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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Members Rides => Topic started by: Mike Phillips on August 23, 2011, 08:47:19 PM

Title: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on August 23, 2011, 08:47:19 PM
1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder (http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=21491.0)


Thought I would document this project from start to finish as some of the issues I come up against I'll look to the forum members for help. Also, things learned during this project might helps others into the future...
 
This projects starts early Sunday morning, August 21st, 2011 with a trip to the gas station. My good friend David is helping me to bring the truck home and will also be helping to do some custom welding to redo some of the previous suspension and steering modifications.
 
The truck we're driving is called Behemoth, it's a 2004 Custom Kodiak Truck, custom build by David as he's a welder/fabricator. He started with a Kodiak Cab and grafted in the center section of a 1996 Chevy Van between the front and rear of cab portions to create a custom stretched truck cab.

I met David when I detailed Behemoth and we've been friends ever since.
 
(http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/853/BigBad028.jpg)
 
David has added a full size camper in the last month so when he hauls  Monster Trucks to the Triple Canopy Ranch for Mudfest events there's a place to hang out, eat dinner, etc.
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder002.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder001.jpg)
 
 
We drove from Stuart, Florida to West Palm Beach to meet the owner Tom and after backing the trailer into the driveway, Tom drove my new-to-me Chevy up onto the trailer. I would have done it myself but because I have an artificial leg I cannot drive, or at least I cannot safely drive a manual transmission.
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder003.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder004.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder005.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder006.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder007.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder008.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder009.jpg)
 
 
All chained down and ready for the ride home...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder010.jpg)
 
 
:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on August 23, 2011, 08:51:51 PM
1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder Continued...
 
 
Before we left I took a shot of what looks like the truck that started the whole 4x4 Monster Truck craze and that's Big Foot from the movie,
 
Take this job and shove it (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083163/)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder011.jpg)
 
 
From the movie,
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/take_this_job_and_shove_it.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/bigfoot.jpg)
 
 
 
After we left West Palm Beach the rain started, this is what it looks like driving North on I-95 from inside Behemoth...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder012.jpg)
 
 
Rain stopped and we stopped to get a bite to eat so I snapped these pictures... The 1978 Chevy Truck is by all standards a full-size truck but Behemoth makes it look small...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder013.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder014.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder015.jpg)
 
 
The wheels on my 1978 Chevy Truck are UGLY and I'm working on another set of aluminum slotted mags, kidney bean style. Anyone reading this that knows where a set of 8-lug, 16.5 by 12" wide get a hold of me.
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder016.jpg)
 
 
The truck has a 454 and it and the engine compartment are also ugly...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder017.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder018.jpg)
 
 
The truck came with factory AC and I'm going to rebuild all of this...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder019.jpg)
 
 
Here's the rear-end, it needs cleaning. The front and rear axles are supposed to be out of a 1986 Military Suburban.
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder020.jpg)
 
 
Here's the Dana 60 front-end...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder024.jpg)
 
 
 
:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on August 23, 2011, 08:53:59 PM
1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder Continued...
 
Rear drum brakes and missing cable for the emergency brake, need to get this and any of the other missing hardware. I own a boat and it's nice to have an emergency brake for emergencies but also for launching boats at the boat launch.
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder021.jpg)
 
 
Back of transfercase...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder022.jpg)
 
 
Turbo 350 mated to a NP208 Transfercase that's going in after it's cleaned up and gets some new seals, filter, fluids etc.
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder023.jpg)
 
 
Front disc brakes, rusty shocks are being disposed of... I need to do some rust removal, anyone with a "wonder" product that can be sprayed on and pressure washed off please chime in...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder025.jpg)
 
 
Rusty headers are going to be replaced with some coated headers...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder026.jpg)
 
 
Looks like a homemade steering arm, I'll let David either warm it over or we'll replace it.
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder027.jpg)
 
 
Steering gearbox, I'm installing a 2-wheel driver replacement and bracing the frame...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder028.jpg)
 
 
Here's where the truck is sitting right now...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder029.jpg)


I did a tune-up on the engine and now it starts and idles pretty good. Saturday morning I'm going to do a compression check and also pull the valve covers off and watch the valve train for any obvious problems if there's a discrepancy in the compression between cylinders.
 
After that the truck is coming off the trailer and the motor, transmission and transfercase are coming out and the cleaning begins...
 
