8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

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Dallas Landers
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8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Jan 19, 2019 5:49 pm

That is the real name of this truck bed I'm working on. The American Wagon Co. Is the maker. If I were smart enough, I would post the link from 2018 as its the rest of the story. The snow and cold was good for something, I went to the shop and tinkered with the truck. I got the boards in place on the driver side. Now its drill and bolt them on. Im waiting for some elevator bolts that I ordered. I have all the original ones I could save in primer. Its 17 degrees with wind chill of 10. Its a little chilly in the shop so I'm done for today but I did snap a couple photos while I could still feel my fingers.
20190119_172334-1.jpg
20190119_172317.jpg


Colin Mavins
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Colin Mavins » Sat Jan 19, 2019 6:12 pm

Its -29 c and with the wind chill -39c cheers from frozen Winnipeg

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Ruxstel24 » Sat Jan 19, 2019 6:15 pm

Lookin good Dallas !!
You've been busy :D


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Jan 19, 2019 6:25 pm

Dave, I saw your post about working on your touring. Didnt want you to think I was a slacker.

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Rich Eagle
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Rich Eagle » Sat Jan 19, 2019 6:36 pm

It's great to have pictures of the wood grain before it gets paint. It is so pretty.
Great work.
Rich
When did I do that?


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Wayne Sheldon » Sat Jan 19, 2019 6:49 pm

Hopefully, this will do it;

http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/82 ... 1545880878

Otherwise. I need to say "Looking Good Dallas!"


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Jan 19, 2019 7:14 pm

Thank you Wayne, I can work with wood and metal. Computers? Not so much.

Richard, it will be green soon. I will be glad to put it back together for the last time after paint.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Wayne Sheldon » Sat Jan 19, 2019 7:43 pm

You are welcome Dallas! I too prefer to work with wood and metal. However I did earn a living in cutting edge technologies for about thirty years. My dad was an electrical engineer, cable television pioneer, and electronics genius. I may be the last surviving person to have worked with "G" line. It was a short-lived early effort at long runs of television RF (Radio Frequency) back in the days when electronics had not yet caught up with needs. We worked together for many years, installing commercial satellite dishes (large ones!) to receive HBO and ESPN even before HBO and ESPN were available commercially, and building early LAN systems (forerunners of the internet). I like to say that my fingerprints are all over the foundation of the internet. We also did many other kinds of communications systems work (even digging ditches!).
With all that, one might think I would be comfortable with computers. But the fact is, I burned out on the politics and marketing that took over the industry over twenty years ago. These days, I have a VERY low threshold of tolerance for bad program design.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Ruxstel24 » Sat Jan 19, 2019 7:49 pm

Dallas Landers wrote:
Sat Jan 19, 2019 6:25 pm
Dave, I saw your post about working on your touring. Didnt want you to think I was a slacker.
All I did was a radiator swap, you were way busier than me !!
Have you considered just staining the wood ?
I made a cage for an indoor rabbit years ago out of Poplar, it was beautiful stained and cleared.
I'm a sucker for natural wood finishes.
The wife likes wood too :?

You can stain it and stripe or logo with the green...
Either way I love it.


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Wed Jan 23, 2019 7:31 pm

Breaking it down for paint.
20190123_173249.jpg
20190123_173234.jpg

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Henry K. Lee » Wed Jan 23, 2019 7:54 pm

Something to be proud of Dallas, sure does look NICE!

Hank in Tin-A-See


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by tdumas » Wed Jan 23, 2019 8:24 pm

That wood is too pretty to paint. Please consider stain and polyurethane finish. Trim it with green as others have suggested.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Wed Jan 23, 2019 8:51 pm

Thanks guys. It is a fun project. Ted, I have had every piece of this bed apart. I even removed the Iowa 1935 plate that was still on it. This bed was painted since new. The green paint is the only thing that protected it from the weather. The shade of green is close to the Martin Parry green on the cab I rebuilt. I have made hardware for the cab and bed and searched for bolts and nuts that are period correct. Maybe Im crazy but I think for originality it has to be painted.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Wayne Sheldon » Thu Jan 24, 2019 1:43 am

I know that nicely stained and natural finish wood is beautiful! However, I, too, like my antique vehicles era correct. Now, it is true that some trucks were natural finished. But far and away MOST of them were painted!
I have read copies of original sales brochures for truck bodies, and many of them do offer natural finish, for an additional cost. Business men were not looking for art to hang on their walls when buying a truck. They wanted a utilitarian vehicle that would do a job and save or make them money. They did not want to wash the truck every other day, and they did not want to replace the top clear coats once or twice a year. They wanted the truck to do its job.
I have also studied many hundreds of original era photos of trucks. Very few were ever natural finished over large areas of the body. To me? Natural finished trucks just do not look right. But that is mostly because I know how they used to look. You are doing a beautiful job on that special truck! And I think it will look fantastic green!


