A wrap up on the mufflers. Both in and look good except that one sits a bit further back than the other. Not readily noticeable. There has been work on the exhaust pipes and that may be the problem. It works for now and it is fine until I replace the split exhaust pipe or install true duals.
Lots of parts needing attention – sandblasting, sanding, prime with rust primer (Tremclad) and a couple of coats of satin black (Tremclad). Look good when done 🙂
There just isn’t a whole lot of room to get at the two U bolts on the inner short shafts. Plus they are metric – 14 mm. The flange bolts going to the trailing are assembly are easier and they’re in inch measurements.
Using a 14 mm box end and my wrench extender I was just able to break them free and then use a 9/16 ratchet wrench to get them off. Then it was a chore getting the u-bolts out of the differential yoke. Frozen on after 46 years.
Finally off and on the bench. I’m not sure if I’ll use the french nut locks or not.
Getting the universals out was another chore. Even with the proper tool I needed to move them back and forth with nut and bolt solvent until I could get the cups to move enough to get them. Turning into a much bigger job than expected.
I drilled out a steel plate to attach to the short shaft outer flange. I was warned that the flange would bend when removing/installing the universals if this wasn’t done. I’m glad I did because it took a lot to get the universal out. The plate looks bent because it started out bent, but I figured that wouldn’t affect its purpose.
Left side out, cleaned and sandblasted. Ready for paint. Now to do the right side. Should be a bit easier as I know what to expect and what tools I need so less up-and-downing with this old bod’.