1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Hi All! My name is Justin and I live in Bayfield, CO. I'm finally making some good progress on my project and figured it's time to start my build thread.

It's a 1966 Chevrolet P10 chassis with an aluminum Grumman Olsonette body. The wheelbase is only 102" and was originally powered a 250 straight six. Just going to make a goofy hot rod to haul the dogs around in. Would also like to set it up as a tow rig to haul my turbo 5.3 Chevelle to the track.

Plans are to drop in a stock 5.3, TH400, Re gear the 12 bolt, blast and powder coat the frame, air bag setup, cupped lower control arms, drop spindles, front disc brakes, 2600 bags up front, c notch, 2500 bags in the rear, hidden hitch, and somehow finding the patience to polish the body out.

The day I made the deal for $400 lol.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psxrqonh1p.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psipxk2gft.jpg

Paint Stripped

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psubdkjvi5.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...ps5nr0cdlo.jpg

Lift Off!

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psk5dvrebb.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...pslqrmcqzx.jpg

An el cheapo Craftsman box I sanded down, stickered up, and patina'd with a rust solution. Will use this to haul tools to the track.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...pslf4mugfj.jpg

Cupped lower control arms.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psbreetekt.jpg

A set of seats I scored at the Good Guys show in Phoenix last month. Also was able to make it to Dino's Git Down. Super cool event for sure!

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...pscygyf5jq.jpg

This will be my first complete build from top to bottom. Never removed a body from chassis, done complete interior, new wiring harness, air bags, etc.
Should be a fun learning process. Looking forward to giving back in some small way to the forum, albeit not exactly a c10.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

What was the process you used to strip the paint?

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

That stock fuel tank would be sought after by the pickup guys who want one between the rails as to eliminate the stock in cab version.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

I used paint stripper from the hardware store and my pressure washer. I avoided using any sort of scraper as I didn't want to scratch the aluminum and cause myself more work during the polishing stage.

Aerotruk, any idea what that tank would have been from in '66? Was thinking at first it may have been a blazer tank, but this would have preceded that body style. Am thinking about replacing it with the LMC rear mount tank.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Sounds like a cool build, I'm subscribed. You may want to check this out http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=613242

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Aerotruk, any idea what that tank would have been from in '66? Was thinking at first it may have been a blazer tank, but this would have preceded that body style. Am thinking about replacing it with the LMC rear mount tank.[/QUOTE]


Maybe a 60-66 suburban or panel

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

cool stuff!! i bet your dogs will like it.
a friend of mine built real nice living quarters in the back of one.
he mated the top of a vista cruiser station wagon on top, he said he got the idea when he saw one with the top of a suburban.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Wow, thats a cool project for sure....
And $400,,,,,,, deal of the century.
Im in.
Sub'd

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Wow, you stole that for $400......that body looks to be in very good condition. This will make a cool rig for sure. That gas tank looks to be the same tank used in the Suburbans and panels. It is virtually identical to the '69-'72 Blazer tank but with an indentation for the spare tire.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

The frame looks similar to a C10.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

I don't know what they did for frames prior to Blazers, but I believe 2wd Blazer frames were used once those came out. It could be they had their own frames built, since these have been a factory offering for so many years. The Blazer frame thing was likely for cost savings. But I'm pretty sure these have a much shorter WB than a SWB pickup.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Great score! Looking forward to see how you finish this one out...

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

I'm thinking that Grumman Olson just bought standard production short or long wheelbase frames or even a Suburban frame since it is already setup for the gas tank and shortened them to the 102" WB. You can see where the rear of the frame was extended, but I can't quite see a indication of where the frame may have been shortened. The OP may be able to see something.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Great deal on the purchase.


Always interested in why people sell stuff at that sort of price.


I will be watching this build as well, as it is certainly another Unicorn on here.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Thanks! That's a great thread I've read through it several times now. I hope I can get mine to polish out as well as his.

Sounds neat!

Thanks! I tried telling my girl that and she wasn't a believer. :waah:

Thanks Captainfab! It's in pretty good shape, but there's probably 100 small holes that have been drilled in it over the years. The aluminum body is definitely what sold me. You're totally right on the tank too! It has the indentation for the spare tire. Will also be ordering one of your P/S brackets before long. Do you know who has the best price on power gear boxes that are compatible?

