something other than angry white guy TV to watch while waiting on Walking Dead to crank back up...

Oh wait, I did see that one.  Great movie.  Most people don't remember that conflict.  I have Croatian and Serb friends here in the states.  Still totally different perspectives on what happened
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 15, 2015, 03:54:40 PM
20 percent off coupon at HF today. 20 ton press for the shop!

No more paying to have stuff pressed or dealing with that Mickey Mouse c clamp press


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rasimmo on December 15, 2015, 05:22:26 PM
That will never run out of uses. If you aint tearing a truck apart you can use it to form supressor baffles.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 15, 2015, 05:36:36 PM
Or for my AK flat bending!  That's a project I need to get on. Lord knows I have enough 7.62 ammo and parts


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 15, 2015, 11:08:38 PM
Dave, look what I found....

http://ventura.craigslist.org/wto/5350243087.html
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 16, 2015, 12:04:25 AM
Oh no I want your big 24 s


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 16, 2015, 12:08:16 AM
That will never run out of uses. If you aint tearing a truck apart you can use it to form supressor baffles.

Brass freeze plugs work nice.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 16, 2015, 12:25:35 AM
Oh no I want your big 24 s


Raising boys into RealMen!!

Sorry to disappoint, but mine are only 20x10
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 16, 2015, 01:00:13 AM
Tate around?  Need a source for ujoints for the front drive shaft. 
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: sideways on December 16, 2015, 09:39:09 AM
Texasredneck how are you liking that drive shaft?.

My LMM vibrates bad with a heavy load around 60-65. I was looking at that shaft but worried it won't hold up.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on December 16, 2015, 10:01:10 AM
My advice...regardless of where you source them...but only Spicer U joints.

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on December 16, 2015, 10:52:26 AM
Tate around?  Need a source for ujoints for the front drive shaft.

5-3147x  for both ends w/ zerk fitting. 5-795x w/o zerk fitting, mechanix 3r series spicer joint. I have a dozen in stock in TN, but you can order from anywhere with that number for Spicer. PM me if you want to get some coming or give me a call.

 
   
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 16, 2015, 12:14:52 PM
Pm incoming.

Sideways. The shaft was the best thing I've done to the truck. It's smooth as glass to 100+


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 16, 2015, 02:55:28 PM

Oh no I want your big 24 s


Raising boys into RealMen!!

Sorry to disappoint, but mine are only 20x10

24's 20's 18's. All the same right. 


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 16, 2015, 05:50:56 PM
Yeah. Size doesn't matter. 

Tate thanks for the hookup on the joints.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on December 16, 2015, 06:58:58 PM
Looking forward to the install; I've got to do my own here pretty soon.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 16, 2015, 08:55:37 PM
Yeah, I only want to have to tear it down once.  I value my time more than parts.  When I'm done I want 100K out of it without having to work on it (at least that part of it).  Given that I drive it about 3,000 miles a year that should last me a while....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 20, 2015, 01:34:10 PM
With family time taking precedent this weekend I didn't get a lot done. Tore everything else off. From here on in its new stuff going back on.

(http://a65.tinypic.com/w0s84z.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/2ahtbm1.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on December 20, 2015, 04:23:42 PM
RN, not really sure if you are going to do the output seals on the front diff while you have it out..............?

I would recommend doing them, because our model year trucks are notorious for having the drivers side short shaft not release the "C" clip and allow the shaft to come out of the carrier.  unfortunately, the only way that I have found/heard of fixing this is having to buy a new/or used diff...............?

better to find out now while everything is dis-assembled and easy to get to.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 20, 2015, 07:04:39 PM
Thanks Nate. I'll inspect it well. At first glance it appears to be leak free and solid.

So working the shore press and need to know where to get accessories like thin wall steel tube and various diameters of solid round bar without having to buy a 20ft stick?

I have a c clamp ball joint service set that has some but need more sizes.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on December 20, 2015, 07:38:02 PM
Metal Supermarkets will sell you that stuff reasonable...
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on December 20, 2015, 07:50:49 PM
can anybody say for sure if a NBS front diff will fit into LB7? 
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 20, 2015, 09:01:07 PM
Ebay has all kinds off sizes and shapes. Some sell by length too.

Pretty sure all the under carriage is the same up to 2010. Then they started using the water formed frames. I would say for sure from 2001-2006, but my lift is for use from 2001 to 2010 so I based it on that.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on December 20, 2015, 09:08:19 PM
Heck, I've even bought some metal stock off amazon in a pinch.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 21, 2015, 10:17:51 AM
can anybody say for sure if a NBS front diff will fit into LB7? 
I'm not sure what years you're talking about with the NBS reference. I can say that starting in 2011, the LML's the carrier housing is different, although housing the same AAM 9.25 gear set.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on December 21, 2015, 01:46:49 PM
9.25 GM ifs applications excluding H2 hummer:

'88-'10 will interchange. Bushings differ internally 88-02, and 03-10 but that's it. all straight swap.

IF you have to remove the driver's side stub, pull the vent tube/breather assembly and get a looong punch. through that access hole, you should be able to punch the center of the stub shaft from the inside while a buddy slide hammers from the outside, greatly increasing your success rate while reducing the chance of breaking the case half or your toes after kicking the dog in frustration.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 21, 2015, 01:56:54 PM
I'll remember that Tate. I have my extra front to build for the max.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on December 21, 2015, 03:25:11 PM
that's what I was looking for don.  I was just trying to give TRN options for when he chooses to tackle this. 
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 21, 2015, 04:16:19 PM
Solid axle swap that monster and solve the GM problem


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 21, 2015, 08:37:24 PM
Meh. I like the softer ride of the IFS. Tate so a diff out of a 2010 will bolt up to my 2001?  Good to know. I'll keep an eye out for a spare. I'd go 4:10 if I had a six speed. But with 35s that may be a bit low for a five speed.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 21, 2015, 11:09:27 PM
I thought I had been told or read that all Alison's are six speeds they just need to be reprogrammed or something to that nature?   


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on December 21, 2015, 11:20:24 PM
You can get the fleece module that lets you manually control it via the steering column shift lever a la the 6 speed, that might be what you're thinkin of.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 22, 2015, 04:58:55 AM
I do believe so. 


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 22, 2015, 12:54:38 PM
You need a new valve body to make the 5 a 6 speed. Then you have to control it, the PCM wouldn't know you had a 6 speed.

All I see from Fleece is the TAP shift for the topkick and Lockup over ride. Is there something not shown?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on December 22, 2015, 01:15:53 PM
You need a new valve body to make the 5 a 6 speed. Then you have to control it, the PCM wouldn't know you had a 6 speed.

All I see from Fleece is the TAP shift for the topkick and Lockup over ride. Is there something not shown?

That's what i was referring to. Didn't know you could do the valve body swap/pcm upgrade on the old ones...

Not sure why you'd want to put the money in for that... maybe for hwy mileage benefit? I lock out 6th gear when towing most of the time anyway.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 22, 2015, 02:44:36 PM
Heck, with 35s and stock gears I lock it out for just regular driving. Tate said the 4.56 will bring it back to stock rpm. Right now at 70mph I see 1900.

That valve body is around 2k. Might be better to just get a 6 speed tranny since they all need upgrading.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 22, 2015, 06:10:12 PM
$6k trans build would be awesome for this thread, great how-to. 


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 22, 2015, 08:42:05 PM
Ha. I already have a 6k tranny I this truck. Will hold 850 at the rear wheels.   In 5th at 70 with 35s what will the RPMs be?


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 22, 2015, 08:54:31 PM
Ya know, I saw this happen before.

Started with fixin' a few things, then addin' some more things

Then changin' a few more things...
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rasimmo on December 22, 2015, 08:56:36 PM
Ha. I already have a 6k tranny I this truck. Will hold 850 at the rear wheels.   In 5th at 70 with 35s what will the RPMs be?


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1780 according to the calculator in the sticky

Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 22, 2015, 09:32:14 PM
Ras sorry for being lazy. Is that 4:10? And assuming 5th is .71?


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 22, 2015, 09:57:20 PM
My dmax with 35s, stock 3.73 at 70mph is 1900rpm in 5th. Lugs a little in 6th (high egt-load) but does it fine.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 23, 2015, 03:40:25 PM
So if I get the redneck math right the addition of the 6th gear will just about cover the increase in rpm for the 4:11


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rasimmo on December 23, 2015, 03:53:47 PM
I was bored so I plugged more numbers in that calculator.
5 th (.71) at 70 with 3.73 = 1780 rpm
6 th (.62) at 70 with 4.10 = 1708 rpm
5 the at 70 with 4.10 = 1956

That is according to that calculator not my redneck math.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 23, 2015, 03:57:43 PM
Close enough for gov work. !


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 23, 2015, 04:02:44 PM
What about 35 in tires at 75 with 4.56?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on December 23, 2015, 04:28:42 PM
What about 35 in tires at 75 with 4.56?
   3.10   1.81   1.41   1.00   0.71 1-5 gears
http://www.ringpinion.com/Calculators/Calc_RPM.aspx
2331 RPM at 75MPH
Click the Transmission Gear Ratio Chart link.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 23, 2015, 06:45:39 PM
Just add two chargers and call it a day


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 23, 2015, 07:12:13 PM
Hmm, I just ran mine with 4.56 and 4.10, 35 inch tire based on .61 OD of the ally.

4.56 is 2000 rpm at 75mph.

4.10 is 1800 rpm at 75 mph.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 23, 2015, 08:59:04 PM
Well, I do have 35" tires and 4.56 gears with the 6 speed ally. At 75 to 80 it really starts to sing. I think the 4.56 is too much gear for a powered up motor pushing a 35" tire
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 23, 2015, 11:45:49 PM
I got the 4.56 on Tates advice. I rarely get past 75 even on road trips.

4.10s don't seem like enough and 4.56 are just a tad high if you keep up those speeds and I have followed how you talk about it.

4.27s would be nice but don't think they are made for the f/r of this thing.

I like 1800-1900 rpm. Load seems OK, egt down about 100 and you know the saying about HP to go so fast. 4 x the HP to go twice as fast.

Maybe 36's for your new tires?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 24, 2015, 08:54:31 AM
Well I assume it still has the 3:73 in it but I'll find out. It runs like a scalded dog with 37s on it. 35s should be fun.


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Title: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 24, 2015, 10:52:33 AM
Trn what all is done motor wise to this truck.  You mentioned you have a built trans?

I would trade my truck for a red sled all day long If I could find one


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 24, 2015, 11:59:36 AM
EFI live with dsp5 from Kory.  Banks big head waste gate upgrade. AD165 and exhaust. May look at a compound later.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 24, 2015, 05:04:37 PM
Just ordered a new Redhead steering box.  I'm determined to do the anti-Norm build. It had a little slack at 137k but I want a new feeling truck when I'm done. I have a new door panel for the driver side and a new power mirror switch. This should be nice enough for a daily driver. 

As much as I love the roar of the LB7 straight pipes out the side in front of the rear wheel I'm probably going to put a new system with a muffler on it.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: BobbyB on December 24, 2015, 05:41:24 PM
As much as I love the roar of the LB7 straight pipes out the side in front of the rear wheel I'm probably going to put a .....

Hood stack! Do it, with a flapper, polished chrome obviously.  ;D












Please don't...
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 24, 2015, 05:47:23 PM
Rofl. I could see the wife driving it to the mall with a hood stack.....


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 25, 2015, 12:12:28 AM

As much as I love the roar of the LB7 straight pipes out the side in front of the rear wheel I'm probably going to put a .....

Hood stack! Do it, with a flapper, polished chrome obviously.  ;D












Please don't...

I say go go go on this.  No joke.  I want to see it





Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 25, 2015, 12:49:07 AM
Rofl. I could see the wife driving it to the mall with a hood stack.....


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And why not??????
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 25, 2015, 01:20:01 AM
Tex next time your under the red sled will you take a few photos of your side dump exhaust please.  I am interested in doing that instead of the under my bed dump. 


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 25, 2015, 08:25:09 AM
Will do. It was very simple. You can have first dibs on it when it comes off.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 25, 2015, 08:29:43 AM
I wonder if cause I have a short bed it would be to close to my rear tire.  1500 degrees is kinda warm for tire rubber I think. 


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 25, 2015, 08:30:11 AM
Merry Christmas Tex.   Get back to presents with them kids


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: BobbyB on December 25, 2015, 10:46:24 AM
Rofl. I could see the wife driving it to the mall with a hood stack.....

Is she smiling? If yes, is it a real smile or one of those "he's going to regret this decision when I get home" smiles?



I wonder if cause I have a short bed it would be to close to my rear tire.  1500 degrees is kinda warm for tire rubber I think. 

You should be able to shorten the pipe leading to the rear probably past the cab area. I've never done it but I'm going to take a guess and say people shorten them up when they do stacks, so the process should be the same.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 25, 2015, 11:36:05 AM
Just roll the elbow down n out.


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rasimmo on December 25, 2015, 11:43:48 AM
I wonder if cause I have a short bed it would be to close to my rear tire.  1500 degrees is kinda warm for tire rubber I think. 


Raising boys into RealMen!!

If it's 1500 back there the tires will be the least of your worries. The melted pistons dripping into the crankcase would be more of a concern at that point. ;D

I'm bored so I had to give somebody a hard time today.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 25, 2015, 01:20:49 PM
I haven't had a working egt probe  in awhile but I know she runs hot and  have seen the burst of 1600 on freeway pulls


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 25, 2015, 05:23:24 PM
Tex next time your under the red sled will you take a few photos of your side dump exhaust please.  I am interested in doing that instead of the under my bed dump. 


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Dave,
Easy
If you're using most of the common kits, just take the tail pipe section(s) and attach one or both of them to the back of the muffler, leaving out the section of straight pipe. I want to say I used the first section of my Diamond 4" "over the hump" part on the back of my muffla' to get my side exit done
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on December 25, 2015, 11:17:39 PM
I haven't had a working egt probe  in awhile but I know she runs hot and  have seen the burst of 1600 on freeway pulls


Raising boys into RealMen!!
That's at the head. Once in/past the turbo, it drops significantly. By the time it leaves the tailpipe, it's probably 500 or so. I've never reached over the bed of the truck, while the wife is towing 16k up a mountain though, to test my estimate. lol
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 26, 2015, 07:29:48 AM
The biggest problem is keeping the rear wheel clean....

On the bright side, that's when I know its time to wash the truck
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on December 26, 2015, 10:36:53 AM
Correct, if you've ever been to an "a typical muffler shop" those guys aren't doing physics in there. Don't get me wrong I appreciate their work just sayin. So worst case scenario do it & post pics. We all have plenty of opinions on how to "do it mo better!"..... ;)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on December 26, 2015, 11:53:12 AM
Another way to do it is to buy some bends of tubing in the appropriate size from Summit, then butt clamp it all together...or mark the position and find a buddy who can weld
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 26, 2015, 02:07:08 PM
I just cut my muffler off, trimmed the piece to fit and clamped with a Summit band clamp. Has worked great, no messy wheel either.
Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 03, 2016, 10:23:54 PM
Ok, so you DOTS are hard to reign in.

Here is where we stand. 

Ordered a new RedHead Steering box...just because
Ordered a completel Stage III Kryptonite front end steering set up.  Including the Moog XD pittman and the Kyrto Deathgrip Idler.

Why do I get the impression that this is turning into a money pit.....

So for real work...

I put the HF press to work.  Got the ball joints and bushings out of the lower control arms.

Scrubbed them with a wire brush and purple cleaner and painted them with RustO enamel.

Pressed in the new Moog ball joints and the Energy Suspension poly bushings.

On the Chevy's make sure you clock the grease fitting to the rear and in that little depression in the top of the LCA.

I pulled the drivers side IC pipe and inner fender to gain access to the lines for the steering box.  Shot them with PB Blaster and headed to Sears to get a set of flare nut wrenches since i need an 18mm.

I also got my Amazon delivery of the new upper control arm bolts and cams
(http://a68.tinypic.com/20uwizr.jpg)
(http://a67.tinypic.com/281956b.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/33n8gp4.jpg)
(http://a65.tinypic.com/2v33394.jpg)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 04, 2016, 09:18:17 AM
Looks like great progress.   Did you end up getting new plates for that HF press?


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 04, 2016, 10:52:37 AM
LoL @ the anti- Norm build  ;D

I will have you know yesterday I got some used wiper blades at the local Napa. Someone left them in the garbage can out front...perfectly good.

When is your target date for completion?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on January 04, 2016, 01:45:12 PM
Hmm, I just ran mine with 4.56 and 4.10, 35 inch tire based on .61 OD of the ally.

4.56 is 2000 rpm at 75mph.

4.10 is 1800 rpm at 75 mph.

i ran it with the .71, my mistake. Yes, for your hwy use and avg speed 4.56 made the most sense. Too bad 4.27 don't exist they would be ideal for many.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 04, 2016, 01:52:25 PM
I think it will be fine as I rarely am in that much of a hurry unless I am on 5 going n/s from so cal. (next weekend by the way) Trying my rebuilt blazer on this trip.

The higher ratios will give it more splits and help with towing for sure. I have found the max is happier with a little heavier foot, even seeing better mpg.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on January 04, 2016, 02:19:07 PM
Yeah I don't envy your fwy time. Spent 2.5hrs from John wayne to west hollywood and again on the way back. i had planned on dropping off the wife and kids and making an attempt to contact/meet up with some of my forum brethren while i was down there, but the 5hr unexpected delay shot that plan right out the window. Now that we've DOT'd up RN's thread some I feel like I'm back home;-)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 04, 2016, 02:43:55 PM
Thats normal LA traffic, even on weekends.

