Drums
Finally! Calipers are in!
I painted them, and installed them with shiny new brake pads, brake hoses, and cross over lines.
The brake drums in the rear are in good shape, and the brake shoes weren't run down enough to warrant replacing. WIN WIN WIN I just needed to clean them up and paint them as well.
We were also able to get under the middle of the car and run the rear brake lines from the front. With rust falling in my eyes, safety glasses are now high on the purchase list.
So here we are, day 1! Car was all hosed off and wiped down by my 6 year old godson. He's a huge gear head. From what I thought was rust and grossness from the previous pictures, just happened to be caked on WD-40 that my dad has soaked the car in to prevent rusting. Genius! But after the bath, the paint still shines pretty well, thought it will be stripped and redone.
We did notice some rotting areas in the lower side panels and fender that will be patched later. Also, small areas of the trunk and hood have small rusted holes. It has been noted.
After taking a look inside, everything seems to be in good shape to keep. So fingers crossed that the interior will not see much work.
For safety sake, I'll be replacing the entire set of brake lines and hoses. Though it looks like creatures are living in the calipers, my cousin says they are in decent shape and the rotors are also very good. I will be ordering tie rods, brake lines, brake pads, and brake shoes. (This car came standard with front disc brakes and rear drums)
So, brakes is what we will tackle first. This also means replacing the master cylinder. My dad had purchased a new one, so this old one will be replaced. A good thing too, since you can definitely see the goo left behind when we removed it, and some is even in the brake booster connection.
I learned a lot today about what everything is in the engine bay. Engine, where the oil goes, the transmission fluid, what's a brake booster?, the radiator...so many things.
I know today was only assessment day, but to feel a little more accomplished, I had to remove the master cylinder, and head to Advanced Auto. Advanced Auto comes highly recommended from dad for service and quality, and their discount program. The only thing in stock at the store today was a new engine filter, and some Mechanix Gloves. I felt much better with progress after I installed the new filter. Doesn't it look great?!
Also, the Mechanix Gloves were a must have! A lot of close spaces in there, and I was already getting scrapes and cuts on my hands. (My hands are my money makers!) I did avoid the bright pink ones at Advanced Auto, so as to be taken seriously. Even though, as I ordered parts, I was asked twice, "are you sure?".
Overall, an exciting day, and looking forward to getting started!
