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Project TV 2M8O

Printed From: The Ford Torino Page
Category: Model Specific Forum
Forum Name: Starsky & Hutch
Forum Description: Technical discussion for original and replica S&H Torinos
URL: https://forum.grantorinosport.org/forum_posts.asp?TID=7279
Printed Date: 28-March-2024 at 5:32PM
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.06 - https://www.webwizforums.com


Topic: Project TV 2M8O
Posted By: TV 2M8O
Subject: Project TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 02-May-2012 at 1:18PM
Well for those who haven't been following my blog elsewhere, the Torino is off to the body shop. Here are a few pics...
 
Waiting on the guys to arrive so I was playing with my stripe templates... 
 
 
My "swoop" compared to the TV Hero #1... almost got it nailed!
 
Let's see if those post correctly....


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/



Replies:
Posted By: GTW
Date Posted: 02-May-2012 at 1:25PM
They posted correctly. Great work!Thumbs Up

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Griffin
1973 Gran Torino station wagon
1972 Gran Torino 4 Door
1971 Maverick 2 Door


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 02-May-2012 at 1:48PM
SUPER! OK, so here are more pics of the move...
 
Edging towards the ramp down....
 
Into the daylight for the first time in YEARS....
 
Off to the body shop....
 
Arriving at Far From Factory. Driver said there was a LOT of rubber necking going on during the trip!
 
In the shop and among good company. We beat the rain by about half an hour!!
 
Stay tuned.....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 02-May-2012 at 2:21PM
looking good,I feel your pain laying out the stripe! but at least it'll be the way you want it.keep the pix flowing.

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John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: GRAN1976TORINO
Date Posted: 02-May-2012 at 2:33PM
That stripe is smokin. Keep pics coming..looking really good.


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 02-May-2012 at 3:13PM
Thanks guys!
To see all I have been up to on my build, check out my project blog (see link in signature).
 
MORE TO COME


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 07-June-2012 at 12:36PM


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 07-June-2012 at 2:59PM
Originally posted by 72 GTS 429 72 GTS 429 wrote:

I see you have a donor roof strapped to the car,was your car a vinyl car before?
 
Jeff,
 
At one time she was, but the vinyl was long gone! There was damage to the roof that they had simply pulled out and puttied over (dig thru my blog to see more about the damage) and I thought it would be soooo much easier to just reskin rather than work the metal back into shape so I found a donor.
 
Yeah the shop doing the work turns out some really NICE work and they are stricklers for the details like I am, so that made the decision to let them handle things that much easier. Really looking forward to November... that's our target completion date.
 
STAY TUNED......
 
HEY YOUR ANIMATED SIGNATURE LOOKS AWFULLY FAMILIAR!! Thumbs Up


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 28-June-2012 at 9:36AM

Reconstruction has begun....

The guys at Far From Factory have begun the daunting task of repairing the Torino inner structure. They have pulled the driver's side rear quarter panel to expose the underlying structure and have found the hidden repairs were performed with the same blacksmithing skills as the roof! (click on pics to enlarge)

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5H8OBhTSvM/T-y33H7w40I/AAAAAAAABeU/vOdimM5_gFk/s1600/2012_0627F30002.JPG" rel="nofollow">

The replacement rear quarter skin had been brazed into place with a minimum of attachment points which made the skin removal pretty straight forward, but the work to come will be a bit more difficult. Here are a few shots of some of the problem areas......

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SaJ11JWfD98/T-y4pJRwf5I/AAAAAAAABec/8ewasq1CDVU/s1600/2012_0626F30004.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NnEEIydeQoY/T-y47uGpERI/AAAAAAAABek/Y9I8Gg2GIxc/s1600/2012_0626F30006.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6zoaVYuPJkY/T-y6EfRThkI/AAAAAAAABe4/3xz-4IFtBVY/s1600/2012_0626F30007.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jqiYG9ZnTVw/T-y5OLG1hzI/AAAAAAAABew/h0lwltdoWfw/s1600/2012_0626F30025.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3l6Hm7trwgg/T-y6itqzCMI/AAAAAAAABfI/W-MW3F42sgw/s1600/2012_0626F30008.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J1PURbB-HxI/T-y6WBEmXqI/AAAAAAAABfA/gQmdyoo4pWc/s1600/2012_0626F30024.JPG" rel="nofollow">

The guys do great work and have agreed to allow me to assist with the more mundane tasks that don't require a lot of skill but do need lots of patience. I see a lot of spot weld drilling, edge straightening and rust removal in my future! I hope to also pick up a few bodyworking skills along the way and perhaps some painting basics as well.

More to come......

ZEBRA 3 OUT


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: 28-June-2012 at 10:32AM
looks like our going to need a donor for some rust free structure parts


Posted By: Mark S.
Date Posted: 28-June-2012 at 11:20AM
Looks like a lot of work is gonna be needed on that quarter/ c-pillar area! I wouldn't even know where to start...

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Mark
1977 Ltd II "Eltee"
1984 Mustang ragtop
2004 Grand Marquis Ultimate Edition
71 Torino GT 429CJ (sold too many years ago to count...)


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 28-June-2012 at 11:33AM

Donor parts already in hand...........

 
 
 
 
And got a GREAT crew working on it, so it will be BETTER than new when finished!


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 28-June-2012 at 2:35PM
Wow,thats alot of work to be done!it's great that you can help out with some of the progress.keep the pix comin'

-------------
John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 01-July-2012 at 8:17AM
I think it looks far worse than it actually is. With all the necessary replacment parts in hand, I think it should be a very straight forward swap out of parts....
 
But time will tell!


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 05-July-2012 at 12:51PM

The boys at Far From Factory (F3) found another part that was damaged that they also wanted to replace... the section of the roof header right above the c-pillar. I got in touch with the guy who supplied me the inner structure and he still had his donor Torino and was able to cut out a large section of the header so we would have more than enough of the roof header to make the repair.

 
Last piece of the puzzle (hopefully!!) is in the mail!
 
STAY TUNED!


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 13-July-2012 at 9:57AM

Last piece of the puzzle?

The replacement piece arrived at Far From Factory (F3) so now with all the (known) repair parts in hand, let the sparks begin to fly!!!
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-APzy89S62P0/UACHeGKsMoI/AAAAAAAABfY/Ko6i-M62JMs/s1600/2012_0712PARTS0002.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zk1qaFWZa4U/UACHt2ZpU3I/AAAAAAAABfg/DAFyEE4hRNE/s1600/2012_0712PARTS0001.JPG" rel="nofollow">

I also purchased a gallon of Evapo-Rust to treat the new section priot to install so I'll let everyone know how well it worked on the heavy surface rust on the donor piece... however I'm sure it won't be as clean as Redi-Strip got the other parts, but we'll see!

As a side note I had to also get a replacement rear tire.... evidently Team F3 were doing burnouts with the 2M8O and had a blow out....

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yX-BlsRa8gQ/UACIS4wQDJI/AAAAAAAABfo/fb-aoUbZM2A/s1600/2012_0712PARTS0003.JPG" rel="nofollow">
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yX-BlsRa8gQ/UACIS4wQDJI/AAAAAAAABfo/fb-aoUbZM2A/s1600/2012_0712PARTS0003.JPG" rel="nofollow -  
LOL, the tire looked like Wilson from CASTAWAY!!
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o0WVRNLnspE/UACIlGoukmI/AAAAAAAABfw/bJH8Yr2yJWM/s1600/2012_0712PARTS0004.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4bPjiYnhqEQ/UACJZ2FML9I/AAAAAAAABgE/TYXy94gkhYM/s1600/2012_0712PARTS0005.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
More to come....