I lived there when it was Orange county airport and had a cool museum. Orange groves for miles when I lived near El Toro and MCAS (H).

I am going to Ontario Friday, getting there just before noon.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 04, 2016, 07:46:01 PM
LoL @ the anti- Norm build  ;D

I will have you know yesterday I got some used wiper blades at the local Napa. Someone left them in the garbage can out front...perfectly good.

When is your target date for completion?

Norm!  Thanks for making an appearance in my thread.  I love your pithy comments and practicality. 

I have tracking numbers on the steering components and steering box so as soon as I get those in hand it should be a solid weekend of work, maybe two. 

Then I have to tackle the waterpump which is leaking faster than an Edward Snowden NSA file....  I'm not looking forward to that.  The 260 lb/ft on the balancer tells me I'm in for a fight.

Then after that I have all new OEM headlight fixtures and park lamp fixtures to install.

Probably have to buy 35s and sell the 37s

Then I have a few niggling things in the interior like replacing a door panel because the handle mount is broken and then the power mirror switch while that is out and maybe the fog lamp switch

Oh and then I want to change the exhaust to a 5 inch over the axle and out the back system with a muffler to replace the open pipe out the side

I'll be done before the end of 2016....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 05, 2016, 07:20:04 AM
I would personally be more afraid of the door panel repairs than the water pump. Those things are the persona of evil on earth.

I might be able to fit those used 37's on my project with some creative plasma art. Reality is, the shipping alone would be more than my next years budget for the project which I set at $55.00 So I imagine new used rubber is out.

Are you going to make your own exhaust or buy a aftermarket kit? I have had trouble even buying 4" bends in this area for some reason.

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 05, 2016, 07:43:43 AM
I think you know the answer to that....of course I'm going to buy a kit.  I can find 4 inch bends but 5 inch is really hard and buy the time I get it all, its not that much cheaper than a pre fabbed kit.

I've had good luck with the door panels on these trucks, I've had them on and off of this one and my original gasser many times.  I installed ashpalt backed foil sound insulation on the back doors a couple years ago and I still have a big roll so I plan on doing the fronts while they are off.

I'm thinking of going with an XL rated tire instead of E.  These 37s in E rating ride like they are made out of stone, even aired down to 40psi.  I think XL will still get me all the GVWR the truck is rated for and should be a little more supple.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 05, 2016, 08:12:00 AM
Will you have enough height left to "try" the 37" rubber you have and see if your new suspension will ride better?

My wife's power wagon thingy has D rated BFG's. They do fine until you toss the trailer on it, then it gets "wiggly" but BFG's are known for their flimsy sidewalls also. It does ride ok I suppose.

I'd probably buy a kit for the exhaust also if they are just as economical as a home built. I do find however I seldom like the tail pipe placement of most kits. Hopefully the Duramax aftermarket is better than the Dodge kits.


Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 05, 2016, 08:38:02 AM
I think I can "try" it more or less in a straight line.  Don't think I can turn fully.  The Toyos seem to have a really hard sidewall.  Shame since I only have about 10K miles on them and at the rate they have been wearing they would last 80K easily.  Of course it's mainly been a mall crawler or pavement princess.  The Pro Flo kit I bought for my dually seems to work well and be positioned well.  I'm hopeful that they did as good a job on the old body style
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 05, 2016, 11:05:26 AM
I have 35 coopers on mine with about 3 inches lift and the fender mod. They still rub just a tad on the front rear fenders when I hit a good bump.

I think a 4 inch lift would do fine with the fender mod. I haven't towed with the cooper yet. But the toyos were not happy.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 05, 2016, 08:41:24 PM
Guess what showed up today?


(http://a68.tinypic.com/2iigb9k.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Atkinsmatt on January 05, 2016, 09:14:52 PM
Looks like a steering box.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 05, 2016, 09:32:34 PM
Channeling my inner Don..."give that man a gold star!"

RedHead.  Waiting on the full Kryptonite set up to show up Friday.  Ready to get it done!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 05, 2016, 10:25:13 PM
Red cover an' all!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 05, 2016, 10:46:08 PM
and the cool thing is I took my #1 guy out for a strategy session today over some of KYs finest to discuss 2016 goals.  I learned that he has a good buddy that owns a powder coating shop.....that may come in handy.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 06, 2016, 04:08:45 AM
I like anything but frames powder coated. Looks cool but does not show cracks.

Like the new SB, I have to do something. rebuilt the entire front end on the blazer and still have to much free play, but thats for another thread,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 06, 2016, 06:55:59 AM
I admit, I have nothing but admiration for the color matching steering box  ;D

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 06, 2016, 07:11:12 AM
I think it was subliminal advertising targeted at me.....hard.....to ....resist.....anything.....red....

Kinda like a crow picking up shiny piece on the ground....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 06, 2016, 08:07:15 AM
I admit I also have a weakness, in my case it's white Dodge trucks.....So did you order new bolts for the steering box? Or are you going to reuse the already likely perfectly good ones?



Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 06, 2016, 09:37:57 AM
Dumb question but are you reusing the pitman arm from the old box? Reason I ask is when I swapped boxes on my rubicon to a hydraulic assist unit the pitman arm screwed up my time table. Took me a couple days to get it free from old box. Took heat, pressure & some good penetrating oil to finally get it to come loose. Oh & a couple pullers were sacrificed in the process......
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 06, 2016, 12:24:40 PM
Re using the old bolts in a rare tip of the hat to Koot. :-). I have all new steering on the way in the form of a full Kryptonite Stage III kit. If I have any trouble at all from the pitman I'll send the core back with it attached and let them deal with it.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 06, 2016, 12:36:11 PM
That front end might run the same as an sas but ride better.
Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 07, 2016, 06:58:36 AM
Well had to stop by the trust ole Sears and pick these up. Needed an 18mm line wrench to get the PS lines off the box. Let's hope the PB blaster has done its thing by this weekend .  (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/07/6eb15bdc7d27f4895acf3cb7ec0a9709.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on January 07, 2016, 09:37:32 AM
If not, try some of this, if you can find it:



Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bob Smith on January 07, 2016, 11:33:59 AM
Last Koril I bought was from a NAPA store. I had to ask for it, they pulled it out from behind the counter. It is good stuff for sure
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 07, 2016, 11:46:25 AM
I have just switched to PB as WD never really did it. PB is doing great, this is better?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on January 07, 2016, 12:02:36 PM
I have just switched to PB as WD never really did it. PB is doing great, this is better?

There is Nothing better. It will loosen stuff (if allowed to soak for a while) normally reserved for a torch.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 07, 2016, 05:43:00 PM
Gun stores have it too.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 07, 2016, 09:05:11 PM
I have heard of it, just never really tried it. It even worked on the muffler flange bolts on the blazer!

Trying it on glow plug #5 now. At least getting to it is easy enough.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 08, 2016, 07:21:40 AM
More pieces trickling in. These are the pieces that perplex me most. 8 small pieces and $32(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/08/0d10f0a6d936c19b861f2c89bb1e4441.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 10, 2016, 07:46:56 AM
So the steering kit showed up. It's time to get to work.

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/10/5904977b7434296d93074639a7a3a9a4.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/10/81b46187afdffe5f01e4122552a37b5f.jpg)

DMax Store Kryptonite Stage III. With Deathgrip Idler, and Cognito PISK

Ordered new Russell SS brake lines to replace the 12 inch longer ones that are on it now. Summit Racing had the best deal on the 5 line set.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 10, 2016, 09:45:10 AM
Looks like a decent upgrade to the OEM steering on those. I am still amazed at how small the TRE's are, it's no wonder they struggle.

It's -4F here, I doubt I will get a lot done today. Hopefully you have better luck.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 10, 2016, 09:54:33 AM
Wow. That's cold. These are beefy. They've got an unconditional warranty for life. That centerlink alone weighs about 30 lbs.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 10, 2016, 11:01:37 AM
What was the total cost on the kit? List price I mean


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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 10, 2016, 12:12:15 PM
I think with all the options it was $1598


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 10, 2016, 01:11:29 PM
I really enjoy the dmax store and working with them guys


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on January 10, 2016, 01:25:41 PM
Nice pile of parts you got there


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 10, 2016, 09:12:17 PM
Slow progress today.  Steering box changed out. Idler support and idler arm changed out. Lift brackets, front diff, and LCAs installed.


(http://a64.tinypic.com/qqy6mc.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/25819xs.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/2dgt2tx.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/oggpkg.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/dqnw5.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on January 11, 2016, 12:02:41 PM
Just look at the difference on that idler... HUGE improvement.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 11, 2016, 03:24:59 PM
Made a little more progress today got the compression stretch mounted after having to grind lose the last lift kit mounts that the knucklehead welded on. Some people should not be allowed to touch a welder. The welds were so bad they were gloppy all over the place. Took me an hour with a cut off wheel to break them loose and then I had to clean up the crossmember. Now I just have to make the final decision regarding the torsion bars and whether or not to replace them and if so with what  weight rating
(http://a68.tinypic.com/nva5gj.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/33zfn85.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/2r2vmae.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/b9ghv4.jpg)

Can anyone tell what the weight rating is on these bars?


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on January 11, 2016, 04:09:05 PM
Fixed your links for ya boss
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 11, 2016, 04:48:43 PM
Thanks. Was driving.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 11, 2016, 07:23:07 PM
I agree, quite a difference on the beef of the actual idler. But still looks like the actual TRE is the same basic size as stock.

We used to use Duramax on the farm because Chevy had the best purchase option. We usually averaged a front end rebuild every 25K with OEM Chevy parts. The amount of broken CV's and resulting ring and pinion failures and such was what prompted us to stop using the Chevy's even when leased, as they were just not up to daily gravel/dirt road use in farm/ranch conditions.

I was reading somewhere back a few years ago that the Incognito control arms helped with some issues but could move/travel past the point of failure for the CV joints. Not sure if that's been resolved, but that would worry me.

I am interested to see how this all pans out, IFS is something I have never spent much time working with unless you count VW/Porsche Rear axles LoL





Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 11, 2016, 08:58:16 PM
The UCA arms do really help both with travel and allignment. They are not overpriced either. The idler does look stout, but HD on the wrong end?

As for the CVs, never had an issue and hear of little even with high HP setups.

I do go through hubs though and the TR suck, even the Cognitos. I went stock with sleeves. The TR ends are at a bad angle if lifted at all. The lift knuckle flips the mount over that cleans up the angle.

Norm, why am not surprised you mess with Porsche axles,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 11, 2016, 09:00:14 PM
GM Torsion bar codes;

http://www.gmfullsize.com/tech/torsion401.html
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 11, 2016, 11:33:33 PM
OK, so I figured out that the bars are the GL Bars, 15528966 and 15528965

Thanks JR.  I've been looking at the same chart, but just figured out that the last 3 digits were what were stamped on the end.

I ordered them, new bump stops, a new sway bar, mounts and bushings, a new boot for the front drive shaft yoke, and brake pads.

That about rounds out the rest of the parts.

Should be able to get this thing rolling in a week or two, then it will be on to the waterpump...

Koot, Since most of mine spend their time on the pavement, I've never had to test your experience.  Ball joints and idler arms seem to be the only weak spots and they have lasted about 75-100K on mine that werent lifted.  The hub bearings are a known problem too.

Lifted trucks are just tougher on stuff.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on January 11, 2016, 11:51:53 PM
Noob question here... What is the function of the idler arm?


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on January 11, 2016, 11:57:52 PM
It's the mate for the pitman arm, but on the passenger side of the center link. Basically holds the center link up/in place on the pass side, where the pitman does that on the d/s by way of the steering box.

Make sense?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on January 12, 2016, 12:04:46 AM
Ahh ok, thanks. Probably could have googled that, but then you guys would be bored


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 14, 2016, 08:16:46 PM
(http://constructionmanuals.tpub.com/14273/img/14273_309_2.jpg)
So the idler supports the other end of the centerlink which allows the tie rods to move in unison when the pitman(steering) is moved by the gear box
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on January 14, 2016, 08:51:41 PM
Got it. Kind of a funky name for the part and its function


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on January 15, 2016, 10:42:40 AM
It's a passive steering component that sits "idly" until moved by the pittman arm and steering box.
Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 16, 2016, 08:52:02 PM
Ok. New torsion bars came in late Friday. They are the GL 8782 lb bars. Worked on it today. Got the torsion bar crossmember mounted, new timken hubs installed in the new knuckles, new upper control arms and new cam bolts installed, Kryptonite steering linkage , torsion bars installed, CV shafts, and got the brakes back on for test fitting the wheels.

(http://a64.tinypic.com/281v3p3.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/168cx90.jpg)
(http://a65.tinypic.com/14cxumq.jpg)


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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 16, 2016, 08:58:22 PM
More pics



(http://a66.tinypic.com/25jfomp.jpg)
(http://a64.tinypic.com/15hifz6.jpg)(http://a64.tinypic.com/347v5a9.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/2ldhnol.jpg)
(http://a64.tinypic.com/k99zpd.jpg)
(http://a64.tinypic.com/2d9yz9y.jpg)

 I still have to put new brake lines on, torque a few fasteners , put my IC pipe back on, put the inner fender back on, bleed steering system, rough adjust the steering, get lower shock mounts, install sway bar and end links, and adjust the torsion bars. The way it sits now is with negative CV angles. The torsion adjuster bolts are not installed.



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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: BobbyB on January 16, 2016, 09:59:55 PM
I think it looks better now than it did before. But, I've never really been a fan of excessive lifts.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 16, 2016, 10:11:14 PM
I agree with Bobby, that truck looks like it could now be used for something besides getting stuck in shopping mall landscaping...... ::)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: BobbyB on January 16, 2016, 10:13:22 PM
I agree with Bobby, that truck looks like it could now be used for something besides getting stuck in shopping mall landscaping...... ::)

Yup. Personal opinion anything past 4-6" is a waste, as you won't be lifting anything in the bed.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 16, 2016, 10:17:15 PM
That's the plan. It's 9 inches lower in the front than before. It will come up about 2-3 inches when I get the torsion bar adjuster bolts in it. Looks like I will need new tires and wheels as well to get the fit right. I'm looking forward to seeing it finished and I'm going to bet it rides much better.
Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 16, 2016, 10:23:07 PM
Measurements compared to those on page 3

(http://a67.tinypic.com/2labyie.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/hv9i0o.jpg)
(http://a64.tinypic.com/2nc1htk.jpg)

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Title: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 16, 2016, 11:11:50 PM
I even think those tire and wheels will work to.  Large fender mod and your in business


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 17, 2016, 01:34:29 AM
Sure looks good. I really have to get to mine.

That steering looks beefy for sure. Does it have anything like the cognito upgrades to keep the crossover from twisting?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 17, 2016, 07:40:40 AM
Thanks JR,  it is the straight centerlink from Kryptonite.  Should not roll. It came with the cognito PISK, but given how beefy this is and how I plan to use it I probably won't use it.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on January 17, 2016, 10:47:28 AM
Looks much better my friend...except for the wheels. The word I would use to describe that offset? Redunkulous.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 17, 2016, 11:56:50 AM
I found those classic style Pro-Comp wheels with the 4.75 BS to fit about right. Will tuck a bunch more inside (Without knowing your modified front track).
I was thinking of trading out wheels with the coming tire change, but I decided to just keep the wheels, however coat them with something...(Concrete?? Asphalt??)

Looks much better and sturdier TRN! Good workmanship!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 17, 2016, 12:30:31 PM
No matter how stout the centerlink is, it will roll in a typical GM way. Use the kit.

When I was looking for my lift, I found a few that only pushed the front wheels out 1/4-1/2, hence I got the Cognito kit.

I think a tad wide in the front is fine as it narrows, the rear I like flush. 
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 19, 2016, 09:16:25 PM
So latest update.  Torqued all the steering linkage and tried to rough the camber. Adjusted the torsion bars to mimick the CV angles of my bone stock LML, which brought the hub to fender measurement to 29 and gave me about 2 inches of rake similar to a factory truck. I don't want Cali lean when I load it down.

Still have to bleed the air from the new steering box and install the new brakelines and flush and bleed the system.  Also have to install the bump stops and other stuff.  Anyone guess what is in the wrapped package?  Thats the new sway bar.  Hard to tell that...

I also disassembled the front shaft and removed all the paint and grease.  Will get it primed and painted and new joints installed (thanks Tate!) and install the new shaft to transfer case boot

It looks more and more like new wheels and tires....so...I measured wheels and they are 10 inch wide with 4.24 back space. Found some Mayhem wheels I like. That are 20x9 with 5.7 backspace. Thinking 11.5 inch wide 35 inch tall tires. Maybe nitto terra grapplers. That along with 1.5 inch Fred Goeske spacers in back should make it respectable again.


(http://a64.tinypic.com/24uxbva.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/2z82hdc.jpg)
(http://a67.tinypic.com/6gevzr.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/3355zkx.jpg)

(http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NTAwWDUwMA==/z/sjYAAOSwFqJWjf3i/$_35.JPG?set_id=8800005007)
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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 19, 2016, 09:56:24 PM
      For the record that front fender measurement is a 7 inch reduction from the old lift.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 19, 2016, 11:58:09 PM
Is that 29 from the ground?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on January 20, 2016, 01:40:39 AM

Is that 29 from the ground?

Hub to fender he said
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on January 20, 2016, 09:20:27 AM
The word I would use to describe that offset? Redunkulous.
I think the English language has a new word.

Looks good RN. Never really looked that closely to 'real' pictures of the Kryptonite stuff. Some serious parts there.

