Well,.. here we go again.
I finally managed to get the time(and space!) to bring home my 57 custom project I purchased 7 years ago in Childress Texas.
I have been collecting parts for this car for a long time and with the extra [parts car i have and all the parts I have collected.... I am ready to begin.This will be a slow build(as All my stuff is) just due to family work and spare Money.
I have a 428 with a Galaxie 4 speed to be the motivation.. the engine is complete and ready.Rear gear shall either be a 3:50 or 3:25 ... both posi units.. the stock unit now is a 3:00.
Since collecting,I have everything for this car...... so replacing the damage and and start.
Working space is limited because of the other cars..but I thing we can manage it.
I took a bunch of cell shots from yesterday........
Body,frame,sheetmetal is very very good..... the rockers needed to be replaced and the floors sections as well.Nice thing about this car it is so dry from its life in Texas.... there is no rot like a northern car can get... so its an awesome base to start.
Couple more shots.....
Engine bay is very sano..... again.. just more surface rust than anything..... the sun really bleached everything off this car.
The car was born in Dallas in and was last on the road in 1971.... the plates were on the car when I got it.....
This car was a project and went thru a few hands.I bought it off a gentleman ,Larry Grillett of Childress TX. Larry just recently passed.... great guy... big collector.
Need to replace the rubber in the front end... but mostly just clean and paint.
At some point in this cars life...likely when a project and sitting outside..... all the windows were smashed....and rain got in and soaked the floors and carpet.... well.. you know what happened.... I have cut the pans out and have all the EMS panels to install.(God Bless EMS!)
Under the car... all the red factory red primer is evident and all the years of road crap has been cleaned.I just need to start painting.
I have the dash out and already primed for painting......all really good dash parts are ready as well.Again.. after the floor panels are welded in.... I will paint the entire interior.... just like the other 57 on my other thread and insulate.All the headliner bows are present in in their proper position.I have a very nice Bench and rear seat ready.I will have to save up $$$ for interior panels.... or make my own.
Trunk in is very good shape..... no rot or Rust.
Strange..... one of the deck lid hinges(drivers side) has a spot weld broken.....so it needs a quick zap.... throws the deck lid off by an 1/8 on alignment.
I am pretty sure this car was abused in it's previous life.....The original fuel tank(now long gone) had a massive gash on the left side of it as if someone hit a giant rock and destroyed it.
No Matter.... all points for the shocks are in excellent shape.. no rust..... got all the new suspension stuff too.
Looks like a great starting point! My 61 Fairlane came from Texas and was in very similar condition. Dry but cooked!
I have posted the engine before....(on my other thread...) but here is my friend Don Palmer... our local FE Guru working on the 428 in his shop.Don was introduced to me by a great member here, Gary(fordaholic).... This man really knows his stuff. Gary.....THANK YOU!
So. there you have it... this will be a slow burn...but by the grace of god and the crick don't rise.... we shall get her done.
Weather has been horrible here in the Northeast... rain,rain and more rain..... yesterday was the first nice day in 3 weeks.
Counties are flooded and it has stopped me from working on cars and of course...maintaining my chores around the house.
and today.... it's raining....
Yesterday after getting the car... I did manage to install a cherry clutch pedal assembly (THANK YOU GARY!) so a little bit was done.Deck lid also fitted but ran in to that spot weld problem on the rear spring.....so.. it was getting dark and it was tools down.
Quote from: troublemaker427 on 2017-06-25 08:22
Looks like a great starting point! My 61 Fairlane came from Texas and was in very similar condition. Dry but cooked!
ha ha ha.. yes.cooked well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Awesome! I only wish I had your energy and money :003: My car building days are about over :005:
Quote from: hiball3985 on 2017-06-25 09:14
Awesome! I only wish I had your energy and money :003: My car building days are about over :005:
Jim.... I don't have money.....that's a "for sure".... and the energy part is dwindling...... This is the last project for quite a while.
hahahah
Looks like you have a lot of work ahead of you. It looks like a great place to enter a project. Having the replacement panels and the drivetrain set up, it won't be too long before you'll have it on the road!
Yes terry... a lot of work ahead....here is the car when she came home about 5-6 years ago.... at the same time I met a very smart guy in Mass.!
Looks like a cool project Jeff. Gotta love those cars from a hot & dry climate. I bought an old F100 outside of Vegas. Dry as a bone and the most solid body I'd ever seen on a 57yr old vehicle.
That motor looks sweet as well. That'll move 'er right along.
You going to keep the black & white paint scheme?
Quote from: Jeff Norwell on 2017-06-25 09:41
Yes terry... a lot of work ahead....here is the car when she came home about 5-6 years ago.... at the same time I met a very smart guy in Mass.!
Although you've had this car for a few years you're just starting on it in earnest. How long do you expect till it's finished. I know, no car is ever really finished.
Marc/terry---
I have been back n forth about the end result on Paint.... to keep the 2-tone and stick with that....but I have a very good set of plan old custom trim with dividers....I really would like to go to the B/W scheme with the plain old custom trim...... but.....I do really like the factory custom set up it originally came with.... I have all the pieces to go either way.
I expect it may take about 3 years to do.... but we can come back in 3 years time and quote this...... and maybe laugh.
....I know... there is a ton of holes to fill if I go a plain old custom look.
I absolutely L O V E this car.. and in a B/W scheme..I would be very happy.....The end game is to build a sleeper.
I am so envious of you guys over there. I keep hearing how hard it's getting to find stuff there but you keep coming up with stuff like this. Here in NZ we have top import everything, we can't just come across it like you guys, you're so lucky. I'd be as happy as a pig in sh*t if I could find half the stuff you guys do. Anyway, jealous rant over, looking forward to following this build (as I do with all the builds on here).
Fitting a new gravel pan as the original was torn and shredded in the cars previous life.... (pass.side)..also straightened a few creases and dents... progressing slowly
Don't have to be so jealous, Steve. The fact is most of us DON"T find stuff that good. Jeff knows everybody, has a huge list of contacts to draw from when he's looking for stuff. I saw the black and white car when he still had it in storage at his friend Bob Owens' (Owen's Salvage) place in Wellington, Tx and it looked amazingly well preserved. I was really shocked when he temporarily set it aside because he found a better one.
