Off season projects

[keithb7]

This winter I took-in a weary stray. Non-Mopar. Its been fun digging around in more modern, yet still simple technology. It’s a 1970 307 Chevy.
 

I kinda wish it was my car sometimes. I’d find, tear down and rebuild a hopped-up SBC 350 and put in it. Then burn up all the spare tires layin’ around here. Make them tires earn their environmental fee. 
 

Officer: “What do you think you’re doing out here, laying all that rubber?”

 

Me- “Asphalt crack sealing sir. Maybe a little weed control as well if I side off.”

 

Officer (hopefully) “This thing got a big block? Here”s a blank citation so if anybody sees this, it looks like I’m giving you a ticket. Now respectfully drive outta here. Thank-you for your civic service.” ?

Edited January 25, 2024 by keithb7

[oldodge41]

My-off season project wrapped up yesterday. 

The plan:

      1. Remove the three in the tree shift setup

      2. Fabricate and install a 3 speed floor shifter.

The process:

      1. Removed the front floor section and disconnected the linkage from the transmission

      2. Scoured the internet for 3 speed floor shift ideas

      3. Hatched a plan, in my head, for how I would do it. Spent hours deciding. Came up with a workable plan.

      4. Removed the column mounted shifter and linkage.

Whoa!!!!! This is the point where the plan changed drastically. After several days of staring at the now naked steering column, I just couldn't do it. I would start taking measurements and look up at that steering column, stop what I was doing, and ponder it overnight.  It didn't look or feel right. It needed that shifter to somehow complete the look and feel of this car. So, I made a new bushing for the shifter shaft, lubed and adjusted everything, reinstalled all the parts I had removed, adjusted the linkage, put the floor back together, and sat behind the wheel and smiled. All is right with my machine again. 

      For 33 years I have said "I wish I had a floor shift". Careful what you wish for.  I am glad I changed my mind. That three in the tree is as much a part of this car as the flat head engine.

      I remember I had read a post somewhere that said something to the affect of "If it ain't on the floor, throw it out the door".  And I agreed wholeheartedly, until the other day. Now I say "If it's a good three in the tree, let it be".

      Long post to say a little, I know. But, it speaks to the emotional attachment I have with this old car. It's not fast, loud, flashy or worth a lot of money. It is odd, quirky, and different. In other words, perfect for me!