I'm in the garage currently getting ball joints looked at. Been lucky with tie rods so far, but may need to look at this for next time round. I know it's a matter of time before it all needs done again. Only once complete so far, so I'll be due again one of these days.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cudakidd53 on January 20, 2016, 10:28:21 AM
Like the new wheel choice........reminds me of the Bat-mobile!  8)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 20, 2016, 10:39:59 AM

Is that 29 from the ground?

Hub to fender he said

got it  ::)

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 20, 2016, 10:43:05 AM
Can we get a side view of the whole vehicle?

You may be on to the optimum setup of versatility vs off-road ability. Not too tall, but out of the Wait-a-minute stumps and things
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 20, 2016, 08:36:44 PM
The word I would use to describe that offset? Redunkulous.
I think the English language has a new word.

Looks good RN. Never really looked that closely to 'real' pictures of the Kryptonite stuff. Some serious parts there.

I'm in the garage currently getting ball joints looked at. Been lucky with tie rods so far, but may need to look at this for next time round. I know it's a matter of time before it all needs done again. Only once complete so far, so I'll be due again one of these days.

I would suggest redneckulous as an alternate spelling

Like the new wheel choice........reminds me of the Bat-mobile!  8)

Oh wow.  Never saw that before.  You are right. 

Can we get a side view of the whole vehicle?

You may be on to the optimum setup of versatility vs off-road ability. Not too tall, but out of the Wait-a-minute stumps and things

Its coming, be patient.  You'll have a full picture before the Square D drives down the road on its own power.... Sorry couldn't resist.

I hope to be able to pull it out of the shop this weekend for a few pics.  Hope to get the swaybar, bumptstops, front drive shaft, brake lines and bleeding the steering and brakes done.  That would leave the waterpump and new wheels and tires to be complete.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 20, 2016, 10:55:23 PM
Rog
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on January 20, 2016, 11:57:47 PM
I'd accept the alternate spelling!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 21, 2016, 02:18:59 AM
Whats SD?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on January 21, 2016, 09:29:16 AM
I think it's this JR:     D^2
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on January 21, 2016, 03:50:03 PM
Whats SD?

Ohhh. Shots fired...again!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 21, 2016, 04:02:34 PM
Been to quiet around here, including me.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cudakidd53 on January 21, 2016, 04:09:28 PM
Give Don a rest, he's buying bread, fuel, TP, beef sticks........He's in the path of "Snowmagedon" so he's stocking up! 

Cant wait to see Manhattan struggle under 2 feet of snow, Obama's motorcade couldn't drive with a dusting, so thinking this might keep him still for a few days with his phone, pen.......what could possibly go wrong!  Someone should send him a copy of "13 Hours" to help him pass the time!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 21, 2016, 05:09:32 PM
Maybe his date for the movie could be Hillary,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 21, 2016, 10:19:02 PM
When the hell did 2 feet of snow stop the world. We used to get that in Utah on the regular and we never had snow days or car issues.     


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 21, 2016, 10:30:58 PM
Maybe his date for the movie could be Hillary,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Don't let Ken know he'll be jealous.....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Atkinsmatt on January 21, 2016, 10:46:50 PM
Snowed in with crazy uncle Joe.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 21, 2016, 10:52:11 PM
Snowed in with crazy uncle Joe.

Well at least maybe the snow will keep him from skinny dipping in the pool for awhile........ ::)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 22, 2016, 01:55:31 AM
I remember driving to Minn from Ca for Christmas once and it was a whiteout just past Salt lake with 6-8 inches on the road the rest of the way. driving my old 77 GM 1500 and only got passed by 2 cars. One was a big old tank with what I think was front wheel drive (Olds?) and a little sprts car that went into the ditch right after it passed me. Troopers just parked and watched the fun for much of the trip. 2100 miles in 40 hours solo I was a little younger,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cudakidd53 on January 22, 2016, 09:19:23 AM
I remember driving to Minn from Ca for Christmas once and it was a whiteout just past Salt lake with 6-8 inches on the road the rest of the way. driving my old 77 GM 1500 and only got passed by 2 cars. One was a big old tank with what I think was front wheel drive (Olds?) and a little sprts car that went into the ditch right after it passed me. Troopers just parked and watched the fun for much of the trip. 2100 miles in 40 hours solo I was a little younger,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

That explains why you have big knuckles.......grip the wheel that hard for that long and permanent calcification sets in........ ;)  I remember driving in the snow around So. IL heading to MO. with my father driving one of the first GM Diesel P/U in a 1500 2WD, pulling a open car trailer (empty) and doing a 360 into the right ditch and out and on down the road without stopping......he has sausage hands and knuckles too....so remember the lasting effects aren't just in the BVD's!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 22, 2016, 10:43:32 AM
Give Don a rest, he's buying bread, fuel, TP, beef sticks........He's in the path of "Snowmagedon" so he's stocking up! 

Cant wait to see Manhattan struggle under 2 feet of snow, Obama's motorcade couldn't drive with a dusting, so thinking this might keep him still for a few days with his phone, pen.......what could possibly go wrong!  Someone should send him a copy of "13 Hours" to help him pass the time!
Actually I am going to Cosco to pick up some crab meat...I'm cooking for friends Saturday night!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 22, 2016, 11:37:22 AM
Our plans for Sat night are to shoot some Coyotes with the .458 for science.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 22, 2016, 11:51:37 AM
ROTFL Koot!  Like my buddy who shot a turkey with a 375H&H....beak and feet

I have a 460Wby Mag but I only take it out of the safe when I need to scare myself,  IIRC 115 grains of powder behind a 400gn Barnes pushing 2700fps.  No muzzle brake.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 22, 2016, 12:01:15 PM
Hunting dear awhile back and chipmunk was about 20ft away from my cover doing his alert call for about 20 min. He met Mr. 7mm,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 22, 2016, 01:42:17 PM
ROTFL Koot!  Like my buddy who shot a turkey with a 375H&H....beak and feet

I have a 460Wby Mag but I only take it out of the sage when I need to scare myself,  IIRC 115 grains of powder behind a 400gn Barnes pushing 2700fps.  No muzzle break.
Don't to affix your Artillery Corps insignia to your collar before pulling the lanyard on that thing...oh, perhaps a heads up to both the emergency room and your chiropractor as well!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on January 22, 2016, 03:39:56 PM
good lord RN, who certified you to shoot that big ol arty piece?!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 23, 2016, 11:05:24 AM
Me personally, I consider a .375H&H as a fine over all caliber for most any N American game from a squirrel to a grizzly. You can load a wide variety of projectile weights for almost any requirement. And because in Texas they say everything is bigger... I can see why TRN needs the artillery piece just in case.

I got your back TRN LoL

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 23, 2016, 12:07:41 PM
Thanks Koot.

I have a dream of hunting Cape buffalo in Africa one day. I found this rifle new in the box still covered in a cosmoline type substance though it was 12 years old. Got a smokin deal.


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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 23, 2016, 12:15:39 PM
It now has a total of ten rounds down it.

So back to the truck. Headed to the weekend place and stopped by the paint supply place and picked up POR15.  Stopped by the wrecking yard and picked up factory shock brackets brake line and ABS sensor wire brackets. 
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/23/f5544465af3dd44c4d5fd0acd685b226.jpg)

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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 23, 2016, 12:45:26 PM
Thanks Koot.

I have a dream of hunting Cape buffalo in Africa one day. I found this rifle new in the box still covered in a cosmoline type substance though it was 12 years old. Got a smokin deal.


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I can hook you up!

Have a Sergeant Major buddy living there. He always talks about eating proper meat!

Lives in J-Berg if you ever want to go there
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on January 23, 2016, 06:00:57 PM
Me personally, I consider a .375H&H as a fine over all caliber for most any N American game from a squirrel to a grizzly.

I got your back TRN LoL
I'm of you guys side as well. Nothin like a good arty piece. But dang, .375 on squirrel...red mist?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 23, 2016, 07:18:53 PM
Oh the land of little setbacks. So I'm installing the bump stops. No 10mm nuts. Installing the sway bar. No 10mm bolts. Installing the factory lower shock mounts. I have all the bolts but one of the threaded holes in the lower a arm has a twisted off bolt in it. So I drill and use a screw extractor. Break one and go to the next size up. Break that one too. So I spend some time priming the front drive shaft getting it ready for paint and then make the 30 mile drive into town to get bolts and such.

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/23/c217e562933bc8c835c82a78d7cf9996.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 23, 2016, 07:47:56 PM
Well while I'm in town

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/23/adcf380512c4db0314bb153bbb27e26e.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on January 23, 2016, 08:18:00 PM
Nothin chases some wings like an ice cold beer.

Good work


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 23, 2016, 08:49:39 PM
Hey hard work always deserves wings and a nice cold drink....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 24, 2016, 01:06:15 PM
This ones for you Don. Rolling under its own power.  Had to remove the front bumper to be able to turn the wheel more than about 15 degrees.   Gonna throw it on the trailer and bring it back to Houston to test fit some new wheels and tires.

(http://a64.tinypic.com/357hfh4.jpg)
(http://a65.tinypic.com/2s868o7.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/5uqow5.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/11twxeu.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/wtt74l.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/2rpxwf4.jpg)
(http://a65.tinypic.com/2v2v3tc.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 24, 2016, 01:41:01 PM
I like the way it is, think it just needs fender & bumper mods.....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on January 24, 2016, 02:10:05 PM
nice
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 24, 2016, 03:20:55 PM
That dog'll hunt!

Very nice work there RN

Too bad you aren't local, we could start building up some custom bumper!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 24, 2016, 04:45:08 PM
Looks good, bumper build!!!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 24, 2016, 07:32:41 PM
MOVE makes some nice bumper kits.  Not many make bumpers for the 2001.  Demand curve is way past.  $450 for a complete weld it yourself kit.  I'm going to try to keep the factory bumper.  I really like the factory look of the 2001-2002HDs.

Couple of things.  Lord blessed me in a small way today.  That shock bracket bolt hole in the lower control arm that had a bolt broken in it and non of the easy outs i had worked.  I got the drill exactly centered and was able to drill with successively larger bits until there was almost no bolt left.  Then took my 10mmx1.5 tap and began working it in from the bottom of the A arm and the rest of the bolt came out as though it where a heli-coil, leaving the original threads 90% undamaged so that I did not have to drill and tap for a larger size.

Second, the truck won't fit on my trailer so I was not able to bring it home.  I'll either borrow or rent a trailer or set the toe in about 1/8 inch next week and drive it back.  Camber is a bit off but it should be enough to get me home.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 28, 2016, 04:17:44 PM
New wheels and tires ordered today and appointment made for alignment. 


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on January 28, 2016, 04:30:15 PM
I like pie.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 28, 2016, 04:46:54 PM
Rofl. Good one.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on January 28, 2016, 09:31:50 PM
I like pie.

as long as we don't find you doing a Jim Levenstein to the pie, we will leave you alone........;D ;D
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on January 28, 2016, 10:26:48 PM

as long as we don't find you doing a Jim Levenstein to the pie, we will leave you alone........;D ;D

:P
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 29, 2016, 09:58:15 AM
Who's he?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on January 29, 2016, 09:59:16 AM
Nate's being dirty...American Pie dude.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bear9350 on January 29, 2016, 10:25:58 AM
I've built a few bumpers for the 01/02 Chevs.  I don't think I have any pics on my website but I know I have a few around some place.  I wouldn't be able to match there pricing to ship you any steel but if you have access to somebody with a laser (a cnc plasma would work of too) I wouldn't mind emailing you the .dxf file for one.  It would cut all the pieces you would need.  You would then have to fit them together like a puzzle.  It is a lot of welding and grinding but they turn out pretty good.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: BobbyB on January 29, 2016, 10:28:33 AM
I like how the Bus looks now, well when the bumper is re-attached.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 29, 2016, 05:11:39 PM
Thanks Bear. I'd like to take you up on that for a future enhancement.

Bobby, headed to rough align it. Wheels and tires and real alignment tomorrow.  Exhaust ordered.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on January 29, 2016, 06:17:35 PM
Nate's being dirty...American Pie dude.

trying to throw me under the bus...............   :o  :P
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 29, 2016, 06:37:02 PM
Now that's funny


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on January 29, 2016, 06:53:26 PM
..."lord I apologize, please be with them starving pygmies down in new guinea Amen"
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 29, 2016, 08:25:40 PM
Got the alignment done. Well as much as you can do with a tape measure on MTs by yourself.  Also installed new park and headlight lenses. 

before
(http://a64.tinypic.com/b90et.jpg)
after
(http://a68.tinypic.com/18lzyf.jpg)
both done
(http://a66.tinypic.com/334i3hy.jpg)
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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on January 29, 2016, 08:52:33 PM
looks good. aren't those the 2 pins and the whole thing comes out ones?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 29, 2016, 08:54:29 PM
yes they are.  Whoever designed the NBS headlights and their attachments should be shot
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on January 29, 2016, 08:58:51 PM
Heh yeah, agreed.

Doesn't get any easier than the OBS ones...
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 29, 2016, 09:05:39 PM
TRN, you made some really good choices w/ this rebuild. Very nice....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 29, 2016, 09:30:09 PM
Thank you sir.  Let's hope my wheel/tire choice turns out well.  We will know tomorrow.

Then its on to install the 5 inch Flo Pro exhaust and flowmaster hushpower muffler,the same muffler that's on my LML.

Then a pinned waterpump, new hoses and new t stats.

Then POR the calipers red, and change the pads and brake lines.

Then drive it!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 30, 2016, 12:28:46 AM
Those are better than the S10. Those use a plastic clip vs a metal pin.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 30, 2016, 08:57:16 AM
Headed back to Houston for wheels and tires. (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/30/9bf33349fc0789808141e8abd0eb01ca.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 30, 2016, 11:00:13 AM
Wheels are in. About to test fit (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/30/0de63ac35a859d6483bb6b68411b62e4.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on January 30, 2016, 12:20:28 PM
I thought the chrome parts were red, or does that happen later?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 30, 2016, 01:25:28 PM
Will those wheels suck the in a little? Looks great otherwise!

Now time for bumpers,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 30, 2016, 02:03:51 PM
Yes. 5.75 backspace. 9 inch wide.  Others were 4.25 backspace and 10 inch wide. Will need 1 1/2 spacers in the back. (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/30/81a6508489fc8607a74dca525d4e8cc7.jpg)

On the alignment rack. Need to go get new lugs. The old ones stick out a tad too far for the cap to cover.


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Title: The Bus
Post by: wyorunner on January 30, 2016, 02:09:20 PM
Yes. 5.75 backspace. 9 inch wide.  Others were 4.25 backspace and 10 inch wide. Will need 1 1/2 spacers in the back. (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/30/81a6508489fc8607a74dca525d4e8cc7.jpg)

On the alignment rack. Need to go get new lugs. The old ones stick out a tad too far for the cap to cover.


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TRN,

How did you go from chrome on the rims to red? Is it a replaceable insert or did you have them powdered before install? Looks good on your truck though!

After looking closer it appears they are replaceable, if you covered this further back in the thread my apologies, I have been following but very well could have missed it.




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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 30, 2016, 06:11:58 PM
Bumper on and alignment complete.  Rides and drives like a brand new truck.  Went to NAPA and bought factory lugs but I need a the wall socket so I don't have the center caps on yet(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/30/33a98a7b0f1915b5f863d12b756326c2.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 30, 2016, 06:27:22 PM
I like it but it needs real bumpers.

The idea of track bars sound better all the time to me, I like those.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on January 30, 2016, 10:18:35 PM
Looks much better down on earth. Good job.

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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 31, 2016, 12:52:18 AM
Tex I really liked your monster bus, I however don't blame you for bringing it back to practicality.  It looks greAt with the wheel tire combo lift size.   


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bear9350 on January 31, 2016, 02:52:12 PM
I like the stance.  Lifted and looks good but still practical.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 01, 2016, 05:46:04 PM
Finally got some open end spline lugs and got the center caps installed. Needs a bath now.

Exhaust , muffler, and water pump on the way. Family loves the wheels so at least I made one good decision.

(http://a66.tinypic.com/2lc18ie.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 03, 2016, 07:50:18 AM
Danville pinned water pump should be here thursday...oh joy.  Not really looking forward to that job.

Just ordered some Stahl 2.5inch spacers for the rear to get the track close to the front.

Got legal yesterday.  Got it inspected and registered for the first time in a while.

Had a clunk in the driveline and upon inspection, noted that I lost a nut on my trac bars and the bolt was almost out of the rear attachment point. DOH!

getting closer to being a DD

Meanwhile. the LML is asleep in the shop...ssshhhhhh.

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 03, 2016, 07:30:02 PM
First bath. Not bad for a 15 year old truck.


(http://a68.tinypic.com/8vt637.jpg)
(http://a67.tinypic.com/9iha13.jpg)

And this showed up today.
(http://a63.tinypic.com/9blvo4.jpg)

and I ordered Stahl 2.5 inch spacers for the rear.

And got a lecture from the wife on the tab for this build.....Can't wait till she sees next month's statement....

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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on February 03, 2016, 08:28:35 PM
Are those tires for auto crossing?  8)
Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 03, 2016, 08:31:12 PM
LOL.  Looks like it compared to the MTs.  They are a compromise tread....rides good on the highway, though.

Second doorbell ring today.... the muffler has arrived.  These 5 inch exhausts are massive.

I have a decent sized fist and I can't touch both side of the pipe. 

JR, on the other hand, might get his paw stuck....

(http://a64.tinypic.com/f4pqp4.jpg)
(http://a64.tinypic.com/2zhieiw.jpg)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on February 03, 2016, 08:50:47 PM
Its really difficult to take a picture of your hand while holding a tape measure....