Jeff....Great to see you starting on this one. That engine looks awesome. Really sorry to hear about Larry Grillett's passing. That was the first I had heard. I just met him last year at a cruise/show that ended up at his place is Childress. The old school rodders I talk to here tell me he was a long time icon in this area, and definetly a huge mid 50's Ford guy.. Any details on his death? when? Any info on what's going to happen to his collection?
Rich.... Larry had stage 4 Lung Cancer.... he was doing well for a few years but the fight became harsh.Anyhow.. yes.. he was an awesome man.I helped him do some work with the 1956 Ford Club of America... he was President....
Larry had one of the LARGEST collections in several big buildings in Childress.A massive auction is going to go down in October,....I may attend and hang with Bob for a week .....It will be HUGE.I have seen some pics of whats up for auction...Lots of 50's Fords and Parts.
thanks for the info. Bummer about Larry. Long term illnesses are the worst.
Keep me posted about the auction and in particular if you're headed for Texas. If you need, I can pick you up at the airport if you're flying in and bring you to Wellington. You won't mind if I pick you up in a restomoded '57 will ya?
Quote from: RICH MUISE on 2017-06-26 11:13
thanks for the info. Bummer about Larry. Long term illnesses are the worst.
Keep me posted about the auction and in particular if you're headed for Texas. If you need, I can pick you up at the airport if you're flying in and bring you to Wellington. You won't mind if I pick you up in a restomoded '57 will ya?
THAT would be fun!!!
I have been trying to travel in the last few years.. but Work and such keeps me put.. but I will keep you posted Rich... Thank you!
Quote from: Jeff Norwell on 2017-06-25 14:57
Marc/terry---
I have been back n forth about the end result on Paint.... to keep the 2-tone and stick with that....but I have a very good set of plan old custom trim with dividers....I really would like to go to the B/W scheme with the plain old custom trim...... but.....I do really like the factory custom set up it originally came with.... I have all the pieces to go either way.
I expect it may take about 3 years to do.... but we can come back in 3 years time and quote this...... and maybe laugh.
....I know... there is a ton of holes to fill if I go a plain old custom look.
I absolutely L O V E this car.. and in a B/W scheme..I would be very happy.....The end game is to build a sleeper.
Looks like mine except my roof is white and my wheels are black.... I like those changes a lot!
Quote from: RICH MUISE on 2017-06-26 11:13
You won't mind if I pick you up in a restomoded '57 will ya?
mind another pssgr paying for 4.6 gas ?
That particular Custom sold at Barrett Jackson for $49,500 a few years ago. Not originally an E code but still a very nice copy of one.
[quote author=Jeff Norwell
I have been back n forth about the end result on Paint.... to keep the 2-tone and stick with that....but I have a very good set of plan old custom trim with dividers....I really would like to go to the B/W scheme with the plain old custom trim...... but.....I do really like the factory custom set up it originally came with.... I have all the pieces to go either way.
I expect it may take about 3 years to do.... but we can come back in 3 years time and quote this...... and maybe laugh.
....I know... there is a ton of holes to fill if I go a plain old custom look. quote]
Jeff
Since you already have the components that you need, why not make one of them into a custom, then you would have one of each. The B+W custom in the picture looks real neat. Think about how you would confuse your neighbors.
That's just my opinion. FWIW. Jay
Quote from: Ecode70D on 2017-06-26 18:14
[quote author=Jeff Norwell
I have been back n forth about the end result on Paint.... to keep the 2-tone and stick with that....but I have a very good set of plan old custom trim with dividers....I really would like to go to the B/W scheme with the plain old custom trim...... but.....I do really like the factory custom set up it originally came with.... I have all the pieces to go either way.
I expect it may take about 3 years to do.... but we can come back in 3 years time and quote this...... and maybe laugh.
....I know... there is a ton of holes to fill if I go a plain old custom look. quote]
Jeff
Since you already have the components that you need, why not make one of them into a custom, then you would have one of each. The B+W custom in the picture looks real neat. Think about how you would confuse your neighbors.
That's just my opinion. FWIW. Jay
Agreed Jay!
Quote from: djfordmanjack on 2017-06-26 15:27
mind another pssgr paying for 4.6 gas ?
That'd be awesome, Guenter. Gas is down to 1.86 here, so not too much to worry about. Thinking of a trip back to the good 'ol USA again?
Jeff:
I am jealous of your nice garage & working space. Having lived in the same house for the last 45 years my garage has accumulate an astounding amount of "stuff". Very little of it useful or car related, so in a standard 2 car garage I have one car worth of space and the wife of 50 years wants a pantry installed in the garage to boot. Well, I'm in the processing of sorting & tossing and I'm smart enough to make sure the wife gets her pantry in the process. Meanwhile, I'll continue to be envious of your spacious garage. But, I am going to try to get some very usable space in what's left over. LOL
Bob
57 AGIN
I'm thinking that the custom with the dividers are supposed to be painted like what Lynn stated. I have not seen
enough of them. What do you think about setting your car up like that?
Paint dividers are such a rare piece! Be a shame not to use them but you have the eye for cool. Just make it yours! I sure you can always get rid of those dividers.
I did not realize this was rmk57's car... his paint scheme I love... I will go Raven Black and Colonial white.......Beautiful car Randy!
Jeff, IMHO I would not use the 'cheap' trim. I have no problem in welding up about 140 holes, but she was born as a 300 first time around and it's the most beautiful trim EVER on this planet. I had a 57SD with the 'cheap' custom trim and I did like it a lot. but 300 is something different. It's blue collar deluxe at its best. getting the most out of your money in 57. big looks on a small purse, love the Custom size and bigger looks. Maybe it's just me. Gary's b/w pic tells it all. now get that brightened up with that totally incredible 3sided pyramid style gold anodized metal. It shouldn't be removed. Just saying.
Quote from: Jeff Norwell on 2017-06-27 12:24
I did not realize this was rmk57's car... his paint scheme I love... I will go Raven Black and Colonial white.......Beautiful car Randy!
Thanks! I decided to leave the paint off the roof, not sure if you could order them that way?
It does have paint dividers on it now to.