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Rich Bingham » Thu Jan 24, 2019 9:05 am

Also, for what it's worth, in the era, green paints were preferred for trucks and wagons because they were tougher and weathered better than other colors. (Chromium oxide pigments). Dallas, that bed is a work of art !! I've much enjoyed seeing your progress.
"Get a horse !"


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Thu Jan 24, 2019 8:22 pm

Rich I knew green was in fashion back then but didnt know why. Thanks


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Feb 02, 2019 8:29 pm

Glad it warmed up a bit. Spent some time on the old Rockford lathe tonight.
20190202_191904.jpg
Turned the left bolt into the center bolt to match the original right bolt.
20190202_200623.jpg
I made 14 of the 29 bolts that broke or was beyond saving.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 02, 2019 12:55 pm

Well Ive been working on the other end of the TT the last couple weeks. The rib is still pretty sore but I'll live. The rebuilt engine from Joe Bell is in. I finished wiring and worked on the sediment bulb. I lapped the shut off on it with tooth paste. I also dicovered if I pull slightly out on the shut off handle, it works very easy.
I put a gallon of gas in and then two priming pulls on the old crank handle. The second pull and she roared to life!!!!!!!!!! A few quick adjustments of timing and fuel and it purrs like a kitten. I had to break for lunch and let the new engine smoke clear in the shop. I need to install radiator and see if I have a muffler but its been a good day so far.
20190301_192815.jpg
20190301_192835.jpg
And for all the guys that would like to see the bed left natural, the cab roof is natural and will stay that way.
20190301_194708.jpg


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sun Mar 03, 2019 11:42 am

Finally the bed is ready for paint. The1st coat will be disassembled. I will put it all together and 2nd coat everything. Now I need to find some strong backs to take it off!

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Duey_C » Sun Mar 03, 2019 4:49 pm

Yesss!
Handy to have that old lathe ain't it? :)
Since I lost my mind mind, I feel more liberated


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Thu Mar 07, 2019 8:26 pm

20190307_200544.jpg
Finally! Some young fellas are coming over tomorrow night to help put the bed into my trailer. Taking it to my buddy's cabinet shop Saturday morning for primer and 1st coat of paint. Seems like forever but its a labor of love. Lots of relaxing time in the shop to get this far.
The engine swap was a break from the bed work. As much as I have enjoyed rebuilding this bed, Im not sure I would take on another like it.
I will post more photos of paint in progress.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 09, 2019 12:41 pm

20190309_103824.jpg
20190309_103853.jpg
Primer on. Hope this afternoon to get paint started.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Ruxstel24 » Sat Mar 09, 2019 1:17 pm

And St Patrick said "let there be green" :mrgreen:

Hurry up...chop chop !! :lol:

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Sat Mar 09, 2019 2:26 pm

I'm having a good time following along as you make progress. It sure looks good.
Dallas Landers wrote:
Thu Mar 07, 2019 8:26 pm
As much as I have enjoyed rebuilding this bed, Im not sure I would take on another like it.
I totally understand. I'm starting to feel the same way about the woodwork I'm doing on the 24 Touring.
1924 Touring


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Burger in Spokane » Sat Mar 09, 2019 2:39 pm

Dallas,

Your work is most impressive. While this is not the TT I would want personally,
it is a serious work of art and craftsmanship that probably represents more of the
TT's built, than those that survive .... the custom wood bodies succumbing to wear,
age, and the elements, and the hobby lacking in persons skilled and fool enough to
take on such a build. As a custom builder and cabinet maker, I am most impressed
with what you have done with this truck, and for having the cojones to take the
very hard road. Most, myself included, would take the easy route with a Ford cab
and simple flatbed. Cut yerself an extra slice of raisin pie. And thanks for taking
the time to share your restoration journey with all of us.
More people are doing it today than ever before !


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 09, 2019 4:08 pm

Don, I am watching your project as well. I like to see others making progress and get inspired from seeing others craftsmanship.