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 15-July-2012 at 1:15AM
Joe,I guess if you're ok with them doing burnouts with your car than its all good?usually nothin good happens from that.Most people wouldn't understand how an outputshaft coulda busted during a routine maintance check,musta been soft steel compound....yeah, thats what it was soft steel.Wink

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John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 15-July-2012 at 4:54AM
John,
 
I was just making a joke.... have a closer look at my lead in photos (or check out my project blog) and you'll see the engine and tranny are OUT of my car! So unless they are decendants of Fred Flintstone, it was just a case of old, dried out rubber and perhaps a busted belt that let go when they were airing up the tire. I've had the car since '04 and I work on it and keep it stored on the second floor of a local car dealership where temps climb well above 110 degrees in the summer and the Lord only knows how old the tire actually is, so I'm pretty sure it was simply a tire failure!
 
Yeah, I have complete faith in the integrity of the guys at F3!


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 19-July-2012 at 2:25PM
Joe.guess I shoulda checked out your blog sooner.I was wondering where you had the car stored,ford dealer I hope!

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John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 19-July-2012 at 3:15PM

John,

No actually they used to be a Dodge dealer, but the dealer principal owns several old Fords... among other makes.
 
They were one of the dealerships that Chrysler robbed of their franchise during the car maker bailout..... funny because they were selling between 50 & 75 NEW cars on average a month prior to being cut off. We never could rationalize Chrysler's method of reasoning for which dealerships to keep and which to pull.


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 02-August-2012 at 9:15AM

Out with the old.....

The team at Far From Factory (F3) have removed the damaged sections of the driver’s side rear quarter structure....(click on pics to enlarge)
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0PnozAzAGZI/UBqsV-Tr0YI/AAAAAAAABgc/qvO6tFzIFEU/s1600/2012_0801out-old0001.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1DDsxD5IYRo/UBrfqS3h-4I/AAAAAAAABhI/8T5bTqvqFJM/s1600/2012_0801out-old0004.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
Closer inspection of the damaged and donor sheet metal sections reveal that many of the panels will have to be grafted together from bits of each group to arrive at solid replacements. As an example, the donor wheelhouse outer lip wasn’t nearly as solid as the outer lip of the removed tub. When the Torino was originally repaired years ago, the outer wheelhouse was replaced with a new OEM unit along with the new outer quarter panel skin. Evidently the car saw limited weather after the repair because the outer wheelhouse was extremely solid. Had it not been blacksmithed to accommodate use of the original (damaged) inner quarter structure, it could have been reused. Adam plans to cut out the good section of the outer lip and graft it into the donor wheelhouse. A similar situation is being experienced at the replacement section of the roof header.

After talking with Adam about his plans to create solid replacement panels from the bits and pieces available, I feel I made the right decision to turn the body and paint over to the craftsmen at F3!!

Stay tuned for more….



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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: legend onirot
Date Posted: 02-August-2012 at 9:34AM
wow...  its wierd looking at one of our cars like that. 

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---------------------
malcolm
1973 gran torino sport (formal)... "Stacy Lynn"
1972 gran torino (formal)... "Mackenzie"
1973 gran torino sport (sportroof)... "Leela"


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 02-August-2012 at 10:02AM
LOL, yeah and you should see it with the driver's door opened!

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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: legend onirot
Date Posted: 02-August-2012 at 10:52AM
but i know when it is finished... it will be a new car...  thats what is cool about it.


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---------------------
malcolm
1973 gran torino sport (formal)... "Stacy Lynn"
1972 gran torino (formal)... "Mackenzie"
1973 gran torino sport (sportroof)... "Leela"


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 02-August-2012 at 11:16AM
It's a shame the car was damaged at some point in it's past and not repaired correctly when everything was still available NEW over the counter! The ONLY rust on this thing was a spot, a bit smaller than a business card, behind the passenger side front wheel where leaves had collected and rotted the fender out from behind. Everything else was very solid.... even had the factory dual exhaust still in place, but it was due for replacement from the mufflers back.

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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 06-September-2012 at 1:14AM
Panel fitment has begun.... Part 1

Well the guys at Far From Factory (F3) kept to their plan and Sept 4 thru 8 is definitely OLDIES WEEK. Panel fitment has begun on the Tomato and things are really starting to take shape. They have the inner structure grafted together and now the repaired assembly is welded to the wheelhouse. The boys are now in the process of fitting the wheelhouse/inner structure to the body.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QmxbItaabSg/UEiIBTB_WnI/AAAAAAAABho/DhNnmYgrXkA/s1600/2012_0905reconstruction0004.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oa5R9D0G-xo/UEiITpvzynI/AAAAAAAABhw/NAV__tmllRg/s1600/2012_0905reconstruction0006.JPG" rel="nofollow">

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http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N0J-u_YBjJw/UEiI0FbcU-I/AAAAAAAABiA/aoLzYMz6S-w/s1600/2012_0905reconstruction0013.JPG" rel="nofollow">

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http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zESRUAaeays/UEiJb1Hx1II/AAAAAAAABig/-QMhxlEk4wA/s1600/2012_0905reconstruction0008.JPG" rel="nofollow">

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http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HCdC7S8EBhU/UEiJzZlLMdI/AAAAAAAABi8/t7x_eU_gIG8/s1600/2012_0905reconstruction0011.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yt6mHx9w6Ow/UEiKHuAAhyI/AAAAAAAABjE/df3n0JJpfRE/s1600/2012_0905reconstruction0017.JPG" rel="nofollow">

With things secured in place, they even hung the outer skin and roof skin to check fit and spot the sail panel to roof patch panel to the outer quarter panel.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CkgAnolIu4M/UEiKP02pBqI/AAAAAAAABjM/zeZnPrl6Ric/s1600/2012_0905reconstruction0002.jpg" rel="nofollow">

Looking forward to seeing how much is done on Friday!

Stay tuned……….

ZEBRA 3 OUT


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 06-September-2012 at 3:15PM
are those 17" dodge rims on the rear?

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John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 06-September-2012 at 9:04PM
Originally posted by 75GranMan 75GranMan wrote:

are those 17" dodge rims on the rear?
 
John,
 
No, I think they said it was off of a Toyota truck they had out on the lot. Was the only spare they had available at the time when they created "Wilson".... LOL


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 15-September-2012 at 2:17PM
Went over to the dealership and cleaned up my frame brackets and reinforcements today... seemed like a strange place with the Tomato gone!!
 
Here are a few shots of my efforts.....
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The reinforcement bars will be satin black powder coated and the frame brackets will be painted chassis satin black along with the frame once they are welded on. Can't wait for the boys at F3 to get her back to me in prime so I can get busy again on blasting the rest of the chassis and engine bay and getting the undercarriage and doghouse area all finished up!
 
Until next time....
 
ZEBRA 3 OUT


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 21-September-2012 at 5:24AM
Going thru my project pictures and did this side by side comparison.....


































Funny how while the repairs are not fully completed, the area looks 100% BETTER!!


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: Scott
Date Posted: 21-September-2012 at 6:18AM

Was this car some kind of limited production car or was it sentimental to you or something? If not I am just curious why go thru so much work if not.I have seen a lot of them with possibly a lot less repair which in the end would probably saved you $.



Posted By: unlovedford
Date Posted: 21-September-2012 at 7:43AM
We tend to jump through hoops for our cars, LOL. Sometimes it is something in the heart that causes us to care less about the wallet.

-------------
Joe
1972 Mom's Squire Wagon
1972 Torino Wagon
1976 Torino       
1968 Cougar XR7-First batch
1972 Torino 460
1989 BroncoII/Jeeps/Titanimous
Popeye and Brutus (Rams)


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 22-September-2012 at 5:28AM
Scott,
 
I had one of the S&H LE's back in the day and had it for many years until one day I had a brain fart and sold her. The car hadn't move 3 feet and I knew I had made a MAJOR mistake because everyone knew me by that car. I always said one day I would get her back...
 
When the S&H movie came out in '04, the fire was rekindled! I exhausted ever lead I could trying to locate my old ride without success so the hunt began for a replacement. I found this one on eBay out of Washington state (from Mr. S&H Torino himself, Steve Casteel) and determined to rebuild it as a clone of the TV Hero cars..... except mine will be a bucket seat/console car (the way I'm sure Starsky would really have ordered it! LOL)... and being the anal type, I WANTED IT AS NEAR PERFECT AS POSSIBLE!
 
