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SPUG Nuts
After months of inactivity, Evan and Barry were determined
to brave the cold weather and do some wrench turning. Since the bodyectomy,
Ole Blue has been sitting quietly in Barry’s unheated garage.
Outfitted with cold weather apparel they spent the day removing the
steering gear and the transmission and transfer case.
Grease and mud, baked for 50 years
The first task was to remove the front and rear drive shafts.
With the body removed, access was a breeze and removal of the U-bolts
was aided by 50 plus years of grease and mud. The combination had prevented
rust from forming.
While removing the shafts, we found we aren’t able to shift the
transmission. This is not a good sign and most likely means we will
be looking at an overhaul.
Steering clear
After removing the drive shafts, we decided to remove the steering
gear box, steering column and wheel so it wouldn’t be in the way
of the transmission removal. The gear box is fastened to the frame and
come off without a problem. Removing the shaft from the rest of the
steering gear was more of a challenge. We employed a gear puller and
left the puller under tension while we broke for lunch and a warm up.
After lunch, a quick turn of the ratchet and the shaft broke free. Evan
decided to become the poster child for the society
for the prevention of unheated garages
(SPUG).
Transferring the transfer
With the steering gear out of the way, we attacked the transmission
and transfer case. Using screwdrivers, we had to find the bolts holding
the transmission and transfer case in place. As with the drive shafts,
the 50 + years of grease and dirt had created an effective rust barrier.
Using our engine hoist (a really handy device), we quickly and safely
lifted the transmission and transfer case off the frame.
Cold
enough
Checking
SPUG rules, it appeared that it was time to head in by the fireplace
and thaw some parts. But first, Evan had to move the 2a back to its
proper bay. Next up, springs and things.
Barry’s
Notes:
As we were removing bits and pieces, I did ask the question “Do
you think we will every get this thing back together?” Evan’s
reply was that we always have the 2A as our model. On one hand, this
is very reassuring. But after looking at some of the modifications the
PO (AKA Previous Owner) made to the 2A, it may not always be the best
model to follow. And I do need to find a way to heat the garage.
Evan’s
Notes:
The closer we get to the bare frame the more excited I get. I don't
feel intimidated by the magnitude of what we have to do, but I do feel
encouraged knowing we'll be starting with a blank canvas. Can't blame
any future problems on the "PO".
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