(http://i.imgur.com/pfy916U.jpg)

Notice the cool background   8)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 03, 2016, 09:20:38 PM
Amazing how these threads get so sidetracked!

But, heck I stuck my hand in my exhaust pipe, just to check, and confirmed the inside is still a sooty black mess!   >:(
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on February 05, 2016, 08:48:48 AM
....must be talking about Cmax. :)

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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 05, 2016, 09:40:59 AM
....must be talking about Cmax. :)

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Could have been Sarge!!!!!!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on February 05, 2016, 09:51:35 AM
Touche!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 05, 2016, 10:19:13 AM
(But it was the chevy)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 05, 2016, 06:43:06 PM
Question for the mensus....

Can a plasma cutter be used on a chrome bumper and how much discoloration around the edges of the cut might one expect?  Thinking of a pair of rigid dually lights in the bumper for back up lights.  Getting old and I like lots of light, especially since this old rattle trap don't have no stinking back up camera
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on February 05, 2016, 07:03:10 PM
Sure you can, but you will get exposure under the chrome and it will oxidize and start flaking off. discoloration I would imagine would be pronounced.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on February 05, 2016, 07:53:27 PM
This is what I did, using silicone to keep moisture from getting under the chrome. It worked for 3 years before I built the new bumper.

http://www.duramaxforum.com/forum/how-tos-diy-write-ups/137643-super-backup-lights.html
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 06, 2016, 09:19:54 PM
Well started to install the exhaust and realized that the kit they sent was for a 2015.5. It has a 3 bolt flange instead of the V band. So that didn't get done.  Some other stuff showed up today. OEM third brake light. OEM DRL sockets, LEDs and new license plate lights. (http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/02/06/4a2ddbb30e2ed04d5000b301c66e4c92.jpg)

Here is the old light.

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/02/06/25de455d4aa0d974898389a616645217.jpg)

This is stating to go beyond lowering the truck to almost an oil change.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 06, 2016, 10:20:17 PM
Don't get into a fluid change here!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on February 06, 2016, 10:46:21 PM
Starting to see quite a few similarities in Don & TRN....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on February 06, 2016, 11:51:25 PM
Put tape over the bumper and cut with a hole saw, then a sawsall. Little more work, but the Chrome will be fine.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 07, 2016, 07:35:09 PM
Thanks guys, sold school sawing it is. 
Got the license plate lights and LEDs installed along with the third brake light.  Much better.  Waiting on my Diode Dynamics LEDs for the front before replacing the DRL sockets.

Next week when I get back to the weekend place, I'll yank the wheels, pull the brakes, paint the calipers, install the new SS brake lines. Take the rotors to the machine shop for a little cleanup, no more than 3-5 thousandths and get ready to install the new pads.

Hope the spacers and the right exhaust will be here by then. Probably redo the parking brakes while I'm at it.


Alas, then there will nothing standing between me and the waterpump.....not looking forward to it.
Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 20, 2016, 10:24:36 PM
All right. Pulled all the wheels, brakes, calipers and brake lines. Found out why my park brake is weak. Took all the rotors to be freshened.  Although the truck only has 137k on it and the brakes are original and have 50 % left. Since everything else is new I'm replacing the pads with the high dollar OE AC Delco and new parking brake pads. El Tate is hooking me up with all new seals and bearings/races for the rear. Prepped the front calipers for red paint. Replied the longer SS lines with new Russel lines that are shorter. I don't want to touch anything under the truck for the next 100k.

Found some wings and beer while waiting on the rotors.

(http://a68.tinypic.com/350sz13.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/sg0g7t.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/2d796wj.jpg)
(http://a67.tinypic.com/5mxshd.jpg)

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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 20, 2016, 10:28:46 PM
Oh. Also pulled the park light fixture and put diode dynamics LEDs in the drl park/turn along with new AC Delco DRL sockets since they were crispy.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on February 20, 2016, 10:32:57 PM
Well at least no rust with all that lube in there.



 (your guts, and the rotors)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on February 20, 2016, 10:44:12 PM
What is food doing in a build thread??

Amazing how long the OE stuff works on these trucks but what happen to that seal? Were both the same?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 20, 2016, 10:56:35 PM
Who knows. But since one is bad everything is getting replaced.  This is turning into a fluid change. Don style.

Ken we'll see the impact of the intestinal lube in the morning.....


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on February 20, 2016, 11:03:33 PM
Judging by how relatively little oil is there it hasn't been leaking too long. Not sure if you're will be the same as on my 06, but suspect they are, there is a third piece to the OEM seal that needs to come off the axle tube or you'll have fits trying to go back together.

Yes, this is turning into a complete fluid change... :)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 20, 2016, 11:35:52 PM
What is food doing in a build thread??

Amazing how long the OE stuff works on these trucks but what happen to that seal? Were both the same?
Why not? Does anything around here remain un-DOTed??
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 21, 2016, 06:22:48 AM
Sam it was pretty greasy considering I've put 10,000 miles on it in 3 1/2 years.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 21, 2016, 09:32:09 AM
Ok. All tore down.  Got the back brake hose changed out too.

So is this normal or has someone been into it before. The inner sealing surface looks like it has some kind of sleeve/cup on it. Can you tell from this pic? I've never been into one of these rear ends.
(http://a65.tinypic.com/2zrktci.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on February 21, 2016, 11:05:03 AM
that looks to be part of the inner wheel seal. 

tater, where you at?!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on February 21, 2016, 02:14:56 PM
Looks like more of the seal than normal stayed there.
Did it pull right out of the hub?

That sleeve looking piece is the OEM part I was taking about.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on February 21, 2016, 02:49:59 PM
That's part of the seal. We call those "oil bath" seals around here. The seal has it's own race that spins inside the seal. If you don't press the new ones in correctly (dent, crooked, dry) they will leak right away. It is also a good idea to gently file the sharp edge of the spindle, created by the bearing over time (the ledge where the sealing area starts.) If you get crazy slamming the hub back on, it can also damage the seal. On that type, I usually get the hub on part way, slide in the outer bearing to keep the hub perpendicular to the axle, push far enough to start engaging the seal, then use a rubber mallet to drive it home (slowly)....plenty of lube on sealing surface and in the seal itself.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on February 21, 2016, 03:41:32 PM
That must be way they are that pricey. When I was doing truck axles it was just a single seal, oil bath or not.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 21, 2016, 04:58:59 PM
hmmm new territory for me.  May have to break out the GM shop manual
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on February 22, 2016, 08:41:26 AM
"Prepped the front calipers for red paint"  <--------- I no kidding spit out my drink when I read that LoL

 ;D

Those wings look good BTW, ty for a wonderful inspiration for lunch. I am still waiting for my back to heal so I can actually accomplish something useful in the shop...few days yet. But I am envious...

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 22, 2016, 09:50:20 AM
"Prepped the front calipers for red paint"  <--------- I no kidding spit out my drink when I read that LoL

 ;D

Those wings look good BTW, ty for a wonderful inspiration for lunch. I am still waiting for my back to heal so I can actually accomplish something useful in the shop...few days yet. But I am envious...



What happened to your back?

Wife beat you up?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on February 22, 2016, 10:17:21 AM
LoL Don... Nah I just fell on some ice n tweaked it but good. Bruised a few of those bendy things in the center.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 22, 2016, 10:20:34 AM
LoL Don... Nah I just fell on some ice n tweaked it but good. Bruised a few of those bendy things in the center.
Ye-Ouch
I understand!

I'll pray on that for ya

Get better soon!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on February 22, 2016, 10:47:11 AM
And yah...Square D would be fun to mess with. If you don't have it running by the time I restore our crew cab this spring, I will run down there on the shakedown road trip and sort it out while we grill. I figure I can go from a bare frame to drive-able anyway in 60 days or so.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 22, 2016, 11:03:24 AM
And yah...Square D would be fun to mess with. If you don't have it running by the time I restore our crew cab this spring, I will run down there on the shakedown road trip and sort it out while we grill. I figure I can go from a bare frame to drive-able anyway in 60 days or so.
Hey, you and your whole clan are welcome here anytime

And I'm ah grillin for sure

But I'm not buying this junk about you going bare frame to driver in 60! ;-0 Maybe Kay could pull it off, but you: No way!...Cried wolf before...Darned near as bad as me sayin' Square D will be runnin' anytime soon!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on February 22, 2016, 11:11:58 AM
I don't have much choice...I am running out of Dodge pickups to drive LoL That and I got a lecture this past weekend regarding my "lack O focus" regarding said project. As soon as I can bend over and touch my toes again I best get to work on it...it seems Kay feels we need to spend more alone time.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 22, 2016, 12:25:38 PM
Reach your toes??

I'd say, mid calf and go for it!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 22, 2016, 12:26:24 PM
Feels kinda good screwin up everyone else's threads!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on February 22, 2016, 12:39:39 PM
Get better there Norm. I took the kids up to the snow a little last friday and found myself on the ground a couple times.

You're old, and slow, JR, take it easy already! ;-))
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on February 22, 2016, 03:38:55 PM
OK, so now we are going to edit others posts,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

This could get serious!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 22, 2016, 08:57:33 PM
OK, so now we are going to edit others posts,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

This could get serious!!!!!!!!!!!
Sorry, my bad!

Meant to quote, but I modified your post instead...

Can you ever forgive me???
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cudakidd53 on February 22, 2016, 09:22:05 PM
All this talk about people falling on ones back(side) and you haven't posted that choice security footage I texted you, of me Don?!  Now that's restraint!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on February 22, 2016, 09:39:26 PM
OK, so now we are going to edit others posts,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

This could get serious!!!!!!!!!!!
Sorry, my bad!

Meant to quote, but I modified your post instead...

Can you ever forgive me???

If you agree to the last post on your bike,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 22, 2016, 10:25:25 PM

"Prepped the front calipers for red paint"  <--------- I no kidding spit out my drink when I read that LoL

 ;D

Those wings look good BTW, ty for a wonderful inspiration for lunch. I am still waiting for my back to heal so I can actually accomplish something useful in the shop...few days yet. But I am envious...

Sorry to hear you are down. I had that happen a week ago without explanation or warning.  Got down in the floor and rolled the "wheel of death" and in 4 days was back going again.

As for the red paint,  did you expect anything less given the autocross tires I put on it....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on February 23, 2016, 07:33:15 AM
In your situation/locality, those autocross stickies will be whats required in a SHTF scenario. Pavement traction will be where it's at. Not sure I can justify the caliper paint...nothing even rusts down there, so not even sure that's a good reason LoL

Just to show I am hip with the times, I will order some caliper paint for my crew cab....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 23, 2016, 08:58:41 AM
Rofl. I'll buy the paint just to see you do it. I've determined that it's a pain in the arse and not worth it but it's already started.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on February 23, 2016, 10:54:08 AM
painting calipers is in fact one major pain in the backside. hated prepping those, but color matching on a $4k wheel and tire sale was worth the extra work in my managers opinion. 22" rims dawg, gotta match the color of the monte carlo!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: BobbyB on February 23, 2016, 12:11:30 PM
Rofl. I'll buy the paint just to see you do it.

You can't do that. The paint would be new, and he can't use new things on the truck.. or is it the other truck?!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on February 23, 2016, 01:48:06 PM
Bobby, if, and I do mean If, Norm was to actually paint brake calipers on one of his Nods (Nasty old Dodges), I can just 'bout guarantee that he would use paint that was found in the back corner of the barn that his forefathers stashed back in the '20s....you know the kind....when they had 4 different color leftovers (black, black, black, and maybe green) and threw all of them into 1 can for later use.

 When I think of farmer friends like Norm, I picture :
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on February 23, 2016, 02:59:54 PM
Reminds me of some auto paint we were buying for $10 a gallon off of a "friend" when I was a teenager. The catch was it had lead in it. We shot quite a few cars / trucks with it. Had a bit of a shine to it w/o clearing it too. Only came in one color, black.....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 24, 2016, 09:58:10 PM
So a few more parts showed up. I think I need help. It's turning into a fluid change.

(http://a67.tinypic.com/t01839.jpg)

Oh and Tater is hooking me up on new seals and bearing for the rear and I'm waiting on new rear disk pads to show up.

Almost think that since everything else is gonna be new that I should throw a locker and new bearings and gears in it too...




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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 24, 2016, 10:04:13 PM
Tater has answered the call for everyone here I think!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on February 24, 2016, 10:05:22 PM

So a few more parts showed up. I think I need help. It's turning into a fluid change.

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Next thing ya know you'll be fiberglassing plywood for a camper!


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 24, 2016, 10:08:15 PM
Hey! I heard that!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on February 24, 2016, 11:24:26 PM
:D


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on February 25, 2016, 12:14:46 AM
Just don't let the Jr rangers get a hold of it later. I hear they like the sawsall,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on February 25, 2016, 06:22:45 AM
shots fired on the tac topper from left field!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cudakidd53 on February 25, 2016, 07:18:00 AM
From henceforth it shall be known as "Toppergate"...........cause it just wouldn't die for Nixon either!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on February 25, 2016, 07:40:58 AM
A locker would help with drifting.... a possible useful ability.  ;D
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 25, 2016, 09:38:25 AM
Just don't let the Jr rangers get a hold of it later. I hear they like the sawsall,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
I should have taken a vid of that

But I have plans of turning them loose with the sawzall on the Hillary or Bernie signs later on in the fall...

I'll film that...
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on February 25, 2016, 10:11:11 AM
Come on Kooter, you can't picture tex playin in the mud with that princess? What's wrong with you! lol
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on February 25, 2016, 07:57:24 PM
I think I see a genuine axle nut socket. I guess that's what they look like. I made one out of necessity as the garage that I was going to loaner one from didn't have the right one.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 25, 2016, 09:05:34 PM
Yep. OTC1929 axle nut socket.

(http://a67.tinypic.com/161xo2h.jpg)

My buddy Tate sent me the axle bearings and seals that arrives today.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 25, 2016, 09:26:36 PM
Ding dong, next delivery. Rear brake.

(http://a63.tinypic.com/2z4bq81.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on February 25, 2016, 09:40:09 PM
Did he send you the lube locker reusable seal for the rear diff as well?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 25, 2016, 09:45:50 PM
que?!

I know not of what you speak?  Please explain?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 25, 2016, 10:00:31 PM
Don't forget the grizzly grease

You can get some from Ashley.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on February 25, 2016, 10:17:25 PM
Just don't let the Jr rangers get a hold of it later. I hear they like the sawsall,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
I should have taken a vid of that

But I have plans of turning them loose with the sawzall on the Hillary or Bernie signs later on in the fall...

I'll film that...

Now that could be "pay per view" and donate the proceeds!!!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 25, 2016, 10:24:30 PM
so I keep seeing different types of seals for the AAAM.

Wondering if there are different styles of seals for these trucks?

I only want to have to do this once....

(http://a68.tinypic.com/2iqeoh0.jpg)
(http://a65.tinypic.com/1zqrkhk.jpg)
(http://a67.tinypic.com/2im9st5.jpg)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on February 25, 2016, 10:51:41 PM
I just reused some rear axle seals in a Dana 70... not sure it's relevant here but, I wanted to contribute. I'd have possibly replaced them with new ones, but no one had any in stock.

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 25, 2016, 11:03:36 PM
If I only had your barn....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on February 25, 2016, 11:07:21 PM
The ones pictured with the bearings will be fine.
I have a mud issue and my vent tube occasionally gets plugged up, alternatively winter it has iced up, from my understanding the main cause of seal failures.
I'd say use what's there and you'll be good.

FWIW, once you do it once they're pretty simple the next times. 
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on February 26, 2016, 09:31:37 AM
My comments to Charles this AM: "These are the older school style seals from the earlier housings that we feel are a better long term fit for the application. They do interchange and are a better seal. Simply put, the seal you took off is GM’s “upgrade” that essentially took the seal business away from the aftermarket and attempted to get one to purchase from them exclusively. Install as you would any seal, lubricate the lip with bearing grease and lubricate yourself with your beverage of choice and enjoy!"
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 26, 2016, 11:25:42 AM
I'm good. Thanks for clarifying, gear god. ( little g)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on February 26, 2016, 01:07:22 PM
That's right, little g.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 27, 2016, 08:45:35 PM
Ok. Got some work done today.


(http://a65.tinypic.com/34he647.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/2zrp5rb.jpg)
(http://a65.tinypic.com/34y8ihg.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/x2056u.jpg)
So pulled the bushings and boots from the caliper brackets and cleaned all the grease before reinstalling the new boots and bushings. Got some cool purple ceramic brake lube and used a 21 mm 12 point socket and a dead blow hammer to install the new boots. Lubed the new bushings and lubed the bore.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 27, 2016, 08:47:40 PM
Got the calipers and new pads mounted.
(http://a65.tinypic.com/10hohs8.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 27, 2016, 08:53:19 PM
Then started working on the back hubs and brakes. Started with all new parking brakes and hardware.

(http://a68.tinypic.com/2jg5c8o.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/amz2n4.jpg)

You assemble the springs and adjuster on the bench and then stretch them over the actuator before installing the pins and retainers.


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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 27, 2016, 08:57:41 PM
Then I started on the hubs. Removed the old bearings and races and cleaned with brake cleaner.

(http://a63.tinypic.com/2ihwgtd.jpg)

Then pressed in the outer race over the bearing and secured with the snap ring.
Here a little hint. When removing this snap ring use a punch and hammer and tap the old race towards the outside of the hub from the back. It relieves pressure on the snap ring making it easier to remove.
(http://a66.tinypic.com/f23j36.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/al4y07.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/33o5jqf.jpg)


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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 27, 2016, 09:01:43 PM
Then comes the inner race. Used the two old races to press them in. Didn't have a race insert big enough. So I used one to get it most of the way in and then added the second and used arbor plates to keep everything square.