Joe is right, when the heart is involved, the wallet doesn't matter!


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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 22-September-2012 at 2:59PM
Joe,I'm with you you on the bucket seat/console......Now go the extra mile,4SPD!!! nice work on the car,Is that an NOS quarter?

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John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: Scott
Date Posted: 22-September-2012 at 5:07PM
Thanks for explaination,I was just curious.You will enjoy it when done I'm sure.


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 23-September-2012 at 4:08AM
John,
 
It was NOS back in the day when the car was originally fixed.... that's why I said if they had just gone the extra mile back when it was first repaired, I would be ahead of the game now! But they cut corners to reduce cost's I'm sure... never expecting it to live this long???
 
I thought about converting to a 4 speed but decided to stick with the C6 to reduce drivetrain abuse! LOL
 


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 06-October-2012 at 11:16AM
Picked up the powdercoated frame reinforcements on Friday and for $20, they came out pretty nice......
 
 
Definately be dropping off more pieces for them to coat!!


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 09-October-2012 at 10:07AM
Tail light seals arrived...
 
 
 
need a bit of clean up but otherwise in pretty good shape.
 
Thanks Javier!!

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TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: unlovedford
Date Posted: 09-October-2012 at 10:24AM
Wow, those are nice. Really difficult to find in that condition. More often than not, those never were replaced when an accident occured. My '76 was never hit and has them, but most of the parts cars I've bought... less than 1/2 were present.

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Joe
1972 Mom's Squire Wagon
1972 Torino Wagon
1976 Torino       
1968 Cougar XR7-First batch
1972 Torino 460
1989 BroncoII/Jeeps/Titanimous
Popeye and Brutus (Rams)


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 09-October-2012 at 12:54PM
Joe,nice little extra you have there.my car didn't come with them.I scored a set,but opted not to use them as they aren't in the shape your are in.Thumbs Up.

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John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 22-October-2012 at 5:55AM

Been a while since I posted a project update, so I thought I’d bring things up to date…

 

The principals at F3 do fantastic work and LOVE working on the old stuff, customs and hot rods... but the problem they are facing is finding skilled labor THAT WILL COME TO WORK EVERYDAY! They have been searching for craftsmen to come in and work the insurance jobs (@ flat rate) so they can focus on the classics. They have had my car since May and that's the very reason it is so far behind schedule... a guy will start, work a couple weeks, earn a good check and then disappear. They need the insurance work to keep the doors open and lights on so they can pursue their passion, which means THEY have to work the paying jobs because they can't find dependable help.

 

That being said, this week is scheduled to be another oldies week… If they can replicate the progress they made last oldies week, my car should be in primer by the weekend! Just a few pieces to finish fitting up for the inner structure and they will be ready to finish weld and dress out the repairs prior to painting with POR15 and then rehang the rear quarter and install the donor roof skin. Once all that is completed, it will be time to hit all the exposed steel with a scotch-brite pad in preparation for the first coats of primer! Been waiting years to say that!

 

The guys at F3 will also be welding on the frame brackets for the forward reinforcement bars as well as straightening the lower core support crossbar prior to returning the Torino to the dealership for me to finish up detailing the frame and engine compartment and a few other areas I want to finesse prior to final paint and assembly.

 

I haven’t been totally dormant while I’ve waited on the Tomato’s return. I have lined up a new 460 for the car that I will be purchasing from a fellow forum member and picking up the first weekend of November. The engine specs are as follows:

 

Rebuilt Ford 460 engine with less than 5000 miles
- Block hot tanked, magnafluxed, honed, bored .30 over
- Stock Ford Rods and Pistons, New Mahle Rings, Clevite Bearings, gaskets and seals
- Cam Adv. Duration = 280/290 Duration at .050 = 214/224 Lift = .516/.543 Centerline = 107/117
- new plugs, timing chain & hv oil pump
- crank ground and polished
- heads prepped and cc'd 85cc combustion chambers 9:4 to 1 compression
- new valves with 3 angle valve job, new bronze guides
- exhaust ports of heads ported to remove EGR hump
- balanced
- Edelbrock Aluminum Performer Intake Manifold #2166

- Rebuilt Holley #3310 4 barrel carburetor

 

Cleared off my engine stand and got it all cleaned up for the new addition I also checked out the air cleaner assembly I have for my car and found I have a 429 base (snorkel vacuum port mounted to bottom of housing just behind the carb) and a later 460 cover (snorkel vacuum port mounts to lid). A bit more scrounging thru my parts cache and I found an early lid that I will need to work just a bit and I'll have the air cleaner like I had on my old LE. In the warmer months, I would replace the full size OEM lid with a 14" chrome aftermarket lid the allow the outer perimeter of the air cleaner element to be open so it could breathe a bit easier. When cooler temps arrived, I would replace the factory lid to be able to utilize the heat riser function of the snorkel. I also purchased a NOS engine block heater (freeze plug style) off eBay since the 460 in my project Torino came with one and also picked up a set of taillight fillers, which I posted earlier.

Hopefully my next update will be a bit more constructive!



-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: unlovedford
Date Posted: 22-October-2012 at 7:57AM
Can't wait to see this beauty.

-------------
Joe
1972 Mom's Squire Wagon
1972 Torino Wagon
1976 Torino       
1968 Cougar XR7-First batch
1972 Torino 460
1989 BroncoII/Jeeps/Titanimous
Popeye and Brutus (Rams)


Posted By: starsky76
Date Posted: 23-October-2012 at 9:07PM
I'M BACK! HELLO JOE! How are you,looks like your making progress still.


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 23-October-2012 at 9:41PM
RALPH.. Hello old friend. Glad to know you are still kickin'!!
Yeah, she is slowly taking shape and I can only hope she turns out as nice as yours did. Please stay in touch!!

-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: starsky76
Date Posted: 25-October-2012 at 10:27PM
Yes freind, I'm still kickin! Yes your car is coming along. It should be a beauty when done. I will be on the forum regularly.


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 20-November-2012 at 3:17AM
Went to Philly over the weekend and picked up my new engine and was also treated to a very special opportunity....
 
 
 
 
All in all a weekend I will NEVER FORGET! Thanks to Carl for making it happen and to my new friend Steve for his hospitality and generousity in fulfilling a dream!!


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: unlovedford
Date Posted: 20-November-2012 at 5:10AM
That is awesome. Congrats on fullfilling a bucket list wish!

-------------
Joe
1972 Mom's Squire Wagon
1972 Torino Wagon
1976 Torino       
1968 Cougar XR7-First batch
1972 Torino 460
1989 BroncoII/Jeeps/Titanimous
Popeye and Brutus (Rams)


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 20-November-2012 at 2:26PM
Joe,thats frickin awesome,I haven't met Steve in person,but have talked with him over the phone.I purchased my car from a friend of his (Rich M from NC).Steve had very Detailed pix of the car,taken by our own JIM W in OHIO.Steve was more than happy to send me a CD with the pix of the car,which helped me to view the car before I made plans to fly down to check it out.He was great to speak with,I hope to meet him in Carlisle this June!

-------------
John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 27-November-2012 at 1:08PM

Engine - Part 1

Well finally got to Philly to pick up my "new" engine from my buddy Carl. He sent me a few videos to show me how smoothly the 460 ran and a few pics of the rebuilt carb.....
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0w5j3A68u0/ULVGcaCVnOI/AAAAAAAABj0/2e5PeK4_Uds/s1600/carb+1.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GLGtQHdQiKU/ULVGvS50ONI/AAAAAAAABj8/amUVvIl4MFU/s1600/carb+2.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ToLui9lhMMc/ULVHGftMekI/AAAAAAAABkE/Bk4KCSTtNjA/s1600/carb+3.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2AkvyXxWRP8/ULVHNcdaK8I/AAAAAAAABkM/hMI2GVpxrjk/s1600/carb+4.jpg" rel="nofollow">

and after looking at what he sent, I was sold! So the weekend before Thanksgiving I headed to Philly to get a new heart for my Tomato. When I arrived, Carl was still in the process of pulling if out of his S&H LE, so I rolled up my sleeves and jumped in to help. Before long, the 460 was dangling above it home of many years....