 
That's it for now...
 
 
:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: big bear on August 23, 2011, 09:10:24 PM
awesome man.....i love project threads and the stories with them.   behemoth is a  beast wow    what a slick setup. and i love your new toy. cant wait for the build
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: 1979C20 on August 24, 2011, 04:54:10 AM
Both of those trucks are gorgeous. The 78 looks like a great starting point. If you were closer to me id see if you were interested in selling me that 4 speed! Haha. Good luck with the project.
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: 70fastback on August 24, 2011, 05:38:28 AM
Alright Mike, that does it!!!  You shine cars like no other, and now you are going to have my dream truck.  Why don't you just run me over with Behemoth...LOL.  Cant wait to see where you take this.  I assume this is the replacement for the Blazer?
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: bake74 on August 24, 2011, 10:04:38 AM
     very nice start.  I love lifted trucks personally, so I am all for this project.
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on August 24, 2011, 05:08:20 PM

  I assume this is the replacement for the Blazer?


Actually... once this 3/4 ton is on the road it will make my Jimmy my "economical driver", that is the Jimmy will get better gas mileage than the 3/4 ton truck so I figure I better keep it for gas savings.

The Jimmy is also my "Airport Car" as it fits under the concrete ceiling for short term parking at the West Palm Beach Airport.  It just barely fits.  The top of the windshield frame  is about an inch away from the concrete ceiling beams in the airport parking structure.  It's kind of freaky driving into the structure as you hear this wind noise as you pass by each concrete beam as the truck is a full convertible.

So at this time I'm going to keep the Jimmy.  I'm actually thinking about pulling all the running gear out of the Jimmy since it's "new" and proven and swap in the other running gear and engine not being used for the 3/4 ton.  The engine is the Jimmy is a Mark VI Roller Cam 454 that's only 2 years old with a 700R4 built by Dana Sniff.

Still thinking about my options...

:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on August 25, 2011, 06:22:39 AM
Did a compression check on the engine last night, compression on all 8 cylinders averaged 145 to 150 pounds.  After the compression check I removed the valve covers and watched the valve trains operate as the motor was turning over and valve opening and closing all looked normal, no sigh of a flat cam lobe, broken rockers or bent pushrods etc.

Decided to remove the engine, transmission and transfercase out of the Jimmy and install it into the 3/4 ton

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/454MagnumInstalled034.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/454MagnumInstalled036.jpg)

Before I start taking apart the drivetrain on the 3/4 ton I'm going to go through the brakes and get them all rebuilt, this will start this Saturday. 

:)




Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: big bear on August 27, 2011, 06:04:47 PM
i like those valve covers. those custom, or you buy them ?  they just look agressive and clean to me. its the 454 jumping out that i like haha
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on August 28, 2011, 10:49:38 AM
Yesterday, (Saturday, August 27th), we drove the truck off the trailer to it's new home for the next couple of months.  I removed the tires, they're 42" Super Swampers but they look small next to these tires tractor tires on the 2.5 ton Rockwell axles.  (Dave's Buggy project)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder030.jpg)

Next up I removed all the wheel hubs, rotors and brakes,
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder031.jpg)

This is scary looking...  I'll post a picture of the bearings for the front passenger side later, it looks even worse...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder032.jpg)


Today is cleaning day, going to start pressure washing and degreasing... ugh... this is the part that's never any fun.  It' hotter than heck outside today too...

:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on August 28, 2011, 10:54:22 AM

i like those valve covers. those custom, or you buy them ? 

These are Ansen Valve covers, about $200.00+ to buy new.  I picked them up from a guy that one two separate eBay bids for identical valve covers so I picked his spare set up for $125.00

Now days, many people have no idea what a 454 is let a long the thrill of driving a daily driver with a big block Chevy.  To tell someone that's not into cars you have a 454 in your truck doesn't mean anything to them.  When you pop the hood and the see the numbers, 454 on the valve cover they can put it together

454 = big engine = big power

My son things they're pretty cool too...


:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on August 28, 2011, 11:04:01 AM
Here are the colors I considering for the paintwork after the mechanicals are all finished... these are PPG colors for Lamborghini's (http://www.lambocars.com/archive/paint.htm)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/1978ColorConcept.jpg)


:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: fitz on August 28, 2011, 01:26:39 PM
Mike, great write up on a cool project. As far as the axle go, what gears do they have? As far as I know chevy didn't make any Military CUCV Suburbans. Lots of trucks with 4.56 gears are assumed to have Military axles (Military pick ups had 4.56's, the blazers had 3.08's) to put the 1 ton rear axle under your truck means they had to change the spring hangers. If you measure the spring perches on the axle we can figure out if it's a 1 ton or 3/4 ton unit.                   Just trying to make sure you get the correct brake parts. Great project, looking forward to the build.
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: big bear on August 28, 2011, 07:03:53 PM
kool man,,thanks for the info on the valve covers. i dig them.  i cant wait to have my big block in my daily. your right, lots of people just have no clue these days.  killer truck man
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: jaredts on August 29, 2011, 05:39:30 AM
Great to see you into another project, Mike.  Love the new truck and the 454 out of the Jimmy is a thing of great beauty!
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: JohnnyCanuck on August 29, 2011, 08:58:52 AM
dang, that's a nice straight truck.
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: paniolo on August 30, 2011, 11:08:39 AM

This is scary looking...  I'll post a picture of the bearings for the front passenger side later, it looks even worse...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder032.jpg)


Today is cleaning day, going to start pressure washing and degreasing... ugh... this is the part that's never any fun.  It' hotter than heck outside today too...

:)

Thats ugly.  The only time I saw something that bad was on the rear of a semi floating rear axle where the tube was bent so that the seal didn't seal and gear lube built up.  How is it getting there on a full floater?
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on September 02, 2011, 05:51:01 PM
***Update***

Been a busy week, no time for anything but work... here's where I left off last Sunday...
 
This was lovely, this was the passenger's side front hub...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder033.jpg)
 
 
Close-up...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder034.jpg)
 
 
I pulled every axle, the front axles had sand and dirt on the shafts...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder035.jpg)
 
 
Here's how she's sitting right now...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder036.jpg)
 
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder037.jpg)
 
 
The plan now is to remove the differential covers and then flush the axle housing out with diesel and then use a pressure washer to force flush them... any other suggestions on how to get them clean would be appreciated...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder038.jpg)
 
 
The good news is I finally found a set of wide 8-lug, 16.5 slotted mags in good shape...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder039.jpg)
 
 
(http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/images/smilies/dancebanana1si.gif) (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/images/smilies/dancebanana1si.gif) (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/images/smilies/dancebanana1si.gif) (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/images/smilies/dancebanana1si.gif) (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/images/smilies/dancebanana1si.gif)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Engineer on September 04, 2011, 08:10:46 AM
I know that you probably don't want to go to the lengths that I did, but I tore my 1-ton axles all the way down, had them cooked in a caustic tank, then sandblasted them.

As bad as everything looks on your axles, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you pull the front differential, and replace the axle seals.

DANA makes a new seal for the D60 that rotates with the axle shaft. It doesn't wear on the axle shaft like the old style.

The part number for this new seal is: 52148.

I bought mine off of eBay.
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: tpull123 on September 04, 2011, 11:54:12 AM
Those are some pretty cool looking traction bars!!   I know you prob havent drove the truck enough give too much feed back on how they work, but did they bind under suspsension movement at all?
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on September 05, 2011, 06:43:44 AM
As bad as everything looks on your axles, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you pull the front differential, and replace the axle seals.

What's involved with re-assembling the differential?  I've disassembled and re-assembled a lot of components over the years but never a Dana 60 axle.  I'm actually leaning hard towards complete disassembly because there's sand inside the axle tubes.

How do you go about finding a [local] business that can dip the stripped front end in an acid bath?  What about just pressure washing the heck out of it using normal degreasers and things like Easy-Off oven cleaner?

:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on September 05, 2011, 06:50:40 AM
Those are some pretty cool looking traction bars!!   I know you prob haven't drove the truck enough give too much feed back on how they work, but did they bind under suspension movement at all?

I haven't driven the truck at all, I can't drive stick shifts safely.  I can drive them but it's not safe.  See below and note the chrome leg.

(http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/950/SanAntonioGTG008.jpg)

Remember, this is for the most part going to be a Pavement Pounder, not a Mud Bog Truck.  I may take it to a couple of Trucks Gone Wild events with my son though.  I understand the function of the traction bars but personally don't like the way traction bars look on big trucks.  They'll probably become something I install before going mudding and remove for driving on the street, have to wait and see.

:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Irish_Alley on September 05, 2011, 08:06:47 AM
lt. Phillips you got a magic leg ;D don’t mind me asking but how? my mom is a amputee also she lost hers when she was on the back of a lowboy unloading jersey barriers back in 97. the guy operating the crane wasn’t overtop the load and when he picked it up it swung at her knocked her down and started to drag over her body so the guy dropped it on her legs. they were all close like brother and sister. she lost her left leg above the knee and severely damaged the right knee. she can’t drive a stick either lol don’t know if she could before the accident but probably not. ::) this happened back in 97 i was just getting into 9th grade
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Irish_Alley on September 05, 2011, 08:08:42 AM
my buddy de-greases his cleaned it up and painted it a couple years ago to this day its still painted, it been mudding and highway
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on September 05, 2011, 10:11:07 AM

 Phillips you got a magic leg ;D don’t mind me asking but how?


My own boat ran over me in 1986...

This is me racing the 1/4 mile on Dexter Reservoir in Oregon around 1983 or 1984
(http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/715/Racingthequartermilem.jpg)

A few years later I added a tall scoop, think it was called an "Indy Champ" and had the high back seats custom made for the boat.

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/1boat.jpg)

I've owned four full convertible Blazers, here's a 1973 hooked up to the boat for a trip to the lake.

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/1973Blazer1970Sanger02.jpg)


:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: bake74 on September 06, 2011, 06:15:58 PM
     Engineer has a good point, the dana 44 I am rebuilding was full of mud and water when I tore into it, I ended up tearing it completely apart and put all new seals, bearings, etc.,etc. in.  I just didn't trust anything after seeing it full of mud and water.
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Irish_Alley on September 06, 2011, 06:33:44 PM
yeah its not like your going just to mud with it so replace what you can. not to offend you but this so reminds me of forest gump except you only lost one leg. just like with my mom could of been a lot worse glad to see it didnt hold you back
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: jaredts on September 06, 2011, 10:33:13 PM
You probably get sick of talking about it, but I find it inspirational that you get your hands dirty and do man's work and don't seem to let it slow you down.  I'd love to see more spots on tv.  Do you have anything coming up?
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: 74k20 on September 06, 2011, 11:03:54 PM
Feel a little let down, you not having some slots on that blazer.  But at least you had nice wheels on the boat trailer ;D  Looking forward to seeing the new truck progress.

MJ
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Engineer on September 07, 2011, 11:07:59 PM
As bad as everything looks on your axles, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you pull the front differential, and replace the axle seals.

What's involved with re-assembling the differential?  I've disassembled and re-assembled a lot of components over the years but never a Dana 60 axle.  I'm actually leaning hard towards complete disassembly because there's sand inside the axle tubes.

How do you go about finding a [local] business that can dip the stripped front end in an acid bath?  What about just pressure washing the heck out of it using normal degreasers and things like Easy-Off oven cleaner?

:)

Disassembly of the D60 front is real simple if all you are doing is changing the seals. While you are in there change the pinion seal too. Just mark the carrier bearing caps so they go back on like they came off. There shouldn't be any reason to change any shims or adjust the gear pattern if you just pull the diff out to replace the seals.

Pulling, and replacing the diff may take a little force because it sets in the housing under compression to preload the differential bearings. Also remember to keep the races with their respective bearing.

One other thing, do not use an impact wrench on the bolts, especially the pinion nut if you do decide to change the pinion seal. Use a breaker bar to loosen things, and a torque wrench to put it all back. Torque values can be found on pirate4x4.com.
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Engineer on September 07, 2011, 11:10:13 PM
Forgot to add, any engine machine shop that is equipped to do OTR diesel engine machine work should have a caustic tank big enough to hold a pickup truck axle housing.

Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: snibook7537 on September 07, 2011, 11:25:29 PM
Just curious is that truck a 3/4 ton or a one ton? I thought only one tons came with Dana 60's. Also not sure if you know or not but the front leaf springs were those a factory setup? I have an 87 V30 and it only has 3 leafs up front,my truck only has a 350 in it though so maybe yours had a higher GVW from the factory with the 454 or something? Sorry if that has been covered before but I couldn't find anything in the posts.