Yes Randy.. you could get them ordered that way from your dealer or factory. Another Member fro BC .laudy57 had a black n white one for sale years back.......I think Lynnes is done like that as well
Quote from: djfordmanjack on 2017-06-27 17:46
Jeff, IMHO I would not use the 'cheap' trim. I have no problem in welding up about 140 holes, but she was born as a 300 first time around and it's the most beautiful trim EVER on this planet. I had a 57SD with the 'cheap' custom trim and I did like it a lot. but 300 is something different. It's blue collar deluxe at its best. getting the most out of your money in 57. big looks on a small purse, love the Custom size and bigger looks. Maybe it's just me. Gary's b/w pic tells it all. now get that brightened up with that totally incredible 3sided pyramid style gold anodized metal. It shouldn't be removed. Just saying.
I agree G,.. but I already have a custom 300......and ....well...I dunno yet! hahahaha
That's obvious with all your 300s hahaha, so why don't you just get another REAL Custom E70D :002:
It seems we always need one more car for the perfect collection.... :003:
Well. back to the Texas 57..... Fitted my new hood temporary.... After fitting the hood hinges..... very very close on fitment.... but for now.
Close on Gaps.
New gravel pan was fitted.. a little tweaking but all aligned well.My old one was torn on the right side..... not unrepairable...but this was easier.
Some nice even panel gaps there! That's one thing that drove me crazy with my Ranchero, I'm not totally happy with it now, but it got to the stage where correcting one thing put two more things outta line!
Thanks Gary....I just don't want to strip the front end and in the end have a mess trying to fit all.
I am going use these fronts ..already stripped the trim off and began filling holes.
I know Jay doesn't believe in luck.. but I have a very nice 58 column and steering box... It did not come with one..but i began digging thru all the parts.....Luckily .... I found a 58 Pitman arm.
I will pull the junk steering wheell and clean,paint install this weekend.
Jeff, I almost 99% sure that isn't a 58 box from what I can tell from the pictures. But the sector shaft and pitman arm do, so I'm confused. Does the steering shaft have a hole down the middle or is it solid?
Quote from: hiball3985 on 2017-07-01 06:40
Jeff, I almost 99% sure that isn't a 58 box from what I can tell from the pictures. But the sector shaft and pitman arm do, so I'm confused. Does the steering shaft have a hole down the middle or is it solid?
Dang Jim.Your right!....I grabbed the wrong column from the pile....which means I don't have luck and i do need a 58 Pitman arm....hahahahha.
I hate to use my memory but I think the 58 pitman arm and shaft have 4 keys. Sorry it's been a few years back since I did mine.
Well that's interesting..because the Pitman has 4 keys and so does the sector on the box....Now I am confused..and that's not hard...I am gonna dig out the other column......
Jim.. by "Keys"... are we talking about the same thing here?.....I image a 58 is different Spline-key count?
Yes, thats what confused me, maybe I have it backwards and the 57 had 4 and the 58 had 2 ?
A 58 box will have an adjusting nut and lock nut for the steering shaft/worm gear preload adjustment as opposed to a cover and four bolts on the 57.
Generic photo but similar
Your are correct Jim.. just did a quick look at the 58 box in my other car..and the box in the pic I posted is indeed a 57...I will dig out the 58 unit later today..so the spline-Key on a 58 must be a 2...I would imagine.
Sorry my memory isn't better as to the splines, but they are different 57 vs 58. I just wanted to catch you before you sent out the wrong box for rebuilding or just installing as is :003:
Quote Jeff Norwell "Well that's interesting..because the Pitman has 4 keys and so does the sector on the box....Now I am confused..and that's not hard...I am gonna dig out the other column"
Jeff you DO NOT NEED A 1958 PITMAN ARM.
The 59 pitman on the right fits the 57 steering box on the left as is. The only difference between the arms is the four 1957 slots on the pitman arm are raised (convex). The four 58 -59 pitman arm slots are indented (concave). All you have to do is spend a few minutes filing down 4 slots on the 57 pitman arm and it will fit your 58 Ford sector shaft. Now you can time it to your preference.
The 57 58 and 59 sector shaft nuts and lock washers interchange.
Jay
Quote from: hiball3985 on 2017-07-01 08:09
A 58 box will have an adjusting nut and lock nut for the steering shaft/worm gear preload adjustment as opposed to a cover and four bolts on the 57.
Generic photo but similar
X2 what Jim stated about the adjusting nut and locking nut on the 58 steering column shaft as opposed to a cover and 4 bolts.
Because of other commitments, I could not respond to all of this until I could find the time to actually compare the 57 and 59 boxes that I have.
Thats interesting information Jay. I always thought the difference was the number of key ways, but my memory is like Swiss Cheese at times :005:. When I put in my 58 box in I didn't take the pitman arm off the 57 box to compare because something in the back of my mind knew they were different for some reason. Now I know but I may forget by tomorrow :003:
Jim
For years now I have been hearing that the 57 do not fit the 58 -59 so I took it for granted and never investigated further. Since our friend Jeff brought this up and since I had both units with finger tight nuts just lightly holding the pitman arms on, I figured that I would investigate for myself. The first thing I did was to put my 59 one onto the 57 and it slipped right into place. That was a big surprise. Then I tried to put the 57 onto the 59 and it would not go. Investigation revealed the 4 slots on each pitman arm were just the opposite.
Keep in mind that this is the same problem when switching 58 - 59 steering wheels onto a 57 Ford. So now the mystery is solved and everyone on our site knows how to deal with it in the future.
I wish all of our friends a very happy Independence day. Thank our veterans for their service and enjoy your families and be safe
. Jay Arrow
Well. the Texas 57 has been languishing in the corner for a while now.... and since it looked lonely..I took what spare time I had(very little) and decided to get some work done.
I ordered new McVeigh springs(6 leaf),new insulators,new north American Rubber,HD Shocks and other small bits needed.The rear end is not a 57, but a 58 or 59.... through out its life.. someone really abused this car.....but... thats all good..... I'm gonna save her.
After pulling the rear..I replaced the bearings and changed the seals.... I had a rebuilt 3rd member posi chunk(28 spline) with a 3:50 gear R&P set which i replaced.Axles were in excellent shape and I rebuilt the rear brakes as well.
I then took upon the HORRIBLE task of stripping the underside of all scale,rust and undercoating.Worst,dirtiest job ever.