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4LYgH-qsLsk/ULVHwfSZOLI/AAAAAAAABkU/-ShRBI3yAzM/s1600/IMG244.jpg" rel="nofollow">
We trimmed off the excess exhaust pipes (in hindsight, I wash I had kept the pieces we cut off for future use in determining the run of the exhaust out of the engine bay) and wrestled the engine into the trailer and secured it for transport back to it's new home. The transport vehicle was a 4x8 U-Haul trailer hooked behind my Sable.......
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W6LKu2ySAZA/ULVRRw98pxI/AAAAAAAABko/5Hjk1VKvj4w/s1600/2012_1120engine0002.JPG" rel="nofollow">
When I first saw the trailer number, I thought I was really in for an unforgettable adventure.....
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KyEsI4bS_Sg/ULVRqDZVG_I/AAAAAAAABkw/W4G5_e7D8l8/s1600/2012_1120engine0004.JPG" rel="nofollow">

....but happily I was wrong! LOL

The next day I was given a special treat (see earlier post) before my 9 1/2 hour drive West thru the mountains of WV. While the hunk of iron I was pulling behind me did labor the Mercury on the upslopes, she never let me down and we made it safe and sound.
On Monday, I was off to the dealership early to unload the engine....
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bb5AmD7tUw0/ULVTeZHHxEI/AAAAAAAABk4/3LYZ9EIE0-o/s1600/2012_1120engine0005.JPG" rel="nofollow">
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t1Ssir6B-mY/ULVUIaRgv3I/AAAAAAAABlA/8GeHpJ5Jf0k/s1600/2012_1120engine0007.JPG" rel="nofollow">
then on to U-Haul to return the trailer. With all that out of the way, I set about pulling off the various bits and pieces so I could mount it on my engine stand.......
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKrxQonJxDM/ULVUqd7hRqI/AAAAAAAABlQ/EJC5HZzLhoY/s1600/2012_1120engine0011.JPG" rel="nofollow">
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xigpc-ExGK8/ULVVDU_DVTI/AAAAAAAABlY/OWgnfSabdAU/s1600/2012_1120engine0013.JPG" rel="nofollow">
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CpY7_8tsNwA/ULVVSUtWiYI/AAAAAAAABlg/ETipG4Ki-d4/s1600/2012_1120engine0012.JPG" rel="nofollow">
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGswUKZE7M0/ULVVhorcSEI/AAAAAAAABlo/GuNAcNJZNcY/s1600/2012_1120engine0014.JPG" rel="nofollow">
Next installment, we'll crack her open and have a look inside...

Stay tuned!!

ZEBRA 3 OUT


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: unlovedford
Date Posted: 27-November-2012 at 3:23PM
Like opening a present at Christmas.

-------------
Joe
1972 Mom's Squire Wagon
1972 Torino Wagon
1976 Torino       
1968 Cougar XR7-First batch
1972 Torino 460
1989 BroncoII/Jeeps/Titanimous
Popeye and Brutus (Rams)


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 28-November-2012 at 5:31AM
Originally posted by unlovedford unlovedford wrote:

Like opening a present at Christmas.
 
Jeesh, hope I don't find socks and underwear!!! LOL

-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: unlovedford
Date Posted: 28-November-2012 at 6:29AM
Yes, that would be bad indeed!

-------------
Joe
1972 Mom's Squire Wagon
1972 Torino Wagon
1976 Torino       
1968 Cougar XR7-First batch
1972 Torino 460
1989 BroncoII/Jeeps/Titanimous
Popeye and Brutus (Rams)


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 15-December-2012 at 8:38AM

Engine - Part 2

With the engine on the stand, it was time to crack her open and have a look inside. First I pulled the exhaust manifolds, carb, fuel pump, timing cover, harmonic balancer and the oil pan. Inside everything looked excellent! The double roller timing chain was nice and taunt, oil pump screen and inside the oil pan was free any debris and the rotating mass looked nice and clean with no visible signs of wear......

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DmEAM9DZ2gc/UMzceQsVm4I/AAAAAAAABmQ/rj4SjcTiDd0/s1600/2012_1121engine0019.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2Dp-1PQ-W8/UMza-0LIUiI/AAAAAAAABmI/goEWhmKPF2g/s1600/DSCF8250.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xansRttzUqk/UMzdBxSDRqI/AAAAAAAABmY/7sef6UI_M0s/s1600/DSCF8275.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qyYDwy6wrFk/UMzd80oC00I/AAAAAAAABmg/SrbGFzZxJ3M/s1600/DSCF8271.JPG" rel="nofollow">

Next task is to cover all the openings, sandblast, prime and paint the exterior and get her ready for reassembly and detailing.

Until next time.....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 28-December-2012 at 10:58PM
Stopped by the F3 (Far From Factory) shop yesterday and the guys say next week is all mine! I have to get the epoxy primer and supplies on order from Sikkens for delivery on Monday Jan 7th, so by midweek, the Tomato should be (FINALLY!!) wearing her first coat of paint (well epoxy primer anyways) in over 4 years!!
 
MORE TO COME


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 09-January-2013 at 12:29PM

A little bit closer.....

Stopped by the F3 shop on Tuesday and the sheet metal is about 90% complete. A few more tweeks/repairs to be made to the inner structure and then it will be on to hanging the quarter and roof skins, then prepping for the epoxy primer. Sikkens have already delivered the primer materials, so by the end of next week (01/18/13) she should be once more have something on her naked body. Here are a few shots of the structure and the quarter panel in place to check fit......
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3DnYkmHRsvk/UO4EJwaH6tI/AAAAAAAABnA/UbREi74v39A/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0025.JPG" rel="nofollow">
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3DnYkmHRsvk/UO4EJwaH6tI/AAAAAAAABnA/UbREi74v39A/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0025.JPG" rel="nofollow -
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OpMxoQes6MA/UO4FGAMgahI/AAAAAAAABnU/xb-GqorBWsQ/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0029.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7aoRnggNOWo/UO4F0i5Z6AI/AAAAAAAABnw/HsEZPNZ-KfM/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0019.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ge1T0wN7Xk/UO4F9ZDqJII/AAAAAAAABn4/qNfJVFp3_p8/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0020.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yHu3o7G_FxE/UO4G7pAvh8I/AAAAAAAABoE/Q_SH-L8bIxQ/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0001.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pSlHKWfwZxU/UO4HxHGlyYI/AAAAAAAABok/Ee4aAO18RLw/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0005.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uPkNhUgCYgA/UO4HnO-oImI/AAAAAAAABoY/dezNCKAjsRM/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0003.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKDPCVtkD-Y/UO4IBlTH2II/AAAAAAAABos/cyO-sK4DR6M/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0004.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rejL2xQC7Y4/UO4IKxS3dSI/AAAAAAAABpA/iJbTcH_bu3M/s1600/2013_0108structure_repair0002.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
Will take a few more shots of the final structure repairs prior to exterior panel attachment. Really getting excited about getting the ole girl back so I can get my hands dirty again while the guys at F3 massage the hood, fenders, deck lid.
 
Stay tuned......


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: GranTorinoSport
Date Posted: 12-January-2013 at 5:17AM
Joe,

Those frame brackets and reinforcements on page two appear to be the factory style frame reinforcements that my 76 Elite had.

Where did you get them, they look brand new and as a kit? Are they NOS ford parts, a third party kit or used stuff you cut off and had made to look brand new?


-------------
Scott Eklund

Webmaster


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 12-January-2013 at 9:00AM
Scott,
 
Those are OEM bars & brackets that I got from Ian (iangj) here on the forum. Wire brushed them really good then had them powder coated.... Yeah, they turned out well!!
 
