[MDPotter]

We are getting dangerously close to being able to see if this thing will run. This weekend we got the coolant overflow tank mounted, trans cooler mounted, the intake is mostly done, and the steering column is in. I got a nice rebuilt conversion van tilt column from 70shortfleet. We mocked it up and decided it was too long so we shortened the intermediate shaft. I had no idea that these indents in the shaft were filled with plastic - we heated it up and melted it out so that we could pull it apart, shorten it, drill holes, and bolt it back together. We took 1.5" out of it and didn't have to move the safety switch and it was perfect.

To end the day, we made up the battery cables, put in a few fuses, turned the key and I was happy to see that everything I put in a fuse for, worked. The gauges light up, the check engine light works, high beam indicator works, dome lights work, courtesy lights work, the PCM has power, cigarette lighter works, and the wipers work.

With the long weekend coming up we might just be able to finish up a fairly long list of tasks in order to fire it up. I get so excited and want to make the most of the day so I forget to stop and take pictures. But I'll have the trans cooler, overflow, and intake finished next weekend for good pictures.