Weekend Update
F1: The first F1 race of the season was this weekend. Hamilton finished first, no surprise there. Of the 22 cars, only 6 finished. Kimi was 9th, Masa DNF. Still pulling for Ferrari. G is dedicated to McLaren. Rubens(Honda) will probably be black-flagged for leaving the pits under a red light putting Kimi back into the points.
Diet: Lost another lb and a half this week. Having achieved my initial goal, I have not yet determined where I am heading now.
GMC: Disassembled the rear diff preparing for some sandblasting.
Melting: No progress.
Other: Attended auction.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
'72 GMC Update
Today I finally disassembled the differential I brought home from the junk yard on the 4th of July. The plan is to begin blasting it next weekend. I didn't take a pre-disassembly shot but here are a few post shots including another diff chunk in a bucket. The gear ratio on this one is 3.73. The other was a 3.07 if my memory serves me correctly. Both are in good shape. I will probably use the 3.07 as it will provide better gas mileage.
Today I finally disassembled the differential I brought home from the junk yard on the 4th of July. The plan is to begin blasting it next weekend. I didn't take a pre-disassembly shot but here are a few post shots including another diff chunk in a bucket. The gear ratio on this one is 3.73. The other was a 3.07 if my memory serves me correctly. Both are in good shape. I will probably use the 3.07 as it will provide better gas mileage.
Kruse Auction In Huntsville
I attended a classic car auction this weekend. I had never been to one before and it was quite enjoyable. The I only lasted about 5 hours. I suspect the entire event was 10 or more hours. During my time there, the lowest price was $2100 and the highest price was $110,000. Quite a few muscles cars sold in the 60 to 70 k price range.
This '57 convertible went for $110k.
At one point one of the bidders assistants was messing with me. I had accidentally made eye contact with him and he offered to place a $57,000 bid on a '62 convertible Corvette for me. *** Shakes head side to side and looks at this feet. *** The car eventually sold for $67k. I did not buy it.
If possible, I will try to attend this again next year.
I attended a classic car auction this weekend. I had never been to one before and it was quite enjoyable. The I only lasted about 5 hours. I suspect the entire event was 10 or more hours. During my time there, the lowest price was $2100 and the highest price was $110,000. Quite a few muscles cars sold in the 60 to 70 k price range.
This '57 convertible went for $110k.
At one point one of the bidders assistants was messing with me. I had accidentally made eye contact with him and he offered to place a $57,000 bid on a '62 convertible Corvette for me. *** Shakes head side to side and looks at this feet. *** The car eventually sold for $67k. I did not buy it.
If possible, I will try to attend this again next year.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Monday, March 10, 2008
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Flask and First Cast
This first image is of one of the two flasks I made yesterday. The top section is called a cope, the bottom section a drag.
This image shows the cope seperated from the drag. The keying is used to re-align the two sections after removing the pattern from the flask.
The larger flask is 12" x 8". The smaller is 8" x 6" if memory serves me. They are both made from MDF. I sprayed the inside with a clear coat of paint before using. After the first cast, there was no evidence of the clear coat left. I suppose I was skip the clear coat in the future.
The saw horse along with the board leaning on it act as a wind screen. The foundry is located in the center, a metal pail to the right acts as a receptical fro dross. The pail contains a stainless steel spoon used for removing the dross from the crucible. To the far left is the coal bin, not currently in flame. The air hose feeds oxygen to the fire. It is typically set at about 20 to 25 PSI.
This first image is of one of the two flasks I made yesterday. The top section is called a cope, the bottom section a drag.
This image shows the cope seperated from the drag. The keying is used to re-align the two sections after removing the pattern from the flask.
The larger flask is 12" x 8". The smaller is 8" x 6" if memory serves me. They are both made from MDF. I sprayed the inside with a clear coat of paint before using. After the first cast, there was no evidence of the clear coat left. I suppose I was skip the clear coat in the future.
The saw horse along with the board leaning on it act as a wind screen. The foundry is located in the center, a metal pail to the right acts as a receptical fro dross. The pail contains a stainless steel spoon used for removing the dross from the crucible. To the far left is the coal bin, not currently in flame. The air hose feeds oxygen to the fire. It is typically set at about 20 to 25 PSI.
First Cast (Part III)
Pouring the shell.
The leftover metal is poured into a small bread pan to form an ingot.
Cooling off.
Here the patterns have been placed back into the forms. This was probably not necessary but at the time it seemed like a good idea. The first casts have been removed and are cooling just to the top of the image. The sand is discolored around the pattern due to the heat from the hot aluminum. The sand becomes quite hard after the initial pour.
Pouring the shell.
The leftover metal is poured into a small bread pan to form an ingot.
Cooling off.
Here the patterns have been placed back into the forms. This was probably not necessary but at the time it seemed like a good idea. The first casts have been removed and are cooling just to the top of the image. The sand is discolored around the pattern due to the heat from the hot aluminum. The sand becomes quite hard after the initial pour.
First Cast (Part IV)
Here are a set of castings cooling on the molds.
We (Danny and I, supervised by Brian) made a total of 4 sets of castings. The first Sol was melted down and re-cast due to inferior quality. The image had a void probably caused when I paused during the pour and then added additional metal.
Here is a shell. The shells were not quite as nice as the Suns, but they are still excellent examples of our first casting.
We also poured four ingots, one of which was remelted and used on a subsequent cast.
Look for my adventures creating the green sand, a.k.a casting sand, in a future post. The mold was used four times today before putting the sand back into its storage bin. I have read that the sand can be reused for a lifetime.
Here are a set of castings cooling on the molds.
We (Danny and I, supervised by Brian) made a total of 4 sets of castings. The first Sol was melted down and re-cast due to inferior quality. The image had a void probably caused when I paused during the pour and then added additional metal.
Here is a shell. The shells were not quite as nice as the Suns, but they are still excellent examples of our first casting.
We also poured four ingots, one of which was remelted and used on a subsequent cast.Look for my adventures creating the green sand, a.k.a casting sand, in a future post. The mold was used four times today before putting the sand back into its storage bin. I have read that the sand can be reused for a lifetime.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Today I made a couple of flasks for metal casting. A flask consists of a cope and a drag. Pictures tomorrow.
At first I thought I was making four flasks, and then five. Somewhere along the way I miscounted the parts and ended up with 2 and a half. A half a flask doesn't count, so the final count was two. Another prime example of poor planning. Seriously though, when I was cutting parts, I overlooked that the flask had an upper and lower assembly. I only counted and cut parts for the lower assembly. Duh! That is what I get for drawing up the plans on a piece of wood and then cutting up the plans.
At first I thought I was making four flasks, and then five. Somewhere along the way I miscounted the parts and ended up with 2 and a half. A half a flask doesn't count, so the final count was two. Another prime example of poor planning. Seriously though, when I was cutting parts, I overlooked that the flask had an upper and lower assembly. I only counted and cut parts for the lower assembly. Duh! That is what I get for drawing up the plans on a piece of wood and then cutting up the plans.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Welding Class
Tonight in my welding class I made a crucible. The picture below contains the crucible, my aluminium ingot, and a quarter (for scale). The crucible should easily handle six pounds of liquid aluminum. At least I think so.
After I finished creating this masterpiece, I set it on the bench and declared it to be a work of art. Or perhaps a tip jar. Folks really appreciate good art.
You can't hide money.
Tonight in my welding class I made a crucible. The picture below contains the crucible, my aluminium ingot, and a quarter (for scale). The crucible should easily handle six pounds of liquid aluminum. At least I think so.
After I finished creating this masterpiece, I set it on the bench and declared it to be a work of art. Or perhaps a tip jar. Folks really appreciate good art.
You can't hide money.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Metal Melt
I have been obsessing about metal casting for quite a while now. The effort to date has been mostly academic, books and blogs. Most recently I have been researching iron casting.
I think the time has come to melt some metal. For the first try, I am going to go with a low cost, low effort foundry. A coffee can foundry.
I already happen to have a pair metal coffee cans in the garage. A trip to Wal-Mart will provide me with some charcoal, a stainless steel crucible (aka 'camping' coffee cup), and a stainless steel utensil for removing the dross.
I just happen to have some extruded aluminium to melt. A bucket of sand will be used for forming the first ingot. Nothing fancy.
The only issue not yet resolved is the air source. And tongs. Currently I am considering either using an air compressor or a shop vac as the air source.
Any effort toward the goal will be considered a success. Stay tuned.
I have been obsessing about metal casting for quite a while now. The effort to date has been mostly academic, books and blogs. Most recently I have been researching iron casting.
I think the time has come to melt some metal. For the first try, I am going to go with a low cost, low effort foundry. A coffee can foundry.
I already happen to have a pair metal coffee cans in the garage. A trip to Wal-Mart will provide me with some charcoal, a stainless steel crucible (aka 'camping' coffee cup), and a stainless steel utensil for removing the dross.
I just happen to have some extruded aluminium to melt. A bucket of sand will be used for forming the first ingot. Nothing fancy.
The only issue not yet resolved is the air source. And tongs. Currently I am considering either using an air compressor or a shop vac as the air source.
Any effort toward the goal will be considered a success. Stay tuned.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
I was just looking back at last weeks post and realized my diet progress this week [0.4 lbs] was practially nonexistent. That is OK though. I did enjoy two pieces of my birthday cookie cake and two delicious meals from Rosies. And a couple of 'thin mint' Girl Scout cookies. And one of the lemon cookies. What a great week it was!
This afternoon I went outside with the intention of doing something useful such as taking apart a differential or cleaning up the garage. The sky was clear and the sun was bright, but it was just too dang cool to be comfortable. After cranking the 1925 Chevrolet and letting it idle for a few minutes I decided to make the Miata out for a scouting expedition to located a steel supply business. I figured with a heater assist to my fleece jacket, the Miata would be plenty snug with the top down. I left the regular neighborhood and made a beeline for a gas pump. While waiting on the tank to fill up I went ahead and put the top up. Out of now where, clouds had appeared and it was sprinkling. Ce' la vie.
While out on my Sunday afternoon drive, I happened across a 1965 Beetle, for sale. The interior of this car was in really good shape. Rare for such an old car. This little car desperately wanted to follow me home, but alas, I have no place to park it. Maybe next time.
While out, I also did a recon mission to locate Danny's secret hide-away. Mission accomplished however Danny's super hero senses must have alerted him to my pending arrival for he had already escaped and moved on to his alternate secret lair.
For those wondering about truck progress, I got absolutely nothing done this weekend. I also did not do any homework. What did I do?
The new laptop is behaving quite nicely. I hope it lasts as long as the last one did. (7 years?)
[3 lbs to go]
While out on my Sunday afternoon drive, I happened across a 1965 Beetle, for sale. The interior of this car was in really good shape. Rare for such an old car. This little car desperately wanted to follow me home, but alas, I have no place to park it. Maybe next time.
While out, I also did a recon mission to locate Danny's secret hide-away. Mission accomplished however Danny's super hero senses must have alerted him to my pending arrival for he had already escaped and moved on to his alternate secret lair.
For those wondering about truck progress, I got absolutely nothing done this weekend. I also did not do any homework. What did I do?
The new laptop is behaving quite nicely. I hope it lasts as long as the last one did. (7 years?)
[3 lbs to go]
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
The new laptop arrived yesterday. After a couple of minutes I had it patched into the wireless network. Then it had to sit quietly in the corner while I wandered off to practice welding. Bzzzzz.
It occurred to me after my last post, that I had forgotten to mention one thing. As usual I have managed to remember and forget that topic several times since then.
SciFi is playing re-runs of Firefly!
It occurred to me after my last post, that I had forgotten to mention one thing. As usual I have managed to remember and forget that topic several times since then.
SciFi is playing re-runs of Firefly!
Monday, February 18, 2008
39
Another nice weekend is coming to a close. The kids were out of school today and G and I were both off work. I had a pleasant birthday dinner with my family at Rosie's. I had lunch with a friend who I hadn't seen in a while and I spent the morning working on the truck. (Removing another 16 rivets)
Saturday I helped a neighbor build some cabinets for his garage. We took an early morning trip to home depot and then spent most of the day cutting and gluing boards in my garage. The cabinets turned out nicely.
This may possibly be the last blog post from this laptop. The keyboard and mouse pad have beening acting up for a while. Now the harddrive is making the kind of noise that says "you better back this thing up soon. I see the light at the end of the tunnel and I am heading for it!". A replacement has been ordered and is on the way. Hopefully it will arrive before this one says goodbye.
21.6 down, [3.4 to go]
Another nice weekend is coming to a close. The kids were out of school today and G and I were both off work. I had a pleasant birthday dinner with my family at Rosie's. I had lunch with a friend who I hadn't seen in a while and I spent the morning working on the truck. (Removing another 16 rivets)
Saturday I helped a neighbor build some cabinets for his garage. We took an early morning trip to home depot and then spent most of the day cutting and gluing boards in my garage. The cabinets turned out nicely.
This may possibly be the last blog post from this laptop. The keyboard and mouse pad have beening acting up for a while. Now the harddrive is making the kind of noise that says "you better back this thing up soon. I see the light at the end of the tunnel and I am heading for it!". A replacement has been ordered and is on the way. Hopefully it will arrive before this one says goodbye.