So the complete underside from the the b pillar back under the car is now completely cleaned and painted.Next in line is to do the same to the front end and rebuild it.I am lucky to have a very talented machinist who has a shop 4 doors down from our home.Terry is a very talented guy who is an asset.He took my rear drums and turned them for 30 bucks.
(https://i.imgur.com/TUUVpNg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7qqYYPJ.jpg)
That old 9 was pretty dirty!
(https://i.imgur.com/4ky1xoA.jpg)
But she cleaned up pretty good.
(https://i.imgur.com/mXUF3ZB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/z50bMJJ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TDHADHA.jpg)
The rear underside was a work out but cleaned up very nice.
Install was easy and its all ready.
(https://i.imgur.com/cPpnBrl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QKzeQWI.jpg)
Next step is now to tear into the front end, need to rebuild the complete front end.... I have a complete NOS rebuild kit from a great source who has tons of NOS stuff for Fords going back to the teens... a company called Presixties... local to me..but a valuable resource.
I plan to swap out the 57 steering box for a 58-59 unit.... On the fence to run Aerostar or original coils....(I believe the OG coils in the car now are worn out)
(https://i.imgur.com/rw1NcP8.jpg)
Engine wise.... the jury is still out... but I am leaning towards another FE,.... I picked up a 63 Factory aluminum intake... and i have a core 390 sitting in the corner.I may go C-6 because I already have a Trans crossmember for a C-6 and a proper length driveshaft.But.... who knows.
I also found locally a 66 Merc 410 that may fit the bill... but...I dunno... not there yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/SWRlYh3.jpg)
My pal Tom(or Tom the Painter, as he is known) painted some 56 steelies for me...I prefer a 15 inch wheel to 14's..... He painted them a colonial white base.....I may go black.... but again... we will see.
(https://i.imgur.com/1kW7fUj.jpg)
Awesome you're doing two at the same time. This one does not have the rust issues the other on had, correct? Yep, cleaning the underside is the dirtiest job ever, especially if you're not using a rotiserie. The 10 worst days of my life were spent cleaning/sandblasting/por-15 the underside on mine. Never again without a rotiserie.
Everything is looking great Jeff. Nice having some more active build threads here. Keep it coming.
Thanks Rich!
No. the Texas car has very very little rust issues... yes... 2 at the same time..I refuse to take the body off.... so I will suffer the pain... hahahah
Thanks again Rich
Jeff
Quote from: Jeff Norwell on 2019-10-08 06:38...
I may go C-6 because I already have a Trans crossmember for a C-6 and a proper length driveshaft. ...
What do you mean by C-6 crossmember? Is it something other than the standard '57 crossmember?
I am assuming that stick shift & auto trans X-members in '57s are the same. No?
Quote from: Tom S on 2019-10-08 14:52
What do you mean by C-6 crossmember? Is it something other than the standard '57 crossmember?
I am assuming that stick shift & auto trans X-members in '57s are the same. No?
No..... Ford never made anything but the standard fair trans-crossmember.....I have a Crites unit that came from my car that had a 460/C-6..... They make crossmember for that application.Pretty sure its an easy swap with little or no mods to the base plate.The driveshaft is also in my shop here.
Ah! Just as I thought, was makin' me wonder. ???
Thanks, Jeff!
Sorry Tom..I should have clarified that..... to be honest. the real reason for an auto.. is my wife may drive this car.. and although she drives stick ... with no problem..... a modern stick.. she may tire quite quickly of rowing through an old transmission..... and I simply don't want to hear about it.
Jeff is that a NOS manifold? I lost mine a couple of years ago when the exhaust cross over burned through, very thin in that area. I had to pull the tin pan oil shield on the bottom off to find the problem. Just a word of caution it it's a used piece.
Yes Jim.NOS.. the pan underneath is in fantastic shape.... almost new... I was aware of that before i bought it.
The Texas Custom has great tin on it ! I cannot believe how you can build 2 or 3 of them at the same time.... what's the plan Jeff. really using these as daily drivers and your wife driving one of them? wouldn't an FE be cost prohibitive for a daily driver? Why not build one of them with a sweet 289K code, 5Litre or even a 292/AOD ?
Quote from: Jeff Norwell on 2019-10-08 16:04
Yes Jim.NOS.. the pan underneath is in fantastic shape.... almost new... I was aware of that before i bought it.
It looked NOS but just wanted to check, what a great score :003:
Quote from: djfordmanjack on 2019-10-08 16:54
The Texas Custom has great tin on it ! I cannot believe how you can build 2 or 3 of them at the same time.... what's the plan Jeff. really using these as daily drivers and your wife driving one of them? wouldn't an FE be cost prohibitive for a daily driver? Why not build one of them with a sweet 289K code, 5Litre or even a 292/AOD ?
I am still not sure what direction to proceed in yet G,.... But I have quite a bit for some kind of FE.... as for a SBF?...... they don't interest me at all.... I do have access to a running 292 Y-Block,... but it needs to be rebuilt and I would only go with that and a T-5...... I just have not reached any decision yet.
I really neglected this thread.. but it hasn't gone cold..... I will give the Coles notes version.....
Car is nearly finished... all wired, floors fixed and installed ..complete front end rebuild... Basically..I have to install the interior, headliner ..... seats and stuff... get the exhaust wrapped up and fire it up.
driveline is a 1960 352/ 4 speed on the column.... and if it turns out to be a lump..I have a fresh FE waiting in the wings.
I thought it would have gone a lot faster.. but ....well...... that's life.
My other 57 custom is also coming home from the body shop too... so.... I am excited....
anyhow..visuals of the progress on this car from the last 2 years....
(https://i.imgur.com/T5udI0q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/jIKFK27.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Dqi9bSA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/adRQSxI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MUZMRaC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qNnl3NI.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tKEs2UW.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/Fy92YYc.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Oe1lXZ6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/MUZMRaC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dt8kb0z.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lV7M5Go.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Kh4m0WY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XwcP81t.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/rRjwLNz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xONQzVj.jpg)
Looking great, Jeff. Thanks for the updates, and keep them coming!
Man, I had to go back and read the entire thread, I forgot all about this car! So cool! I love the idea of a 4 speed on the column too! Just a little partial but the color scheme is perfect. Looking so good it makes me want to rebuild mine...