From everything I've seen an read, it's identical. Just a shorter wheel base.

Thanks!

From the short while I've been researching these step vans, they were actually built in a wide variety. The factory would build a chassis and cowl, then ship it to various body manufacturers. Chevrolet also built bodies as well. The variety of parts used is also pretty interesting. The original dash had gauges from '47-'54 Chevy 3100 trucks and the radiator is from '49-'54 Bel-Air's. I have some old brochure photos I'll post when I get home this evening.

Thanks!

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psoczbxkzp.jpg

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Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

You know, I'd be tempted to polish out the bare aluminum like an old DC-3.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Sub'd!!!

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

That will be very cool when its done, nice score.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

I haven't made any posts in nearly a year regarding this project, but I have kept busy making progress.

I picked the frame up from my buddy's powder coating shop last week and spent the weekend assembling rear suspension, trailing arm cross member, fuel lines, compressors, etc.

Engine plans changed this summer after I windowed the block in my Chevelle due to a boost control issue. Shortly afterwards I scored a 4.8 from another buddy down in Albuquerque. Thinking I may pull the Comp cam from the Chevelle and swap it in as long as things didn't get hurt in the top end of that motor.

I also came across a deal for a 4L80E that I couldn't pass up and figured it would be the best option since the rear axle has the factory 4.11 ratio. I've got the engine and trans both painted up and almost ready to go. Waiting on an H3 oil pan and a TransGo shift kit to show up before I can set those two between the frame rails.

I set a 27" tire up front to get an idea of fitment. Thinking I'll probably end up going a touch shorter to have things looking like I want them to. Hoping to pick up a set of tires this week and should have a roller in another couple weeks.

So far this has been a pretty budget minded project. I bought the P10 for $400, 4.8 for $300, 4L80E for $300, Rally Wheels for $200, and have been able to use parts from previous projects to help out. Powder coating was a little bit of a splurge, but my OCD won that mental argument. The suspension and brakes will likely be the most expensive portion of this project. Was just thinking about a driveshaft and laughed out loud thinking it will probably cost almost as much as my engine and transmission combined.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Looking good :thumbs:

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Scored a set of tires for $50 that were the size I was looking for and was able to get the front end put together this week. Noticed after everything was together that the spindles didn't look like they were drop spindles.

After digging through my receipts, I noticed I mistakenly ordered the CPP disc brake kit with stock height spindles. Thank goodness for Summit's customer service. Should have the correct drop spindles here in another week or so.

In the meantime, pictures!

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

I have a very similar rig to your's... but it is the GMC Version. I presently have it tucked away, waiting for some shop time.

Abe

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Sweet Value Van, Aberdare! Looking forward to following your build thread!

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Before and after with stock height to drop spindles.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

This week's project has been brake lines. Hoping to get the fronts done this weekend.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Well done on those brake lines! I always find a little extra attention to detail makes for a well defined build that everyone takes notice of... As my grandfather used to say - "Look after the pennies, and the dollars look after themselves."

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Thanks for the compliment, Abe!

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Making more progress! Going to try uploading photobucket photos again after the whole debacle with the forum/google chrome issue.

Installed a Transgo HD2 Shift Kit in the 4L80E. Crossing my fingers the rest of the internals are good.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psx7xlxpdy.jpg

Engine and Trans Installed.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...pspi4tu0ua.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psqqmmcp9z.jpg

Exhaust. Will finish the outer frame section after the body is back on.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psrn00y2hv.jpg

Was digging through the shed and found an old driveshaft I was able to have shortened. That saved me a few bucks vs. having a new one built.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psabg5rozm.jpg

Figured since I have the air source this would be a fun little add on haha.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psbvi9snky.jpg


Need to clean up a few things under the body and then should be able to mate the two halves back together in the next couple of weeks.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

GM Muscle Car oil pan (aka H3 Oil Pan) clearance. This is with CPP engine frame stands, no name adapter plates, and energy suspension poly mounts.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...ps2io0g6xl.jpg

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

I like...