Used the same press and plate to install the seal.


(http://a64.tinypic.com/65tzk8.jpg)
(http://a64.tinypic.com/wixctz.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/2hmki2u.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/x0vjep.jpg)





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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 27, 2016, 09:07:32 PM
Lubed the bearings and seal and installed by torquing to 55 while spinning and then back off until the key aligns and then install the key and clip. Put the rotor on making sure the p brake is adjusted. Prepped the rear caliper bracket the same way, removing the old boots and bushing and installing all new stuff with ceramic lube. The. Installed the new OE pads and Russell stainless brake lines.

(http://a65.tinypic.com/zmidqw.jpg)


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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 27, 2016, 09:11:42 PM
Front finished. The caliper paint was a waste of money. If I wanted to do it right I would have blasted and shot it in multiple coats. Painting with a brush is not ideal.
(http://a65.tinypic.com/2a6k11z.jpg)

Now I'm waiting on the felpro gaskets for the axle flange to install the axles and top off with amsoil.

Time to move on to bleeding the brakes and the new exhaust
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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on February 27, 2016, 09:42:37 PM
Nice attention to detail in the write up
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on February 28, 2016, 04:24:45 PM
Blasting would have been better and who will see the paint strokes?

It is to purdy to drive, just leave it on blocks.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 29, 2016, 07:26:21 AM
well, just noticed that i cracked a rear rotor when tapping it on with the deadblow hammer.  A small crack right at the edge where the inner casting area is machined thinner to balance it (I think)

So amazon to the rescue.  2 new AC Delco OEM rotors on the way.  Will be replacing those before moving on to bleeding brakes and installing the exhaust.  Will be two weeks before I'm back up there to work on it.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 29, 2016, 08:43:28 AM
RedNeck, you don't miss a thing. You'd have been great as a helicopter pilot. Detail oriented preflighting like that is necessary to the attainment of gray (White) hair!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 29, 2016, 08:15:08 PM
Quite the compliment there, Don.  Not sure I rise to that level.  I did, afterall, turn down a scholarship to the AF Academy....which is a testament to my lack of smarts..

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on February 29, 2016, 08:24:24 PM
Quite the compliment there, Don.  Not sure I rise to that level.  I did, afterall, turn down a scholarship to the AF Academy....which is a testament to my lack of smarts..


What makes you think I rose to that level?

Probably just a big Armee mistake. Some guy was getting sent to flight school, and I was about to get court martialed and sent to nome Alaska. The messenger picked up the wrong letter and some schmuck froze for three years up in the Alaska while I was trying out my look with Ray bans!

You remember the story I wrote where Mitch and I "Test flew" a jet ranger??

That definitely didn't point to my having any special gifts!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on February 29, 2016, 09:07:21 PM
LOL, yes.  Half the battle is acting like you own it....sure, we're test pilots...
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on March 01, 2016, 06:40:58 AM
So.... I shouldn't paint the calipers then?  8)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cudakidd53 on March 01, 2016, 06:50:15 AM
So.... I shouldn't paint the calipers then?  8)

Only with paint you already own....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on March 01, 2016, 07:01:04 AM
Just you all wait...I am going to be so detail orientated Don is gonna say "By golly, I believe them there Calipers match the inner fender and stuff"  I even found some new old stock only used and not cleaned once brushes.  ;D
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on March 01, 2016, 08:02:32 AM
Just you all wait...I am going to be so detail orientated Don is gonna say "By golly, I believe them there Calipers match the inner fender and stuff"  I even found some new old stock only used and not cleaned once brushes.  ;D
I'm Waitin'

(And I REALLY want to see it)
(Especially after the quality work we saw already)
(...From Miss Kay ;-)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 01, 2016, 10:31:10 AM
(http://i1297.photobucket.com/albums/ag37/2FB/popcorn_zps9xbq1f5d.jpg) (http://s1297.photobucket.com/user/2FB/media/popcorn_zps9xbq1f5d.jpg.html)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on March 01, 2016, 11:05:18 AM
Lubed the bearings and seal and installed by torquing to 55 while spinning and then back off until the key aligns and then install the key and clip. Put the rotor on making sure the p brake is adjusted. Prepped the rear caliper bracket the same way, removing the old boots and bushing and installing all new stuff with ceramic lube. The. Installed the new OE pads and Russell stainless brake lines.

(http://a65.tinypic.com/zmidqw.jpg)


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Nice work sir.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 01, 2016, 08:05:23 PM
Thanks Tate.  Its dangerous that you have my CC on file.  I could just call and say, "Tate, send me a locker for the front and rear of both trucks and some 4:11s for the Bus...." But then I'd have to add a dog house to that order....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 01, 2016, 09:45:12 PM
Last of the puzzle pieces showed up. Pair of oem rear rotors, stahl machines steel 3 inch spacers and some ATE dot 4

(http://a65.tinypic.com/jubzgi.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 01, 2016, 10:27:46 PM
Were those spacers as much as I am seeing? $300 a set is hard to bite. I would use alloy on the rear, but not a steering axle.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 01, 2016, 11:07:04 PM
$335 shipped and be prepared to wait a month to get them.

They are the real deal.  No aluminum, pure steel, machined in the US and serial numbered for a lifetime warranty.

Not a fan of spacers, but if I have to run them, I want steel.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on March 02, 2016, 05:38:12 PM
Thanks Tate.  Its dangerous that you have my CC on file.  I could just call and say, "Tate, send me a locker for the front and rear of both trucks and some 4:11s for the Bus...." But then I'd have to add a dog house to that order....

tell ya what, you order gears and lockers for both ends on the dually and the bus and i'll build and ship you a very nicely appointed doghouse.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on March 02, 2016, 05:39:30 PM
I won't run aluminum. Just too much extra effort to keep checking the torque, but those steelies look very impressive.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 02, 2016, 08:27:06 PM
Thanks Tate.  Its dangerous that you have my CC on file.  I could just call and say, "Tate, send me a locker for the front and rear of both trucks and some 4:11s for the Bus...." But then I'd have to add a dog house to that order....

tell ya what, you order gears and lockers for both ends on the dually and the bus and i'll build and ship you a very nicely appointed doghouse.

Very tempting indeed!  I've never set up my own gears before but I'm itching to try it one day.

If I get my way on the LML, I plan on twinning it (475 or 480 over stock), manifolds and up pipes, 33s and 20 inch wheels and some 4:11s.  I think that would win a drag race up a hill towing a 15,000 lb trailer
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 09, 2016, 08:51:52 AM
Ok. Small progress. Snuck away from work yesterday.

(http://a65.tinypic.com/144aw6.jpg)

Got the rear rotors installed and attempted to bleed the brakes. Apparently once you let the system gravity drain empty, you can't just hook the pressure bleeder to it as I normally do. Something to do with the abs. 


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 09, 2016, 08:53:09 AM
Got the exhaust roughed into place with the HushPower muffler. Sounds much better. Still deep and authoritative but subdued.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on March 09, 2016, 09:44:59 AM
Them Delco Jack stands are a nice touch.  ;D

How long before completion? You must be getting close.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 09, 2016, 10:41:59 AM
Looks good and more than I.

Well I did get re-splinted and told to stay off it more.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on March 09, 2016, 11:44:17 AM
if you're still dealing with the brake bleeding, you'll need to bleed at the master first. once air is removed from the master, you'll move onto the ABS unit and follow the abs bleeding sequence (unless Ken corrects me, I believe that this is not possible without a scan tool to run the ABS cycle. Then you can move on to the calipers as the ABS has now forced air into all the lines. RR LR RF LF in that order. Worst thing in the world for me when I was at Les Schwab was letting the darn master cylinder go dry, and having to manually prime the older master cylinders with a screw driver.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on March 09, 2016, 09:46:03 PM
Roger that on the brake bleeding. Air in the ABS module is hard to remove. Now you can follow the GM procedure...

or

You can take the truck out after a normal bleeding and following acceleration stomp on the brakes a few times. The idea is to get the anti lock mechanism to cycle. That will purge any air in there. You will notice a stiff pedal after doing it once or several times, depending on how much air snuck in there. I did it to my Silvy and the technique worked just fine!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on March 10, 2016, 10:28:15 AM
I've performed the same technique before as well. A word of caution though; depending on how much air is in the ABS system, it can and will force air into the brake lines. jump on it a few times, get the ABS to purge, then repeat the final caliper bleed sequence to be safe. After stomping on it to cycle the ABS, also be cautious on your way home, the pedal can get soft.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on March 10, 2016, 12:29:24 PM
Leave it to modern times to complicate a perfectly simple hydraulic system. But FWIW I did the same thing on a Crown Vic... repeated cycling of the abs and it finally bled out....large pain in the backside.

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 10, 2016, 09:37:22 PM
Ken and I chatted and he had a suggestion to cycle the ABS.  All four wheels up on jackstands and crank it and put it in gear then step on the brakes.  ABS kicks in....

Getting close,just not enough time to work on it lately.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on March 10, 2016, 10:53:48 PM

Ken and I chatted and he had a suggestion to cycle the ABS.  All four wheels up on jackstands and crank it and put it in gear then step on the brakes.  ABS kicks in....

Getting close,just not enough time to work on it lately.

All four up, so in 4x4? Will there be enough of a difference if all 4 are being driven by the 4x4?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 11, 2016, 02:19:13 PM
Will that work? I thought is prevents them from locking sold or changes rates when they are stopping out of sync?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 11, 2016, 08:18:35 PM
in 2wd in gear giving it some throttle to overcome the slight brake pedal in the rear.  The front wont be moving.  It will sense the front wheels locked up
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on March 11, 2016, 09:42:50 PM
Might also be able to have a couple helpers spin each front tire while you operate the brake pedal ;)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 17, 2016, 09:57:33 PM
Spacers on. Axles and flange gaskets back on. Bled brakes. Out some clamps on the exhaust. Tomorrow I take it to a shop to have them adjust it and weld it. I just don't want to weld on my back.

Stance is much better with spacers

(http://a66.tinypic.com/259y0rs.jpg)
(http://a63.tinypic.com/fpauwy.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on March 17, 2016, 09:59:50 PM
Looks nice, nice sticker btw suck up! :D
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 17, 2016, 10:19:31 PM
That's a sticker you only can get by attending the police foundation gala. Oddly enough although I don't display them thinking I'll get slack, I've had great conversations on the side of the road because of that one. I have the lifetime 100 club sticker on my dually and it don't help either  I've been let off more times than I can count. Nowadays I just say thank you and take the ticket straight to the attorney.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 17, 2016, 10:45:47 PM
I have had my share of tickets and warnings, mostly some time ago.

What are you getting tickets for that deserve a trip to an attorney.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on March 17, 2016, 10:52:54 PM
why are you related to him? My attorney only get important stuff as I hate his important invoices.... ::)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 17, 2016, 11:19:46 PM
Traffic tickets. I get about one every other year. $125 for the racket which is traffic attorneys.  Keeps the mover off the record.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on March 18, 2016, 09:20:38 AM
Copy, haven't had a traffic ticket in years knock on wood. Guess I more than paid my dues when I was younger in that department.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on March 18, 2016, 10:26:45 AM
Still paying my dues...

Truck looks good Charles. It actually looks like a useable vehicle now.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 18, 2016, 10:34:02 AM
You know I just blew up the picture, how tall is that block!!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on March 18, 2016, 10:40:39 AM
looks like a 6" to me. w/ the track arms it shouldn't be a major axle wrap issue, but yeah, pretty tall lookin'
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 18, 2016, 04:47:35 PM
That block is 5 inches. On 2010 springs. Zero wrap with the track bars. 

Ok. Brakes bled. Used speed bleeders and the brake pedal. Took the truck to the local muffler shop and had them weld it up and he made new hangers and got it right. $50 well spent

(http://a63.tinypic.com/2ryg004.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/35d3m9u.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on March 19, 2016, 03:39:51 PM
Almost done!

Or is it done now?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 19, 2016, 09:40:18 PM
It's done for the re-lift rebuild of the suspension. Gonna have a friend do the water pump and fuel rail pressure sensor. I replaced the bad power mirror switch and now just have to expoxy a new tab for the drivers door pull which is broken. Also plan on having a detail guy polish and seal the paint.

About to be the daily driver. Absolutely love the sound of it now that it has a real exhaust on it.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on March 20, 2016, 09:17:09 AM
So wise, what you are doing.

Adding value and life to an older vehicle

Good job!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on March 20, 2016, 10:01:11 AM
Looks good man.... now all you need is a new project.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 21, 2016, 12:17:12 AM
Projects, I never seem to run out of.  I would like a 66 ChevyII or a BB 68-69 camaro or maybe a shoebox chevy, 55 preferrably.

I thought of you Norm when the guy had the truck on the lift welding the exhaust.  He's out in the country by my weekend place....he said "hmmf, I knew you were from the city...with them tires on it"
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on March 21, 2016, 12:44:57 AM
So you got called a city slicker huh? Lol
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 21, 2016, 12:55:11 AM
Pretty much. Event the license plate that reads "redneck" wasn't enough to convince him


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cudakidd53 on March 21, 2016, 06:53:42 AM
Shoulda just said........."I'm Batman!"..........
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on March 21, 2016, 04:46:14 PM
Show him a before pick.  City slicker and wise are two different things

As far as batman goes.  http://youtu.be/RAJ6ZXbQKcc


Raising boys into RealMen!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 21, 2016, 11:37:29 PM
That's the funniest thing I've seen in a while. 


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on March 22, 2016, 06:44:24 AM
I bet with the tailpipe, and the slicks it goes down the road with minimal noise?

I have a white board to communicate with my wife in the Dodge ATM
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 22, 2016, 08:31:54 PM
I was all proud of how much quieter it was after I finished.  Wife says "meh, sounds a little quieter, but still loud"

I feel like a whipped dog.

I like it, so...there!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on March 23, 2016, 01:07:41 PM
Projects, I never seem to run out of.  I would like a 66 ChevyII or a BB 68-69 camaro or maybe a shoebox chevy, 55 preferrably.

I thought of you Norm when the guy had the truck on the lift welding the exhaust.  He's out in the country by my weekend place....he said "hmmf, I knew you were from the city...with them tires on it"

1966 Chevy II ss convertible: Tate's all time dream car
1969 bb Camaro: Dad's got the paint (candy red w/ white dual stripes, tremec 5 spd, interior and suspension done. Shopping motors now.
I live through all your guy's projects for now, so let me know when you start up your Deuce project, I'll be wired to the computer screen.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on March 23, 2016, 01:16:06 PM
I live through all your guy's projects for now, so let me know when you start up your Deuce project, I'll be wired to the computer screen.

Same here! I would LOVE to have a 66 Chevelle project, but that's a long ways off
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: husker77c on March 23, 2016, 03:52:46 PM
My dad had a 69 camaro SS396 bought it new in late 68.  Wadded it up a year later coming home from the bar.  Only pics I ever saw were in the wrecking yard.
:(


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on March 24, 2016, 12:00:13 PM
Mine did that to his 66 Galaxie 500 hardtop, light pole. still took him a few more years to quit the sauce, but that was back in the late 70's. he's been a diet coke guy now since 85.

TRN, you'd better chime in here soon or it's going to be DOT classic car nostalgia corner rather than the bus thread!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on March 26, 2016, 09:01:36 PM
Tate, he's prolly picking caliper paint colors via paint chip to match his planned project cars paint color 8)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 26, 2016, 09:29:02 PM
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160327/7adfa116b04fd8bf2a9b4b48a0ca24df.jpg)

No convertible. Something like this.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 27, 2016, 09:05:16 AM
Actually this would be more my style.
http://classiccars.com/listings/view/774694/1966-chevrolet-nova-for-sale-in-lithia-springs-georgia-30122
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160327/c0979bc824ec29a3b5f4a67d58fa8386.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: BobbyB on March 27, 2016, 09:17:16 AM
I wouldn't mind a 67 GTO.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on March 27, 2016, 10:20:03 AM
That is one heck of a clean and straight car.
I have a poor man's GTO. .a 68 Lemans. Just trying to find time and extra cash so I can do it right. Might go turbocharged 455 or a Dmax power plant.

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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: BobbyB on March 27, 2016, 11:43:33 AM
That is one heck of a clean and straight car.
I have a poor man's GTO. .a 68 Lemans. Just trying to find time and extra cash so I can do it right. Might go turbocharged 455 or a Dmax power plant.

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I saw an old muscle car; I'm thinking Chevelle, that had a 12V dropped in. It looked amazing.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on March 27, 2016, 11:46:17 AM
To my dads surprise I picked up a 69 mustang coupe a couple years ago. He knows I'm a die hard Bowtie guy, but there's something about that era, all brands theres a model or two on my I will buy given the opportunity to.
Has a 351W in it, and I'm not sure on my plans on it. Once I find time to determine if it's all original, that will determine the course of action on it.

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on March 27, 2016, 01:00:56 PM
Actually this would be more my style.
http://classiccars.com/listings/view/774694/1966-chevrolet-nova-for-sale-in-lithia-springs-georgia-30122
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160327/c0979bc824ec29a3b5f4a67d58fa8386.jpg)


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Friend in high school worked at a machine shop and built a nova bout like that. 400 small block, screamer. Could barely keep it on the ground.