You have made a lot of progress, thanks for the update. Do you have a road draft tube for the back of the manifold? I can't tell from the picture, or are you going with a PCV to the carb? Some type of separate shifting device for reverse?
Rich!...Thank.and Yes I will!
Lynn.... We can blame Jay for the 4 speed on the column idea.... and frankly. a Hurst unit has got out of control on price.... so.. using 58 ford parts.... all the linkage fits!..whether it actually holds up..we will see...If I have issues and forced to buy a Hurst unit(cobbler together) I will do that.But around here..cost is $1500-$1800 for everything I need.
Again. the paint dept.//// I refuse to pay todays prices on paint.. and the good news is the "other" 57 (428 custom) is coming home from the body shop after a very long stay.... Actually..not only do I refuse to pay for a paint job today.. I simply can't afford it.
So......as I have said...... its only old once. and its going to wear its faded worn out paint. I am just good with that... no worries.. no care.
Jim.... we used at OD factory cable for reverse and made of 3 very sturdy brackets to keep all in place and no bind.So far it works trick.
the PCV is the basket system... Again.... since Scottish heritage came forward(read cheap) I made my own basket. and own vent top for the manifold.The inline PCV is inline from engine to carb.
sorry.i can't find the pics..... its a very clean install.
Thanks guys
Jeff
Jeff, great idea using the OD cable. I had to make two home made PCV systems for my Y blocks also. I understand the paint cost, I have two that will never see a new coat and I don't care as long as they run good thats all that matters to me.
Well Jim..I was guided by Jay on the whole process.... (on the 4 speed/column thing)
Found that shot of the PCV..... and again as mentioned. Made it from scratch... basket, top and such.
The cost of stuff today is making us go back to the old days of making things we need.I certainly am.. its getting very expensive.
Thanks again ALL.
(https://i.imgur.com/VOWvtoB.jpg)
looks great Jeff ! Is that silver grey flange you bolted to the intake, something homemade or a readily available part ? It seems that you went for a 'plug in' PCV valve that fits into many oem valve covers using a thick rubber seal.
X2 on your price thoughts. Reusing old refurbished parts is going to become more fashionable (and useful) by the day !
That is awesome Jeff! Sorry for all the questions but these are the things that interest me. Do you have some type of baffling inside?
It looks scared. It knows the White Witch is waiting on the west coast for a go down Latimer Road.
Paint looks perfect to me. I am lobbying our goverment/insurance to recognise a 'preservation' classification for some of our vehicles. We have a collector car license available but they will not give it to cars that are not shinny. Insurance goes from $1,500.00 to $250.00 per year.
Also working on a Year of Manufacture license plate program, my retirement has not been boring.
Terry
:canada:
Quote from: djfordmanjack on 2023-03-07 05:12looks great Jeff ! Is that silver grey flange you bolted to the intake, something homemade or a readily available part ? It seems that you went for a 'plug in' PCV valve that fits into many oem valve covers using a thick rubber seal.
X2 on your price thoughts. Reusing old refurbished parts is going to become more fashionable (and useful) by the day !
G- Jim,.... yes. that's the top part we made with a baffle inside... And it's just stuff we made from stuff in the shop.
And yes. just a cheap push in PCV was used. again. had it hanging on the shop wall... maybe 20 bucks invested in the whole deal.
Quote from: FiveSevenLiter on 2023-03-07 10:54It looks scared. It knows the White Witch is waiting on the west coast for a go down Latimer Road.
Ha Ha.... You better bring a shopping cart.... to carry the parts you spread over the road......I'll take that dog for a walk.
Paint looks perfect to me. I am lobbying our goverment/insurance to recognise a 'preservation' classification for some of our vehicles. We have a collector car license available but they will not give it to cars that are not shinny. Insurance goes from $1,500.00 to $250.00 per year.
Also working on a Year of Manufacture license plate program, my retirement has not been boring.
We already have a YOM plate thing going here... pretty cheap to buy them(EXCEPT 57!) they are $300+ for a pair of matching plates.and then..300 bucks to register them. Goverment hard at work.A set of 32 Ontario plates are less than $100.... I find plates at swap meets. You need to make sure the plate numbers are not reused on trailers, snowmobiles,etc,etc.
Insurance is not crazy here..... Thank god for small miracles.
Quote from: lalessi1 on 2023-03-06 07:44Man, I had to go back and read the entire thread, I forgot all about this car! So cool! I love the idea of a 4 speed on the column too! Just a little partial but the color scheme is perfect. Looking so good it makes me want to rebuild mine...
I love the thoughts of a 4 speed on the column also. MY Custom 300 with 312 3 speed and 370 gears is not the best combo for long trips .I will not have a floor shift in my 57 , a 4-speed would be great with maybe a 325 rear gear. Thats going to be a awesome car Jeff.
Jeff, some guys are getting a YOM plate, then using that number to get a Vanity Plate, now the car is registered with the same number as the YOM, the vanity plate goes under the seat. Cop runs your YOM plate and the vehicle is registered.
Canadian Ingenuity.
Terry
:canada:
Here are some older shots of when we did the 4 speed column thing.
As mentioned... I used a OD cable and supported it heavily under the dash...... no bind.
We did have to modify the reverse lever on the trans.. gave it a curve to get around the 1-2 lever.
Anyhow. using all 58 Ford 3 speed parts..I have about 150 bucks invested...
Just posting this for anyone interested... and I know a Hurst Comp plus is a 100 times better,. but...This is just a neat idea. Thanks to Jay (E-CODE) who did this on some of his FE 58 Fords...
Thanks Guys.
Jeff
(https://i.imgur.com/IVEwImm.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lq8w6bO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LZBQfZ3.jpg)
Kinda cool! Innovative to say the least! Well done Jeff!!!
Excellent, well done Jeff. I knew that Jay guy was good for something :003:
So. been a while since I have updated here(and I am sorry!)...... But things are-were- moving forward.but a few hiccups.....
The 352 was all ready to fire. all systems go. had a few small issues.. leaky fuel Ines and a dead solenoid .... but they were quickly rectified with a day or so.....
Had my buddy Terry come by(a BIG Ford Ace) and we fired the car..... awesome. fired on the first key... adjusted the timing and it purred wonderfully.
The little 352 is a 1960 T-Bird version... a 300 HP one... finally checked the numbers and as mentioned ran great.