21.6 down, [3.4 to go]
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Last night in my welding class I decided to tackle MIG welding. I have not mastered stick welding nor am I anywhere close, but I did get the basic hang of it. My primary goal for learning to weld was for autobody work. Mig provides better control and is less likely to blow a hole in the thin sheet metal. For this reason I decided to abandon stick welding and move on to mig.
My first bead with the MIG turned out very nice. I attribute it to my 'ah-ha' moment from last week with the stick welding.
The first peer to drop by and check my progress was impressed. I proceeded to tell him everything I knew (very little) about MIG welding. I started with how to adjust the equipment: wirespeed, voltage, gas pressure. Next I explained the basic process showing how to position the wire, trim to length, etc. Finally I demo'ed my technique and then encouraged them to try it as well. Before the night was over, I had give my little speil several times and every one who tried it out was very successful. You may recall, this is not my first time to teach others to mig weld. Last time it was a bunch of 5th graders. It is true what they say, "Those who can do, those who can't teach." Hopefully I will soon be one of the ones who can and still be one of the ones who teach.
I left feeling very good, not only about my progress, but about helping other folks learn to weld. The teacher was busy most of the night helping another student with a project so he never got around to teaching me how to MIG weld. That is ok because I did some reading ahead of time just in case. The reading paid off.
If only I hadn't burnt my thumb through a hole in my glove where the seam came loose. Man that hurt. I had a blister on it this morning.
Diet Progress: 19 lbs down .
[4.8 lbs to go]
My first bead with the MIG turned out very nice. I attribute it to my 'ah-ha' moment from last week with the stick welding.
The first peer to drop by and check my progress was impressed. I proceeded to tell him everything I knew (very little) about MIG welding. I started with how to adjust the equipment: wirespeed, voltage, gas pressure. Next I explained the basic process showing how to position the wire, trim to length, etc. Finally I demo'ed my technique and then encouraged them to try it as well. Before the night was over, I had give my little speil several times and every one who tried it out was very successful. You may recall, this is not my first time to teach others to mig weld. Last time it was a bunch of 5th graders. It is true what they say, "Those who can do, those who can't teach." Hopefully I will soon be one of the ones who can and still be one of the ones who teach.
I left feeling very good, not only about my progress, but about helping other folks learn to weld. The teacher was busy most of the night helping another student with a project so he never got around to teaching me how to MIG weld. That is ok because I did some reading ahead of time just in case. The reading paid off.
If only I hadn't burnt my thumb through a hole in my glove where the seam came loose. Man that hurt. I had a blister on it this morning.
Diet Progress: 19 lbs down .
[4.8 lbs to go]
Sunday, February 10, 2008
"The Earth, she's flat like your head!"
It must be flat for I seemed to have fallen off the edge. Not much to note this week.
In welding class on Tuesday I had an 'ah-ha' moment. I still need more practice though. I may switch from stick welding to mig welding this week as that is really the type of welding I intend to do.
Not much done in the garage this weekend. While it was warmer (per the thermometer) this weekend, it was colder outside (due to the wind).
I helped my neighbor take some pictures of his 1972 Chevrolet C-10. I think I ended up taking about 140 pictures. He is listing it on ebay tonight. (I did get to drive it up and down the street today. Sweet!)
[7.4 lbs to go]
It must be flat for I seemed to have fallen off the edge. Not much to note this week.
In welding class on Tuesday I had an 'ah-ha' moment. I still need more practice though. I may switch from stick welding to mig welding this week as that is really the type of welding I intend to do.
Not much done in the garage this weekend. While it was warmer (per the thermometer) this weekend, it was colder outside (due to the wind).
I helped my neighbor take some pictures of his 1972 Chevrolet C-10. I think I ended up taking about 140 pictures. He is listing it on ebay tonight. (I did get to drive it up and down the street today. Sweet!)
[7.4 lbs to go]
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Weekend Update
I got the taxes out of the way this weekend. One less thang.
Yesterday I finished up removing all the suspension leaf spring brackets on the GMC. I have made pretty good progess in the last couple of weeks considering it is winter. I suppose the next step is to drill holes for the related coil spring brackets and then touch up the frame paint. Either that or clean up, blast, and paint the rear differential. So many choices.
Today I made a trip up to Nashville to attend a parts swap. The swap was much bigger than I expected. I went looking for a GMC tailgate, or a GMC core support. Both of these items must be off a GMC pickup. Most parts are interchangeable with a 1967 - 1972 Chevrolet, these are not.
I found and purchased a GMC radiator core support. It is in very good shape. By its appearance, the donor truck spent most of its life in a garage or under a car port. The original paint is in excellent shape, considering the piece is 35 or 40 years old. The common problem with this part is the lower portion at one end is usually deteriorated due to acid from the battery being mounted directly above it. This one had the common problem, though someone had patched it. They did a fairly good job. At first I could not even tell the patch was there. Nice job.
The bargaining process went really well. Here is how it played out. I walked up, gave it a quick glance and asked the gentleman "how much for the core support?" His reply was "$50". I then picked it up and gave it a close inspection. While I inspected the core support, he dropped his price to $40. While I closely inspected the patch on the core support, he dropped his price to $30. He had done such an excellent job bargining the price down for me, I didn't even bother to counter offer. Personally, I think he just didn't want to have to carry it back to his truck. Instead, Brian (neighbor) and I carried it about a quarter mile back to our transportation. Well bought.
I also purchased a 1972 Alabama license plate. Perhaps someday this will be registered to the GMC. Brian also purchased an old Alabama license plate, his a 1966 for his Mustange.
My antique truck got posted on Stovebolt in the gallery. See it here.
This weeks welding class went well. I got a little experience arc welding. Arc welding is very frustrating at first, though I will say two+ hours of welding went by very quickly. This is definitely a learned skill and I haven't learned it yet.
[ 9.6 lbs to go]
I got the taxes out of the way this weekend. One less thang.
Yesterday I finished up removing all the suspension leaf spring brackets on the GMC. I have made pretty good progess in the last couple of weeks considering it is winter. I suppose the next step is to drill holes for the related coil spring brackets and then touch up the frame paint. Either that or clean up, blast, and paint the rear differential. So many choices.
Today I made a trip up to Nashville to attend a parts swap. The swap was much bigger than I expected. I went looking for a GMC tailgate, or a GMC core support. Both of these items must be off a GMC pickup. Most parts are interchangeable with a 1967 - 1972 Chevrolet, these are not.
I found and purchased a GMC radiator core support. It is in very good shape. By its appearance, the donor truck spent most of its life in a garage or under a car port. The original paint is in excellent shape, considering the piece is 35 or 40 years old. The common problem with this part is the lower portion at one end is usually deteriorated due to acid from the battery being mounted directly above it. This one had the common problem, though someone had patched it. They did a fairly good job. At first I could not even tell the patch was there. Nice job.
The bargaining process went really well. Here is how it played out. I walked up, gave it a quick glance and asked the gentleman "how much for the core support?" His reply was "$50". I then picked it up and gave it a close inspection. While I inspected the core support, he dropped his price to $40. While I closely inspected the patch on the core support, he dropped his price to $30. He had done such an excellent job bargining the price down for me, I didn't even bother to counter offer. Personally, I think he just didn't want to have to carry it back to his truck. Instead, Brian (neighbor) and I carried it about a quarter mile back to our transportation. Well bought.
I also purchased a 1972 Alabama license plate. Perhaps someday this will be registered to the GMC. Brian also purchased an old Alabama license plate, his a 1966 for his Mustange.
My antique truck got posted on Stovebolt in the gallery. See it here.
This weeks welding class went well. I got a little experience arc welding. Arc welding is very frustrating at first, though I will say two+ hours of welding went by very quickly. This is definitely a learned skill and I haven't learned it yet.
[ 9.6 lbs to go]
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Twas Another Glorious Weekend
I am certain I had a great weekend but I can't recall what I did. Friday evening was so long ago.
I do recall grinding the buttons off of 20 rivets on Saturday. This was of course part of the effort involved in replacing the leaf springs with coil springs. So far so good.
The diet is going well. And Saturday night is any-thing-goes night. Rosie's for dinner. Mmmm
Today was a trip to Harbor Freight to pick up a low-cost 3/8" corded reversible drill ($9.99). Next was drilling out 20 rivets to remove 6 brackets.
And finally a long ride in the Miata with the top down to enjoy the mid-40 degree weather we had today. The trip involved a nice 30 minute ride to TN, grabbing a hot cup of coffee, and then the return trip.
Friday night, as I now recall, involved me taking an online test for the ED class I am taking. No wonder I was blocking on Friday evening.
Next Saturday is tax time. Yippee.
[10.6 lbs to go]
I am certain I had a great weekend but I can't recall what I did. Friday evening was so long ago.
I do recall grinding the buttons off of 20 rivets on Saturday. This was of course part of the effort involved in replacing the leaf springs with coil springs. So far so good.
The diet is going well. And Saturday night is any-thing-goes night. Rosie's for dinner. Mmmm
Today was a trip to Harbor Freight to pick up a low-cost 3/8" corded reversible drill ($9.99). Next was drilling out 20 rivets to remove 6 brackets.
And finally a long ride in the Miata with the top down to enjoy the mid-40 degree weather we had today. The trip involved a nice 30 minute ride to TN, grabbing a hot cup of coffee, and then the return trip.
Friday night, as I now recall, involved me taking an online test for the ED class I am taking. No wonder I was blocking on Friday evening.
Next Saturday is tax time. Yippee.
[10.6 lbs to go]
Monday, January 21, 2008
91%
Late Sunday afternoon, the ebay auction ended. The truck was 91% sold, which equates to not at all. I will try again in the spring.
This afternoon I helped my neighbor retrieve another motorcycle he had bought. This allowed me the pleasant opportunity to look at the sellers collection of automobiles. He had a Pantera, Sumbeam Tiger, 1965 Mini Cooper, 1968 GTO, a nice old Packard, and a Studebaker Avanti. There were a couple others but I can't recall what they were. An eclectic mix for sure.
Welding class is tomorrow night.
Late Sunday afternoon, the ebay auction ended. The truck was 91% sold, which equates to not at all. I will try again in the spring.
This afternoon I helped my neighbor retrieve another motorcycle he had bought. This allowed me the pleasant opportunity to look at the sellers collection of automobiles. He had a Pantera, Sumbeam Tiger, 1965 Mini Cooper, 1968 GTO, a nice old Packard, and a Studebaker Avanti. There were a couple others but I can't recall what they were. An eclectic mix for sure.
Welding class is tomorrow night.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Rapidly Progressing Towards Various Stages of Completion
Realizing that somethings can't be partially done, like a girl can't be a little bit pregnant, I am here to report that the truck on ebay is now 35% sold. But only 35%. It doesn't count until you reach 100%.
Diet progress: After 8 days, I have lost 7.2 pounds. So far so good, but I expect the progress to slow down soon. If it was always that easy, we would all already be skinny.
[16.8 lbs to go]
Realizing that somethings can't be partially done, like a girl can't be a little bit pregnant, I am here to report that the truck on ebay is now 35% sold. But only 35%. It doesn't count until you reach 100%.
Diet progress: After 8 days, I have lost 7.2 pounds. So far so good, but I expect the progress to slow down soon. If it was always that easy, we would all already be skinny.
[16.8 lbs to go]
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Going, Going, ...
Last week I placed an advertisement in the paper in an attempt to sell the 1925 Chevrolet Truck. The ad also appears online.
Today I put the truck on ebay. I have my fingers crossed.
G' worked this weekend so I didn't get a chance to go out for an afternoon cruise. It might have bit a bit chilly with the top down though. (I also didn't get to go scope out theChevettes Corvettes that are on the market, you know, for research purposes.)
The Barrett-Jackson auction begins Tuesday on Speed. I have the Tivo setup to record the whole thing, 35 hours I think. This will be much easier this year thanks to the writer's strike, without which we might actually have something recorded right now.
Regarding the blasted diet, I lost a little over 5 pounds this week. My goal for next week is another 3. My diet is one of high protein, low carb varieties. My interpretation of that basically means mostly meat, salad, and high fiber vegetables. To make it bearable, I am giving myself one day a week off: Saturday. Saturday is a good choice because I usually have a lite lunch when I am busy playing in the garage and we often have Rosie's for dinner on Saturday night. Mmmmm.
[18.6 lbs to go]
Last week I placed an advertisement in the paper in an attempt to sell the 1925 Chevrolet Truck. The ad also appears online.
Today I put the truck on ebay. I have my fingers crossed.
G' worked this weekend so I didn't get a chance to go out for an afternoon cruise. It might have bit a bit chilly with the top down though. (I also didn't get to go scope out the
The Barrett-Jackson auction begins Tuesday on Speed. I have the Tivo setup to record the whole thing, 35 hours I think. This will be much easier this year thanks to the writer's strike, without which we might actually have something recorded right now.
Regarding the blasted diet, I lost a little over 5 pounds this week. My goal for next week is another 3. My diet is one of high protein, low carb varieties. My interpretation of that basically means mostly meat, salad, and high fiber vegetables. To make it bearable, I am giving myself one day a week off: Saturday. Saturday is a good choice because I usually have a lite lunch when I am busy playing in the garage and we often have Rosie's for dinner on Saturday night. Mmmmm.
[18.6 lbs to go]
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
For Sale
1925 CHEVROLET Truck, Superior Series K, Wood Spoke Wheels, Ooga Horn, Parade Ready. $12,500. Huntsville, AL. Please email me for pictures or additional information.