Burger, I think the fool part is right. I have two other wood flatbeds and another wood cab I got from Dave when I picked up the TT. After the 24 coupe is road worthy I may be fool enough to start another TT project. I have a 26 TT running chassis with a Warford.

I wanted to post some photos of the paint on it today but its not drying. Tomorrow I will flip the side boards that are on the rack in the one photo and prime them in the morning. Paint will have to wait till next weekend. Monday its back to my real job.
20190227_154229.jpg


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Burger in Spokane » Sat Mar 09, 2019 6:05 pm

As a solid contender in the "fool enough" category, myself, I use the term as familiar
in both the pride of being "that guy", and the self-critical analysis of "Why do I always
have to be 'that guy' ? " :lol:

It's an odd combination of either being brave/unintimidated and not having the smarts
to tell yourself it's too much to bite off.
More people are doing it today than ever before !


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Fri Mar 15, 2019 9:22 pm

Yesterday after work I sanded bed and other parts for paint. Today after work I started painting 1st coat. Tomorrow morning I can set it down and finish. Next weekend I hope to get it home and put it all together for final paint.
20190315_181610.jpg
20190315_181549.jpg
20190315_181537.jpg
20190315_181528.jpg
It is a wild looking creature!

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Ruxstel24 » Sat Mar 16, 2019 11:00 am

Dallas, what are you using to spray it with ?
Do you know how many gallons of paint you'll be using ?

And it's looking great !


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 16, 2019 12:52 pm

After the all nighter, I went straight to the shop and finished 1st coat.
Dave I used a little over 1/2 gallon on the MP cab. Looks like its going to take about 3/4 gallon on the bed. Using top feed hvlp gun. A few pics for those watching. Color will darken like cab when dry. I will bring it home next weekend.
20190316_092612.jpg
20190316_092604.jpg
20190316_092622.jpg

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Bob McDaniel » Sat Mar 16, 2019 1:24 pm

I think that wood is a little green :D

Please don't throw things, I had to say it.
Give an old car guy a barn and he won't throw anything away.


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 16, 2019 3:45 pm

Funny you said that Bob. I painted the bottom last night and told my buddy that the paint was still green this morning. He said it wasnt gonna change colors!

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Sat Mar 16, 2019 9:42 pm

Very nice.

Can't wait to see it mounted on the truck.
1924 Touring

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Ruxstel24 » Sun Mar 17, 2019 9:48 am

That's far less paint than I expected, Dallas. 8-)
What type of paint are you using ?
Two coats ?
Should be good for another 100 years !!


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sun Mar 17, 2019 10:21 am

A good coat of primer is a must. I am using a oil base primer and paint called Rust Scat. It is good on wood or metal. Sherwin Williams if I remember right. Its basically a house paint only it cost more. Not bad compared to auto paint. $57 per gallon for paint. It will get another coat of paint when I get it all together. Should go together fast as I number stamped all the side boards so the go in the same place they were drilled for. In an unseen place of course. Being hand made the holes in the hinged parts are not exact spacing.Yes I hope it lasts at least another hundred years. It will never live outside as long as its in my care. I bet it will out last me.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by John Warren » Sun Mar 17, 2019 10:43 am

Dallas, This is a very impressive build. It is amazing how you are taking time to get all the hardware correct. The bed is very interesting in how it works. This is going to make a fabulous parade truck!! Thank you for taking the time to share the details. Just in lumber alone this has to be expensive build. It is hard to take something like this on but you are proving that if you just keep chipping away at it,it will happen. Thanks again for sharing and I'm looking forward to more.
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Keep it simple and keep a good junk pile if you want to invent something :P


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sun Mar 17, 2019 11:21 am

Thank you John, Dave Stroud started this journey many years ago by dragging home this strange looking bed from a farm sale in Iowa. I am just part of the story that I am telling.

I have not kept track of cost because I dont want to know. I am fortunate to have a mill close that I get all the wood from so that does keep the cost down. Doing all the work myself helps to. Friends with a nice shop to paint in is a huge help. I built the shop for him so I have special privileges.

The tailgate is in great shape as are the stock rack extensions for front and rear. I suppose those were not used much as you have to remove the tailgate to load the bed. The sides are too high to reach over. I am not much for car shows or parades but have had a request to haul employees from a local grocery in the 4th of July parade so they can throw candy to the little ones. The sheet metal will not be finished but I think its doable.