I purchased this mystery engine from a local(kid) who in turn bought it from a man who had passed away building his 1960 bird..... so.. I was kinda nervous about the engine in the back of my mind.This "Kid" doesn't have a stellar rep... but everything seemed ok and I bought this engine.... gosh.... about 4 years ago.... a FB Marketplace deal.
But,.... it all went well.....
(https://i.imgur.com/E0JjI8g.jpg)
The next day...
So I was happy as a lark.... tidying up around the car,,,, dropped a socket to only discover a large pool of oil/fluid dripping from the rear of the engine.
My heart kinda sank..... My first reaction was a dried out rear main seal......
With FE'S... I have found you don't have enough room to drop the pan. engine has to be lifted.. or even better,... pulled to get to the rear main seal......
So... after kicking the dog and yelling at my family all day...I began to start the pull... not hard.. just. time..... slow slow time.
Out she came....
(https://i.imgur.com/EGhOeHt.jpg)
So after the engine was pulled... I quickly realized.... the engine was just fine.... it wasn't the rear man seal.. and it wasn't oil.....
the rotating mass of the PP and Clutch assembly had torn into the braided lines of my Tilton Throwout bearing.....
This was completely my fault.... a real bone head move..... Upon installation(2 years ago)...I failed to install properly and did not have the secure pin in the right place..... Basically,.. the lines were not routed properly through the Bell housing fork window.
Now I understand many folks really despise Throw out bearing set ups.... but I have used them trouble free for many projects in the past and NEVER had an issue ......until now.
I would prefer mech. linkage.... just didn't have it.... and trying to find it locally .. is slim to none.
(https://i.imgur.com/IL11yh0.jpg)
Anyhow.... the line was ordered and arrived.all back together......
so I sat there.. and then the hot rodder crept out of me.....
In the corner I have a brand new rebuilt Pretty stout FE...... I mean the little 352 was great...... but this is better....
fully dynoed and broken in... zero miles... So..... what's a guy gonna do?
You know it.......
(https://i.imgur.com/l7V8rz9.jpg)
I literally have had no time to do the install.. hopefully this week ... I can get it in and "Maybe" get it fired and running in the next 14 days..... but.... gotta stay positive... gotta keep pushing forward...... and stay focused.
Peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/S3gATCl.jpg)
I like where you're going with this Jeff.
Murphy...for a guy who has been dead a LONG time...can sure be a big pain in the A**! (ask Rich!)
You get things done fast, Jeff, and not that I'm wishing you ill luck, but it's kinda nice knowing I'm not the only one dealing with my own screw up.......the difference is, I'm going on 4 1/2 months, and still having issues.
Thanks for sharing, and nice selfie!
Too bad that you didn`t realize what the actual leak was before pulling the engine out, but at least that way you don`t have to mess around with the transmission crossmember to fix the hydraulic throw out bearing. I am one of those guys that is not a fan of hydraulic TO bearings, years ago, a buddy built a Cobra replica, with a 429 and a Toploader 4 speed, and he had that thing apart several times, due to leaks and other issues with his McLeod hydraulic TO bearing setup. I own 4 manual transmission vehicles, my Fairmont drag car has the factory style FOX clutch cable setup, both my 99 F350 and 2010 Ranger have hydraulic, and my 59 has factory mechanical clutch linkage, and by far, I prefer the solid feel of the mechanical linkage. In fact, when I ran 427 and 428 FE engines in the Fairmont, I made up mechanical clutch linkage for the Fairmont, and for over 20 years, it worked flawlessly.
Jeff, just curious why you removed the intake manifold when removing the engine, going to try something different, or was the a leak or other issue with the intake?
Thanks Marc!
Hugh.Yes. that Murphy is a very big PIA.
Rich,... I have been following your thread and my heart bleeds for you... Yes.. its always one step forward,4 steps back.
I have no immediate end date... but we are close.Many many guys love the build.. while I enjoy it..... a driving functioning car is where I get the most joy.... otherwise(to me) its a never ending saga and I get bored.This car is nothing but fun. and unlike my black 57 all painted and pretty.. this one is a no sweat, no anxiety build.....Time(or lack of it) is the frustrating part for me....Family and work are always first... and garage time seems get to the least amount of attention.
Rory, as I mentioned.I have used these parts(Tilton and McLeod) in previous builds with great success.... I completely understand ones dislike for this type of application... But it was given to me free..so I used it.
I too prefer the mech. factory clutch stuff.. just didn't have it.It is what it is.
I stayed with the Factory HiPo Ford intake..... it just goes with my build.I have a Edelbrock 2x4 shiny intake.... too streetroddy for me.and..I don't like Edelbrock carbs...... I stay with Holley .Only Edelbrock carbs work with that intake(very dumb design)And a single four performs much better than a 2x4 (you know that)I am setting the look up to harken back to the early 60's.
When I initially started the 352 up... I developed a small minut pinhole at the rear china wall.... I slathered up some Right Stuff and it sealed it.... but All is good.A Side note... the intake on it now was picked up about 6 years ago for 200 bucks Canadian(That's about $160 US).....Now. with the cost increases EVERYWHERE.... I see the same intake go for $600-$900 US.
And if I wanted a factory 2X4 Ford intake.... (as you know) the costs are around $1600-$2500......Not sure if folks are paying these costs.... but I simply Can't.Combined with the fact that Joe Blow in Missouri may have a warped -ill fitting factory intake..... simply can't trust that factor.
Quote from: Jeff Norwell on 2024-03-13 13:07Combined with the fact that Joe Blow in Missouri may have a warped -ill fitting factory intake..... simply can't trust that factor.
I think I ran across him at a car show here in MO one day last year! I'd not buy anything from either! LOL!!!
However...I do have a couple of still on the motor FE 4bbl intakes if you are jonesing for one. I'll be using Tri-power set-ups so they are available.
Quote from: mustang6984 on 2024-03-13 21:18I think I ran across him at a car show here in MO one day last year! I'd not buy anything from either! LOL!!!
However...I do have a couple of still on the motor FE 4bbl intakes if you are jonesing for one. I'll be using Tri-power set-ups so they are available.