1925 CHEVROLET Truck, Superior Series K, Wood Spoke Wheels, Ooga Horn, Parade Ready. $12,500. Huntsville, AL. Please email me for pictures or additional information.
I went to the tech school this evening for my first welding class. Upon arrival I found out the class had been canceled due to a lack of folks registering. I asked the woman how many more people we needed to have the class. She replied two. I then proceeded to convince a couple of guys there for another class to sign up for the welding class instead. Now with enough interested the class was un-canceled, but unfortunately the teacher was not there because, well, he thought the class had been canceled. So the first class will be next week instead.
Yesterday I started a diet. My weight loss goal is 24 lbs. For the next few months you can watch my progress at the end of my posts. I will post pounds remaining pounds to lose in this format: [24]. Accountability is good right?
[24 lbs to go]
Yesterday I started a diet. My weight loss goal is 24 lbs. For the next few months you can watch my progress at the end of my posts. I will post pounds remaining pounds to lose in this format: [24]. Accountability is good right?
[24 lbs to go]
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Today I removed and dissassembled the switches for the Miata power windows. The windows are slooooooow and I had already tried greasing the tracks so this had to be the fix.
After removing the center console and disconnecting the wiring, I removed the switch sub-assembly. The contacts for the switches were black with carbon. I removed the carbon build up using Liquid Wrench and then slid a flat file across the contacts to remove any remaining build up. Next I cleaned the rocker contacts and finally I tinned all the contact surfaces with solder. Another pass with the final and all the surfaces were level. Finally I buttoned it all back up and it was ready for testing.
Results: The windows now move faster than before, but they are still slower than they should be. Oh well, I don't roll them up very often anyway.
Next step: Take the car out for a Sunday afternoon drive. The temperature was in the mid 60's so how could one not take a drive.
I made a quick stop at a neighbors house before leaving the 'hood. Another local was there also. I hung for a few minutes discussing various matters of extreme importance with the two gentlemen.
During this conversation I found out that I had a friend who had done the "Russian Bride" thing. It was a really amazing story.
After removing the center console and disconnecting the wiring, I removed the switch sub-assembly. The contacts for the switches were black with carbon. I removed the carbon build up using Liquid Wrench and then slid a flat file across the contacts to remove any remaining build up. Next I cleaned the rocker contacts and finally I tinned all the contact surfaces with solder. Another pass with the final and all the surfaces were level. Finally I buttoned it all back up and it was ready for testing.
Results: The windows now move faster than before, but they are still slower than they should be. Oh well, I don't roll them up very often anyway.
Next step: Take the car out for a Sunday afternoon drive. The temperature was in the mid 60's so how could one not take a drive.
I made a quick stop at a neighbors house before leaving the 'hood. Another local was there also. I hung for a few minutes discussing various matters of extreme importance with the two gentlemen.
During this conversation I found out that I had a friend who had done the "Russian Bride" thing. It was a really amazing story.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
The current odometer readings are:
2006 Charger R/T: 11,497
Last years reading was 5,784. Total mileage for 2007: 5,713 miles.
1995 Miata: 105,037
Last years reading was 100,774. Total mileage for 2007: 4,263 miles.
1925 Chevrolet Truck: 17879
I don't recall logging the odometer reading on this one in the past year but I am pretty sure the odometer hasn't moved. At all. Because it doesn't work. My swag for actual mileage for the truck in 2007 would be somewhere between 100 and 200 miles.
1972 GMC: 30520 or 03526
Like the 1925, the odometer(s) for the GMC have not moved. Not because they are broken but because the truck is (still) disassembled. Why two odometer readings? I bought a spare at the junk yard two years ago. I actually bought the second for its plastic bezel. The odometer was a (free) bonus. Today I learned that my odometer is apparently not the original for the truck. It is from a '69. The spare is from a '67. (Date codes are inked on the back side)
2002 Tahoe: 83,479
Again, I did not record a value at the beginning of 2007. I also put a few miles on this one driving it to various vacation destinations.
2006 Charger R/T: 11,497
Last years reading was 5,784. Total mileage for 2007: 5,713 miles.
1995 Miata: 105,037
Last years reading was 100,774. Total mileage for 2007: 4,263 miles.
1925 Chevrolet Truck: 17879
I don't recall logging the odometer reading on this one in the past year but I am pretty sure the odometer hasn't moved. At all. Because it doesn't work. My swag for actual mileage for the truck in 2007 would be somewhere between 100 and 200 miles.
1972 GMC: 30520 or 03526
Like the 1925, the odometer(s) for the GMC have not moved. Not because they are broken but because the truck is (still) disassembled. Why two odometer readings? I bought a spare at the junk yard two years ago. I actually bought the second for its plastic bezel. The odometer was a (free) bonus. Today I learned that my odometer is apparently not the original for the truck. It is from a '69. The spare is from a '67. (Date codes are inked on the back side)
2002 Tahoe: 83,479
Again, I did not record a value at the beginning of 2007. I also put a few miles on this one driving it to various vacation destinations.
The weekend snuck up on me. What a pleasant surprise. I suspect this can only happen if you don't go to work for a while.
The sky has gray all day today but there was practically no wind. Around the middle of the afternoon, I decided the Miata needed to roll toward no place in particular. (It had been parked since New Years Eve Day.) I was quite successful in this venture in that I did get to no place in particular in a reasonable amount of time.
While going no where, I stopped an observed a motionless C3 parked in a previously used automobile facility. I copied down the VIN so that I could research it online. It was a nice black car with a gray (leather?) interior. Visually it had a few minor problems, for example the passenger side seat belt needed to be cleaned and the leather boot around the manual stick could stand to be replaced. Online research revealed the car to be a '77 with the standard L48 engine package. The L48 is a small-block Chevy, 350 cubic inches, and made between 165 and 185 HP depending on who you believe. This is a relatively low number when you consider my much lighter Miata had 140-ish HP from the factory. Still, a C3 is a pretty cool car. $7355 is a weird price if you ask me.
The sky has gray all day today but there was practically no wind. Around the middle of the afternoon, I decided the Miata needed to roll toward no place in particular. (It had been parked since New Years Eve Day.) I was quite successful in this venture in that I did get to no place in particular in a reasonable amount of time.
While going no where, I stopped an observed a motionless C3 parked in a previously used automobile facility. I copied down the VIN so that I could research it online. It was a nice black car with a gray (leather?) interior. Visually it had a few minor problems, for example the passenger side seat belt needed to be cleaned and the leather boot around the manual stick could stand to be replaced. Online research revealed the car to be a '77 with the standard L48 engine package. The L48 is a small-block Chevy, 350 cubic inches, and made between 165 and 185 HP depending on who you believe. This is a relatively low number when you consider my much lighter Miata had 140-ish HP from the factory. Still, a C3 is a pretty cool car. $7355 is a weird price if you ask me.
Friday, January 04, 2008
I picked up a copy of the American Classifieds (North Alabama Edition) today when we stopped at a gas station. Just checking to see if there were any interesting cars listed.
1. 1964 Corvette Convertible ($39k) - red and black
2. 1966 Mustang ($1200 OBO) - definitely a project car.
3. 1967 Camaro Convertible ($15.5k)
4. 1965 Malibu SS Convertible ($16.9k)
And of course the low budget stuff
1. 1968 Beetle ($2900)
2. 1963 Impala ($1500)
3. 1969 Chevy P/U ($1200)
And a few more Corvettes
1. 1990 Corvette ($8800) - Black
2. 1976 L82 Corvette Stingray ($8500)
The 1976 L82 is a third generation (C3) Mako Shark Corvette. The L82 was the designation for an optional engine package which produced 205 HP. The base engine produced only 165 HP. Learn more at Wikipedia
1. 1964 Corvette Convertible ($39k) - red and black
2. 1966 Mustang ($1200 OBO) - definitely a project car.
3. 1967 Camaro Convertible ($15.5k)
4. 1965 Malibu SS Convertible ($16.9k)
And of course the low budget stuff
1. 1968 Beetle ($2900)
2. 1963 Impala ($1500)
3. 1969 Chevy P/U ($1200)
And a few more Corvettes
1. 1990 Corvette ($8800) - Black
2. 1976 L82 Corvette Stingray ($8500)
The 1976 L82 is a third generation (C3) Mako Shark Corvette. The L82 was the designation for an optional engine package which produced 205 HP. The base engine produced only 165 HP. Learn more at Wikipedia
Home Again
Yesterday we visited Ruby Falls. This turned out to be pretty cool. You ride an elevator down a couple hundred feet in the ground and then fallow a twisting path thru the rock almost a quarter of a mile before you walk into a large cavern containing the Falls. According to the story, this cavern was discovered by accident while trying to gain access to another cave.
Afterwards we didn't stop for lunch at Krystal's. The Krystal's corporate head quarters is in Chattanooga. I figured that lunch here would be an experience of some sort. The kids protested (a lot) so we ended up at a local Mexican establishment down the street.
Just for the record, it really does it exist: The Tow Truck Museum.
Afterwards we caught an afternoon movie across the street from the hotel. National Treasure: Book of Secrets. The movie gets a rating of good enough.
After the movie, Terry pointed her pony towards Atlanta. From the 4th floor of the hotel, we could hear the ponies snorting when she cranked it up.
The rest of us returned to Big River Grill and Brewery for dinner.
We woke today to another frosty morning. After breakfast in the hotel, we loaded up the Tahoe and headed towards home.
Once in Alabama, we took a 5 mile detour to visit Russel Cave National Monument. This is the 3rd longest mapped cave in Alabama measuring over 7 miles long. We only got to go in about 30 feet.
This afternoon, after arriving back home, I took the '25 out for a short drive clocking in about 8 miles. The temperature was in the high 40's but was plenty warm with my fleece jacket, gloves, and a warm hat.
Yesterday we visited Ruby Falls. This turned out to be pretty cool. You ride an elevator down a couple hundred feet in the ground and then fallow a twisting path thru the rock almost a quarter of a mile before you walk into a large cavern containing the Falls. According to the story, this cavern was discovered by accident while trying to gain access to another cave.
Afterwards we didn't stop for lunch at Krystal's. The Krystal's corporate head quarters is in Chattanooga. I figured that lunch here would be an experience of some sort. The kids protested (a lot) so we ended up at a local Mexican establishment down the street.
Just for the record, it really does it exist: The Tow Truck Museum.
Afterwards we caught an afternoon movie across the street from the hotel. National Treasure: Book of Secrets. The movie gets a rating of good enough.
After the movie, Terry pointed her pony towards Atlanta. From the 4th floor of the hotel, we could hear the ponies snorting when she cranked it up.
The rest of us returned to Big River Grill and Brewery for dinner.
We woke today to another frosty morning. After breakfast in the hotel, we loaded up the Tahoe and headed towards home.
Once in Alabama, we took a 5 mile detour to visit Russel Cave National Monument. This is the 3rd longest mapped cave in Alabama measuring over 7 miles long. We only got to go in about 30 feet.
This afternoon, after arriving back home, I took the '25 out for a short drive clocking in about 8 miles. The temperature was in the high 40's but was plenty warm with my fleece jacket, gloves, and a warm hat.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Vacation Time!
NYD we reached escape velocity and exited HSV. We travelled via Tahoe to Chattanooga where once again we are busy chatting about noogas.
We arrived yesterday in plenty of time to get a nap in and let the kids hit the indoor pool. We dined last night at "Big River Grill and Brewery". I tried the IPA and the Vienna Lager. I believe this place is owned by Gordon Biersch.
After dinner we made a trip to the local Wal-Mart to pick up some snacks and supplies. We got to see some pretty serious snowfall during our evening outing.
This morning we visited the 'Nooga Aquarium. Actually both of them. It was cold out and very few tourist were visiting with the fish. The afternoon consisted of more napping and swimming.
Terry arrived today in time for dinner. We went to "Sticky Fingers" for some ribs. We intended to catch a movie to bug dinner went long. Maybe tomorrow.
Also on the agenda tomorrow is a visit to Ruby Falls. Google it.
NYD we reached escape velocity and exited HSV. We travelled via Tahoe to Chattanooga where once again we are busy chatting about noogas.
We arrived yesterday in plenty of time to get a nap in and let the kids hit the indoor pool. We dined last night at "Big River Grill and Brewery". I tried the IPA and the Vienna Lager. I believe this place is owned by Gordon Biersch.
After dinner we made a trip to the local Wal-Mart to pick up some snacks and supplies. We got to see some pretty serious snowfall during our evening outing.
This morning we visited the 'Nooga Aquarium. Actually both of them. It was cold out and very few tourist were visiting with the fish. The afternoon consisted of more napping and swimming.
Terry arrived today in time for dinner. We went to "Sticky Fingers" for some ribs. We intended to catch a movie to bug dinner went long. Maybe tomorrow.
Also on the agenda tomorrow is a visit to Ruby Falls. Google it.
While driving to visit some relatives on Christmas day I decided that this might be the year that I parked a Corvette in my garage. A Corvette or another old truck.
This creates a bit of a problem. There is not currently an available parking spot in the garage. No problem though, I have a whole year to resolve this.
In the meantime, I will start investigating cars that I see for sale so that I can be educated on what has reasonable value and what is a reasonable price. The thrill is definitely in the hunt. And sometimes the hunt convinces you that you have a bad idea. Or a really good idea. Should be interesting to see how this all pans out.