I will keep chipping away and keep you all posted.


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 23, 2019 1:18 pm

Let the fun begin!
20190323_131330.jpg
9
20190323_131315.jpg

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by ewdysar » Sat Mar 23, 2019 1:43 pm

Here’s the link to the old forum discussion that includes some original adverts that show the 8 different onfigurations for this truck bed. I think that this truck is very cool.

http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/708324/762194.html

Keep crankin’,
Eric


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 23, 2019 2:11 pm

20190323_140237.jpg
20190323_140259.jpg


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 23, 2019 7:04 pm

Here is before and after shot.
Screenshot_20190323-185851_Gallery.jpg
Screenshot_20190323-185915_Gallery.jpg

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Henry K. Lee » Sat Mar 23, 2019 8:00 pm

Something to be proud of Dallas! Looks Awesome!

Hank

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Rich Eagle » Sat Mar 23, 2019 8:03 pm

This is so much fun to follow. It makes me want to build something soon. The before and after are very nice in contrast.
Thanks again
Rich
When did I do that?

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Angmar » Sat Mar 23, 2019 8:12 pm

Great job Dallas!!
Still crankin old iron

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Sat Mar 23, 2019 11:52 pm

Wow...simply brilliant
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sun Mar 24, 2019 11:57 am

Well I had to stop work for today! I finished modification to the bolt heads and cut to lenght.The shop forman forgot to tell the purchase agent that I was almost out of the correct 1/4 - 20 square nuts for this project. I was so upset, I sent all three in the house for the rest of today!

We are sitting in my chair watching TV now.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Sun Mar 24, 2019 1:07 pm

Dallas Landers wrote:
Sun Mar 24, 2019 11:57 am
Well I had to stop work for today! I finished modification to the bolt heads and cut to lenght.The shop forman forgot to tell the purchase agent that I was almost out of the correct 1/4 - 20 square nuts for this project. I was so upset, I sent all three in the house for the rest of today!

We are sitting in my chair watching TV now.
:D :lol:
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by 46woodduck » Sun Mar 24, 2019 1:07 pm

That's one beautiful TT. Well done!
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Tom Hicks » Mon Mar 25, 2019 2:51 am

Wow, that's NICE!
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Thu Mar 28, 2019 4:57 pm

I found some interesting thing on the 8in1. The rods that hold the sides in place are all different. There are 4 of them. The way they attatch to the bed is different also. Now these rods have to be the same length or the sides will be crooked when it if folded out. I think one is original but with nothing to compare it to Im not sure. I just painted all that hardware but will get photos posted.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Thu Mar 28, 2019 5:17 pm

Interesting. Are these rods things that would've seen heavy usage...and therefore became worn out or broken over time?
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Thu Mar 28, 2019 5:21 pm

20190328_165212.jpg
I thought this was interesting. This eye bolt is flat stock folded over and hammered round and is split like a cottoer pin and threaded.
20190328_165313.jpg
You can see the four different ends on these support rods.
20190328_165302.jpg
These two are close but not the same.
20190328_165342.jpg
These two are close to the same. Both hammered and folded but they added a rivet to one.

I think during a hard life this were some of the repairs done to keep it going. I can almost smell the smoke from the forge that these parts were made on and hear the ring of the hammer. I can see where it was filed and cleaned up.
20190328_165410.jpg
These take the place of the eye bolt in the photo above along with another metal piece. Not sure which is original and dont really care as it adds to its charm. Just keeps me thinking about how they made that part and how it broke. I have had to straighten many things on this bed from its former life of hard work. I will use this bed as it is a truck but it will have a much easier life now.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Thu Mar 28, 2019 5:28 pm

Don, these rods support the side racks when they are folded out or upright. I think what probably broke is the eye on the end of the rod. It is pretty thin. The rod is 1/2 inch round so pleanty heavy.
I think back then without a welder, forging a new one was all that could be done. Unless you ordered a part and waited to finish your work while waiting on it to arrive.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Thu Mar 28, 2019 5:59 pm

That makes sense.
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Graybeard77 » Thu Mar 28, 2019 9:50 pm

Finally have all of my parts. Will start putting my 26 4-door sedan back together Sat. Ross rebuilt my trans and my new z head came today. Have to get ready for the Kansas tour in May.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Duey_C » Fri Mar 29, 2019 1:30 am