Hahahahaha
Jeff, I have also used the "Right Stuff" RTV for intake end seals on my FEs for many years, but lately I have switched to Motorcraft TA31, which is a gray sealer, originally developed for Ford Diesel engines, and it works very well, and unlike the Right Stuff, doesn`t require an atomic bomb to remove the intake afterwards! I have also had a couple of pinhole sepages with the Right Stuff, have to wonder if it gets some tiny air bubbles in it as it gets squeezed out of the tube. Another thing that I have experienced with Right Stuff, is in a thick application, the center never seems to fully cure. Have you considered bringing one of your 57s to the annual FE Race and Reunion, in Beaver Springs Pennsylvania? I have been twice, as a spectator, flying in from Vancouver in 2018, and from Halifax in 2022. I had planned to take my 59 in 2022, but hurt a rod bearing in the 428 shortly before, and again planned to bring it last year, but abandoned that due to a horrible weather forecast. But barring unforeseen circumstances, the 59 Meteor WILL be there this year. Over 1000 mile tow each way for me, from Nova Scotia, but Ontario looks considerably closer, unless you are way up North. As for induction, I much prefer the simplicity of a single Holley carb, although I have had factory 3x2 and 2x4 setups in the past, and I still have a pair of C5 427 Medium Riser factory Holley carbs, hanging around the garage, just in case a reasonably priced 2x4 intake ever shows up .(Not holding my breath on that!)
For racing, it's pretty hard to beat the simplicity and serviceability of a single carburetor/throttle body. But for street, giving up ease of service and max performance is not the priority...it's the cool factor. The more the stacks, throttle bodies, carburetors the better! I've found these new, custom built carburetors are amazing. Quick Fuel (back went they were Quick Fuel) customized and tuned my E85 carb so it bolted on out of the box with no adjustments required. An induction dealer in Sterling Heights (Detroit area), custom built a pair of carbs for my 427 SO that dyno'ed at 550HP with no carb tuning. Yesterday, I talked to this dealer to provide two custom 750s to feed the 700HP cammer project. With period correct air cleaners, valve covers and manifolds, my 427s will appear age appropriate but will have the latest, greatest fuel deliver. Multi-carbs RULE!!
Jeff..... !!! I mean.... what's going on here ? more trouble than a JD will run into on 'shinin' Saturday nights ! :003:
The 390 looks hot, I liked the 352. we already talked about hydraulic clutch throw out. it works great in British cars, they built it that way. The slave cylinder sits outside the bellhousing and operates a manual fork. Jag, MG, triumph.....they are all great. a hydro operated, moving slave cylinder INSIDE the bellhousing, next to flywheel/clutch operating @ 5k rpm..... I just don't know....
The early Bronco II's were built same as those you mentioned G. I had to replace one in my Bronco, easy. But the Explorers...all have them IN the bell-housing. Spendy repairs!
Quote from: djfordmanjack on 2024-03-15 16:23Jeff..... !!! I mean.... what's going on here ? more trouble than a JD will run into on 'shinin' Saturday nights ! :003:
The 390 looks hot, I liked the 352. we already talked about hydraulic clutch throw out. it works great in British cars, they built it that way. The slave cylinder sits outside the bellhousing and operates a manual fork. Jag, MG, triumph.....they are all great. a hydro operated, moving slave cylinder INSIDE the bellhousing, next to flywheel/clutch operating @ 5k rpm..... I just don't know....
I went to a hydraulic system in my car after a couple of issues, header clearance mostly. (Jeff, I have all the stuff you need left over). I had hydraulics in all of my Datsuns FWIW. I had issues with Mcleod so I went with Tilton. I even tried a pull type slave cylinder because of the clutch I tried and my left leg will never be the same again! I am "OK" and functional now but I still a couple of problems. I have tons of details if any one is interested..... (parts for days)
Quote from: lalessi1 on 2024-03-16 17:58I went to a hydraulic system in my car after a couple of issues, header clearance mostly. (Jeff, I have all the stuff you need left over). I had hydraulics in all of my Datsuns FWIW. I had issues with Mcleod so I went with Tilton. I even tried a pull type slave cylinder because of the clutch I tried and my left leg will never be the same again! I am "OK" and functional now but I still a couple of problems. I have tons of details if any one is interested..... (parts for days)
Just curious what headers you have that wouldn`t work with the factory mechanical clutch linkage. I have a 428 in my 59, with a Toploader 4 speed , using the factory mechanical clutch linkage. I have FPA headers, specifically designed for 57-59 Ford cars with FE engines, I only had to make minor changes to the clutch linkage, basically I just needed to relocate the Z bar lower arm inward an inch, and trim a corner from the engine side pivot bracket for the Zbar. Been working flawlessly for almost 4 years and over 5000 miles so far.
Originally I was concerned about pedal effort and clutch selection (550 lb-ft torque) and I could see the headers required a linkage modification. I opted to use a McLeod dual disc clutch and their throw-out bearing. I also had the headers Jet Hot coated but I modified the drivers side collector for a better fit before that was done. I seem to be very good at making changes that paint me in a corner! Then the McLeod stuff did not work for me... If I had it to do all over again....
My 59s 428 only made 515 ft/lbs or torque, and I am using a McLeod "Super Street Pro" 11" Long style clutch, with a steel McLeod flywheel. This clutch uses a dual friction disc, and the pedal effort is no problem at all, at least for this 66 year old youngster, who also doesn`t mind the manual steering and brakes on my car. The clutch works great, and has held up fine, the few times that I have taken it to the local dragstrip, using MT slicks. At first, I had a McLeod "Street Pro" clutch, which was an all organic disc, and it would slip at the track.
Thanks for the info, I made a lot of decisions in a vacuum almost 9 years ago, knowing what I know now I would have done it different...(and I might!)
Interesting conversations guys..... Love all the perspectives.....
I "Hope" to get the engine back in this week.... need a second pair of eyes and hands from a friend Terry... great Ford man.....
so my fingers are crossed.
Rory.. I have purchased that RTV from Ford. the Motorcraft TA31..... I will keep in stock for future use. thanks for that tip.
Gasman. you're sitting on a bunch of retirement gold!..... Awesome
G,Lynn..... I prefer an external slave cylinder.. but this was gratis.. so I used it... seems to be all fine now.... but we shall see.
In the past I had the opposite issues with Mcleod.. all successful ... never used Tilton before.. but we shall see.
