Son #3 wanted a ute so we decieded to build / restore one, at least this way we know what’s in it.
He picked up an old HQ for the project. Cost $240
He then found a HT for $60. He then wanted to restore this instead of the HQ. However the sub frame in this was totally rusted, way beyond our ability to repair.
It had a 186 motor and with a bit of creative wiring we soon had it running. Compression test showed a maximum variation of 5 psi between all 6 cylinders and averaged at 158 psi. So we decided that this was to be the power plant.
We then scored this ute for $380. The drivers side looked as it had won last place in a demolition derby hence this was our parts car for the project – wheels were earmarked first.
The first job was to re gasket the motor and give it a new coat of paint.
Front end was painted and all rubbers replaced, brake pads and hoses replaced, new ball joints also fitted to the steering.
We then invented our ACME hoist. The underneath of the car was cleaned and repainted. Rear brakes refurbished and a new set of shocks fitted.
Cars back on the ground and motor fitted.
Tray cleaned up, undercoated and then hammer coated. In hindsight I should have done this after the car was painted, an extra coat of hammer coat was applied later as the paint was stained when we sanded the rest of he car.
The next job was the electric circuit – all that worked was one front headlight.
The main faults in most circuits were bad earths and connections. Replacing the fuse panel fixed 95% of the electrical faults.
The car was then painted, all panels were painted separately. Doors were reattached outside as the shed is not wide enough.
Nose cone fitted. This allowed us to fit the radiator and then start and test the motor.
Transmission and diff stress test 100% successful..
The trim coulour was changed to black. Dash, visors, door trim and headliner were all sprayed with black Vinyl spray. Here we were working out the sound system. We built a box to hold two speakers which was then mounted across the tunnel against the fire wall. Amp was mounted on the back wall and sub behind passenger’s seat.
The inside is completed with a home made gauge / ash tray holder.
Final polish, tonneau fitted and off for a blue slip and some plates.
The completed job. Total time 12 months and total cost was less than 3.5K including rego.