Just about Ready for the Frame

Well...been awhile since I last posted, but I haven't been out working in the heat much and haven't had the time.  So today I spent the cooler hours of the morning outside working on the Cruiser...getting it ready for frame rust removal.  This means removing the remaining things attached to it...which actually went a lot better than I expected.  Overall the frame looks pretty good...straight, no severe rust, no cracks, or any buckles...so I think I am solid to go with what I have.  Basically I plan on a 5 step process to restore the frame.  The first one is to sand it down...remove the surface flake and get it to not bare metal but a better state than what it is in.  From there I am going to use the Eastwood chemical method...using PRE...followed by rust converter, rust incapsulator and finally their frame primer and paint.  I've read a great reviews of the process and overall its not too costly. 

So today I started working getting to the point I can sand the frame.  I managed to get the exhaust system dropped out.  Its amazing any exhaust was actually making it to the tailpipe...where it connected to the manifold was barely held on and didn't fit properly.  The remaining exhaust system had a few holes rusted into it.  I couldn't tell if it was the original or not...but wouldn't be surprised.  I think the main issue was the piece from the manifold to the existing pipe...it was poorly fabricated...and I'm sure will be tough to figure out when I put a new exhaust system on.  Next care the shocks...surprisingly easy to remove.  The hardest part was removing the cotter pins holding the nuts on...I managed to get them out and the nuts holding the shocks in came right off.  Next was the brake lines.  There are about 100 pieces of separate brake line...most are short 6 inch pieces.  I don't know if somebody did this themselves or if they are original.  I'm debating whether or not to replace all existing line...probably for the better if I do.  Some pieces will have to be replaced no matter what since the flex lines will be too short with the lift kit.  Seeing that I am going to be replace the suspension I decided I should start loosening that up as well.  I managed to get all the shackles and hangers loose so hopefully when it comes time to drop the axles out it will be very easy. 

Next up will be dropping the steering linkages out.  I started soaking the nuts and have a few removed but will have to do some research to see how to take out the rod ends...they are rusted in pretty good.  They just may need to soak for a bit.  I'm thinking of replacing everything up there...all the rods are severely rusted...and the ends are cheap enough.  I can't believe the stabilizer is the original Toyota one from the factor...although the grease oozing out should have been a clue.  Once I get the steering out...I'll be starting on sanding the frame down.  I actually started this a couple weeks back...but I'll really be able to go at it now.  Hopefully I'll be able to get some good work done on it over the next few weeks...although the hot garage will probably limit my work...we'll see!