I will keep all informed on the next success or blunder!
In a continuing effort to clog up your 'project' page, I have three McLeod hydraulic release bearings on McLeod two disc clutches. I will never do equalizer bars again (added to the long list of things I will never do again). I've drank the Kool Aid, spent big bucks and can't go back now. The issue I had was not with the bearing, plumbing or sizing the master cylinder(MC), it was the mounting geometry of the MC. The first one was more than 10 years ago and there was little aftermarket support. Getting the proper geometry was a lot of reading, trial and error and frustration but I finally beat it into submission. I'm very pleased with the results: I can push and hold a 1000HP rated clutch in with my arm (not very strong anymore). On my other two, more recent projects, I have found vendor supplied clutch pedals with MC mounts built into them for easy installations. These also eliminate the lengthy search and costs of finding rare OEM clutch pedals and equalizer bar components. Save the OEM stuff for the restorers...they are only original once.
Well.. all is back together .. just need to add the ignition leads, Install the headers and fire.Hopefully later this week.
(https://i.imgur.com/Oc1mvxy.jpg)
Looks great, Jeff, where did you find that air cleaner? Is that a 352 360 HP unit? And concerning the Motorcraft TA 31 gasket RTV, be aware that it has an expiration date printed on the tube. (The TA 31 I have, comes in a short tube as used with a caulking gun). No idea what happens to it after the expiry date, but back when I worked at a Toyota dealership, we had a "campaign" (Toyota speak for a recall), for the Echo model, which consisted of tar like sheets, to be installed on the floorpan, and secured with a specific adhesive that came in tubes. I grabbed several tubes of the stuff , that was left over from the procedures, and it sat around my garage for a few years, before I decided to try some as a seam seal on my 59. The expiry date was several years prior, but the stuff came out of the tube, worked and dried just like I recall it performing when it was fresh. Maybe the TA 31 functions similarly, maybe not, I have no idea, just though you should be aware. I have a pair of valve cover spacers to instal on my 59s 428CJ, and the instructions call for using a RTV between the heads and the spacers, I have an unused tube of TA 31 that expired last December, so I will let you know how that "stale" TA 31 works out.
Thanks Rory..I will keep the expiration date on the TA 31 in mind.
Things have come to a stall in the last 2 weeks..... work is heavy, we have our home up for sale(downsizing),... I am going to be a Grandfather in less than 3 months... and I have been battling a dead Tooth with excruciating pain in the last 2 weeks... trying to find a dental surgeon and dealing with an infection ....
useless info.. but thats what's going on.
The weather has been horrible here.. snow and rain, cold and such.... seems the winter just will not let go.
So. this weekend I will be firing and see what happens.
Rory.... the early hard to find unicorn air cleaner from a 352-360 unit is on my treasure hunt.... the present Air Cleaner is an 57 Bird with the rear ring removed.
moving forward.
JN,
At least you have a tunnel to get to the shop.
Not to make you feel bad, but I had to mow the lawn yesterday for the first time.
T/F
:canada:
Quote from: FiveSevenLiter on 2024-04-05 11:40JN,
At least you have a tunnel to get to the shop.
Not to make you feel bad, but I had to mow the lawn yesterday for the first time.
T/F
:canada:
HA!.... Spring is like that hot High School Date.... a complete Tease......
Quote from: FiveSevenLiter on 2024-04-05 11:40JN,
At least you have a tunnel to get to the shop.
Not to make you feel bad, but I had to mow the lawn yesterday for the first time.
T/F
:canada:
And Terry...THANK YOU for that "Package".... Loved it. it will definitely be in the collection
Many Thanks !!!
She ain't pretty. she just looks that way......
(https://i.imgur.com/y8mn9zA.jpg)
Here she is! Jeff's Lonesome Texan may be a lonely leftover gal, but she growling like an angry ole lady should ! :003:
Thank YOU G!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well.. she lit off right away... slight adjustment to timing and likes to idle about 750 rpm.Choppy cam and very crisp throttle response....
Let it go through a heat cycle and she sits at 180.... Oil pressure is 60 cold and 40 hot....
Get my exhaust and interior with glass and we will be driving.....
Outstanding!
What size wheels & tires are on there?
Sounds REALLY KOOL!!!! What cam are you running?
Very awsomeous, Jeff!
Automotive Bach or Beethoven...maybe Mozart!
Thanks guys.....
Yes.. pretty happy.. its no "Pro Built" car.. just a garage leftover parts job.
Tried to use as many Ford pieces that I had......
Wheels are 15's all way around..55 and 56 Ford items.... tire size front is 205-75R-...Rear tire size is 235-75R
I will have to go through my paperwork on the cam... its Hydraulic.... but not sure of the specs or manufacturer... that escapes me at the moment.
I have collected enough tubing to do my own exhaust.... and bullet style glass packs..... 2.5 diameter is sufficient for my intentions.
I have all all the interior ready to go and will start that and all the glass as well.Presently I have all the door and window mechanisms out and lubed.... no rot, just extremely texan dry and red dirt.
Thanks again to Guenther for loading and embedding a vid.I tried and failed.
When I get some driving vid I will post up..... so far. all is great.
My good friend Terry has really helped me in this project.(he is in the video I think).. great guy..... Big Ford man.
My only wish is that I would have loved for Larry Grillet of Childress Texas to still be alive to see it.... Larry passed a few years back and this car was bought from his collection of cars.He had so many 56 Fords .....
I now understand his wife is now passed as well... so,. that chain is broken.
It's a pity when those people are gone. I very much miss my 2 uncles and wish I could show them what I built and bought in cars. Very much relate to that.
Your 57s are pure class, Jeff. Very different, but so nice !
Jeff, next time I go through Childress, I'll check his old car dealership building to see what's still there. There were still 4 or 5 cars in the old showroom a year ago. Sorry to hear of his wife's passing.
Yes G. it's sad.
Rich .... thank you..I have not been back to Texas since 13. I can't believe it..... but with the state of fuel prices and the immoral state of a Canadian buck compared to a US dollar(40 cents!)... travel to the US has been impossible.Distance wise)
I have heard folks from New Zealand have to pay 67 cents more for 1 US sawbuck.
Anyhow.... If I can't drive my car there..I simply aint going.