Posted by Jeff Barnett on December 10, 1999 at 15:27:57:
It gives me great pleasure to address you as "Fellow" Power Wagon Enthusiasts.
You see, my wife gave me an early Christmas gift yesterday, a 1957 Power Wagon. Although I have spoken to the seller in the past, the rust situation was much worse than I was prepared for.
Before I begin with questions allow me to set the stage by sharing my expectations and goals for my truck. The objective is not a 100% original restoration, but rather a restoration to the point of a new paint job and making it my daily driver.
I have two concerns right now.
1) Rust; how do I know if I should scrap the cab and buy another one or repair what's there. I have no experience with steelwork and am not sure of what is possible with it.
Problem: Cab mounts rotted, cab side hinge area rotted, around windshield (Not sure how bad yet) and floor boards.
2) Repower in the future; What are my options on engine and drivelines. What can be made to fit in terms of engine size, tranny, transfer case and diff gears.
So, that's where I'm at. My immediate objective is to take care of as much rust as possible without pulling off the cab right now, bodywork, inspection and drive. In a year or less I may begin to focus on frame up resto.
All comments and input will be appreciated greatly,
Jeff
53 M37
57 Power Wagon