At long last, youngest daughter (14) and I took our first drive in the truck (oldest daughter will get first drive when she's on leave from Air Force later this year). Despite some of the hiccups (rusty on driving manual; and timing issues I think) it was a blast. Photo below is our truck as of Saturday. We've since added mirrors.
Prior to the drive, here's a list of what we learned to do, did and in some cases had to re-do:
1. New starter
2. New carburetor - converted from manual to electric/automatic choke
3. New radiator - wasn't too bad to install but finding/adapting hoses to fit was a challenge
4. Finally figured out the doors and locks - they weren't closing and staying closed. Figured out it was a spring issue. My daughter actually figured out the locks issue in about 10 minutes Sunday afternoon. so now both doors close, stay closed and lock
5. Brake lines - we did these but did something wrong such that the brake light was staying on; and not sure I bled them right (or fully) initially so I had my local garage address.
6. New fuel sending unit
7. Got all gauges working.

So we took our first drive. First drive was to Saturday church which was appropriate for a number of reasons including fact that we were praying brakes worked as we live at top of a long steep hill Video a little shaky so the video attached is after church. Excited just to be able to drive.

Now, I think - you all can comment - that we definitely have some timing issues. When put into gear and when you transition from gears, there's a soft spot/hesitation and you have to give it some/alot of gas to let it catch up, but once it does it goes pretty strongly. I think that's timing/carb adjustments but I'm not sure. And I'm pretty sure I'll likely have garage do that so I don't screw it up.

We had a blast. at one point my daughter did ask if maybe we could drive somewhere with less lights/stops so we could just go rather than deal with the timing issues

It was great to see her reaction and for her to see her/our work pay off.

Maximum smiles per gallon!

- Jim

 

You have created some great memories that should last a lifetime! Enjoy the truck and the time you have with her.

 

Congratulations!