Carguy47 was at one time going to snag several sets from a boneyard and put together kits for guys wanting to add the frame reinforcements ( http://forum.grantorinosport.org/police-or-wagon-frame-parts_topic6647_page3.html" rel="nofollow - http://forum.grantorinosport.org/police-or-wagon-frame-parts_topic6647_page3.html ).
 
Might want to touch base with him if you are in need of a set.....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 16-January-2013 at 9:56AM

Inner structure REPAIRED....

The boys at F3 were busy on the Tomato this week! They sent me pics of the COMPLETED INNER STRUCTURE REPAIRS today and they look FANTASTIC! I'll swing by tomorrow after work for a first hand opportunity to drool over their craftsmanship....
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F9TYgdmBmxk/UPcfaIX1wsI/AAAAAAAABpg/OEzrnQ-DUa0/s1600/roof+header.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AjQmSsI27Q8/UPcfwGqSqfI/AAAAAAAABps/VSui32b9KTg/s1600/roof+header+1.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KRuUwriMFjc/UPcgFpkE88I/AAAAAAAABp0/oaC2l4Aevd8/s1600/structure+1.JPG" rel="nofollow">

They will probably already have the quarter and roof skin attached by the time I get there as well as the inner driver side rear bulkhead and be dressing the welds and prepping the body for the first coat of epoxy primer! Won't be long until the ball will be back in MY court!!

Tune in tomorrow for more......

ZEBRA 3 OUT


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 18-January-2013 at 11:47AM

HUNG

Swung by the F3 shop and the quarter panel and roof skin are almost completely attached!!

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uPGNr07Hu-k/UPnbY1t4S0I/AAAAAAAABqM/RxF50ZzQDs4/s1600/2013_0117structure0005.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9yBGmOnCtI/UPnbwOv6KjI/AAAAAAAABqU/18T-XMzipcI/s1600/2013_0117structure0006.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iBp9TVnrDUU/UPncF-cb6qI/AAAAAAAABqc/kk3Injrxymg/s1600/2013_0117structure0007.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3sqEIM92YaA/UPncbyHWR_I/AAAAAAAABqk/MC899LIRaJA/s1600/2013_0117structure0018.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dkidIfzhOeE/UPncuFfw1CI/AAAAAAAABqs/89b91tb2h6Q/s1600/2013_0117structure0011.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oPHGko4X088/UPnc-pRh8FI/AAAAAAAABq0/Z6siFVQn4U4/s1600/2013_0117structure0009.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0bffYtVIP0A/UPndMzjsyZI/AAAAAAAABq8/FWIARHVPAJk/s1600/2013_0117structure0008.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2A2prm4jZ1k/UPndipUWLlI/AAAAAAAABrE/pFj6BNHf_G0/s1600/2013_0117structure0014.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9LDk3Hfpfrs/UPndzqhCr9I/AAAAAAAABrM/asRCtui5M9U/s1600/2013_0117structure0012.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
They will finish dressing the welds and start prepping the body for primer and should have the two stage epoxy sprayed on her flanks by this time next week!

Stay tuned.....

ZEBRA 3 OUT


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 19-January-2013 at 3:52PM
won't be long now,then comes the fun,trying to remember where all the parts are!

-------------
John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 19-January-2013 at 4:38PM
LOL, I know where the parts are.... the question is WE DO THEY GO??? Confused
 
Thank God for the ole digital camera & the pictures she took!


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 05-February-2013 at 11:00AM

SCUFFED

Got a text from the guys at F3 today asking if I was ready to bring the Tomato home this Saturday! YIKES, I'm not ready.... so I told them we would shoot from next Saturday, Feb 16th, so I could go this weekend and get the area at the dealership ready to receive it's old friend back to the fold.

I swung by on my way home from work and they have her about 75% ready to prime. A few more welds to dress out, a bit more prepping of the body and she should be wearing her first coat of epoxy primer on Friday!!

Here are a few shot to document her progress since the last installment.....
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k3dXRrue8dc/URGGj5kkqBI/AAAAAAAABro/lVcyJnVq064/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0002.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S44C-EHrfVA/URGG1QGLPoI/AAAAAAAABrw/ZZxZOF-AhU4/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0009.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jecxVYEarmA/URGHDh8NtcI/AAAAAAAABr4/Bi7_aqnA7mU/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0003.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VGlExiOlOK4/URGH9IJiNSI/AAAAAAAABsI/ZQmzjeA8wnM/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0001.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2GNx-S5YNeg/URGHUrcQtAI/AAAAAAAABsA/yfgLTWWH7R0/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0004.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wn067FBK8wU/URGInPhj_iI/AAAAAAAABsY/276-RM1sxJ0/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0005.JPG" rel="nofollow">

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZuoJZY3f_mo/URGJ0OhH4jI/AAAAAAAABss/EXbzamQvSlM/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0014.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zkCR8m9_nLo/URGKJTrc0YI/AAAAAAAABs0/p9ZDb1R3yH8/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0013.JPG" rel="nofollow">
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zkCR8m9_nLo/URGKJTrc0YI/AAAAAAAABs0/p9ZDb1R3yH8/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0013.JPG" rel="nofollow -
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PRHbjZaissY/URGKqFxEfRI/AAAAAAAABtE/40HU4tRDcJI/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0008.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FIcsC1AEDoM/URGK4diKxtI/AAAAAAAABtM/uCOBNPvtl_w/s1600/2013_0205scuffed0012.JPG" rel="nofollow">

She has come a LONG way since I dropped her off around the end of April! Not quite are far along as we had hopped but she is being done right and you can't rush quality. Hope on Friday to have some primered shots!

The plan is for me to stop again next Tuesday for a final inspection to confirm everything on the Stage 1 list has been completed prior to bringing her home temporarily for chassis and engine compartment detailing before taking her back to the boys at F3 for Stage 2..... FINAL BODY WORK AND COLOR!

Stay tuned....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 05-February-2013 at 11:15AM
Joe,it looks like it's really starting to come together nicely.How long before it'll be ready to go back for paint?

-------------
John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 05-February-2013 at 11:28AM
John,
 
Yeah, slowly but surely! I hope to be ready to turn it back over to the boys by late Spring/early Summer...


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 1zebra3
Date Posted: 05-February-2013 at 3:23PM
Will you be going to Carlise with this car if its done. Sure would like to see it.

-------------
1zebra3                      76 S&H Torino
70 mustang MACH 1
73 MACH 1
79 F-350 (SOLD)DAMN
89 STANG LX COUPE
04 F-150


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 05-February-2013 at 11:00PM
Matt,
 
Yep I plan on having her at Carlisle when she's done.... but sadly that won't be THIS year! I hope to be able to display her next to Steve's TV HERO #2 car since that's the one she is based upon.
 
Looking forward to THAT DAY!


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 24-February-2013 at 4:38AM

She's BAAAAAAAACK!!!

The day I've been waiting for finally arrived and the boys at F3 finally got Phase 1 of the Tomato restoration completed and returned to me. They did such a fabulous job repairing the inner structure that it's a shame it has to be hidden away again. Here is a before and after shot of the repaired inner structure...