Thanks Vince
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Irish_Alley on September 08, 2011, 09:10:41 AM
looks like they are stock leafs. but i just saw the spacers they used for the front axle ubolt what the heck ::)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Engineer on September 08, 2011, 05:22:26 PM
Just curious is that truck a 3/4 ton or a one ton? I thought only one tons came with Dana 60's. Also not sure if you know or not but the front leaf springs were those a factory setup? I have an 87 V30 and it only has 3 leafs up front,my truck only has a 350 in it though so maybe yours had a higher GVW from the factory with the 454 or something? Sorry if that has been covered before but I couldn't find anything in the posts.

Thanks Vince


I can verify the front axle in the pics is most definately a Dana60. I can even tell from one of the pics that it is a later model housing from a 1983, or newer truck.
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on September 09, 2011, 05:27:54 PM
***Update***

Machine Shop at NAPA turned my drums and rotors and pressed in all the new races and whichever bearings could go in at this time.  The boys up front got all my parts in so I have everything I need to put the rearend back together.  After I get the rearend back together I'll tackle cleaning up the frontend.

I also took my new-to-me WIDE slotted Mags to my tire and wheel shop in Palm City and they cleaned the beads really well, applied bead seal and put new bolt-in valve stems, so they're ready to roll. 

Last night we buffed out a 2011 Camaro at work and I hired a local girl to come down and do some modeling with the car.  After we were all through she modeled my Mag Wheels just for fun...

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder040.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder041.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder042.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder043.jpg)

Have to go pull some car hoods out of the wrecking yard tomorrow and after that I'll start installing the rear brakes...

:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: zieg85 on September 09, 2011, 06:33:00 PM
I am looking for the "like" button to hit, oh I forgot that is only on Facebook....
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: jdl71 on September 09, 2011, 07:53:45 PM
I am looking for the "like" button to hit, oh I forgot that is only on Facebook....

I find myself doing that all the time!  ;D
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: 70fastback on September 10, 2011, 01:37:37 AM
I am looking for the "like" button to hit, oh I forgot that is only on Facebook....

I'm looking for the "In Love Button"...yeah, I've never heard of it either, but here's to wishing, LOL!!!!  :-*

And, if your tires weren't in the way, I could count how many buffers are on the shelf!!!    :o   J/K
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: slammed79 on September 10, 2011, 02:57:29 AM
Delicious
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: low budget on September 10, 2011, 10:39:28 PM
There are tires in the pics???
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: bladerunner on September 11, 2011, 07:36:46 AM
I didn't see any tires  ;D

Sweet project, what a beast!
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: beastie_3 on September 11, 2011, 12:24:11 PM
where are the camaro pics?????? (with her of course)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: 70fastback on September 12, 2011, 04:18:46 AM
where are the camaro pics?????? (with her of course)

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/sign-up-open-garage-classes/40438-autogeek-s-car-week-2011-camaro-modeled-amy-4.html

page 4
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on September 12, 2011, 05:03:52 PM
I had Sunday off so I worked on the rearend... cleaned up the ends of the axle housings and around the gear housing.  Cleaned, painted and covered till I can another day off to install the rear brakes.

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder044.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder045.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder046.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder047.jpg)


:)

Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: jaredts on September 13, 2011, 08:16:41 PM
I had Sunday off so I worked on the rearend... cleaned up the ends of the axle housings and around the gear housing.  Cleaned, painted and covered till I can another day off to install the rear brakes.

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder044.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder045.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder046.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder047.jpg)


:)



I guess I haven't seen a Dana 60 apart.  That spindle looks almost exactly like the tractor trailer spindles we forge at work, almost as big even.  That is heavy duty!
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Irish_Alley on September 13, 2011, 08:34:04 PM
14 bolt ;D
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on September 25, 2011, 03:44:55 PM
***Update***


Took a while to get all the parts together and needed a sunny weekend day to start putting the brakes back together.  Was able to get passenger side rear assembled before the rain started...