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

This past weekend was a big moment for this project. I had 7 buddies show up to help get the body put back on the chassis. It fought us a bit, but after getting everything nice and square, and trimming a bit of the original floor on the driver's side, it finally bolted up using the original mounts. On to pictures!

Chassis aired up and ready for its final home.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...ps5nti5joa.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...pscbhblifa.jpg

Lowering the body off of the saw horses.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...pseohaor68.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psipx2oliw.jpg

Pushing the big girl out into the driveway.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psckhosf4w.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psaiaisenz.jpg

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Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

That is looking soooooooooooooo good!

Nice work!!

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

That looks awesome!

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

photosuckits just blocked all your pics.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Thanks!

Thanks Captain! Your power steering bracket worked out awesome on this!

I'm not sure what the deal is with photobucket. Seems like some devices I use I can see everything fine, and others don't allow me to see the photos. Weird.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

I can see all the pics. Have you installed the photobucket patch for your particular web browser?

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

I was checking from my iphone yesterday and was seeing the photobucket's disabled message. I can see everything just fine from my desktop.

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

Getting closer to having this goofy hot rod finished.

One of the first things I did after getting the body back on was coat the interior floorboards with Raptor Liner. I really like how this stuff laid down and the coverage. It's got a good texture, but not overly rough.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psvrqzrxno.jpg

Next I mounted a new Ididit tilt column and threw in some 60's style with a Mooneyes metal flake wheel.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psvwkj0wxw.jpg

I made a little relay board to sort of have a little brain center for most of the electronics. I've seen some cleaner setups, but I'm happy with the outcome for my first trial run.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psunlx3hz6.jpg

I found these sweet little wiring bulkhead connectors and utilized them for the dash section of the wiring harness. I really like the quick disconnect feature and should make any service issues a little less painful.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psjs2gl7gg.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...ps8plifuyv.jpg

The next section i tackled was the dash panel areas to get the gauges, switches, Fourplay manual valve block, and double din radio mounted. I REALLY like the Dakota Digital HDX gauges and took advantage of their air pressure BIM module to display the bag pressures. The round switches towards the right hand side of the gauge panel are for cruise control and tow/haul mode.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...pssqxl7xyx.jpg

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My fiance was super helpful and reupholstered the old school bus seats I had. She wasn't digging the original olive colored vinyl lol. Not sure how Hobby Lobby fabric will hold up, but for $50 in materials, and Kayleigh's first auto upholstery job, I think the seats turned out pretty darn good. Still have to finish fabbing some brackets to mount the seats, but they should work out well mounted over each rear wheel well.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...ps28mggsho.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psv8wcvdtt.jpg

It took a little bit of brainstorming, but also got the "battery box" mounted in the rear. Thinking I'm going to apply some knock off dynamat to the interior sections to help mitigate as much rattling as possible.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...pssftabc4j.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psprmbdks3.jpg

I wired this door bell switch to the train horn. Should make for some fun times at cars shows haha.

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psunjwhq05.jpg

The only issue I've run into so far had to do with a leaky brake caliper. I couldn't seem to get the brake hose sealed up despite trying a new banjo bolt and copper washers. I did a little digging on the forum and found there were a couple of other fellas who had a similar issue. I ordered a new caliper and sure enough the mating surface where the hose meets the caliper was machined too far and created a little concave area that wouldn't seal. The proper design still has little concentric rings that let the copper wash seal against it. Definitely a good thing to know for future projects!

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psgggjyayq.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...psziyxnov9.jpg

I also wired up some fun looking cab marker lights and school bus style turn signals. Just got the engine running last week and was able to check the trans for forward and reverse gears. So far all seems good!

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...pszuszgh2g.jpg

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/r...ps2jivy3ac.jpg

I need to figure out radiator hoses, finish up a few vacuum lines, and wire in the tail lights, but I'm super close to driving this thing. Also going to tidy up several items, add some more finishing touches for the interior, and come up with a gameplan for some major sound deadening. I finally feel like I'm on the down hill side of this project. Oh! And I am still planning on polishing the body! Crap!

Re: 1966 Aluminum P10 Grumman Olsonette
 

This is one kool Build !! I never even considered a step van build until I saw this one....keep up the good work.