Another possible option in lieu of the fast car, is an old truck. In the past year plus I have missed having a useful truck at my convenience. If I happened to find a useful truck with the right vintage and quality it could attempt to follow me home instead.
Maybe. If I can find a place to park it.
Here are the initial search requirements. Help me look. The car should be at least 25 years old, more than 30 is preferred. The truck should be at least 35 years old, more than 40 is preferred. Either must be suitable for taking to a car show.
Shhh! Don't tell G. This is a secret.
This creates a bit of a problem. There is not currently an available parking spot in the garage. No problem though, I have a whole year to resolve this.
In the meantime, I will start investigating cars that I see for sale so that I can be educated on what has reasonable value and what is a reasonable price. The thrill is definitely in the hunt. And sometimes the hunt convinces you that you have a bad idea. Or a really good idea. Should be interesting to see how this all pans out.
Another possible option in lieu of the fast car, is an old truck. In the past year plus I have missed having a useful truck at my convenience. If I happened to find a useful truck with the right vintage and quality it could attempt to follow me home instead.
Maybe. If I can find a place to park it.
Here are the initial search requirements. Help me look. The car should be at least 25 years old, more than 30 is preferred. The truck should be at least 35 years old, more than 40 is preferred. Either must be suitable for taking to a car show.
Shhh! Don't tell G. This is a secret.
I was just looking back at the first post from several years trying to find a reference to the only New Years Resolution I have ever managed to keep. I did not find it on the blog.
The resolution was this: "To make no more New Year's Resolutions". So far so good.
Here are a few things I did see.
Last year I posted the Miata and Chargers odometer readings. If my memory is serving me today, the Miata acquired less than 5,000 miles this year. The Charger is probably about the same.
Two years ago I learned the words Feh and Feckless.
Three years ago I had just finished cleaning the engine of the GMC.
Four years ago was P.B. Pre-blog.
The resolution was this: "To make no more New Year's Resolutions". So far so good.
Here are a few things I did see.
Last year I posted the Miata and Chargers odometer readings. If my memory is serving me today, the Miata acquired less than 5,000 miles this year. The Charger is probably about the same.
Two years ago I learned the words Feh and Feckless.
Three years ago I had just finished cleaning the engine of the GMC.
Four years ago was P.B. Pre-blog.
1972 GMC Project Update
My hands currently have a slight gray tint to them.
Over the past two weekends I have been working on sand blasting and painting the control arms that are part of the rear suspension on my project truck.
After spending several hours the first weekend sand blasting I had what appeared to be two new looking control arms. Nice gray bare metal. The casual observer would have stopped there. Between the two pieces of stamped steel there was a gap just large enough to college small pebbles and dirt. These gap on both members were completely encased with rust.
Attempt to blast the grime out made slow progress. My next step was to marinate them with penetrating oil and WD-40. After letting them soak a few nights I used a hammer, a small punch, a screw driver, and a putty knife to knock this stuff loose. After about 3 hours I had about as much grime removed as I could hope for.
The next step was to spray some phosphoric acid based rust remover into the seem to clean up any rust in gap. And then I cleaned it out with Simple Green degreaser to remove any loose dirt that may have remained.
Once the inside was clean, it was time to clean it up for painting. The process of cleaning the gap had taken a few days and some surface rust had formed on the outside both suspension members. First I thoroughly cleaned both items with Marine Clean (also a degreaser), and then treated them with POR-15's Metal Prep (also phosphoric acid based).
Using the Metal Prep is pretty amazing. The surface rust just disappears before your eyes. (My sister likened it as one of those Billy Maze Oxy-Clean commercials). After 30 minutes of continuous metal prep application, a good rinse with water, and drying the parts off, I was ready to paint.
My intention was to use POR-15 on these just like I did on the frame. Most of the other stuff I have used Eastwood's Chassis Black on. I like the Chassis Black because it is easy to spray on. I attempted to thin (using POR-15) and spray the POR-15 but it did not seem to like my spray gun. I resorted to painting the parts using a foam brush.
The parts still need one more coat. I will have another go with the spray gun but I suspect I will end up painting with a brush again. I really like the way this stuff looks when it is dry, but it has been a real pain to apply it. If I have success with the brush I will let you know (and I will be using POR-15 on the differential.) If things don't go well, I will spray the Chassis Black on the diff. It always looks good and it is easy to use.
Another thing to mention. The POR must be cleaned up immediately if any is spilt. If you get it on your hands and don't remove it immediately, you will be wearing it til it wears off. Did I mention my hands are gray?
After several points during this entire expedition, I thought I should snap a few pictures. Before I started blasting was a good time, but I had already gotten dirty setting up the equipment and did not want to go back in the house until I was done. After the blasting was complete would have been a good time also, but I delayed thinking I would snap some shots before I painted. The before and after for the rust removal would have been impressive also. It looks like the only pictures will end up being shots after the paint is dry.
My hands currently have a slight gray tint to them.
Over the past two weekends I have been working on sand blasting and painting the control arms that are part of the rear suspension on my project truck.
After spending several hours the first weekend sand blasting I had what appeared to be two new looking control arms. Nice gray bare metal. The casual observer would have stopped there. Between the two pieces of stamped steel there was a gap just large enough to college small pebbles and dirt. These gap on both members were completely encased with rust.
Attempt to blast the grime out made slow progress. My next step was to marinate them with penetrating oil and WD-40. After letting them soak a few nights I used a hammer, a small punch, a screw driver, and a putty knife to knock this stuff loose. After about 3 hours I had about as much grime removed as I could hope for.
The next step was to spray some phosphoric acid based rust remover into the seem to clean up any rust in gap. And then I cleaned it out with Simple Green degreaser to remove any loose dirt that may have remained.
Once the inside was clean, it was time to clean it up for painting. The process of cleaning the gap had taken a few days and some surface rust had formed on the outside both suspension members. First I thoroughly cleaned both items with Marine Clean (also a degreaser), and then treated them with POR-15's Metal Prep (also phosphoric acid based).
Using the Metal Prep is pretty amazing. The surface rust just disappears before your eyes. (My sister likened it as one of those Billy Maze Oxy-Clean commercials). After 30 minutes of continuous metal prep application, a good rinse with water, and drying the parts off, I was ready to paint.
My intention was to use POR-15 on these just like I did on the frame. Most of the other stuff I have used Eastwood's Chassis Black on. I like the Chassis Black because it is easy to spray on. I attempted to thin (using POR-15) and spray the POR-15 but it did not seem to like my spray gun. I resorted to painting the parts using a foam brush.
The parts still need one more coat. I will have another go with the spray gun but I suspect I will end up painting with a brush again. I really like the way this stuff looks when it is dry, but it has been a real pain to apply it. If I have success with the brush I will let you know (and I will be using POR-15 on the differential.) If things don't go well, I will spray the Chassis Black on the diff. It always looks good and it is easy to use.
Another thing to mention. The POR must be cleaned up immediately if any is spilt. If you get it on your hands and don't remove it immediately, you will be wearing it til it wears off. Did I mention my hands are gray?
After several points during this entire expedition, I thought I should snap a few pictures. Before I started blasting was a good time, but I had already gotten dirty setting up the equipment and did not want to go back in the house until I was done. After the blasting was complete would have been a good time also, but I delayed thinking I would snap some shots before I painted. The before and after for the rust removal would have been impressive also. It looks like the only pictures will end up being shots after the paint is dry.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Another Long Weekend
... has been successfully complete. We made two days trips to visit extended family. Wii played quite a few rounds of bowling, baseball, golf, boxing, and tennis. (My shoulder is sore). And we probably ate too many goodies.
This weekend I managed to get the trailing arms for the GMC sandblasted. Progress is good. Hopefully I will get them painted next weekend.
Back to work tomorrow.
... has been successfully complete. We made two days trips to visit extended family. Wii played quite a few rounds of bowling, baseball, golf, boxing, and tennis. (My shoulder is sore). And we probably ate too many goodies.
This weekend I managed to get the trailing arms for the GMC sandblasted. Progress is good. Hopefully I will get them painted next weekend.
Back to work tomorrow.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Good Advice
I finally took the advice a college professor gave me 16 years ago. The good doctor's advice was "Learn to weld." Today I signed up for a 15 week, one night per week, welding course.
His motivation was completely different than mine. He was sick of academia. Mine is hobby related. Per Dr. P., welder's make more than college professors. I am not sure if that is entirely true.
I finally took the advice a college professor gave me 16 years ago. The good doctor's advice was "Learn to weld." Today I signed up for a 15 week, one night per week, welding course.
His motivation was completely different than mine. He was sick of academia. Mine is hobby related. Per Dr. P., welder's make more than college professors. I am not sure if that is entirely true.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Yesterday morning I drove the little Zoom-zoom to work. I left the house, driving with the top down and wearing a jacket. As I drove along, the weather forecast on the radio announced the current temperature was 65. Nice!
About an hour later I decided to raise the door on the loading dock. The weather was still beautiful, though off to the west I could see some dark clouds and a complete semi-circle of a rainbow. At one end was an old Mazda Rx-7. At the other end I am sure there was a McDonald's. The view was fabulous over the light-industrial landscape. Fifteen minutes later a light rain began to fall.
A half hour later, one of my co-workers pressed the button to lower the door. It had gotten freakin' cold outside.
The contraction of the day is 'willn't'. Example usage: He shan't get full credit ifin' he continues to use the word won't when he means the word willn't.
About an hour later I decided to raise the door on the loading dock. The weather was still beautiful, though off to the west I could see some dark clouds and a complete semi-circle of a rainbow. At one end was an old Mazda Rx-7. At the other end I am sure there was a McDonald's. The view was fabulous over the light-industrial landscape. Fifteen minutes later a light rain began to fall.
A half hour later, one of my co-workers pressed the button to lower the door. It had gotten freakin' cold outside.
The contraction of the day is 'willn't'. Example usage: He shan't get full credit ifin' he continues to use the word won't when he means the word willn't.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
I Have More Friends Now
I have been writing a lot lately, just not for you benefit. The two classes I took this semester required a lot of time writing. I am pleased to announce this evening I attended my final class for the semester. I expect I got decent marks in both classes but I shan't know for a week.
When was the last time you saw that contraction? Yeah, yeah. Shan't, sha'n't, sha'nt.
I have been getting several friend request per week on MySpace. Most days, at least one. I must be very popular. Either that or MySpace is a gigantic generator of pr0n spam. Yes it it true, MySpace is completely worthless.
I received mail today with the Winter/Spring evening class schedule for the local vocational school. It is my intention to sign up for a welding class. Registration begins Monday.
I have been writing a lot lately, just not for you benefit. The two classes I took this semester required a lot of time writing. I am pleased to announce this evening I attended my final class for the semester. I expect I got decent marks in both classes but I shan't know for a week.
When was the last time you saw that contraction? Yeah, yeah. Shan't, sha'n't, sha'nt.
I have been getting several friend request per week on MySpace. Most days, at least one. I must be very popular. Either that or MySpace is a gigantic generator of pr0n spam. Yes it it true, MySpace is completely worthless.
I received mail today with the Winter/Spring evening class schedule for the local vocational school. It is my intention to sign up for a welding class. Registration begins Monday.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Sunday, December 02, 2007
I drove over to Elgin today to swap rusty parts with a guy from the online truck forums. I enjoyed spending a little time talking to someone who shared a passion for these rusty old trucks.
Tomorrow is Ginger's Birthday. We celebrated it today because she will be working a long day tomorrow. We enjoyed a nice dinner out a Macaroni Grill. Later we will be having Chocolate cake.
Just for the record, I did not see grilled macaroni on the menu anywhere.
Tomorrow is Ginger's Birthday. We celebrated it today because she will be working a long day tomorrow. We enjoyed a nice dinner out a Macaroni Grill. Later we will be having Chocolate cake.
Just for the record, I did not see grilled macaroni on the menu anywhere.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Sunday, November 25, 2007
The four day weekend is almost over. So far I have accomplished absolutely nothing. Ok, that is not entirely true. I did manage to get a little homework done. Not to much though.
This afternoon we experienced an extreme oddity. Both kids feel asleep. I wouldn't say they took a nap, as neither intended to go to sleep. It was very peaceful around here for about an hour and a half.
Last week I registered for a class for next semister. I learned my lesson this time regarding trying to take two classes at a time. Not again. Two classes requires way to much out of the class room time.
The class I signed up for will be online this time. My experience with online classes in the past has been less than desireable. Unfortunately the available schedule does not really give me any alternatives...
So because I don't actually have to attend a class, I am considering signing up for a welding class also. Whoa there fellow! Didn't I just say I wouldn't take two classes again. Well, sure but this would be completely different. The online class has no "in class" requirements and the welding class has no "homework", so essentially I would be taking two classes but it would seem like only one.
This afternoon we experienced an extreme oddity. Both kids feel asleep. I wouldn't say they took a nap, as neither intended to go to sleep. It was very peaceful around here for about an hour and a half.
Last week I registered for a class for next semister. I learned my lesson this time regarding trying to take two classes at a time. Not again. Two classes requires way to much out of the class room time.
The class I signed up for will be online this time. My experience with online classes in the past has been less than desireable. Unfortunately the available schedule does not really give me any alternatives...