Think I have everything back in the right place...
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder048.JPG)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder049.JPG)



Started raining so I covered all 4 corners with plastic bags as everything is cleaned for re-assembly.
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/Project78PavementPounder050.JPG)

Waiting for a part to come in before I can assemble the front hubs and brakes, there's a thread about it here with pictures...

http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?topic=21770.0


:)

Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: big bear on September 25, 2011, 04:51:58 PM
outstanding man...great job
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on October 17, 2011, 09:35:06 PM
Just about have the rear brakes and axles re-assembled and this weekend I'll be re-assembling the front brakes and axles.  I had NAPA turn the rotors and install all bearings and races.  I had a couple of friends modeling a Corvette a few weeks ago and while they were there I had them model my Dana 60 rotors...

This is likely the best my brake rotors will ever look...

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/FrontRotors01.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/FrontRotors02.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/FrontRotors03.jpg)

:)


Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: bake74 on October 17, 2011, 11:48:02 PM
     Ok mike, you get to spend too much time taking pic's of women with your truck parts.   8)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on October 18, 2011, 10:06:39 AM
     Ok mike, you get to spend too much time taking pic's of women with your truck parts.   8)

Yeah I know... it's just a coincidence that I have truck parts at our studio while the girls are here to model the feature cars so I figure... what the heck...

I have a 1954 Ford F-100 coming in Thursday for a show car makeover and the girls will be back and I have some more truck parts to pick up on Wednesday... apologies ahead of time...

(http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1290/54Ford04.jpg)

(http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/images/smilies/biggrin.gif)

Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: beastie_3 on October 18, 2011, 02:15:49 PM
i dont see any brake rotors...
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Irish_Alley on October 18, 2011, 07:55:16 PM
i don’t know why but i cant help but crack a smile at some of the poses of models. like when in like will a lady be that dang interested in a dirty old truck part lol
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on October 18, 2011, 08:38:59 PM
Quote from: Irish_Alley
i don’t know why but i cant help but crack a smile at some of the poses of models. like when will a lady be that dang interested in a dirty old truck part lol

Neither Janna, (in black), nor Amy, (in white), care one whit about building cars or trucks.  But the do like when they're all finished and shiny!

I work on a lot of cool cars and in my life I've only used girls in my after shots a few times.  Recently I just thought I would have a little fun being single and all...

Soon as I get the new girlfriend all my fun will likely come crashing to a halt...

I've asked Janna to come model the 54 Ford this Thursday, haven't heard from her yet but on Sunday she said she would.  This is Janna posing in a 1977 Can Am Vette...
(http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/1261/CanAmCorvette099.jpg)

Here's Amy with a 1970 1/2 Camaro
(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/1970Camaro080.jpg)

It's a tough job... but someone has to do it...

:)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Irish_Alley on October 18, 2011, 11:53:11 PM
i think the last one is trying to steal the stereo  8)
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Mike Phillips on October 22, 2011, 03:58:31 PM
I've stalled out on getting the rebuild kit for the Kingpins and a single snap ring for one of the rear axles but the good news is I've cleaned up both the front and rear axles, coated them with Corrosion Block and installed new U-Joints so they're ready to install as soon as I get the parts I'm waiting on and then I can start in on removing the engine, transmission and transfercase.

Here's my friend Janna modeling my front axles, note how clean and shiny the steel is plus I sprayed some Corrosion Block onto them to prevent any surface rust while I'm waiting to install them.

Here's the rear axles...

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles27.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles15.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles24.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles16.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles05.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles06.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles08.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles09.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles10.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles11.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles12.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles13.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles25.jpg)



Here's the front axles...

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles18.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles19.jpg)

(http://www.showcargarage.com/gallery/files/1/JannaAxles02.jpg)


I love working on my truck...


:)


Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: zieg85 on October 22, 2011, 06:07:00 PM
Chris.... you gotta get a like button, even if it don't do anything....
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Captkaos on October 26, 2011, 03:02:22 PM
There is a like button for the whole thread that does do something at the top of the page.  It links to your facebook page with the forum link.  Did you associate your facebook account to the login.
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: y5mgisi on April 26, 2013, 07:26:29 PM
Anyone know if this ever got finished?
Title: Re: 1978 Chevy 3/4 Ton 4x4 Project Pavement Pounder
Post by: Irish_Alley on April 26, 2013, 08:46:41 PM
Think hes still working on it. look
http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php/topic,24437.msg204093.html#msg204093 for his youtube page
and http://forum.73-87chevytrucks.com/smforum/index.php?action=profile;u=431;area=showposts;start=0 to check out his other post