Here is how I handled the vent window rubber molding rivets. Clamp a piece of steel on the rivet head and then get a punch flare the other side. The ones in the corner are tricky but it works.

 

Interesting dip stick that came with the truck.

 

Here is an easy and effective paint booth. Just a pop up shade tent wrapped in plastic with a filter and a make shift velcro door. The filter has a fan attached via a bungee which makes positive pressure in the tent. Hung a couple of 8 foot fluorescent lights inside. Wet the floor and you are good to go. I painted my doors, hood, and fenders in it.

 

Went with the EZ Wiring Harness. Good price, great quality. Instruction manual could be better, but it is doable. The color wiring diagram from classiccarwiring.com really helped.

 

I really wanted my original valve covers to work out, but I just couldn't get them stop leaking oil. Tried different gaskets, rtv sealer, hammered them flat, even used load spreaders but they always leaked. Found some aluminum ones on eBay and had to make some slight modifications to them to fit correctly, but they have fixed my leaks. Eventually I will get some different color plug wires since the blue valve covers are no more.

 

I really liked the look of the metal dash so I followed others here and scrapped the dash pad and saved money.








For the most part the truck is done. Still need to put on the stainless trim pieces, but I am missing a few pieces and want to wait until I have them all. I am undecided about the wheels until I get the trim pieces on, but found these on Craigslist cheap with the tires attached.







Thank you for all the help along the way. This website and it's members have been extremely helpful.

 

Your truck came out really nice. I like the stance it has. After seeing your metal dash, I've decided to do the same-instead of a cover-.

 

Nice work amigo. 2X on the 'Stance". Do you plan on steps? Also, mud flares would look really cool on your fenders.. I too like the look of your steel dash, but if you park in the sun, do not touch the dash until the A/C has worked on it for awhile. It should only take once. I will watch for you on the road, where in E. Texas? My hat is hanging in Granbury. 94 deg out your way today...

Baja

 

Nice looking truck! Did you fill the dash pad mounting holes?

 

Back in the day when lap belts were installed then came the padded dashes to help save your face & teeth as, I remember my 57 ford fairlane 500 convertible or was it my 57 Caddy could of been my 58 ford having a padded dash. A big safety deal.
Oh hell, I've had so many cars in 55 yrs l can't remember which it was now.

Orich

 

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Thanks
Yes, I did fill the the holes. Mig welded and then some filler.

 

Hey Baja, I am in the Longview area. Good tip on the hot dash.
I am looking for some steps, but haven't found a setup I like yet. In the mean time I installed some home made grab handles. Just took some rebar, welded on some all thread and then sleeved it to act as a stand off.

 

These are the one's I installed and wide enough for old farts & women to have good footing while getting in or out.
Orich

 

Wow, what a great job! Truck came out awesome, nice work!