So because I don't actually have to attend a class, I am considering signing up for a welding class also. Whoa there fellow! Didn't I just say I wouldn't take two classes again. Well, sure but this would be completely different. The online class has no "in class" requirements and the welding class has no "homework", so essentially I would be taking two classes but it would seem like only one.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Saturday was test day. Things went ok but they could have gone better. I got flustered on the first question and spent too much time looking at it. I believe I passed it but I certainly could have done better. I didn't get to the last eight questions, so I just guessed 'C' on all of them.
The new camera arrived today. The battery is charging.
Happy 13th Anniversary G!
The new camera arrived today. The battery is charging.
Happy 13th Anniversary G!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
881
A couple of weeks ago our digital camera called it quits. I was tasked with selection a new one. This turned into another obsession for me. Originally I planned to petition the finance committee for a digital SLR. I have wanted a Canon Rebel XT for a while. After thinking about it thought, I decided that it would not be very practical, what I actually needed was a sub-compact - something that would fit in my pocket. This was also the only requirement provided by the other member of the Obsession A/V club.
I consults with several friends who had recently purchased cameras, Consumer Reports, CNET, and the reviews on Amazon. I made trips to Wal-Mart, Target, and Best Buy to investigate the cameras in person. I made a spreadsheet and listed several features I felt were important, maximum cost, minimum resolution, maximum size, power up up time, etc. After about a week of investigating I had it narrowed down to one. And then back up to three, and then back down to one again. And then it was time to scour the net for a good price.
Today I placed the order. The new camera should be here in plenty of time for Turkey day.
The Charger had its oil changed yesterday. 10500 Miles
A couple of weeks ago our digital camera called it quits. I was tasked with selection a new one. This turned into another obsession for me. Originally I planned to petition the finance committee for a digital SLR. I have wanted a Canon Rebel XT for a while. After thinking about it thought, I decided that it would not be very practical, what I actually needed was a sub-compact - something that would fit in my pocket. This was also the only requirement provided by the other member of the Obsession A/V club.
I consults with several friends who had recently purchased cameras, Consumer Reports, CNET, and the reviews on Amazon. I made trips to Wal-Mart, Target, and Best Buy to investigate the cameras in person. I made a spreadsheet and listed several features I felt were important, maximum cost, minimum resolution, maximum size, power up up time, etc. After about a week of investigating I had it narrowed down to one. And then back up to three, and then back down to one again. And then it was time to scour the net for a good price.
Today I placed the order. The new camera should be here in plenty of time for Turkey day.
The Charger had its oil changed yesterday. 10500 Miles
Monday, November 12, 2007
The kids were out of school today. G and I argued over who had to work and who got to stay home with them. I won, so I got to stay home. Today was much like most weekend days with one exception. J wanted to do something special today. They went to a movie on Friday so the easy answer was already taken. I suggested a hike, but B was opposed to this idea. We finally agreed on bowling. Back in college I was pretty good at bowling. The same can not be said today.
This coming Saturday I am taking a test, the Praxis II Mathematics Content Knowledge test. I spent most of the weekend working math problems to prepare for the test. The test includes calculus, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, discrete math, probability, and statistics. That may be all but there could be more. I suppose I am ready for the test. Perhaps.
This coming Saturday I am taking a test, the Praxis II Mathematics Content Knowledge test. I spent most of the weekend working math problems to prepare for the test. The test includes calculus, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, discrete math, probability, and statistics. That may be all but there could be more. I suppose I am ready for the test. Perhaps.
Sunday, November 04, 2007
This week just flew by. Monday is a distant memory. Tuesday morning was the big fire. Wednesday through Friday I spent the day at Sparkman High School. G & B left for Auburn Friday so that they could attend the Homecoming game. Saturday my Father came to visit us and Jordan had pie. Saturday and Sunday I spent an excessive amount of time working math problems practicing for taking Praxis II Mathematical Content test which is a few weeks out.
The three days in high school was a requirement for an education class I am taking. I used my time observing mathematical instruction, helping to answer the students questions, and grading a few tests.
The next couple of weeks are looking pretty busy. I am looking forward to the T-day weekend.
The three days in high school was a requirement for an education class I am taking. I used my time observing mathematical instruction, helping to answer the students questions, and grading a few tests.
The next couple of weeks are looking pretty busy. I am looking forward to the T-day weekend.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Saturday afternoon the kids and I went to the Fall Festival at their elementary school. Much fun to be had. Ring toss, cake walks, the works.
At first Jordan seemed disinterested, or perhaps concerned that he was too grown up to participate. Eventually he decided we would be involved. I don't know if it was seeing teenagers fishing in the rubber ducky pond or realizing candy was involved.
The kids ate pizza, Bri won a Chocolate-Chip-Cookie-Cake, and then they jumped and jumped and jumped and jumped and jumped on the inflatables. Watching all that jumping made me tired.
Thanks to Tammy for watching our stuff while the kids jumped and jumped and jumped and jumped and jumped.
At first Jordan seemed disinterested, or perhaps concerned that he was too grown up to participate. Eventually he decided we would be involved. I don't know if it was seeing teenagers fishing in the rubber ducky pond or realizing candy was involved.
The kids ate pizza, Bri won a Chocolate-Chip-Cookie-Cake, and then they jumped and jumped and jumped and jumped and jumped on the inflatables. Watching all that jumping made me tired.
Thanks to Tammy for watching our stuff while the kids jumped and jumped and jumped and jumped and jumped.
If you have ever come to visit me at work, the directions I gave you ended with "turn right at the big blue warehouse". If you had been anywhere in Huntsville this morning, it is very likely you would have noticed the billowing black smoke coming from the big blue warehouse.
There were at least 5 fire trucks present. I could see 5 from our parking lot. Harvest, Monrovia, and Huntsville. There were probably more around the corner too. I was told three of the local TV stations were also around the corner reporting "Live" on the scene.
The buildings were completely destroyed. The rumor mill says the first alarms rang around 6:00 AM. When the first fire truck arrived the gate was locked. This means no one was in the building. Fortunately. When I arrived shortly before 7:00 am the sides of the building were glowing orange.
The firemen did an awesome job. While the building was lost, it did not spread to any surrounding buildings. By lunch most of the smoke had stopped. This was no small feat as there was surely some tar in the building. That stuff burns forever.
There were at least 5 fire trucks present. I could see 5 from our parking lot. Harvest, Monrovia, and Huntsville. There were probably more around the corner too. I was told three of the local TV stations were also around the corner reporting "Live" on the scene.
The buildings were completely destroyed. The rumor mill says the first alarms rang around 6:00 AM. When the first fire truck arrived the gate was locked. This means no one was in the building. Fortunately. When I arrived shortly before 7:00 am the sides of the building were glowing orange.
The firemen did an awesome job. While the building was lost, it did not spread to any surrounding buildings. By lunch most of the smoke had stopped. This was no small feat as there was surely some tar in the building. That stuff burns forever.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Lunch today was at a local Mexican Restaraunt. While waiting on the food to be prepared, it occurred to me I had been having Mexican food a lot lately. I counted them up and discovered I had had Mexican food 7 times in the last 14 days. At dinner this evening, I updated the count to 8 times in 14 days. The count for Chinese food is only 3 meals in the last 4 days. Thai, zero. Maybe tomorrow.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Returned from a weekend camping trip this afternoon. We went to Savage Gorge in TN. AtHomeDaddy drove out from Texas to join us. The weather cooperated nicely. Plenty of Fall color to be seen. And plenty of coyotes to hear.
This weekends F1 race ends the season. I have it on Tivo though I haven't watched it yet. Done tell me who won yet!
Tomorrow I go to a local high school for orientation for field experience. I am looking forward to this. I have enjoyed it the past couple of times.
Terry was in on Thursday. She came to visit iMike and to give Bri her B'day presents.
This weekends F1 race ends the season. I have it on Tivo though I haven't watched it yet. Done tell me who won yet!
Tomorrow I go to a local high school for orientation for field experience. I am looking forward to this. I have enjoyed it the past couple of times.
Terry was in on Thursday. She came to visit iMike and to give Bri her B'day presents.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
We are home again but I still need to finish up the beach posts.
Tuesday night we tried a restaurant we had not visited before. The name of the place was Grafittis. The place was Italian and decorated rather eclecticly. While they had pizza on the menu I opted for some pasta. I selected a dish with a rather bland name, Seafood Pasta. The description ended with spicy marinara sauce. The world spicy was my sole reason for selecting it. Spicy turned out to be some red pepper. And it was good. The fresh shrimp and scallops didn't hurt either.
Wednesday was "Happy Bri-day". We made a day of it by going out to ride bumper boats, bumper cars, and go-karts. J was tall enough to drive himself this year. G says he fancied himself to be an F1 driver. After the racing we headed on down the street. Bri wanted to get her little ears pierced. It sounded painful to me, but it was what she wanted. I tried to look the other way. Afterwards we hit a few souvie shops and then an early dinner. Since it was HBD, we let her pick the restaurant. She wanted to go back to The Back Porch. We arrived early enough to get a table right away. G has the Grouper Florentine which was excellent. I had another pasta dish whose name eludes me right now. I won't be having it again though. It may have been called a shrimp Alfredo but that is not really what it was. Oh well.
Today we returned home.
I missed two classes this week. Tonight I was supposed to give a speech on the Electoral College. When I arrived at class I discovered the speech was postponed until next week. More time to prepare.
Tuesday night we tried a restaurant we had not visited before. The name of the place was Grafittis. The place was Italian and decorated rather eclecticly. While they had pizza on the menu I opted for some pasta. I selected a dish with a rather bland name, Seafood Pasta. The description ended with spicy marinara sauce. The world spicy was my sole reason for selecting it. Spicy turned out to be some red pepper. And it was good. The fresh shrimp and scallops didn't hurt either.
Wednesday was "Happy Bri-day". We made a day of it by going out to ride bumper boats, bumper cars, and go-karts. J was tall enough to drive himself this year. G says he fancied himself to be an F1 driver. After the racing we headed on down the street. Bri wanted to get her little ears pierced. It sounded painful to me, but it was what she wanted. I tried to look the other way. Afterwards we hit a few souvie shops and then an early dinner. Since it was HBD, we let her pick the restaurant. She wanted to go back to The Back Porch. We arrived early enough to get a table right away. G has the Grouper Florentine which was excellent. I had another pasta dish whose name eludes me right now. I won't be having it again though. It may have been called a shrimp Alfredo but that is not really what it was. Oh well.
Today we returned home.
I missed two classes this week. Tonight I was supposed to give a speech on the Electoral College. When I arrived at class I discovered the speech was postponed until next week. More time to prepare.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Life's a Beach
It's that time of year again. We are at the beach. Okaloosa Island the be a little more precise. It is the beach front section of Fort Walton and is located just a couple of miles from Destin. The Condos are located on Santa Rosa, a nice little dead-end road off the beaten path. We are staying at the Island Princess this year. One of the three elevators is out of order. Naturally it is the one closest to our condo, but we are making due. The stairs work fine, except after a big plate of fried seafood!
So far we have dined at The Back Porch and Pompano Joe's. Both nights I have ordered what some places would call The Captain's Platter, a big plate of fried shrimp, scallops, fish, and oysters, knowing that I wouldn't be able to finish it and would be eating the leftovers for lunch the next day. Oh the misery of it all. I think I have gotten my fix of fried seafood and perhaps I will try something more adventurous tonight.
Now a few notes on TBP and PJ's. Even at this time of year, showing up for dinner at 5:30 pm will incur at 30 to 60 minute wait. Sunday night we arrived at TBP about 5:30. The wait was just under a half hour. There is plenty of space for waiting outside. Our service was good this year and the foot came out fast.
Monday night we drove to Pompano Joe's. PJ's is located a few miles to the other side of Destin which can seem like a considerable drive from Okaloosa Island if the traffic is bad through Destin. Fortunately, it is the off season and traffic is not bad. Parking at PJ's is always horrible, even this time of year. I dropped the fam off at the door and parked the Tahoe a short distant away, less than a quarter of a mile, more than an 1/8th. The walk not too bad and I took the opportunity to phone up my Father to see if he had any stock tips. (Buy low, sell high.) The wait was a little bit longer here, but still less than an hour. G had the pasta with scallops. It looked very good. Both the waiter and the guy delivering the food made a comment about how much they enjoyed it. Like TPB, PJ's has a row of window tables across the beach side looking out over the gulf. Actually most of their tables look out to the beach and the windows are open so that you can hear the waves and feel the breeze when there is one.
I like both of these places, but one must be prepared to wait. And don't expect fine dining but if your in the mood for some good seafood either of these will do fine. Both places have a few picnic tables out on the beach where you can sit while you wait.
This evening we will probably try someplace we haven't been before.
I took at look back at the blog to see where we dined last year. Turns out I forgot to do a write up. No mention of Cafe 331 anywere. Shame on me.
Tomorrow is Brianna's Birthday. She is so sweet and she is growing up so fast.
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Tastes Like Chicken
This afternoon while riding his bike in the driveway, J looked up at the sky, spotted a cloud and said "A man-eating fish!". He then looked at me and said do you think I meant a man eating fish or a man-eating fish? I heard man-eating fish when he said man-eating fish so I replied man-eating fish. He announced I was correct.
We quickly moved on to man-eating chickens, though around here it is usually the other way around.
This afternoon while riding his bike in the driveway, J looked up at the sky, spotted a cloud and said "A man-eating fish!". He then looked at me and said do you think I meant a man eating fish or a man-eating fish? I heard man-eating fish when he said man-eating fish so I replied man-eating fish. He announced I was correct.
