Slow Build 73 CJ5

Got my valve covers in from American Parts Depot installed the passenger side today. Also finished removing my manifolds, the bolt had trouble with, I cut the head off with my angle grinder then used a flat bar to pry, pull, push, cuss, and finally got the manifold off. Then it was just a matter of using vice grips to unscrew the headless bolt. Also got my new radiator in thought I would show you guys a picture of it.

 

Forgot to ask can the studs be removed from the end of my manifolds where the exhaust pipes attach?

 

Yes I do beleive so. I know on my 304 manifolds they can. Actually have a bolt instead of a stud on the passenger side which was there when I got the jeep.

 

Got my leaky freeze plug changed today. Really easy task. Also picked up the Herculiner for my fiberglass tub, and some sand for blasting my manifolds tomorrow. Been raining here so not able to do much. I hope to have manifolds ready to reinstall this week sometime.
Here are a few photos.

 

Got my exhaust manifolds sand blasted. Little rough start getting blaster going. But man it made the job go by fast. Painted them today with VHT rattle can paint. Going to install tomorrow if possible.

Before:

After:



I also have a stock set of valve covers if someone needs them - AMC 304 only prob is previous owner overtightend the bolts and split the flanges. Here are some photos...

 

Manifolds all installed this afternoon.....
Man they look good!!!!!!


I did end up using gaskets behind them. After I installed them I realized gaskets are not necessarily needed, if they leak I will just have to remove again I guess. But for now, WOW look nice.

 

Looking good!

 

Looks great!

 

Thanks Guys! Hoping to get tub herculined this week sometime.

 

Instead of Herculining I decided to jump the gun and work on installing my hanging pedals and brake master cylinder. I have attached some photos. I would have thought that the job would take 2 hours or so but, man it took awhile to line things up and get all bolt holes and master cylinder holes cut in the firewall.


Here is a picture of my new(used) master cylinder purchased from fellow earlycj5 member....


Now I need some help here if anyone is reading....
Where my steering column comes through the firewall, I know there is a bracket that mounts on top and I saved it......


However, I cannot find in any of my tons of old parts the section that connected the bracket to steering column. Does any one have a picture of one? One I can purchase? or where one can be purchased?

 

I will have a pic for you, I just need to get home first.
will post when I get there.

 

I found an older one on ebay last night for $8. I was going to purchase but after looking it over it seems I could fab something from a strip of thin steel or aluminum or even use a 2 hole pipe strap. I know the pipe strap would be rather "ghetto", however seeing as it is under the column and tucked away. It might just work.

 

Here you go.
Sorry for the delay, I hope it helps.

 

Looks just about right Okkie, except yours is on wrong side of tub. Ha Ha !! Thanks!! I think I can just fab a clamp out of some stainless or aluminum.