I love the stance of those Novas lowered a bit with big chrome. Hot car for sure
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on March 27, 2016, 02:39:42 PM
fixed it for yah kyle.

if possible, could you folks move some of these posts over to this topic / thread please?  thank you.

http://real-man-truckworks-and-survival.com/index.php?topic=2036.new#new
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on March 27, 2016, 06:12:59 PM
Feel free to move mine too


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on March 28, 2016, 09:49:36 AM
Actually this would be more my style.
http://classiccars.com/listings/view/774694/1966-chevrolet-nova-for-sale-in-lithia-springs-georgia-30122
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160327/c0979bc824ec29a3b5f4a67d58fa8386.jpg)


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That thing is nasty! I'm in.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 28, 2016, 12:41:27 PM
We did DOT it some,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on April 03, 2016, 08:14:28 PM
Ok, so back to the build.

I have lots of stuff to do at the primary and secondary residence, yard work, spring garden, clean up, yadi yadi.

So I took my truck, water pump, hoses, t-stats, and fuel pressor sensor to a friend who I trust to get those installed.  As you might expect, nothing is easy.  found some of the aluminum pipes corroded and a glow plug relay going bad along with all the idler and tensioners.  Parts on order and hope to have it back in a week or so.

After that, I plan on having my detail guy come do a paint restoration on it.  Hopefully then the drama is over for a while.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: swbhobie16 on April 03, 2016, 08:38:43 PM

 Hopefully then the drama is over for a while.


these are words one must never utter unless within arms reach of a table top or mantle piece..
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on April 03, 2016, 11:06:07 PM
true.  Probably be head gaskets next time...
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on April 03, 2016, 11:44:26 PM
true.  Probably be head gaskets next time...
Or injectors... but you've already done those ;)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on April 04, 2016, 12:26:42 AM
I still have the dang #5 glow plug that won't clear. New plug but still causes a CEL.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on April 25, 2016, 10:35:20 PM
So, I did get it back and it's like a new truck.  All clean under the hood, new water pump, hoses, t stats, coolant, belt, tensioners, idlers, glow plug relay and the number 6 glow plug (thank God it came out with just a 1/4 inch ratchet so no drama there), 2 new gel batteries, and he cycled the ABS to get the last bit of air out.

so been DD it for a week.  Get to the weekend place Friday and its running great.  Go to start it Saturday and .....no start. Spin and spin but nothing.....

My match wouldn't light or I probably would have torched it....

so lift pump is running..hmm.  I don't have a fuel filter head anymore so I broke the line and put it in a jar and turned the key....fuel shot out from the lift pump...hmmm so the pump ain't bad.  Connected the hose and for kicks spun it over and it lit right up....drove it and it ran like a scalded dog (or Ken when Big Don fires him for DOTing up the place)

Parked it in the shop and then Sunday....same thing....if it ain't one thing its another.  I may trade in my personalized plate for MNYPIT

So I ordered an LLY filter head and will put that on, remove the lift pump and inspect and clean the georotor, add a pressure gauge to the filter head and then see if that works.  If not, then its on to something more sinister and fun.....

Ken, When you get back from the Hillary rally, I hear there is a check valve on the CP3 that keeps the fuel from draining back out.  Is that true and could that be a problem to investigate here?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on April 25, 2016, 11:58:19 PM
Remember the little fitting on the pump I did? Mine was doing the same thing. Turn but no start, pump it and run.

Wasn't hard to do, but a lot of work.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on April 26, 2016, 10:01:32 AM
I dont know of there is a check valve on the cp3, but i do know that there is a check ball on the OE filter head assembly.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on April 26, 2016, 10:17:34 AM
IIRC the nipple/fitting that the return line hooks to has the check valve. What you're looking for is anything that can bleed off when the engine shuts down;
cp3 internals, pressure release valve, injectors, check valves in lift pump, lift pump sucking air past filters, etc. Nothing cut and dry with that issue, especially since you have eliminated the #1 cause of hard start (the filter head) and you have a lift pump....all it takes is one "not perfect" injector.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on April 26, 2016, 12:33:02 PM
bad injector caps I have heard especially, where the injector separates from the cup and steadily leaks down the cylinder. check your oil with the paper towel/halo test.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on April 26, 2016, 02:10:04 PM
On Patch I had a issue with drain-back. Because I was sure the steady stream dripping from the injection pump was the culprit, I just bought a can of starting fluid.  ;D Since I now have properly oiled most of my gravel driveway, I have now since dropped $27 entire American currency, and rebuilt the injection pump. I felt $4.75 a can of starting fluid was eventually going to cost more than the seal kit LoL

Moral of the story...if it's not leaking, it's draining back/out so I'd watch my oil carefully and look for small weeping anywhere it could weep. We had a Duramax on the farm once that had a issue with starting and it turned out to go away when we changed the fuel filter. (no clue why) it was a relatively new filter to begin with.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on April 26, 2016, 07:07:28 PM
Man you guys are not making me feel better.   Remember I just installed all new injectors, cups and lines done less than 7000 miles ago. CP3 is new from about 9000 miles ago.  If something there is amiss, I will not be a happy camper.

I'll start by checking the oil.  Its easy.  I haven't looked at it lately, but  its still making 70psi cold and 40-50 idling hot, which is exactly what it has always done so I'm hoping its not oil dilution.

Then I'm replacing the hose from the FICM to the filter head and installing a new filter head and removing and cleaning the lift pump georotor and replacing the filters and WS.

I'll hope for the best right there and if that doesnt fix it I may put 200lb of Tannerite under it and light if off from a few hundred yards....

Ken, so the lift pump has check valves?


Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on April 26, 2016, 07:50:06 PM
Well, here was my repair. No issue since then,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

http://real-man-truckworks-and-survival.com/index.php?topic=1164.new#new
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on April 26, 2016, 09:57:11 PM
Not 100% certain, but most pumps do.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on April 26, 2016, 11:03:46 PM
You could see the seepage around mine.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on April 26, 2016, 11:28:13 PM
200 pounds will be excessive.
But impressive as well.

Hope it's something simple.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on April 27, 2016, 10:40:49 AM
TRN.... if blowing them up eased the frustration, I'd have lit a fuse under Patch this weekend LoL  I have just decided to face the fact I broke the np 205 somehow before I killed the auto tranny.

I'd agree with Ken...most OEM lift pumps have a anti drain back feature. It's likely something simple, since it runs fine once started.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on April 27, 2016, 10:57:09 AM
Don't tell me those 518s are weak, that is what I have. Keep toying with the idea of upgrading it or the whole thing.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: swbhobie16 on April 27, 2016, 11:22:41 AM
TRN.... if blowing them up eased the frustration, I'd have lit a fuse under Patch this weekend LoL  I have just decided to face the fact I broke the np 205 somehow before I killed the auto tranny.

I'd agree with Ken...most OEM lift pumps have a anti drain back feature. It's likely something simple, since it runs fine once started.

wait.. what happened to patch?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on April 27, 2016, 03:27:15 PM
What happened is I broke the Np205 transfer case. Judging from the metal in the oil, and the chunks, a few teeth came off a gear. It still runs and drives, it's just noisy and sorta lurchy LoL

Clearly JR this 518 is stronger than this 205 LoL
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on April 27, 2016, 03:36:59 PM
How do you break a 205? You brute,,,,,,,,,,,,
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on April 27, 2016, 03:45:49 PM
I had 4 of those 11k anhydrous wagons behind it. It was having some traction issues on pavement. So I pulled it back into 4high and leaned on the throttle. Nothing I haven't done many times in the past...but I guess since I turned the pump up considerably, the extra power/torque was too much. When it shifted into second gear it made a terrible noise, jumped out of 4x4 and started smoking the tires. I let off tugged it back into 4x4 and towed the wagons to the farm. But it's now making loud howling noises, there were chunks of gear in the oil and well yah...broke. My guess the case stretched....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on April 27, 2016, 03:49:40 PM
As I said, you brute.

I push started a semi with mine once, 80k, filled with Budwiser.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Wilbur on April 27, 2016, 03:55:23 PM
As I said, you brute.

I push started a semi with mine once, 80k, filled with Budwiser.

Package store wouldn't deliver huh?  :o :)

"Honey just running out to grab some beer....."

haha!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on April 27, 2016, 05:03:10 PM
I had 4 of those 11k anhydrous wagons behind it. It was having some traction issues on pavement. So I pulled it back into 4high and leaned on the throttle. Nothing I haven't done many times in the past...but I guess since I turned the pump up considerably, the extra power/torque was too much. When it shifted into second gear it made a terrible noise, jumped out of 4x4 and started smoking the tires. I let off tugged it back into 4x4 and towed the wagons to the farm. But it's now making loud howling noises, there were chunks of gear in the oil and well yah...broke. My guess the case stretched....


Only group of people harder on trucks imo than the average American farmer are those silly Australians. According to Dana who we used to Blanchard grind clutch plates for the long haul truckers down under (ones that crossed the continent ie: middle of nowhere) would keep hooking up trailers one behind the other until the tractor wouldn't move. They would then unhook one trailer and away they would go. They went thru a few clutches.............
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on April 27, 2016, 05:22:30 PM
I have heard of those trains before. Must be messy wrecks and a long wait for help.

Beer, thats what we hauled. Blew 2 rear tires once at 80+, looked like a grenade went off where the tires ripped through the floor.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on September 24, 2016, 08:55:27 PM
So update. Changing the filters on the AD was the fix for the no start. Apparently something was allowing the fuel to drain back. At least now I have a filter head and can manually prime if needed.

Today I installed some cheap LED lights in the bumper for backup lights.

(http://a68.tinypic.com/2yw8vf8.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/2vltv83.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/n2c2ds.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/11uzwja.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/2uqfaz8.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/29ct0f6.jpg)

Taped off marked it cut it with cut off wheel on mini grinder drilled holes spliced wires.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: BobbyB on September 24, 2016, 09:50:52 PM
Nice little red wagon.  :)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on September 24, 2016, 09:56:20 PM
I used to drag my kids around in that when they were little.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on September 25, 2016, 03:09:59 PM
You're going to love the extra light they give.
Look like the same cheap ones I have. 
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on September 29, 2016, 08:35:59 PM
So I can't seem to find the post where I asked this question.

In my AAM 11.5 on the 2001 LB7, I want to add a locker.  Wheel bearings are new, seals new, gears are fine.

I thought Tater said I could replace the chunk without going through a complete lash and set up.

What would I have to do to replace the gov bomb with a yukon grizzly?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on September 29, 2016, 08:49:05 PM
Probably not Red Neck

If you are keeping the same gears, and don't remove the pinion, I can't see why you would do anything other than check it with the yellow stuff and set back lash (Which can be a chore) But it is relatively easy, and I think you could do the swap in a single day
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on September 29, 2016, 09:15:29 PM
Yep, Don is correct. If keeping the same gears you need to do 2 things though.

Set bearing preload (new bearings) and check pattern. Both are easy to adjust as the 11.5 AAM has nuts for adjusting the carrier.

However I would do the pinion bearings too since you have it apart. You might be OK there but the nut is a bare and you set the preload.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on September 29, 2016, 09:59:05 PM
Is there a "bible" on the AAM I can study?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on September 29, 2016, 10:21:28 PM
Don't believe so, Billavista wrote the 60 & 14 bible back in the day. Nice guy, Canadian military chopper pilot if I recall correctly. Spoke with him once trying to get him to do a review on a diff cover.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on September 29, 2016, 10:34:47 PM
Read a bunch of his stuff. Lots of info on youtube for setups. The 9.5 and the 11.5 are setup the same.

If there is a video how too, Tate will know.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on September 29, 2016, 10:38:20 PM
Maybe if he'd stop kissing that dog, he'd find time to chime in....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on October 06, 2016, 12:11:42 PM
Maybe if the owner of this site allowed for more posts to pop up on the main page I wouldn't find these questions a week late :o The grizzly externally is factory specs, so all you or any lay mechanic would need to do is transfer the ring gear to the carrier, and either new or re-use the carrier bearings and re-install. I recommend checking backlash prior to removal, flat filing the mounting surfaces of both the gear and the carrier to ensure little to no run-out; (.003 max allowable vertical and horizontal on both the carrier and the gear, so a total of .006 in any direction would be considered acceptable, but not desired). Your differential uses adjusters rather than shims, which makes setup a breeze. once backlash is confirmed, tighten the piss out of one adjuster to create as much carrier bearing preload as possible and set the lock tab. fill with oil, drive and enjoy!

P.S., Norm assisted on the writing on that d60 bible iirc. Too bad he's so busy w/ farmin' and shootin' and buyin' pretty stuff for miss K to chime in. probably off on some tornado chasin' adventure as we speak.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cudakidd53 on October 06, 2016, 04:25:49 PM
OK Tate..r , IF you would click on "Recent Unread Topics" button, you'd get everything you haven't looked at since the last time you visited the Site!  Norm.....who's this Norm guy you speak of?  Almost like a Build Project or two that everyone used to look at daily, like it was the Sports Illustrated Swim Suit Edition!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on October 06, 2016, 04:35:10 PM
The main page shows current topics too.

Norm and I exchanged a few texts last week, good ol guy.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on October 06, 2016, 06:17:43 PM
ok, busted. so I haven't been reading as much as I'd like. Hopefully no catastrophes I could have prevented in the interim occurred. that which we shall not mention hasn't changed status, so I guess y'all can blame me for that.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: cudakidd53 on October 06, 2016, 06:57:12 PM
Just unusually high DOT activity.....on threads other than the Monster of Mulch.... ;D
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on October 06, 2016, 07:14:12 PM
You guys talkin' 'bout SD again? You know, the truck that's 98% done, and still glued to the concrete? Are we on the right thread for this conversation? Just as good as any you say? What's with all the questions you ask?



I thought that's what you were talkin' 'bout. :)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on October 07, 2016, 02:16:48 AM
We can talk about SD anywhere, no rules!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on October 08, 2016, 08:47:01 AM
Yep, Don is correct. If keeping the same gears you need to do 2 things though.

Set bearing preload (new bearings) and check pattern. Both are easy to adjust as the 11.5 AAM has nuts for adjusting the carrier.

However I would do the pinion bearings too since you have it apart. You might be OK there but the nut is a bare and you set the preload.
would ya?
Replace the pinion bearings?
On RN's truck I don't see Litzy miles or abuse
Those bearings last a berry-berry long time
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 09, 2016, 10:54:29 PM
So last weekend I washed and then compounded the Bus with a DA polisher and  McGuiars gel coat compound and polish then applied canuba wax. It took a long time but the results where great. Need to polish the windows and work on the hood some more.
(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161010/96caa5a893d0ddd54dba7d8d58c10f0c.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 09, 2016, 10:56:24 PM
So this weekend I used to to haul plants and mulch and ordered new LED tailights of the same style as i put on the LML.  Someone put 2003 tail lights on it and they are showing some wear.  These should look good.

(http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/fxMAAOSw37tWBZYl/s-l500.jpg)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on October 09, 2016, 11:02:03 PM
I like the LEDs. I like the Chevy lights vs my GMC style but haven't changed em yet.

Not saying he need barings, just figured do em all if apart that far.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on October 12, 2016, 10:34:28 AM
I wouldn't necessarily change them out. I do push the full bearing kit to my regular customers because 90% of them haven't even changed the gear oil until this point, so everything is suspect, but for someone on this site, maintenance is a creed more than a chore and most likely if he hasn't got any issues now, they are like new and a lot more labor intensive than just installing the new locker.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 12, 2016, 10:37:46 PM
So Tate is there a manual available that gives all the proceedures and specs on the AAM?

Wait, I bought all five volumes of the GM shop manuals for the 2001 back in 2001.  I'll be the drivetrain book will have the pics and specs and proceedures...I'll have to look at them this weekend.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on October 12, 2016, 11:48:20 PM
Post those specs please for the front and rear. I am doing both mine soon (4.56)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: swbhobie16 on October 13, 2016, 10:08:21 AM
Post those specs please for the front and rear. I am doing both mine soon (4.56)

5/4 ton CUCV axles and done!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on October 13, 2016, 01:09:41 PM
11.5 Rear
0.055 thou recommended starting shim thickness
20-30 in/lbs rolling resistance for pinion bearing preload w/ new bearings
8-11 in/lbs with used bearings
.006-.010 thou backlash
175 ft/lbs torque r/g bolts
200 ft/lbs torque bearing cap bolts

9.25 Front
.032 thou recommended starting shim thickness
15-22 in/lbs rolling resistance for pinion bearing preload w/ new bearings
7-9 in/lbs with used bearings
.005-.007 thou backlash
103 ft/lbs torque r/g bolts
63 ft/lbs torque bearing cap bolts

Tips;

A note on the rear and front carrier bearings; you physically cannot over-torque the carrier adjusters. get it as tight as humanly possible and drive home the lock tab. this will generate preload on the bearings and pre-flexion (if that's a thing) on the housing so that when you hammer down, the ring gear isn't driven away from the pinion gear allowing it to ride out on the weaker tips of the teeth.

Removing the driver's side front stub shaft is a HUGE PITA. I recommend a long punch, remove the breather assembly and go from the inside against the end of the stub shaft while someone that's fatter than you and you don't like too much beats the living piss out of the other end with a slide hammer. keep things oriented straight and it will usually come out without breaking the housing half or being sliced in half w/ mr plazma.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on October 13, 2016, 01:21:21 PM
Thanks Tate, saved!