We quickly moved on to man-eating chickens, though around here it is usually the other way around.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
An Opportunity To Forget
I am really good at forgetting things. This goes way back. When I really need to remember something I will write myself a note or make a list. I started this habit in college. At work I usually have three or four lists. What I should be doing, what I am doing, what I shouldn't forget to do later, and what I did wrong and need to fix. Too many lists for sure. Some are on the computer, some on post-it notes and some are on the computer.
A week ago today I had the root canal. I was given a prescription for an antibiotic. Four a day for seven days. That is 28 chances to forget to take a pill. And it doesn't really make much since to write a note to remind myself to take a pill. Instead I decided to strategically place the bottle where I would see it when it was antibiotic time.
The first one each day is easy. I kept the bottle in the bathroom and made it part of the morning ritual, just before the mouthwash. The bottle then goes to work with me. The next one is taken either just before or just after lunch. I would take the third in the late afternoon before going home and then the fourth just before bed.
As the week progressed I wondered just how many I had forgotten to take. It seemed like I was remembering. By my best recollection, I should only have one left when Thursday rolled back around. Yesterday afternoon I counted what was left in the bottle and discovered I would actually have two to take on Thursday. That meant I had only forgotten once. Pretty amazing.
And then I left the bottle at work, so I missed taking one in the evening. I ended up with three today. Still not so bad.
Today when I threw away the empty pill bottle I felt like I had accomplished something. I am not sure what though.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Today's Blog Entry is Brought to You By the Letter 'P'
Another key on my computer has quit working. It hasn't quit completely but it is very intermittent. I have a backup though. I have a file with the letter 'p' in it. When the key is not working, I just copy/paste from that file. The list of intermittent keys is now [Page Up], [Page Down], [Delete], [Up Arrow], [Down Arrow], [End], and [P].
Monday I went to the Dentist for a scheduled cleaning. This led to another another appointment on Thursday with an Endodontist. Prior to this week I had no idea what an endodonstist did. Now I know. Root canal. The procedure was needed due to an incident in high school. I walked thru a fight and got hit in the mouth. Two broken teeth. The root canal wasn't as bad I expected. Glad it is over.
Today we went to a family reunion for part of G's family. J & B played horse shoes. When we got home Jordan layed down on the couch to rest his eyes. He claims he did not go to sleep. I have photographic proof showing otherwise. He does not know it yet, but he has a predisposition to napping. Both his parents nap, my parents both nap, and my father said he remembers his grandfather napping, everyday. As the story goes, my great-grand-father lived on a farm. Everyday he would stop working around 11:00 am for lunch. After eating he would listen to Paul Harvey and the he would take a short nap before returning to work. This is a genetic explanation for both napping and my desire to eat an early lunch everyday.
Also today I painted some more truck parts I had been busy blasting in the last few weeks. I painted the rear coil springs, the rear shock mounts, and several miscellaneous brackets and two cross members. Next up: the two trailing arms and then the 'new' rear differential I acquired from the junk yard back in July. Good progress!
Another key on my computer has quit working. It hasn't quit completely but it is very intermittent. I have a backup though. I have a file with the letter 'p' in it. When the key is not working, I just copy/paste from that file. The list of intermittent keys is now [Page Up], [Page Down], [Delete], [Up Arrow], [Down Arrow], [End], and [P].
Monday I went to the Dentist for a scheduled cleaning. This led to another another appointment on Thursday with an Endodontist. Prior to this week I had no idea what an endodonstist did. Now I know. Root canal. The procedure was needed due to an incident in high school. I walked thru a fight and got hit in the mouth. Two broken teeth. The root canal wasn't as bad I expected. Glad it is over.
Today we went to a family reunion for part of G's family. J & B played horse shoes. When we got home Jordan layed down on the couch to rest his eyes. He claims he did not go to sleep. I have photographic proof showing otherwise. He does not know it yet, but he has a predisposition to napping. Both his parents nap, my parents both nap, and my father said he remembers his grandfather napping, everyday. As the story goes, my great-grand-father lived on a farm. Everyday he would stop working around 11:00 am for lunch. After eating he would listen to Paul Harvey and the he would take a short nap before returning to work. This is a genetic explanation for both napping and my desire to eat an early lunch everyday.
Also today I painted some more truck parts I had been busy blasting in the last few weeks. I painted the rear coil springs, the rear shock mounts, and several miscellaneous brackets and two cross members. Next up: the two trailing arms and then the 'new' rear differential I acquired from the junk yard back in July. Good progress!
Monday, September 17, 2007
Lows in the 60s, high in the 80's for a whole week. 'Bout near perfect weather.
I was sitting here trying not to write a paper for class. I turns out I don't have to try very hard to be successful.
This weekend I got some sandblasting done. Unfortunately neither T or J helped out. Three more pieces. That makes nine that need to be painted.
I was sitting here trying not to write a paper for class. I turns out I don't have to try very hard to be successful.
This weekend I got some sandblasting done. Unfortunately neither T or J helped out. Three more pieces. That makes nine that need to be painted.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
I received my review of my first speech tonight. It must have gone pretty well. I got an 'A'. Areas for improvement: more gestures and more movement. I guess I was stonewalling. I got excellent marks for eye contact, volume, and cadence. So good so far.
I hate to admit I spent almost 6 hours preparing for a 2-3 minute speech, but I did. Can you say obsessive? I actually wrote 5 different speeches, none of which I was particularly happy with but in the end I still had to give a speech. I think I ended up using the second one.
The next speech is supposed to be informative. Who wants to know how to visually identify the model year of all GMC and Chevrolet trucks between the years 1967 and 1972. Ho hum.
TGIF. Doh! Never mind, it's only Tuesday.
Hey, Yesterday evening after work I loaded up the sand blaster and took care of eight small brackets. T & J will be happy this weekend with their lighter work load.
It just occurred to me how fortunate I am that I can touch type. I think that was a glass of red wine speaking.
I hate to admit I spent almost 6 hours preparing for a 2-3 minute speech, but I did. Can you say obsessive? I actually wrote 5 different speeches, none of which I was particularly happy with but in the end I still had to give a speech. I think I ended up using the second one.
The next speech is supposed to be informative. Who wants to know how to visually identify the model year of all GMC and Chevrolet trucks between the years 1967 and 1972. Ho hum.
TGIF. Doh! Never mind, it's only Tuesday.
Hey, Yesterday evening after work I loaded up the sand blaster and took care of eight small brackets. T & J will be happy this weekend with their lighter work load.
It just occurred to me how fortunate I am that I can touch type. I think that was a glass of red wine speaking.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
And another week has flown by. Hopefully we got over a hump at work this week and things will be calm for a while.
I made my first speech this week. I am probably the only person in the class who spent almost six hours preparing for a 2-3 minute speech.
This weekend it was a cool 85. It feels like Fall already. The Italian Grand Prix was today. That would be a nice trip.
Next week my see'ster is coming to visit. I am planning on teacher her and Jordan how to sand blast. Imagine how much we could get done with all three of us working on it.
I think the Miata may have gotten a sunburn today. It spent a little while out in the sun and is looking pretty red.
I made my first speech this week. I am probably the only person in the class who spent almost six hours preparing for a 2-3 minute speech.
This weekend it was a cool 85. It feels like Fall already. The Italian Grand Prix was today. That would be a nice trip.
Next week my see'ster is coming to visit. I am planning on teacher her and Jordan how to sand blast. Imagine how much we could get done with all three of us working on it.
I think the Miata may have gotten a sunburn today. It spent a little while out in the sun and is looking pretty red.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
What a glorious weekend we had. I got the opportunity to sleep late, work on my old trucks, and play with the kids. The only thing missing was perhaps a little bit of fried okra.
With the new week starting, so did classes. This evening I attended my speech class. After agonizing over the topic/object for a week plus I have finally accepted that it is my fate to use a computer as the point of departure. Sounds easy enough, aye? But what does it really say about me?
Whatever I want it to! After a mere hour I have managed to write a 300 word speech. Based on a typical delivery rate of 125 words per minute, this should put me smack dab in the middle of the 2 to 3 minute goal.
Perhaps your wondering about my computer. Perhaps not. Regardless, the computer I will be presenting is one that I designed and built about 15 years ago. Want to see a picture?
With the new week starting, so did classes. This evening I attended my speech class. After agonizing over the topic/object for a week plus I have finally accepted that it is my fate to use a computer as the point of departure. Sounds easy enough, aye? But what does it really say about me?
Whatever I want it to! After a mere hour I have managed to write a 300 word speech. Based on a typical delivery rate of 125 words per minute, this should put me smack dab in the middle of the 2 to 3 minute goal.
Perhaps your wondering about my computer. Perhaps not. Regardless, the computer I will be presenting is one that I designed and built about 15 years ago. Want to see a picture?
Thursday, August 30, 2007
The temperature has dropped in the 80's and a little rain has come though. It almost feels like Fall. The new improved weather certainly makes for a pleasant ride in the Miata.
Two weeks of speech and I still haven't had to make a speech. Only one more week. I am supposed to select an object to present to the class and then make a speech about the object and how it relates to myself. G recommended I take a computer to class. After some thought I decided that I could take a computer than I designed and built back in '93. What to say though?
Any other ideas?
Two weeks of speech and I still haven't had to make a speech. Only one more week. I am supposed to select an object to present to the class and then make a speech about the object and how it relates to myself. G recommended I take a computer to class. After some thought I decided that I could take a computer than I designed and built back in '93. What to say though?
Any other ideas?
Monday, August 27, 2007
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Quiescent Summer
This weekend I accomplished nothing. That seems to be the story of my
entire summer as well. The truck has laid dormant for for several
weeks. I spent some time studying but that knowledge is fleeting.
Even the blog remains untouched for days and weeks at a time. Perhaps
it will cool off soon and I will get busy again.
entire summer as well. The truck has laid dormant for for several
weeks. I spent some time studying but that knowledge is fleeting.
Even the blog remains untouched for days and weeks at a time. Perhaps
it will cool off soon and I will get busy again.
And in other news, today Jordan and I played chess again. The game
ended in a draw. I guess I will need to try harder in the future.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Tonight was my first class of the Fall semister. Tonights class was speech. It has the potential of being an interesting class. Three speechs are required, a total of 15 minutes between them. Time to start thinking about topics.
The drive home was pleasant. Top down, eighties degrees, moon light, and the Atari's version of "Boys Of Summer" playing on the cd.
The drive home was pleasant. Top down, eighties degrees, moon light, and the Atari's version of "Boys Of Summer" playing on the cd.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Saturday, August 18, 2007
It has been smokin' hot lately. We have had a streak of triple digit days. And a deficit of rain on top of that.
Yesterday evening we had a rapid drop in temperature. In a relatively short interval we had a storm roll in and the temperature dropped from 3-digits down to about 70 degrees. Lots and thunder, lightning, and buckets and buckets of rain.
A little bit earlier in the evening when I arrived home, one of my neighbors crossed the street to let me know that the water conservation level had changed to level 3. Level 3 means even numbered houses like ours are only allowed to use outside water between 12 AM and 4 AM on Monday and Wednesday nights. No other outside water use of any kind allowed. Good thing my neighbor told me. The new level was announced on the news and in the paper. I don't watch the news nor read the paper.
G had to work today and the kids spent the night at Grandmas. What to do, what to do? I decided to take the turnip truck out. My local okra pusher lives just a few miles away. This was my destination. After purchasing a couple of pounds ok okra, I gave Mr. Lacey a ride around the block. He loved it.
On my way back home I stopped by Joe G's. This gentlemen lives a few miles away. He has a 1932 Ford parked in his garage. I have blogged about him at some point in the past. He also enjoyed giving the truck a once over.
And on my way home, again, I stopped by Tammy's to let her family see the truck. I offered to let Ken drive it and he drove the kids around the block.
And then I actually went home.
The truck now has more dirt on it than it has probably had in the last 15 years. During my journey I drove though a patch of gravel. The gravel dust stuck to everything. Nice white dust on glossy black paint. Great!
You may be wondering how the GMC is coming along. I have not even glanced in its direction in a couple of weeks. For a few weeks I was busy with school and right now it is just too hot. It is time to do more sand blasting and I just can't imagine trying to do that with the current temp and humidity.
Yesterday evening we had a rapid drop in temperature. In a relatively short interval we had a storm roll in and the temperature dropped from 3-digits down to about 70 degrees. Lots and thunder, lightning, and buckets and buckets of rain.
A little bit earlier in the evening when I arrived home, one of my neighbors crossed the street to let me know that the water conservation level had changed to level 3. Level 3 means even numbered houses like ours are only allowed to use outside water between 12 AM and 4 AM on Monday and Wednesday nights. No other outside water use of any kind allowed. Good thing my neighbor told me. The new level was announced on the news and in the paper. I don't watch the news nor read the paper.
G had to work today and the kids spent the night at Grandmas. What to do, what to do? I decided to take the turnip truck out. My local okra pusher lives just a few miles away. This was my destination. After purchasing a couple of pounds ok okra, I gave Mr. Lacey a ride around the block. He loved it.
On my way back home I stopped by Joe G's. This gentlemen lives a few miles away. He has a 1932 Ford parked in his garage. I have blogged about him at some point in the past. He also enjoyed giving the truck a once over.