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zAp8mlntZDU/USo7pwj3RHI/AAAAAAAABto/T5lbuty_W8U/s1600/STRUCTURE+REPAIR.jpg" rel="nofollow">

The Sikkens epoxy primer was applied to the doors and body to give them a level of protection as well as a solid base for the coming bodywork...
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-agvMVvgjfsI/USo9gAIVhSI/AAAAAAAABt0/Nd-and7Lk-8/s1600/IMG_1748.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hwc9oxnl7Gg/USo9u-NuStI/AAAAAAAABt8/BmPYfwFnd4g/s1600/IMG_0071.jpg" rel="nofollow">
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hwc9oxnl7Gg/USo9u-NuStI/AAAAAAAABt8/BmPYfwFnd4g/s1600/IMG_0071.jpg" rel="nofollow -
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pVRjl86P2UA/USo93fBcMFI/AAAAAAAABuE/jsd1grtGyKs/s1600/IMG_9994.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
and they returned the Tomato to the dealership....
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4XDXOjRNB3Y/USo-VmXfDxI/AAAAAAAABuM/awTRKwuBG1I/s1600/2013_0221return0001.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
so I could modify a couple things that need to be done and get the Torino up in the air to sandblast and POR15 the chassis and firewall and return it back to them for final bodywork and paint.
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hzi3wKWPM84/USo_QcjK_0I/AAAAAAAABuU/M327naatNkU/s1600/IMG_6744.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
The guys also got the front frame reinforcement bars added while there!
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-50v6f-njaHo/USo_juPZX4I/AAAAAAAABuc/lQWqEnAxGTM/s1600/IMG_4856.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ugz_TDe58D4/USo_ydL1YqI/AAAAAAAABuk/CPqAqIpFE68/s1600/IMG_7779.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xOyIl_wwaes/USpABhzbHnI/AAAAAAAABus/q_GryG5JD0k/s1600/IMG_3021.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jGvxoFZv1Sc/USpAMV3czqI/AAAAAAAABu0/A46BTzCRMGw/s1600/IMG_7485.jpg" rel="nofollow">
 
Now it's time to crawl under her and blast and paint the undercarriage....
LET THE FUN BEGIN
Until next installment...
 


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 24-February-2013 at 11:40AM
Joe,I've been waiting for more progress on your project.your thread is like a good book,can't wait to read the next chapter! Now get your a#% in gear and  don't keep us waiting.

-------------
John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 02-March-2013 at 3:43PM

Blowin' the doors off....

 
Well was a short day today working on the Tomato. The tasks of the day were getting the holes pulled for the door power feed harnesses and get the doors removes. When I purchased the power window assemblies from Jeff Munn, I had him to also send the the leading edges of both doors so I could locate everything as shipped from the factory. This also allowed me to know the exact sizes of the holes I needed to put in the doors and hinge posts so the harness bellows would seal correctly. The factory openings measured roughly 1 7/8" in diameter and I knew that would be a tough job cutting those with a hole saw so I checked at work and found the Greenlee punch for 1 1/2" conduit was 1 15/16"... close enough.

I used my step drill to cut the 1/2" pilot hole for the draw stud and with the help of my buddy Jim maneuvering the punch into position to clear the side impact bar in the door, it was a simple matter of pumping the hydraulics to pull the punch thru the thin material of the door skin and voila.... nice smoothly cut round holes in the leading edge of the doors in less than an hour......
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GokcGhV6sio/UTLAc76CpDI/AAAAAAAABvQ/AjubwPWN7po/s1600/2013_0302door_pulls0008.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4rrbBSGVW0A/UTLBc_bmcgI/AAAAAAAABvY/PWO_-N2244A/s1600/2013_0302door_pulls0007.JPG" rel="nofollow">

Next step was to remove the doors so we could access the necessary location on the hinge post of the body to pull the opening cabin of the car....
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b7unu24FG3E/UTLCAkS-t4I/AAAAAAAABvk/H7NO94n0Lfk/s1600/2013_0302door_pulls0010.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QShjkCXSLLQ/UTLCcArkkSI/AAAAAAAABvo/CWq47jvNFsI/s1600/2013_0302door_pulls0011.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v2deCbGTsmo/UTLC5fVhrhI/AAAAAAAABvw/7y5S05lNwJI/s1600/2013_0302door_pulls0012.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tHFTLDgRvqM/UTLDLQN5TaI/AAAAAAAABv4/_nZgLncQdg8/s1600/2013_0302door_pulls0013.JPG" rel="nofollow">

With the harness holes in place we laid the first door on the sawhorses so I could begin the task of cleaning, prepping and painting the insides of the doors as well as getting the interior side prepped for paint.....
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dbxk8yLSmxU/UTLFEOCoYDI/AAAAAAAABwI/KnPt0jkfO4g/s1600/2013_0302door_pulls0021.JPG" rel="nofollow">

Until next time...........


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 14-April-2013 at 5:02AM

A DATE WITH THE STRIPPER

I've had the Torino back for a few weeks now and haven't gotten to spend much time working on her for one reason or another, but I am making some small gains. I now have the paint stripped off both doors...
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CPv70QHYIRQ/UWnAVjXIt3I/AAAAAAAAB0Y/-_SNu_u9pwc/s1600/2013_0402stripping0029.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cFtFYxFANpk/UWnCpXFOcKI/AAAAAAAAB0o/xbPMuS-OOAQ/s1600/2013_0402stripping0026.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2NL-CX68ZQM/UWnDAy_LOqI/AAAAAAAAB0w/cQWLMJ07awg/s1600/2013_0402stripping0024.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
 
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OoSOuZ_knnw/UWnD0f5yfeI/AAAAAAAAB1M/qf2FbQQFUP0/s1600/2013_0413stripping0008.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LNAdAfNAWR4/UWnERyarOOI/AAAAAAAAB1U/ysj_0YLsMiU/s1600/2013_0413stripping0009.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mBWjlcTjPD8/UWnEhGMsr-I/AAAAAAAAB1Y/biNMaVuSPUM/s1600/2013_0413stripping0010.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xDo5OTaY6OE/UWnExKcBLrI/AAAAAAAAB1g/iyVScSBmrzg/s1600/2013_0413stripping0011.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
I need to wash the paint stripper off them really well and then protect the naked sheetmetal with some POR15 PREP & READY as well as cleaning the interior of the doors and painting them with POR15 to protect them from any future rust.

While I was in the stripping mood, I also started stripping the bumper fillers. I got the corner fillers all stripped....
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cabtLgO8Ng0/UWnLpoRI4hI/AAAAAAAAB1o/v6sTwVln0nQ/s1600/2013_0402stripping0035.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UT7Ik7O-StY/UWnL0s8gS4I/AAAAAAAAB1w/GviMsNW7bTc/s1600/2013_0402stripping0036.JPG" rel="nofollow">
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-udH23XAxfMQ/UWnL7aFKldI/AAAAAAAAB14/4OIYFw5KRGU/s1600/2013_0402stripping0037.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4OiGzIACvYU/UWnMF07-9_I/AAAAAAAAB2E/-J4-fwIZPDs/s1600/2013_0413stripping0012.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BqgGpB6SHXg/UWnMZe31LcI/AAAAAAAAB2M/eMpujO76HPw/s1600/2013_0413stripping0013.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wnMnVVpoJNI/UWnMnGxugLI/AAAAAAAAB2U/Nc83UhgxfdA/s1600/2013_0413stripping0014.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
and the rear main filler is next on the agenda. When I finally break down my front bumper assembly, I will also strip the front main filler and then all the bumper sight shields will be ready for final prep and Silver paint.
Until next installment.....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 28-April-2013 at 8:08AM
Got a real workout Saturday as well as making some progress on the tomato... Carried both doors, two sawhorses, foam padding and plastic downstairs to wash rack at the dealership, set everything up and then washed them inside and out to get rid of any paint stripper residue that may have been left behind and then carried it all back upstairs. Reset the horses, padding and plastic and prepped the passenger door inside & out with POR15 PREP & READY. WHEW...
 
 
 
 
and I also got a engine stand ready for a new coat of shiney coat of Bright Red paint.....
 
 
then went home and worked on the garage for a while. FUN FUN FUN!


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: starsky76
Date Posted: 21-May-2013 at 12:35PM
Hey Joe! Great progress since I last was one here,lookin very good!!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 26-May-2013 at 3:49AM
Thanks Ralph... she's not going as quickly as I'd like, but you can't rush perfection! LOL
 
Tried out my new Eastwood sandblaster Saturday. Got the top side of the passenger side wheelhouse blasted. The blast hose needs to be about twice as long as it now is because I had to keep moving the hopper so I could get at different angles to get into all the nooks and crannies of the panel.