I have heard the front stub is a pain. Nice thing is I bought another to do the swap so I will have it ready for my lift.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 13, 2016, 10:24:45 PM
Tate, I'm so destructive, I can break a bowling ball so saying I can't over torque something.....well, I've yet to find something I can't break.  Of course at my age now I might separate a rib in the process.....
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on October 13, 2016, 10:43:08 PM
TRN, you would have fit right in at my old shop...... ;D
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 13, 2016, 10:57:33 PM
Maybe I'll fit in at the new one......  :-0

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on October 13, 2016, 11:03:55 PM
I thought the same on those nuts. I know I can put more preload than is called for. Just like a 9.5 and that was easy!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on October 14, 2016, 08:58:27 AM
Maybe I'll fit in at the new one......  :-0

Neg, I've sworn off knucklehead & non knucklehead employees for the remainder of my life! ;D
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on October 14, 2016, 01:38:00 PM
9" ford for example: 185lb guy hanging off a 3 ft breaker bar with a floor jack handle extension bouncing up and down. Me, "isn't that a little excessive?" Him, "probably not enough actually". TRN, you might damage the adjuster nut or the tool being used to turn it, but you're trying to compress the rollers in the bearing vertically. I'm sure you could come up with a contraption to break it, but with common hand tools it's pretty tough... never mind. Challenge initiated.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on October 14, 2016, 02:53:01 PM
He-He-He, yes it can be broken!!!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 15, 2016, 08:53:02 PM
So. Prepped and painted my aux tank today. POR15. Also watching it idle going on 30 minutes at the moment as the GM injector cleaning does it's thing.


(http://a67.tinypic.com/23k3vdg.jpg)
(http://a66.tinypic.com/2jdgh9z.jpg)


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Title: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on October 16, 2016, 08:03:51 PM
How many gallons ?

It took my truck a little over two hours to drink down the mix of injector cleaner


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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 16, 2016, 08:28:06 PM
40 gallons. Got it for free off an oil field truck.

2:48 to drink it all up
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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: swbhobie16 on October 16, 2016, 08:56:03 PM
are y'all running anything in your fuel to help with lubricity/extending injector life by reducing the harsh conditions under which they live?

had a guy that rebuilt my VE pump on the 1st gen cummins tell me ~16oz of power steering fluid per 3 tanks of fuel. i run ~10oz of 2 stroke motor oil in my powerstroke when i fill up at my buddies shop.

just curious. didn't mean to DOT.. but we seem to be on injectors. hahah
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 16, 2016, 08:57:37 PM
I use opti lube summer blend. On a mechanical pump old transmission fluid seems to get a nod.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: swbhobie16 on October 16, 2016, 09:20:03 PM
I use opti lube summer blend. On a mechanical pump old transmission fluid seems to get a nod.


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i think the guy told me power steering fluid so i wouldn't run the risk of dying the tank red. he said either would work, but PS fluid is clear. hahah

it usually gets some oil in there as well. going to work on a filter system (2 filter heads. 10 micron and 2 micron filters) just bc i can get my hands on oil (generator services)

norm told me he ran a whole tank of trans fluid through patch one time and it didn't phase it at all. hahaha.

as long as it doesn't have gunk it in.. i think a cummins will run it

a friend of my dad's has a 7.3 that he runs 1/2 fuel 1/2 motor oil (18 wheeler mechanic) and it doesn't skip a beat.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on October 16, 2016, 09:46:39 PM
I run 1 quart of 2 cycle wally oil, about 1 pint per fill or 5 gal of soy oil per 50 gal fill.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on October 17, 2016, 08:44:41 AM
I use 8oz of Diesel Kleen every fill up religiously


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Title: The Bus
Post by: longball on October 26, 2016, 05:58:03 PM
I use 8oz of Diesel Kleen every fill up religiously


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Have you tried the Xtreme Diesel fuel additive? I started using it about three years ago because it was quite a bit cheaper and it seems to do well, based on the lack of water in my separator. Each bottle (around $9) treat 500 gallons if I remember correctly.
http://www.xtremediesel.com/XDP-Diesel-Power-Plus-Fuel-Additive-XDDPP116.aspx


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on November 29, 2016, 11:19:30 PM
so got the rear lights installed

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on November 29, 2016, 11:20:51 PM
and JDM AStar LEDs in the back up to go with the dually knock offs
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on November 29, 2016, 11:38:35 PM
Euro's on a Dmax? Looks good,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Ready for a HD rear bumper now!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Dawg25385 on November 30, 2016, 10:37:36 AM
I use 8oz of Diesel Kleen every fill up religiously


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Have you tried the Xtreme Diesel fuel additive? I started using it about three years ago because it was quite a bit cheaper and it seems to do well, based on the lack of water in my separator. Each bottle (around $9) treat 500 gallons if I remember correctly.
http://www.xtremediesel.com/XDP-Diesel-Power-Plus-Fuel-Additive-XDDPP116.aspx


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i have not. Will look into that one


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Farmer Jon on December 04, 2016, 10:15:50 AM
So update. Changing the filters on the AD was the fix for the no start. Apparently something was allowing the fuel to drain back. At least now I have a filter head and can manually prime if needed.

Today I installed some cheap LED lights in the bumper for backup lights.

(http://a68.tinypic.com/2yw8vf8.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/2vltv83.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/n2c2ds.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/11uzwja.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/2uqfaz8.jpg)
(http://a68.tinypic.com/29ct0f6.jpg)

Taped off marked it cut it with cut off wheel on mini grinder drilled holes spliced wires.


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Are these the ones you got? I think I would want to put them on a switch. This will be really good for hooking up trailers at night.  How do you like them so far?

https://www.amazon.com/Nilight-Driving-Lights-Tacoma-Warranty/dp/B00J5AAX5S/ref=sr_1_17?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1480863155&sr=1-17&keywords=light+bar
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on December 04, 2016, 12:16:23 PM
Tex, what did you do as far as rust inhibitor for your fresh cut holes? The chrome acts as that but not on the edges you exposed


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on December 04, 2016, 12:28:44 PM
I have similar on my rear bumper. Thought about switch and decided against it.
Reason being if the only come on in reverse you'll have less chance flashing someone behind you that's ticked you off for whatever reason.
Solution to keeping them on, shut off engine and leave in reverse, they stay on for a while and sure does help hooking up.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Farmer Jon on December 04, 2016, 12:55:40 PM
The reason I was thinking about a switch is if I'm backing my 5th wheel up at night. I would think it would glare and i wouldn't be able to see anything in the mirrors. But maybe not. If it don't then that would simplify things.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on December 04, 2016, 02:20:49 PM
What I've noticed backing up is better visibility.

This was with black boat and black carhauler.
5er may change things.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 04, 2016, 07:15:19 PM
6KLED C418 Flush mount Off Road Lighting 18w Cree Flood Bumper 4x4 Truck Raptor Tacoma Silverado F250 Super-Duty Bumper Lighting Work Lights Flush Mount Style https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I2CK3RS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_RdlrybJKQ7NYA

Dave. We don't have rust in Texas.  I didn't do anything to them but if I'd been worried I'd have POR the opening.

The above link is what I bought. So far I really like them.  I will be putting them on the cargo switch circuit with diodes so not to back feed to the reverse lights.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Farmer Jon on December 04, 2016, 09:23:10 PM
I ordered these. A little cheaper but should be about the same.
https://www.amazon.com/Nilight-Driving-Lights-Tacoma-Warranty/dp/B00J5AAX5S/ref=pd_cp_263_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00J5AAX5S&pd_rd_r=5XGR0S6FCT5R99Q43KMH&pd_rd_w=cKa66&pd_rd_wg=ttunf&psc=1&refRID=5XGR0S6FCT5R99Q43KMH


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 05, 2016, 01:47:30 AM
No rust? You have rain, you have exposed untreated metal, you have rust!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on December 05, 2016, 06:50:26 PM
I just siliconed mine in, on the original chrome bumper. Never rusted.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on December 07, 2016, 11:30:00 AM
If that tank see's sunlight... top coat that POR 15 it will chalk and fade quickly. JD blitz black with harder will hold up well and is cheap.

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 08, 2016, 12:36:28 AM
Koot that POR is the one coat uv resistant variety. So far so good.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 06, 2018, 10:37:04 AM
Been a while since I’ve updated here.  Not much Happening other than maintenance.

Installed a Beans Sump and replaced the motor on the AD165 under warranty.

Changed the oil and rotated tires. 

Replaced all the color matched door handles with standard black ones since the lock cylinder got punched out of one by a would be thief.  Had to rebuild the lock cylinder too.

Washer pump went out so I had to pull the battery tray.  Had some of the caliper paint left over and I decided to paint the tray since it was rusting.  (just for you, Norm)

Had a rear window regulator go bad.  Bought an AC delco on Amazon.  Ordered the right instead of the left.  Decided to keep it since I had replaced both the fronts  before putting the dynamat sound deadener in, and with replacing the left rear, the only one that is not new will be the right and I'm sure it will die sooner or later....

Now, since I had already dynamatted the rear doors, opening them up to get to the regulator was a royal pain....

But got it done.

Then the instrument cluster PRNDL and odometer display quit working.  Dave, Ryan, Kyle and others, pay attention here.  Known defect in the OBS trucks.  One solder joint breaks and repairing it is pretty straighforward.

Got that done this morning.  5 minutes to pull the cluster, 5 minutes to disassemble.  30 minutes to locate readers and magnifying glasses and a soldering iron I misplaced...2 minutes to solder and 5 minutes to reinstall.

Now the hydroboost is leaking and I bought one but havent had time to mess with it yet.

I've spent 4 months working on the Casita and not much other than maintenance on the 4 vehicles are getting done.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180106/d68036f46fe816ab5239447a96996daa.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180106/a5b69829b22c6f26b120f8368a5b277a.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180106/7b011a1e06e077d3bc237176068a42b2.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180106/74cca028c334523457eec577467fa792.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180106/05474dff38ca436138e87215a98e557e.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on January 06, 2018, 11:07:43 AM
Noted!   


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on January 07, 2018, 12:41:40 AM
The cluster on the lb7 is different than the lly and lbz, but noted!


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 07, 2018, 01:28:58 AM
Man don't scare me with all that. Had really none of those issues.

Guess I will pull mine and check that. Still no inst lights, but it all works. Wonder if its a relay or a broken wire from the DIC.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: OldKooT on January 07, 2018, 06:22:24 AM
That battery tray is..... delightful  :grin:
Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 07, 2018, 08:38:08 AM
JR. Instrument lights are analog and incandescent so you should be able to trace the circuit board path to the connector at the top and put an ohm meter to confirm which pin it is at the top. Then turn on you lights and see if you have power at that connector. That will narrow it to either the cluster or wiring

Just for you Norm!!

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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on January 07, 2018, 11:48:56 AM
Tex, problem with our panels (03+) is that the lights are soldered in. They don’t remove with a twist like the 01-02. Should still be able to trace it like you say, but replacing bulbs is a pain.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 07, 2018, 11:58:32 AM
Duly noted


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 07, 2018, 09:44:35 PM
Just rambling there. I have pulled the dash and the lights work when jumped so it is wiring someplace. I'm thinking a plug for some reason.

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 07, 2018, 10:13:51 PM
did you check for voltage at the connector on the lighting pin when the lights are on?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 08, 2018, 12:27:15 AM
Yep, no power. Now that I learned it goes through the BCM to the dash, I need to trace in and out. Just haven't had the time lately.

Think its in the wiring from the BCM to the dash. I have other dash lights, the dimmer works, just no dash-4x4 lights.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 26, 2018, 09:35:51 PM
So I had a mil light for a while and assumed it was the glow plug circuit again. And then I was losing power steering fluid too. Bought a hydroboost and it’s been sitting in the shop for 6 months as I haven’t had time to get to it with all the work on the casita.

So I dropped it at a buddies house who’s a mechanic for Fed Ex and he’s the only guy more anal than me. He found it was the hose and not the hydroboost. Then he found the boot from the air intake pipe to intake horn was deteriorating along with the air filter and a few fuel hoses.

Pulled codes and found the pressure regulator was stuck wide open. Now I know why it was running a bit rough and lopey. Got that replaced and the hoses and new filter.  The silicone boot I ordered was the wrong size so back to the drawing board there.

Also tested the fog lamp switch and found it to be bad but it’s discontinued.  The LBZ switch is available but with a different harness and the plug is $125 from the dealer in addition to the $75 switch. Uh no. Not even for the guy who is so anal

Will figure something else out.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on October 26, 2018, 09:46:56 PM
A lot of times those switches on the left side just need re soldered.   You could crack it open and look at the circuit card.  Might be a free fix


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on October 26, 2018, 10:36:48 PM
Sounds you actually got off easy. I still don't have dash lights.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on October 26, 2018, 10:52:18 PM
This work for ya Charles?

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F401585758970


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 26, 2018, 10:58:16 PM
Thanks Ryan. Already got one off eBay but mine has cargo lamp and fog

https://m.ebay.com/itm/1999-2001-CHEVY-SILVERADO-TRUCK-FOG-CARGO-LIGHT-LAMP-SWITCH-SILVERADO-15735837-/381147084568?_mwBanner=1&_rdt=1


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on October 27, 2018, 01:43:42 AM
A little cheaper:
https://www.amazon.com/ACDelco-PT1326-Original-Equipment-Multi-Purpose/dp/B000C9S52Y/ref=au_as_r?_encoding=UTF8&Make=Chevrolet%7C47&Model=Silverado%202500%20HD%7C494&Year=2005%7C2005&ie=UTF8&n=15684181&newVehicle=1&s=automotive&vehicleId=1&vehicleType=automotive

https://www.amazon.com/ACDelco-D7096C-Original-Equipment-Switch/dp/B0013FXXGE?keywords=D7096C&qid=1540618947&s=Automotive&sr=1-2&ref=sr_1_2
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 27, 2018, 07:30:08 AM
What am I looking at Ken?  Is that the switch for the 2006 and a matching pig tail?


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on October 27, 2018, 10:20:42 AM
Yeah
.. problem is, I think all the wires are white.... typical Delco.....so I looked for a connector wire code in Mitchell and couldn't find it.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on October 27, 2018, 11:17:32 AM
I have the factory shop manuals. The switch only completes the ground to the bcm to so I suspect it’s not that complicated

I have had success in using mouser to find the pins and connectors.  It’s hard because their interface is complicated but you can find most anything.  When I did all the wiring for the add ons for my lml I found all the factory stuff which kept splices to near zero


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 11, 2019, 08:02:33 AM
Well been putting miles on this thing to the tune of about 12-15k a year.  When I bought it in 2012 it had 125k on it.  Now has 176k. In its earlier configuration it didn’t get much use, especially before we got the weekend place.

Knock wood, its been pretty reliable, which is good since its been nearly 2 years that i have been working on the casita.  I’m soooo ready to get that project finished.  I need to find time to do a few things to the truck, but for now, just keeping it running.

Installed the new silicone boot and clamps on the intake.  Had to buy a universal 4 to 3 inch reducer coupling since AFE no longer makes the parts for this old set up on my truck.

Yesterday, took all of 15 minutes to change the external spin on and 6 qts or so of Dex VI.  Couple weeks earlier I changed the oil with some Amsoil and amsoil filter.

Still have the grizzly locker sitting on the counter.  May get to that this week.  We’ll see. With spring here I’m doing a bit of cleaning up as well as working to finish the casita.

 


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 11, 2019, 12:14:06 PM
My o6 has 165 on it now, runs great with a new PPEI tune, just have to get the TCM in it now.

Met a guy this weekend at the Estate sale. Had an 02 with 65k on it.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 16, 2019, 07:36:38 PM
Well, Think I may have just scored some LLY Heads and valve covers for $250

As soon as the never ending casita project is over I can start focusing on building the frankenmotor LB7 block I have and some LLY heads.  Nothing outrageous just studded bottom and top with Wagler rods and compounds with 50% injectors and a stroker CP3


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 16, 2019, 10:12:14 PM
Pushing 600+ then or a tad more?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on March 16, 2019, 10:33:55 PM
Goal would be 700-750 RWHP reliable, driveable and towable.  Trans is already built for it.  It will handle 850

Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on March 16, 2019, 10:39:20 PM
Sounds like fun.

Trans build probably in the future for mine too. Just got new tuning and a re-gear coming.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on March 18, 2019, 01:02:12 PM
Holy crap!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on August 02, 2019, 08:21:36 PM
Well. Just to update the thread.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190803/637df5cf604b0efe9b071450b1662ddc.jpg)
Channeling my inner Don
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190803/81572c7fe5300a592925b20de683e1ce.jpg) yukon compared to the G80
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190803/42678ade1f37ff1baeca8fe79c53ff1e.jpg)
Bearings pressed and ring on
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190803/1d868addec8e4b5fa3085971f57ee282.jpg)
.005 matching the stocker
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190803/2c5438e77ad091586e99d8cf47898ed2.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Nate on August 03, 2019, 12:20:56 AM
So what happened....and to which part?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on August 03, 2019, 08:49:29 AM
So what happened....and to which part?
He got "Grizzled up!"
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on August 04, 2019, 12:11:50 AM
So I was unhappy with the g80 although it was “working as intended” it was not sufficient

Reusing the old gear and bolts I swapped the Yukon Grizzly from Randy’s Ring Ana Pinion (thanks Tate)
Using new carrier bearings.

Pressing those on was easy. Then after fighting the ring gear to go on the locker I put it in the oven for about 20 minutes and dropped it right on. Cleaned the threads on the ring gear and the bolts and re used them with red loctite. Holding the carrier by pressing the case in between the plate and jack in the press allowed me to torque them down without much drama.




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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on May 09, 2023, 10:03:19 AM
Resurrecting to update a few things.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/ee6029ac345ba9c509d78d7d21beadd7.jpg)

AC bit the dust.  Dessicant bag in the receiver exploded and took out the compressor.  Rather than take chances, I replaced everything except the evaporator core since that’s a dash disassembly.  OEM compressor, dryer, condenser and hoses.  It took 3 quarts of flush to get the evaporator squeaky clean.  I also did a complete cooling stack cleaning and pulled the radiator to straighten all the fins by hand.  Added a new coolant reservoir and a new S&B intake system while I was in it.