And on my way home, again, I stopped by Tammy's to let her family see the truck. I offered to let Ken drive it and he drove the kids around the block.
And then I actually went home.
The truck now has more dirt on it than it has probably had in the last 15 years. During my journey I drove though a patch of gravel. The gravel dust stuck to everything. Nice white dust on glossy black paint. Great!
You may be wondering how the GMC is coming along. I have not even glanced in its direction in a couple of weeks. For a few weeks I was busy with school and right now it is just too hot. It is time to do more sand blasting and I just can't imagine trying to do that with the current temp and humidity.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Time Keeps On Slipping
Another week has slipped by. I feel like I have been pretty busy, but
looking back on the last week, I can't recall what has kept me so
busy. Ah yes, now I remember. I had that silly Abstract Modern
Algebra final. I put several hours a day into that for most of the
week. Good news I passed.
looking back on the last week, I can't recall what has kept me so
busy. Ah yes, now I remember. I had that silly Abstract Modern
Algebra final. I put several hours a day into that for most of the
week. Good news I passed.
This weekend I put two 50 lb bags of clay back into the bed of the
'25. With that payload in place, the truck can now be removed from
the garage without any help. Good times.
I also got around to scheduling the next camping trip. October seems
so far away.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
MCMXXV
Over the past week or so in my free time, I have been fabricating some new shackles for the rear leaf springs of the old truck. The original shackles are quite long and I hoped that a shorter shackle would allow the truck to enter/exit the garage without first loading up the rear end with Chevrolet enthusiasts.
Today I finished up the 4th shackle and installed them. It definitely dropped the rear end of the truck. Unfortunately it was still not enough. On the positive side, it no longer takes three folks sitting in the bed to get under through the threshold. Now it requires only a single medium sized passenger who weights about 64 lbs. Knowing this, I feel certain I can get the truck out of the garage now by myself with the assistance of 2 fifty pound bags of clay.
The original shackles along with the bolts have been placed in the magic box of original parts. The parts will stay with the truck so that any future owner can restore the truck to the original ride height.
Jordan and I took the truck out for a spin today. After we returned home, we drove up and down the driveway a few times. He was practicing using the brake and shifting gears, first to reverse, and then reverse back to first. Next time he may even get to press the gas pedal.
Over the past week or so in my free time, I have been fabricating some new shackles for the rear leaf springs of the old truck. The original shackles are quite long and I hoped that a shorter shackle would allow the truck to enter/exit the garage without first loading up the rear end with Chevrolet enthusiasts.
Today I finished up the 4th shackle and installed them. It definitely dropped the rear end of the truck. Unfortunately it was still not enough. On the positive side, it no longer takes three folks sitting in the bed to get under through the threshold. Now it requires only a single medium sized passenger who weights about 64 lbs. Knowing this, I feel certain I can get the truck out of the garage now by myself with the assistance of 2 fifty pound bags of clay.
The original shackles along with the bolts have been placed in the magic box of original parts. The parts will stay with the truck so that any future owner can restore the truck to the original ride height.
Jordan and I took the truck out for a spin today. After we returned home, we drove up and down the driveway a few times. He was practicing using the brake and shifting gears, first to reverse, and then reverse back to first. Next time he may even get to press the gas pedal.
Procrastination Versus Modern Abstract Algebra
This weekend has been quite a competition between doing some homework and procrastinating against it. Early Saturday I decided to quit pretending and just admit I wasn't going to do it. This certainly made Saturday more enjoyable.
Sunday morning I decided to get right to it when we got home. Two or three distractions later I did. A mere 4.5 hours later I was done. Whew!
This Thursday is the final. I will try to put in three hours of prep time between now and then. All the effort should be worth it in the end. I simply need to pass the final to get an A in the class. Cross your fingers and toes. I already have mine crossed.
This weekend has been quite a competition between doing some homework and procrastinating against it. Early Saturday I decided to quit pretending and just admit I wasn't going to do it. This certainly made Saturday more enjoyable.
Sunday morning I decided to get right to it when we got home. Two or three distractions later I did. A mere 4.5 hours later I was done. Whew!
This Thursday is the final. I will try to put in three hours of prep time between now and then. All the effort should be worth it in the end. I simply need to pass the final to get an A in the class. Cross your fingers and toes. I already have mine crossed.
Monday, July 30, 2007
The Quest For Perfect Okra (The Never Ending Saga)
Most days when I take my usual route to work, I pass a house which is adjacent to lot which contains a fairly large garden. A garden is so large in fact, that only a retired gentleman would attempt such an undertaking.
The gardener/farmer often has a sign in his yard indicating what veggies he has for sale. Last week okra was added to the list of tomatoes, squash, and peas. As I drove past Friday morning I resolved by swing back by on my way home to acquire some okra.
Friday evening I did stop by. Unfortunately no okra was available. I was informed by the gardener that he cut the okra every morning and that it went pretty fast. I thanked the gardener for his time and promised to return soon, except much earlier in the day. Today I stopped in again. This time at 6:50 AM. The gardener was about half way down one of many rows of okra when he spotted me. He returned to the driveway with a 5 gallon bucket full. He remembered me from Friday and asked if I had returned for some okra. I purchased two pounds which was barely a dent in his bucket. I also bought a greenish-red tomato.
This evening I once again attempted to fry me a mess of okra. And make some corn bread. The cornbread turned out bad. Really bad. The okra was good, but it could have used a little salt. (This weekend we discovered that we were out of salt which probably isn't a bad thing.)
I decided last time I fried of a batch that I needed to use less oil, less heat, and less meal. And so I did. For the two pounds of okra I used 3 heaping tablespoons of cornmeal (mix). This turned out to be just about right. Basically I put the okra in a bowl, poured the meal of the top and agitated it until all the okra was evenly coated. There was no excess meal remaining in the bottom of the bowl.
As for the oil, I put just enough in the skillet to cover the bottom. Barely. I had previously decided that frying okra was not really about frying okra, but rather about cooking out the moisture. With this reasoning, perhaps false reasoning, I decided that the cooking process should be more similar to sauteing.
Wikipedia defines sauteing as a method of cooking food that uses a small amount of oil (or fat) in a shallow pan over relatively high heat. It is my opinion that high heat is not necessary, but that medium heat should suffice. This may be flawed thinking. My reasoning was that turning up the temp would only create a mess as the oil would splatter everywhere. But wait, I didn't have much oil in the pan so perhaps this wouldn't be a problem. Regardless, I stuck with the medium heat.
The okra took quite a while to cook. Perhaps because the heat was too low. Perhaps because I had too much in the skillet. Perhaps both. Next time I will attempt to reconcile this situation.
One other thing to note. I think I 'stirred' the okra to often. This is my opinion because more seeds seemed to be liberated from the pods than I had noticed in the past.
The final result I would call a success. It looked right. It was not burnt. It was not oily. It was not to mealy. It could have used a little salt though. And perhaps some fresh corn meal.
Ssh! Don't tell, I cut up a green tomato and a three pieces of pickled okra and added then to the batch. A little something something.
To be continued.
Most days when I take my usual route to work, I pass a house which is adjacent to lot which contains a fairly large garden. A garden is so large in fact, that only a retired gentleman would attempt such an undertaking.
The gardener/farmer often has a sign in his yard indicating what veggies he has for sale. Last week okra was added to the list of tomatoes, squash, and peas. As I drove past Friday morning I resolved by swing back by on my way home to acquire some okra.
Friday evening I did stop by. Unfortunately no okra was available. I was informed by the gardener that he cut the okra every morning and that it went pretty fast. I thanked the gardener for his time and promised to return soon, except much earlier in the day. Today I stopped in again. This time at 6:50 AM. The gardener was about half way down one of many rows of okra when he spotted me. He returned to the driveway with a 5 gallon bucket full. He remembered me from Friday and asked if I had returned for some okra. I purchased two pounds which was barely a dent in his bucket. I also bought a greenish-red tomato.
This evening I once again attempted to fry me a mess of okra. And make some corn bread. The cornbread turned out bad. Really bad. The okra was good, but it could have used a little salt. (This weekend we discovered that we were out of salt which probably isn't a bad thing.)
I decided last time I fried of a batch that I needed to use less oil, less heat, and less meal. And so I did. For the two pounds of okra I used 3 heaping tablespoons of cornmeal (mix). This turned out to be just about right. Basically I put the okra in a bowl, poured the meal of the top and agitated it until all the okra was evenly coated. There was no excess meal remaining in the bottom of the bowl.
As for the oil, I put just enough in the skillet to cover the bottom. Barely. I had previously decided that frying okra was not really about frying okra, but rather about cooking out the moisture. With this reasoning, perhaps false reasoning, I decided that the cooking process should be more similar to sauteing.
Wikipedia defines sauteing as a method of cooking food that uses a small amount of oil (or fat) in a shallow pan over relatively high heat. It is my opinion that high heat is not necessary, but that medium heat should suffice. This may be flawed thinking. My reasoning was that turning up the temp would only create a mess as the oil would splatter everywhere. But wait, I didn't have much oil in the pan so perhaps this wouldn't be a problem. Regardless, I stuck with the medium heat.
The okra took quite a while to cook. Perhaps because the heat was too low. Perhaps because I had too much in the skillet. Perhaps both. Next time I will attempt to reconcile this situation.
One other thing to note. I think I 'stirred' the okra to often. This is my opinion because more seeds seemed to be liberated from the pods than I had noticed in the past.
The final result I would call a success. It looked right. It was not burnt. It was not oily. It was not to mealy. It could have used a little salt though. And perhaps some fresh corn meal.
Ssh! Don't tell, I cut up a green tomato and a three pieces of pickled okra and added then to the batch. A little something something.
To be continued.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Friday, July 20, 2007
Live From The Living Room
...of Terry's apartment that is. We travelled to Georgia to visit my seester today. The trip to the water park was rained out. :) The kids swam in the pool at the hotel (while I napped) and then we went to a movie. We saw Nancy Drew. Woo hooo!
Tomorrow we are going to the aquarium. Did I misspell that? Did I misspell misspell?
Later...
...of Terry's apartment that is. We travelled to Georgia to visit my seester today. The trip to the water park was rained out. :) The kids swam in the pool at the hotel (while I napped) and then we went to a movie. We saw Nancy Drew. Woo hooo!
Tomorrow we are going to the aquarium. Did I misspell that? Did I misspell misspell?
Later...
Monday, July 16, 2007
It was a fine weekend
Saturday I took the turnip truck to the the Greater Tennessee Valley Antique Car Show. A stunning 715 vehicles were registered at this show.
My trip to and from the show was unique. I left the house shortly before 7:00 AM. A quick stop to top off the tank and I was on the road. The trip was 25 miles and it took about an hour. I route was mainly 2 lane roads but I did have to get on a 4 lane highway for a couple of miles. No problems though.
Two of my neighbors decided to accompany me to the show. Brian drove his '66 Mustang and Guy his '72 Chevrolet Pickup. We brought a tent, some chairs, and a couple of coolers. The shade was a nice relief from the warm sun.
The truck got a lot of attention. A whole lot of attention. Most were amazed not by its age (1925), but rather by the fact that it was a Chevrolet. It was not the oldest vehicle there. A gentleman from nearby Athens, AL had trailered in a 1925 American LaFrance fire truck.
Great Show.
Bug'n in July 2007
This weekend was also the VW show in Decatur. It was a two day show so I was able to go to it on Sunday. I took quite a few pictures and learned a lot about the little VWs. The cars are fascinating. A good mixture of vintage and newer, original and customized. The entire show is held under a large pavilion which is nice and cool even in July. This is my favorite show to visit. And there is definitely a Beetle in my future, though probably a very distance future. (I have to finish the 1972 GMC first.)
GMC Update
Sunday afternoon I removed a few more rivets from the new/old LWB frame. Only ten more to go and I will have everything off the frame that I need. I can then start the sand blasting process on the rear suspension componenents.
I will eventually need to remove the leaf spring brackets from the old/old SWB frame. This will be a minimum of another 16 rivets I will defer this task for a while.
This weekend was very busy. I think I need another weekend to recover.
Saturday I took the turnip truck to the the Greater Tennessee Valley Antique Car Show. A stunning 715 vehicles were registered at this show.
My trip to and from the show was unique. I left the house shortly before 7:00 AM. A quick stop to top off the tank and I was on the road. The trip was 25 miles and it took about an hour. I route was mainly 2 lane roads but I did have to get on a 4 lane highway for a couple of miles. No problems though.
Two of my neighbors decided to accompany me to the show. Brian drove his '66 Mustang and Guy his '72 Chevrolet Pickup. We brought a tent, some chairs, and a couple of coolers. The shade was a nice relief from the warm sun.
The truck got a lot of attention. A whole lot of attention. Most were amazed not by its age (1925), but rather by the fact that it was a Chevrolet. It was not the oldest vehicle there. A gentleman from nearby Athens, AL had trailered in a 1925 American LaFrance fire truck.
Great Show.
Bug'n in July 2007
This weekend was also the VW show in Decatur. It was a two day show so I was able to go to it on Sunday. I took quite a few pictures and learned a lot about the little VWs. The cars are fascinating. A good mixture of vintage and newer, original and customized. The entire show is held under a large pavilion which is nice and cool even in July. This is my favorite show to visit. And there is definitely a Beetle in my future, though probably a very distance future. (I have to finish the 1972 GMC first.)