 
 
 
 It's funny... takes longer to sweep up the sand and sift it than it does to go thru 100lbs of sand! Hopefully I'll have it all figured out and tweaked before I attack the frame and engine compartment....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 01-June-2013 at 12:03PM
Joe,I use a huge tarp when blasting.When the hopper is empty,i just pick up the corners of the tarp.Then shovel up the sand and strain it through an old metal food strainer as it goes back into the pot.After reusing it a few times it loses its bite.

-------------
John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 09-June-2013 at 11:22AM
John,
 
Yeah, when I blasted and painted the rear section of my frame/undercarriage, I had plastic on the floor and a plastic tent across the rear half of the car to contain the sand and it worked pretty good. When we got the pressurized blaster, we decided to use one of the old paint booths as a blast room so we could tackle larger items.
 
I vacuum up the medium and sift it into 5 gallon buckets so it's a bit easier to refill the hopper. Think I'm gonna start sifting it a second time as it goes into the hopper because I got a clog in the blaster this weekend that put a stop to my progress, so next weekend I'll break down the system and clean her out. I also want to get a longer blast hose because the one that came with the Eastwood setup is only about 6 foot long. I'm 6'4" and by the time I pull it up over my shoulder to give me better control of things, I'm on a very short leash and I have to keep stopping and repositioning the blaster.
 
If I increase to a longer hose, will that affect my medium velocity adversly and reduce my cutting power? I'm looking at getting 10-20 foot of 1/2" ID x 1 1/16" OD two ply x 150PSI Goodyear premium quality black sand blast hose.
 
All suggestions/comments appreciated....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 09-June-2013 at 1:51PM
Joe, i'd think a 20 ft hose would be too long,10 to 12ft would be plenty.I'm 6'4" as well.I like to keep the pot fairly close to me when  blasting,seems like I'm always adjusting the sand flow.

-------------
John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 09-June-2013 at 2:50PM
Thanks John..... 12 foot it is then!

-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 15-June-2013 at 11:26AM
Nothing new to report on the Tomato but I DID get her older sister up and running for use in an upcoming commercial to be shot locally about our three long time hot dog stands....
 
 
 
However, stay tuned for more............


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: Ranchero Fan
Date Posted: 15-June-2013 at 2:02PM
That's COOL.Clap

-------------
Brian   1973 Ford Ranchero Big Block. ''THE OTHER WOMAN''


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 29-June-2013 at 11:37AM
Another weekend with little Torino progress. I DID get my new 12' sandblaster hose installed, but the bulk of the morning was spent polishing the paint on the wagon for the upcoming commercial...
 
 
 
My brutha Jim doing his magic.....
 
 
Until next time........
 


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: antlerfiend
Date Posted: 30-June-2013 at 2:16AM
That is a sweet lookin wagon. Before I bought my 78 Mustang II, a buddy of mine told me that he might have to sell his 64 Ranch wagon. I checked with him and he told me that he was gonna keep it. Now a month later after buying my 78, His car has appeared on Clist. Kinda pisses me off, I wanted that car bad.

-------------
Alex
72 GTS (Morgan's Baby)
68 CJ Drag Car Clone
65 Mustang (first car)
77 LTD II (Drag Car)
78 Mustang II V6 4 speed


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 03-August-2013 at 9:18AM
Well after several weekends doing other things, I finally got to go over and work on the Tomato again today. I now have both front wheelhouses blasted.....
 
 
 
 
 
 
I changed the 6 foot media hose on my Eastwood sandblaster to a 12 footer and it made things a whole lot easier by having more ability to move around the piece without having to drag along the blaster!
 
I also came to the conclusion that sandblasting is NOT a summer friendly task! Once you get all garbed up, you have to contend with your body heat rising, your hood visor fogging up from your hot, moist breath exiting your respirator as well as moisture in the air line semi-clogging your media! Not to mention the sand in your crack.... FUN FUN FUN!! LOL
 
Next major component to tackle... the core support. Then the fun of blasting the chassis will commence!!!!
 
 
 


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 08-September-2013 at 2:50AM
Well, got the ole girl back on the ground in preparation of rolling her into the booth to start sandblasting the frame and firewall...
 
I pulled the hinges so I could prep the hinge posts and strip the hinges and got about 75% of the driver's side post prepped.... (sorry for the poor image quality. Deb has the digital camera with her on her trip to Vegas!!)
 
 
 
Just not a lot you can get done working only 4 or 5 hours a week (if you're lucky) on a project of this magnatude, but baby steps are better than NO STEPS!
 
Until next time...
 


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 14-September-2013 at 9:58AM
Well it must not be meant for me to work a full day on the Tomato!! I was moving right along and then suddenly my angle head grinder let go! Friggin Harbor Freight junk.... so I ordered a new Ampro A3028 Gearless Angle Head Die Grinder.
Here is what I accomplished on the Torino before the tool failed...
 
 
I painted the head for the red engine stand and putzed around on a few other monor things before calling it a day. Damn and was really making some progress for a little while!!!
 
Until next time...


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 21-September-2013 at 9:35AM
Well my new angle head and air chuck arrived.....
 
 
and I put the angle head right to work....
 
 
 
 
 
 
until I ran outta Scotch-Brite pads! DAMN and was really getting the firewall and hinge posts looking good! Oh well, pack to Amazon for more supplies!!! LOL
 
Until next week....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: unlovedford
Date Posted: 21-September-2013 at 1:33PM
Looking great!

-------------
Joe
1972 Mom's Squire Wagon
1972 Torino Wagon
1976 Torino       
1968 Cougar XR7-First batch
1972 Torino 460
1989 BroncoII/Jeeps/Titanimous
Popeye and Brutus (Rams)


Posted By: legend onirot
Date Posted: 21-September-2013 at 2:14PM
x2..  looks great.  more than what I did to my car.  excellent work


-------------
---------------------
malcolm
1973 gran torino sport (formal)... "Stacy Lynn"
1972 gran torino (formal)... "Mackenzie"
1973 gran torino sport (sportroof)... "Leela"


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 28-September-2013 at 8:35AM
Well, I got the scotch-brite pads and finished stripping the firewall. I also got the charcoal canister, frame reinforcement braces and alternator rubber water shield removed. Now to roll the ole girl into the booth, get her up in the air and... sandblast the rest of the underbody and chassis. I'll also drop the rearend so I can clean, rebuild and detail everything back there. Think I can get her ready for the boys at F3 before the holidays?? I sure hope so!!
 
 
 
I ran off and forgot my camera this morning, so sorry for the poor quality cell phone pics!!
 
More to come...


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 05-October-2013 at 9:45AM

http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/2013/10/blasted-part-2.html" rel="nofollow - Blasted... Part 2

Have made some progress since last installment. I got the firewall and door posts stripped....
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XvSUG1Lx-Ko/UlBWpfpkt9I/AAAAAAAAB4M/b8nQeRlQFqw/s1600/2013_1203playday0006.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IGwb71h4tnE/UlBXdVrnbgI/AAAAAAAAB4U/vKqk1wfKqf8/s1600/2013_1203playday0005.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9KM-5pCj5AI/UlBYIlpi21I/AAAAAAAAB4g/_AV8R20kpIc/s1600/2013_1203playday0003.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7VB8uoAJfHM/UlBYP7lBL5I/AAAAAAAAB4o/Bmm3X9ORlwE/s1600/2013_1203playday0002.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FsBYmXEe-GU/UlBYbv_cWVI/AAAAAAAAB4w/1un6B_TYXa8/s1600/2013_1203playday0001.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3i4Yhd3Gd1A/UlB189BdNjI/AAAAAAAAB5I/Xqq6WFZWNus/s1600/2013_1203playday0011.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KEjE5TKu-Dk/UlB2Of7WUtI/AAAAAAAAB5Q/4YcY4lyWreU/s1600/2013_1203playday0012.JPG" rel="nofollow">

and also got the ole girl moved into the booth and up in the air so the sandblasting of the chassis can begin....
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w2qzpqxhd-8/UlB2r8hjz7I/AAAAAAAAB5Y/VYT13LvllTQ/s1600/2013_1203playday0052.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_U55SLhpnH8/UlB243ZlvUI/AAAAAAAAB5g/S2FO4ovfGPU/s1600/2013_1203playday0042.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aGpeqoGeHT4/UlB3E0cmldI/AAAAAAAAB5o/Y9wYqNH8LS8/s1600/2013_1203playday0043.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZDDUyza5G4/UlB3OexSg7I/AAAAAAAAB5w/YEhomN6vAUQ/s1600/2013_1203playday0035.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VkAVZITdRbM/UlB3Yxua06I/AAAAAAAAB54/z6gr8TP5qrQ/s1600/2013_1203playday0046.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HeS3aqknDgc/UlB3ksLFpII/AAAAAAAAB6A/eEBafr0ptqE/s1600/2013_1203playday0047.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L4C8LiRdhPk/UlB3uEc5uOI/AAAAAAAAB6I/mbymON0jyxA/s1600/2013_1203playday0037.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LPYX9ArsFsI/UlB37QEhg4I/AAAAAAAAB6Q/xrzeIqvoVYs/s1600/2013_1203playday0049.JPG" rel="nofollow">
 