Most recently our good friend from Randy’s Ring and Pinion, El Tate, hooked me up with a sweet set up for upper control arms from Icon Dynamics.

When I rebuilt the suspension I went first class on everything….except the UCAs, which were OEM Delco and lasted about 60k miles and the ball joints were so loose that hitting rutted pavement on asphalt would make it almost change lanes.

Not wanting to take any chances, I pulled it down and put new Moog lower ball joints, greased brake caliper slides and then replaced the upppers.

The uppers were well made and included urethane bushings, which now match the energy suspension urethane bushings on the lower control arms.

With two new Ridge Grapplers on the front and a new alignment its an amazing difference. While you do feel a little more road feedback from the urethane uppers, I can say that the initial tip in to the corners is more accurate at speed.  Those soft bushings would lag the steering input  and then correct mid corner requiring slight steering adjustment.  These new arms point the truck where your steering input tells it and requires no mid turn adjustment.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/7eb9bdf191691db6949a796ea86ed078.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/b7360652a28bf741aac74c49f44587ea.jpg)
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(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/14738b12fc3de41997485f847d1945b5.jpg)
My tank of nitrogen came in handy for flushing
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on May 09, 2023, 10:09:49 AM
NICE WORK red!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on May 09, 2023, 10:11:37 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/45fb26994dbd17e896bfb739ca36f692.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/c348ac30e9499480bbcc43ca9e9884d4.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/530c80c7330c2be484d732ff4f6aacfb.jpg)
Check out these bad boys.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on May 09, 2023, 10:19:53 AM
And I forgot while I was in there I upgraded the trans cooler

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/270cc3b95fd53ec73713df2c911e16d6.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/48434be45ed5c6b098bc251602896c7c.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/1e6560b5f16448b6034a4f91219fe88f.jpg)
That was the XDP direct fit. Seems to keep trans about 15 degrees cooler on average.


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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on May 09, 2023, 10:23:39 AM
And I got rid of the flea bay HIDs and went with GTR Ultra 2.0 LED low beams.  Honestly they are too bright.  People hate me at night.  But on back country roads they are awesome

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/bb1a27eb8d6400361dad4d7f2eb9a7bb.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/0e1c6137365f5937860ea6ae845b611b.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/f000a2fa7f04460517bf69b032dca054.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/0d83bb75493542adb5879878d05094bd.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230509/21b8883509b54017e668dd78537fe772.jpg)
Keep in mind the before and after are 35hid to these LEDs so these things are BRIGHT

These also allow for clocking to make sure you get more focused light output.
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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on May 09, 2023, 11:06:14 AM
Nice work Tex.

Do you have the cognito steering brace kit on there?
I added it to mine and it has saved my front end and tires significantly since install.
I used to NEED an allignmnet minimum twice a year and am now three years from last allignment.

I generally don’t sell parts but this kit has saved me tires.
And the steering reacts instantly now.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on May 09, 2023, 11:08:05 AM
Nice job  :likebutton:
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on May 09, 2023, 11:13:25 AM
Nice work Tex.

Do you have the cognito steering brace kit on there?
I added it to mine and it has saved my front end and tires significantly since install.
I used to NEED an allignmnet minimum twice a year and am now three years from last allignment.

I generally don’t sell parts but this kit has saved me tires.
And the steering reacts instantly now.
When I did the suspension rebuild I went with the Kryptonite Stage Three full kit with brace.  Very beefy and solid.  That and a new red top steering box and it steers well.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on May 09, 2023, 12:27:26 PM
Nice work. My front end is done and what a difference it makes.

AC is a must but I would advise a sock over the air cleaner. The crap it catches is crazy!
Title: The Bus
Post by: Bigdave_185 on May 09, 2023, 02:15:01 PM
Charles what shocks did you mount on that? Did you do some foxes or something similar ?
Scratch that.  Tapatalk refreshed all your photos

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Title: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on September 05, 2023, 07:24:27 PM
Little update here.  Been pushing fluid out the reservoir, aka head gasket failure.

A rebuild is in my future.  Turned the tunes down to stock and baby it and I think I can get a few thousand miles out of it.

Know that I want a solid stand so plan to build a stand that mounts to both engine mounts and will allow me to flip end over end and work on rear plate too.

Have casters and the steel for the frame and just need the nesting round tubes.  Started breaking down the old core that I’ve had laying around.  Will use it to mockup the stand and give me some better working knowledge of how the D max goes together.

This will likely be a mild build.  I could just do the head gaskets, but the oil pan is leaking bad enough I need to address it. 

For sure:  ARP Studs on top and bottom.  Wagler street rods. Stroker CP3, upgraded drop in turbo.

Likely: 30% over injectors. L5P Oil Cooler.

Maybe: New cast iron heads with injector cups built in.  Exhaust manifolds and up pipes.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230905/94621b69bd91c46622e02f7e775885f4.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230905/89ec899c7015bd73395c2d7d00f6b2d2.jpg)
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(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230905/e51c2c9fcd4175a8d3beb39dee6a450b.jpg)

In any event it will be a long process as work and kids are keeping me super busy.

Will clean and paint the frame from the cab forward and likely send the built transmission off for a freshening with new clutches as it has about 90k on it and I want this to be the last thing I touch in the next 5 years.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on September 05, 2023, 07:55:47 PM
Sounds like a little more than mild.

Should be nice. PPE manifolds or the 1/2 price knockoff stuff.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on September 06, 2023, 10:47:15 AM
Is that your actual motor in the pics?
You already removed it?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: KensAuto on September 06, 2023, 01:34:29 PM
From headlights to an engine? That escalated quickly

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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: rpar86 on September 06, 2023, 11:41:07 PM
Is that your actual motor in the pics?
You already removed it?
It’s a core he has had sitting around for a couple years.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on September 07, 2023, 08:20:21 PM
From headlights to an engine? That escalated quickly

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No different than me spotting the H for President bumper sticker then you moving her in……  :popcorn:
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on September 09, 2023, 12:14:01 PM
Sounds like a little more than mild.

Should be nice. PPE manifolds or the 1/2 price knockoff stuff.
The bottom and fuel will be enough to handle 700RWP but I’ll keep the tunes a little more mild.

You really only have one chance while it is out to keep the bottom together even it you decide to turn it up later.  Manifolds, pipes and even injectors can be done with the motor in the truck.  I don’t ever want to have to pull the motor again.  Bottom should be good to 1000, but I’ll never run it that hot.  I want another 200k out of it.

Will be interesting to see if I can get away without boring the cylinders and new pistons.  maybe a slight hone and new rings.  Still have some research to do there.  Certainly a new set of micrometers is in my future as I tear it down and measure everything.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on September 09, 2023, 12:14:42 PM
From headlights to an engine? That escalated quickly

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Isnt that the truth!  But par for the RMTW course…


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on September 09, 2023, 12:31:18 PM
Sounds like good target.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on September 09, 2023, 05:34:05 PM
I’ll be shocked if you need to bore.
Based on my 300 k donor.

Buy once cry once. Like you’re planning.
I don’t know enough about the LB7 but I think the head upgrade you’re speaking of is money well spent to upgrade to the more reliable newer style.

It’s just bolts and bits. Have fun with the oil change…
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on November 04, 2023, 08:50:36 PM
Well got the core broken down and loaded up to head to the machine shop. I’ll see what they have to say about the core block and crank.  If its solid I may just build that one to cut down on the down time.

Bearings are standard and everything looked pretty good.  I left it outside and the cylinders have some surface rust so they’ll probably want to bore 20 over.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231105/6713660aeaae1dd674b6033f174520ad.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231105/cbf4bae1b448f8f90c778871e9346956.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231105/2046f45c69557d0536c9d80a93305934.jpg)
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(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231105/69d71dd5486928a2abf628a816dd45f4.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231105/03ce5e2ee0721e4966e022082fede9ba.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on November 05, 2023, 01:54:05 PM
Light reading?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on November 05, 2023, 08:47:16 PM
Light reading?
Yeah, as expensive as this is going to be, I need to make sure its done right.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on November 06, 2023, 01:36:44 AM
Couldn't agree more. I see LBZ engines all the time on FB. Might have to pull the trigger, but figure I have a good 100k left in mine.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on November 07, 2023, 10:51:33 AM
Dropped the block and crank off this morning.  only thing they don’t have is torque plates for the 6.6. I’d like to have it but its hard to find a good machine shop in Houston with all the right stuff and the experience

It’ll be 20 over, new cam bearings, new freeze plugs , line honed, crank polished, lightly decked.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on November 07, 2023, 12:27:38 PM
Don't think the factory uses torque plates, should be good.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on November 30, 2023, 09:49:13 AM
Dropped the block and crank off this morning.  only thing they don’t have is torque plates for the 6.6. I’d like to have it but its hard to find a good machine shop in Houston with all the right stuff and the experience

It’ll be 20 over, new cam bearings, new freeze plugs , line honed, crank polished, lightly decked.


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Hey Tex, i'm sure you know all about this but you're retroing the crankshaft dowel pin to prevent shear while you're in there right?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on November 30, 2023, 03:04:07 PM
The shear quite easily as I found out when the “left hand” threads on my oil pump turned out to be right hand. Luckily I noticed the misalignment occur or I would have been in trouble.

I don’t believe I’ve heard of a lot of in service failures in the Duramax, but I haven’t looked either.
If there is a solution now is definitely the time for you to address.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on November 30, 2023, 08:30:58 PM
Yes. The plan is to key the crank and cam. When the machine shop is done with it I’ll take it to another shop just to have them check the work.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on December 01, 2023, 04:46:15 PM
smart man.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on December 19, 2023, 07:08:43 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231220/8460f3cc2ae70345dce757d857b4d885.jpg)

Picked this up.  I asked the to shot blast in addition to the chemical dip and wash, but they didnt do it.

Still trying to find a reputable shop to double check everything.  You wouldn’t think it would be that hard in the 4th largest city in America.

Lots of gas performance shops but they wont touch a diesel.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on December 19, 2023, 07:11:49 PM
For what is a complicated engine, the is clean and solid looking.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on December 19, 2023, 11:22:57 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20231220/8460f3cc2ae70345dce757d857b4d885.jpg)

Picked this up.  I asked the to shot blast in addition to the chemical dip and wash, but they didnt do it.

Still trying to find a reputable shop to double check everything.  You wouldn’t think it would be that hard in the 4th largest city in America.

Lots of gas performance shops but they wont touch a diesel.


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My local builder does not advertise diesels but he will do them. Closest good shop I know of to you is Denver….. sorry
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: EL TATE on December 20, 2023, 09:47:12 AM
only one in Dallas in my system; East Dallas Diesel 972-807-6316. other shops if you feel like a drive:
Precision diesel & Auto Tolar, 682-217-5949
Diesel Dynamics Joshua, 817-558-3673
Gulf States Industrial Diesel Odessa, 432-385-9163
Truck Source Diesel San Antonio, 210-654-6767
Bledsoe Diesel & Performance Lubbock, 806-771-1045
Holden Brothers Diesel Boerne, 830-537-4488
East Texas Diesel Lufkin, 936-238-3941

hope that helps at all
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 05, 2024, 08:58:01 PM
Thanks Tate.

So… things have taken a turn for the worse….

This may be a full on oil change

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240106/cefba3fdb8880270b30ef349ce663f10.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 05, 2024, 08:59:35 PM
That's some serious disassembly!

I hope that isn't the red truck!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 05, 2024, 09:06:06 PM
They pay you to haul that away?  :wink:
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 05, 2024, 10:06:54 PM
Looks like fun!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 06, 2024, 10:00:47 AM
Well. Found a guy on FB that was parting out a cc/lb and decided if I was going to pull the front and and pull the motor I was only one step away from a frame off.

The front end on my truck is greasy from years of transmission line leaks and upper oil pan leaks and I was going to super clean it anyway

Which lead to the thought of just having a new frame and having it blasted and painted and start from scratch.

My plan is to box the entire frame from the front to the back in hopes of stiffening it.

I’ve secretly coveted the kelderman four link air ride but found they are no longer making it for the 2001-2010 frames.

No sure I have the fab skills for it but it I get a wild hair I may build my own which would be better welded than bolted on

I had also found a dually bed and rear end but they got sold so that’s off the table…for now

So in short I have a clean slate. We’ll see where it goes.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Sammconn on January 06, 2024, 10:06:50 AM
Oh no….
I know a guy who will take you spare frame when you’re done with it…

Sheesh…this is gonna be an oil change.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 06, 2024, 11:20:32 AM
Their already boxed back to the bed, doing just the rear should be easy. 4 link rear, gonna wheel it?
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 06, 2024, 04:46:23 PM
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^He's talking like a full service which is the next step past an oil change! ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 06, 2024, 04:58:02 PM
Their already boxed back to the bed, doing just the rear should be easy. 4 link rear, gonna wheel it?
Negative sir, only boxed to the firewall and a little where each of the crossmembers are for the bed.  Zoom in on the picture.

Nope, no wheeling.  Just upgrading old technology as I don’t ever want to get rid of my non emissions truck.

Well, unless that bad influence Shawn convinces me to SAS it with a SD Axle…..


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 06, 2024, 05:09:13 PM
SAS, yes!

Hard to tell from the pic, but I think you are right as my cross member for the titan bolts onto the lip under the cab.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 06, 2024, 05:18:22 PM
Their already boxed back to the bed, doing just the rear should be easy. 4 link rear, gonna wheel it?
Negative sir, only boxed to the firewall and a little where each of the crossmembers are for the bed.  Zoom in on the picture.

Nope, no wheeling.  Just upgrading old technology as I don’t ever want to get rid of my non emissions truck.

Well, unless that bad influence Shawn convinces me to SAS it with a SD Axle…..


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I concur, I am in fact a bad influence and readily admit / warn people. Unlike Ken and the gf of his…….
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 06, 2024, 05:19:28 PM
SAS, yes!

Hard to tell from the pic, but I think you are right as my cross member for the titan bolts onto the lip under the cab.

Yes, if he’s this deep the logical next better step is an sas


Charles, find an online 4 link calculator. Wide Open Design or Branik for the links, mock it up with pvc pipe. You can figure it out, I’ve seen your handiwork.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 06, 2024, 07:35:49 PM
Their already boxed back to the bed, doing just the rear should be easy. 4 link rear, gonna wheel it?
Negative sir, only boxed to the firewall and a little where each of the crossmembers are for the bed.  Zoom in on the picture.

Nope, no wheeling.  Just upgrading old technology as I don’t ever want to get rid of my non emissions truck.

Well, unless that bad influence Shawn convinces me to SAS it with a SD Axle…..


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Shawn, did you see that?

That's psychology right there.

Red man wants someone in authority (you) to force him into doing a 3-4-5 link.

He has the $$$ and some time (although not as much).

and

we all could use the entertainment.

S-Take the appropriate action!
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 07, 2024, 05:15:17 PM
Sean, keep me honest here.  I’m not articulating a ton with what little off roading this truck will see.

Fixed poly joints on the axle end
Heim on the frame end
The pinion and transmission angle should be the same
4 links should be equal length so the pinion angle does not change
Axle at ride height should be in the center of the arc of travel or close as possible

Not sure on the vertical spacing on the upper and lower bars, but guessing its more of a whatever can fit (8-10 inches)

Length of the bars,  longer the better within reason to keep the forward travel of the axle to a minimum during articulation.  Probably more practical to be a bout 1/2 the length of the OEM leaf springs.

The a panhard bar parallel to the ground at ride height.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: stlaser on January 07, 2024, 05:34:13 PM
No to heims spend some money with summit machine w d get good rebuildable joints. Parallel 4 link? I as you should research that as I’m more familiar with triangulated. More vertical separation the better between the links. Half the length of oem leaf spring sounds short. Rest sounds reasonable, maybe 40/60 on up / down travel.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 08, 2024, 07:34:40 AM
I was mimicking the Kelderman design which is more road oriented I think. I see a lot of crawler designs with triangulated which I believe is more flexible and doesn’t require a pan hard bar. .

https://kelderman.com/shop/catalog/product/view/id/144/s/2011-gm-2500-3500-4-link-rear-air-suspension/category/2/


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 16, 2024, 11:45:18 AM
So, Red, where is the bus project currently that you've initiated a proper fluid change/full service?
;-)
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 19, 2024, 01:58:19 PM
Just bought 4 welding stands to offload the frame from the trailer and start breaking it down for blasting.

It’s a marathon and not a sprint.

I may get it offloaded this weekend.  Gotta paint my firewood rack and finish the farm table too.


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: JR on January 19, 2024, 03:01:03 PM
TRN, have you seen the blast systems that use water? Some are really cheap, some not. I got a cheap one to try.

Basically, it pushes the media with water and compressed air. Biggest thing is hardly any mess, no cloud and just hose down to cleanup.
Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: TexasRedNeck on January 21, 2024, 08:38:31 PM
I think they call that dustless blasting?

I’m probably going to write the check to have this stuff blasted.

Got off loaded and started breaking it down.  Picked up a FB buy this evening.  rear end and springs/shackles.

That thing is a tank.  It took 4 of us to get it in the truck.  Just glad it wansnt when I had the 12 inch lift and 37s on it…still probably 43-45 inch tailgate height.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240122/c395f0790f67ffa650852d804c24851f.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240122/b4ef925995dabf23c53554f3108884f4.jpg)


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Title: Re: The Bus
Post by: Flyin6 on January 22, 2024, 09:57:43 AM
I'm smiling broadly.

Hopefully, you can take it to completion and not tear it all apart and sell it off like someone I know had to do... :-((
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