GMC Update
Sunday afternoon I removed a few more rivets from the new/old LWB frame. Only ten more to go and I will have everything off the frame that I need. I can then start the sand blasting process on the rear suspension componenents.
I will eventually need to remove the leaf spring brackets from the old/old SWB frame. This will be a minimum of another 16 rivets I will defer this task for a while.
This weekend was very busy. I think I need another weekend to recover.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Monday Tuesday Wednesday
The last three days have followed a common recipe for me.
0) A full day of debugging embedded wireless protocol software.
1) A couple of hours in the driveway with a grinder and a power drill removing rivets from an old truck frame.
2) A few more hours doing home work for that crazy abstract modern algebra class.
(I am pleased to be done before 12:00 tonight!)
We have decided that there is no practical application for abstract algebra. None whatsoever! I would go futher and claim there is no use for it at all, but that would be a lie. As far as I can tell though, its only real use is as a prerequisite for another mathematics class needed only by some crazy fool attempting to fetch a masters or phd in mathematics. Not me though.
The dissassembly of the new old new truck frame is coming along nicely. I say new because it recently arrived here so it is new to me. I say old because it is 35 years old and most vehicles won't last that long. And I say new because relative to the '25 pickup, the '72 is still a spring chicken.
The last three days have followed a common recipe for me.
0) A full day of debugging embedded wireless protocol software.
1) A couple of hours in the driveway with a grinder and a power drill removing rivets from an old truck frame.
2) A few more hours doing home work for that crazy abstract modern algebra class.
(I am pleased to be done before 12:00 tonight!)
We have decided that there is no practical application for abstract algebra. None whatsoever! I would go futher and claim there is no use for it at all, but that would be a lie. As far as I can tell though, its only real use is as a prerequisite for another mathematics class needed only by some crazy fool attempting to fetch a masters or phd in mathematics. Not me though.
The dissassembly of the new old new truck frame is coming along nicely. I say new because it recently arrived here so it is new to me. I say old because it is 35 years old and most vehicles won't last that long. And I say new because relative to the '25 pickup, the '72 is still a spring chicken.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
And That Is A Good Thing!
It has been a long weekend and that is a good thing.
This afternoon I didn't get back to the rivets. And that's OK.
This evening I took several trips around the block in the turnip truck so that I could give everyone a ride. Some neighbors came over to look at the truck. I ended up giving them each a ride and then I took a truck load of kids for a round. I let the adults drive. They seem to enjoy it after getting over their initial concern that perhaps the truck is fragile! If it were fragile it would not have lasted since 1925.
Weekend Getaway
Ginger and I made a quick weekend getaway to Nashville Friday & Saturday. We stayed in a hotel near the Opryland Hotel. We enjoyed a nice dinner there and took and indoor boat ride. The Opryland Hotel is an amazing place to visit.
Saturday we visited the Lane Motor Museum. Ginger found a few cars she wanted to bring home. Unfortunately we were not in the Tahoe so we didn't have room for them in the back. My favorites were the Fiats (especially the Topolino [think Italian Volkswagen Beetle]), the Austin Minis, the Morris Minis, the MGs. Here is a complete list of their cars. Take a look at the Honda S600 and S800 , and the Datsun 1200. (There is a Datsun 1200 in a junk yard near here.) These are definitely some cool convertibles.
Saturday after returning home I removed 22 rivets from the pieces of rusty metal. No small task. I believe there are another 28 to go. Maybe Sunday.
Saturday was 07/07/07 in case you missed. Were you feeling lucky?
The 4th
I started the 4th with an early more trip to Pitts Salvage yard in Athens. I had arranged to purchase the back half of the frame of a1972 Chevrolet Pickup LWB complete with all the suspension, brackets, and the 12 GM differential. I got a really good price on it too!
I borrowed Lott's trailer and Ginger's Tahoe. David M. rode shotgun. The entire trip took about 2.5 hours. Once home I unloaded the big piece of rusty metal and began planning how to disassemble it as quickly as possible. I am sure my neighbors love looking at it.
I did manage to get the differential, trailing arms, and coil springs separated from the frame and stowed safely in the shop.
I still need to remove 50+ rivets to get all the brackets I want removed from the frame and the frame disassembled. That will be no small task. In the past it has take about 10 minute per rivet. I will need to find a quicker method or this could take forever.
In the Presence of Greatness
We celebrated the 4th by attending a party at the White House. The kids enjoyed playing in the pool and the food was great. BBQ chicken, pork, and ribs. Mmmmm. And fresh corn from the garden.
It has been a long weekend and that is a good thing.
This afternoon I didn't get back to the rivets. And that's OK.
This evening I took several trips around the block in the turnip truck so that I could give everyone a ride. Some neighbors came over to look at the truck. I ended up giving them each a ride and then I took a truck load of kids for a round. I let the adults drive. They seem to enjoy it after getting over their initial concern that perhaps the truck is fragile! If it were fragile it would not have lasted since 1925.
Weekend Getaway
Ginger and I made a quick weekend getaway to Nashville Friday & Saturday. We stayed in a hotel near the Opryland Hotel. We enjoyed a nice dinner there and took and indoor boat ride. The Opryland Hotel is an amazing place to visit.
Saturday we visited the Lane Motor Museum. Ginger found a few cars she wanted to bring home. Unfortunately we were not in the Tahoe so we didn't have room for them in the back. My favorites were the Fiats (especially the Topolino [think Italian Volkswagen Beetle]), the Austin Minis, the Morris Minis, the MGs. Here is a complete list of their cars. Take a look at the Honda S600 and S800 , and the Datsun 1200. (There is a Datsun 1200 in a junk yard near here.) These are definitely some cool convertibles.
Saturday after returning home I removed 22 rivets from the pieces of rusty metal. No small task. I believe there are another 28 to go. Maybe Sunday.
Saturday was 07/07/07 in case you missed. Were you feeling lucky?
The 4th
I started the 4th with an early more trip to Pitts Salvage yard in Athens. I had arranged to purchase the back half of the frame of a1972 Chevrolet Pickup LWB complete with all the suspension, brackets, and the 12 GM differential. I got a really good price on it too!
I borrowed Lott's trailer and Ginger's Tahoe. David M. rode shotgun. The entire trip took about 2.5 hours. Once home I unloaded the big piece of rusty metal and began planning how to disassemble it as quickly as possible. I am sure my neighbors love looking at it.
I did manage to get the differential, trailing arms, and coil springs separated from the frame and stowed safely in the shop.
I still need to remove 50+ rivets to get all the brackets I want removed from the frame and the frame disassembled. That will be no small task. In the past it has take about 10 minute per rivet. I will need to find a quicker method or this could take forever.
In the Presence of Greatness
We celebrated the 4th by attending a party at the White House. The kids enjoyed playing in the pool and the food was great. BBQ chicken, pork, and ribs. Mmmmm. And fresh corn from the garden.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Rusty Parts Is Rusty Parts
Operation trailing arms is now underway. I spoke with the gentleman at the automobile salvage yard today. He and I came to an agreement on a price for the rear differential, the trailing arms, and all the necessary brackets to attach said parts to a frame. I have also arranged to borrow my neighbors trailer in the morning. And Ginger's Tahoe.
Two friends have expressed an interest in riding along to the junk yard in the morning. The more the merrier. I expect they will both back out in the morning. The 4th of July can be a very busy day.
The junk yard is an amazing place if your interested in automobiles. In some ways it is very sad place. Rows and rows of deteriorating vehicles. It can also be an exciting place. Rows and rows of old trucks and cars. Every make an model you can imagine. For a truck guy there is nothing like discovering an old forgotten Chevrolet Apache in the middle of nowhere. A Mazda guy would be amazed at all the old RX-7s. Another nearby yard has a half dozen VW bugs: A couple of early 60's models with metal dashboards and 6 volt electrical systems, a super bug with a sun roof, etc. And yet another yard has an old '50s Nash Metropolitan (in pretty good shape), a '50's Studebaker Commando (in not so good shape), and the rusty skeleton of a early '50s Ford pickup. Each junk yard is so very unique, almost like a car show, but no one remembered to wash and wax the vehicles. Don't bother going to search for an old muscle car though. Those were all crushed years ago.
Operation trailing arms is now underway. I spoke with the gentleman at the automobile salvage yard today. He and I came to an agreement on a price for the rear differential, the trailing arms, and all the necessary brackets to attach said parts to a frame. I have also arranged to borrow my neighbors trailer in the morning. And Ginger's Tahoe.
Two friends have expressed an interest in riding along to the junk yard in the morning. The more the merrier. I expect they will both back out in the morning. The 4th of July can be a very busy day.
The junk yard is an amazing place if your interested in automobiles. In some ways it is very sad place. Rows and rows of deteriorating vehicles. It can also be an exciting place. Rows and rows of old trucks and cars. Every make an model you can imagine. For a truck guy there is nothing like discovering an old forgotten Chevrolet Apache in the middle of nowhere. A Mazda guy would be amazed at all the old RX-7s. Another nearby yard has a half dozen VW bugs: A couple of early 60's models with metal dashboards and 6 volt electrical systems, a super bug with a sun roof, etc. And yet another yard has an old '50s Nash Metropolitan (in pretty good shape), a '50's Studebaker Commando (in not so good shape), and the rusty skeleton of a early '50s Ford pickup. Each junk yard is so very unique, almost like a car show, but no one remembered to wash and wax the vehicles. Don't bother going to search for an old muscle car though. Those were all crushed years ago.
Two Bits
Jordans remaining quarter requirements:
1999
Pennsylvania - P
New Jersy - D
Connecticut - D
2000
New Hampshire - D
2001
2002
Ohio - D
2003
Illinois - P
Alabama - D
Maine - D
Missouri - D
2004
Michigan - D
Florida - D
Iowa - D
Wisconson - D
2005
Oregon - D
West Virginia - D
2006
Nevada - D
Nebraska - D
North Dakota - D
2007
Washington - D
Idaho - P
Idaho - D
Wyoming - P
Wyoming - D
Utah - P
Utah - D
2008
Oklahoma - P
Oklahoma - D
New Mexico - P
New Mexico - D
Arizona - P
Arizona - D
Alaska - P
Alaska - D
Hawaii - P
Hawaii - D
Jordans remaining quarter requirements:
1999
Pennsylvania - P
New Jersy - D
Connecticut - D
2000
New Hampshire - D
2001
2002
Ohio - D
2003
Illinois - P
Alabama - D
Maine - D
Missouri - D
2004
Michigan - D
Florida - D
Iowa - D
Wisconson - D
2005
Oregon - D
West Virginia - D
2006
Nevada - D
Nebraska - D
North Dakota - D
2007
Washington - D
Idaho - P
Idaho - D
Wyoming - P
Wyoming - D
Utah - P
Utah - D
2008
Oklahoma - P
Oklahoma - D
New Mexico - P
New Mexico - D
Arizona - P
Arizona - D
Alaska - P
Alaska - D
Hawaii - P
Hawaii - D
Quarters
I have updated my quarter list. Thanks Terry.
Below is a list of the state quarters that Princess Bri still needs. She is not concerned about the mint marks.
1999
2000
2001
2002
Mississippi
2003
Illinois
2004
Michigan
2005
California
2006
2007
Idaho
Wyoming
Utah
2008
Oklahoma
New Mexico
Arizona
Alaska
Hawaii
I have updated my quarter list. Thanks Terry.
Below is a list of the state quarters that Princess Bri still needs. She is not concerned about the mint marks.
1999
2000
2001
2002
Mississippi
2003
Illinois
2004
Michigan
2005
California
2006
2007
Idaho
Wyoming
Utah
2008
Oklahoma
New Mexico
Arizona
Alaska
Hawaii
Monday, July 02, 2007
Leaf Springs, Coils, and Trailing Arms
I made a quick trip to the salvage yard last week to look for a replacement differential. I found several correct for my year model of truck, but they are all intended for trailing arm suspension trucks. Mine has leaf springs. I could convert the brackets from trailing arms to leaf springs but it would be some work.
Last year I started thing about swapping the truck from leaf springs to trailing arms/coil suspension but decided against it for a couple of reason. It would take extra time/effort. The major benefit of making the swap is that the truck will ride smoother, more like a car than a truck.
Now with the differential housing needing to be replaced, I revisited the idea of swapping to the coil suspension. It definitely makes more sense now. Perhaps that is because it is what I wanted to do in the first place. Or perhaps it is because the parts are readily available for a coil truck but not for a leaf truck.
So now the plan is to pick up an old rusty differential housing and some trailing arms at the salvage yard. It's like Christmas in July.
I made a quick trip to the salvage yard last week to look for a replacement differential. I found several correct for my year model of truck, but they are all intended for trailing arm suspension trucks. Mine has leaf springs. I could convert the brackets from trailing arms to leaf springs but it would be some work.
Last year I started thing about swapping the truck from leaf springs to trailing arms/coil suspension but decided against it for a couple of reason. It would take extra time/effort. The major benefit of making the swap is that the truck will ride smoother, more like a car than a truck.
Now with the differential housing needing to be replaced, I revisited the idea of swapping to the coil suspension. It definitely makes more sense now. Perhaps that is because it is what I wanted to do in the first place. Or perhaps it is because the parts are readily available for a coil truck but not for a leaf truck.
So now the plan is to pick up an old rusty differential housing and some trailing arms at the salvage yard. It's like Christmas in July.
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