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FrS6YULI9EE/UlB4DOL87WI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/EYiA8qATTII/s1600/2013_1203playday0050.JPG" rel="nofollow">

While she's in the booth, I'll drop the front and rear suspensions from the car so I can get the chassis blasted really good and rebuild and detail everything as necessary as I put it all back together.

More to come....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 18-October-2013 at 2:11PM
With the car up in the air it's Suspension Time. Please have a look at my topic under the '72-'76 Ford & Mercury header titled SUSPENSION SETUP - Time to decide....
 
http://forum.grantorinosport.org/topic9958_post97721.html#97721" rel="nofollow - http://forum.grantorinosport.org/topic9958_post97721.html#97721
 
and weigh in with your suggestions.
 
MANY THANKS


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: Zebra 3
Date Posted: 19-October-2013 at 4:55AM
wagon coils, spacers AND air shocks....should'nt the wagon coils and spacers be enough?..need to find pictures of Justins car...I would not use air shocks...even the modern versions still leak down    

-------------
"I deeply admire the men who founded this country, and I think we ought to know more about them and how they lived and the force and courage they had.
Henry Ford. 1926
Brian Conn
'76 Torino


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 19-October-2013 at 9:21AM
I thought the same thing! The air shocks are just a back up should I need a bit more lift. Here's the link to Justin's setup...
 
http://forum.grantorinosport.org/starsky-hutch-style-rear-suspension-rake_topic6658.html" rel="nofollow - http://forum.grantorinosport.org/starsky-hutch-style-rear-suspension-rake_topic6658.html
 
You'll also see a pic of the TV car as well as my old LE's rake for comparison.


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: Zebra 3
Date Posted: 19-October-2013 at 12:54PM

..I don't like the idea of 3 ea. 3/8" spacers per side...just more stuff to get loose and fall out...I am going to either use a 1" spacer ( 1/8" taller than the 3 ea. 3/8" spacers) or 1 1/2" spacers...

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/SPS-1628/" rel="nofollow -

-------------
"I deeply admire the men who founded this country, and I think we ought to know more about them and how they lived and the force and courage they had.
Henry Ford. 1926
Brian Conn
'76 Torino



Posted By: Big Bird
Date Posted: 19-October-2013 at 5:29PM
If you go with Moog CC811, they are the same spring rate/diameter wire/etc. as a CC803 with a 3/4 inch higher ride height. CC811 is for LTD II wagons. Depending on your desired rake, less spacers or no spacers.
I didn't want a cargo coil, so I used 8223 springs in the rear, and it brought the back up with a nice rake.


-------------
"What we do in full frontal view, is more honest than your cleaned-up mind."
Randy
1979 T-Bird
2005 F-150 STX RCSB 4.6, 3.55 LSD
How the Heck does a REGULAR CAB SHORTBED weigh over 5200 pounds?


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 09-November-2013 at 11:28AM

Blasted... Part 3

Well today the ole girl finally got into position, pulled the bumper brackets, she lost her wheels and the rear end started coming out. I got the springs, shocks, parking brake cables and the sway bar unhooked and ready for the big drop only to discover that I had my line wrenches at home in my other tool box, so about 90% of the rear is ready for removal. Here are a few pics of today's progress. (CLICK ON PICS TO ENLARGE AND CLICK AGAIN ON NEW PIC TO SUPERSIZE)

The new jackstands in position and the wheels and ramps removed.... http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Mx48MulzSk/Un6-yCNL6zI/AAAAAAAAB7I/GrwSLlbd3sk/s1600/2013_1109playday0003.JPG" rel="nofollow">

 
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uu0ZJ3GI-Jk/Un7ABls4OgI/AAAAAAAAB7M/iMC1CAI4h04/s1600/2013_1109playday0007.JPG" rel="nofollow">

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and I got under her...

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and started removing the rear suspension...

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So hopefully next weekend, with my line wrenches in hand, I can break loose the brake hose, remove the control arm hardware and roll the rear end out from under the Tomato.

Until next installment...


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: 75GranMan
Date Posted: 09-November-2013 at 12:28PM
Looking good Joe, slow and steady wins the race. I think i get just as much enjoyment working on my car as I do driving it. John

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John 75Gran Torino 4spd
Tighten it down until it snaps and then back it off a half turn!


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 09-November-2013 at 1:07PM
Thanks John!
 
It doesn't help matters that I can only work on my project on Saturday when the dealership is open... Cry


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 16-November-2013 at 4:52PM

BLASTED... Part 4

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With line wrenches in hand, I set about finishing up dropping the rear end assembly from under the Tomato. I removed the brake line from the brake hose, removed the hose clip and then freed the brake hose from the crossmember...
 
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With the brake line free, using an impact and open end wrench, I unbolt the upper and lower control arms from the frame mounts and lowered the axle assembly to the floor...
 
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I then slid the assembly from under the car and placed on 3 jack stands for further disassembly and service.
 
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That's all for this installment.

Until next time...


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 26-November-2013 at 9:45AM
Well the project has hit a temporary snag.... Just got home from the hospital having my appendix removed on Monday and was told NO HEAVY LEFTING FOR 12 WEEKS to allow internal muscles and organs to return to normal before any undo stresses! Cry
Glad I got the rearend out and the steering box removed before I had surgery. Removal of the front suspension and sandblasting should be easy on the body so at least that will continue. Thumbs Up
So much for having the ole girl in the bodyshop by the holidays!!!

-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/


Posted By: TV 2M8O
Date Posted: 07-December-2013 at 11:03AM

Blasted... Part 5

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Well went over today to finish removing the rear sway bar links and brackets from the frame and started breaking down the rear end.

First order of business was to remove the rear sway bar links. During the building of the Gran Torino's, Ford assembled the frames before they attached the body because removing the sway bar links and brakets was a real PITA! There is just NO ROOM the get at the nut holding the sway bar link to the bracket...

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and swing the ratchet, so what I had to do was get a ratchet and socket on the nut, wedge it up against the frame and use a breaker bar to spin the link out of the nut.....
 
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I was sucessful removing the passenger side with incident...
 
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but the driver side snapped just below the nut so now the search begins for a replacement...
 
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The next challenge was removing the frame brackets....
 
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As with the sway bar links, there isn't enough room to get good access with your ratchet and socket and get a good swing so you have to really pump the ratchet to get the brackets off.....
 
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I think when I put things back together, I'm gonna put the stud plate inside the bracket (left side) with the nuts on the outside of the frame crossmember to make things easier to reassemble...
 
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I also got the lower control arms, brake lines and sway bar removed from the rear end.....
 
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The upper control arm bolts were really on there tight, so I soaked them good with PB Blaster and hopefully next weekend using a BFI I'll be able to get them removed as well.
 
Until then....


-------------

TV 2M8O OUT
JOE
1976 Gran Torino S&H season 2-4 Clone
Project Blog: http://tv2m8o.blogspot.com/



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