Holy cats! It has gone green.
Oh my gosh. Look at that TT and Uber 8 in1 bed. :)
Attachments
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 30, 2019 12:46 pm

20190330_111416.jpg
Well today the bed has two sides again!!! Here is a fact that I did not realize untill today. All the bolt heads I modified for the bed sides are totally hidded when the bed is in this configuration.
20190330_113329.jpg
Inside
20190330_113335.jpg
Outside
20190330_113417.jpg
When unfolded they will be seen so it was worth it.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Scott_Conger » Sat Mar 30, 2019 12:53 pm

Never been a fan of the TT, but you've converted me. Wonderful job and great forum presentation.
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 30, 2019 1:05 pm

Also today I came to a job that I was not looking forward to because I had never done it before. I asked here a while back about how to rivet the boards to the rear for the tailgate to slide in. No room for a nut and the original bolt was peened into a rivet. Once again the knowledge from the masses here explained the process in detail.
20190330_120720.jpg
1st I cut the bolt off with a die grinder and took a guess at how much to leave for peening.
20190330_120729.jpg
You can see the dished area oround the bolt to fill .
20190330_120918.jpg
Then anealed the end. Heated the top 1/4 inch to a dark red.
20190330_121935.jpg
Then after clamping with the angle from the bed side as a bucking bar I began to hammer in a circle with a ball peen hammer. Round and round I go. Not to hard as it was explained to me.
20190330_121935.jpg
You can see the progress
20190330_121935.jpg
Finally flush. Guess the final photo has to go in the next post


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 30, 2019 1:10 pm

Got a little lost in the photos and doble posted one but here is final product
20190330_122559.jpg
Flush
20190330_122610.jpg
Maybe wont hold up the Brooklin bridge but it should hold the boards on the back of this old rig.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 30, 2019 1:19 pm

Thank you Scott, I like to watch all the progress on other projects on the forum. I learn more that way. Thats why I try to post progress so all the methods explained to me can maybe give other courage to tackle the unknown. Hey if an Indiana farm boy can do it.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Ruxstel24 » Sat Mar 30, 2019 1:31 pm

So you spent all morning smacking your peener, huh :P
It looks great Dallas, can't wait to see it in the flesh...green flesh !! And hear that new engine purr... :D


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by D Stroud » Sat Mar 30, 2019 3:00 pm

Lookin' great Dallas!!! I'm so glad you have taken the time to document everything that you have done on the old girl. You are getting it done way better than I could have ever even thought about. Glad I got you to be the next caretaker! :) :) :) Dave
1925 mostly original coupe.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat Mar 30, 2019 7:38 pm

20190330_152917.jpg
Test fitting some metal bits before final paint.
20190330_153742.jpg

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by A Whiteman » Sun Mar 31, 2019 12:12 am

Very well done!
Great work.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Thu Apr 11, 2019 9:01 am

I'd love to see a video of it being converted from one form into the others.
1924 Touring


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat May 11, 2019 6:19 pm

Now that the wheels are done I got to work on the final piece for this bed. The tailgate is apart and 2 new boards are made. A couple hours with the blast cabinet and all the metal bits will be ready for primer.
20190504_140848.jpg
Front
20190505_171906.jpg
Rear

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Henry K. Lee » Sat May 11, 2019 7:14 pm

As Always Dallas, AWESOME!!

All the Best,

Hank

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Sat May 11, 2019 8:22 pm

Nice!

I also see that you've got the beginnings of a roof getting started.
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Ruxstel24 » Sat May 11, 2019 8:31 pm

So close !! Almost ready to start another one...as soon as you get the RPU running again.
When did you start BTW ?

Just a fantastic job, Dallas !!


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat May 11, 2019 9:46 pm

Not sure Dave. It took 10 months to rebuild the cab.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat May 11, 2019 9:50 pm

Don Im still waiting for a warm sunny day for the top. We seem to be short of those right now. Last saturday was 72 and sunny with no wind. Perfect day to put the top on but I had the rear wheels apart. Maybe next week.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by John Warren » Sat May 11, 2019 11:15 pm

Dallas, Thanks for the update. Great work and looking forward to more coverage.
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by 46woodduck » Sun May 12, 2019 2:02 am

That's gonna be one fine looking truck when you get done with it.
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sun May 12, 2019 9:25 pm

Well its 5 days out but saturday is going to be 82 and sunny. Saturday could be top install day!

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Mon May 13, 2019 7:15 am

Dallas Landers wrote:
Sat May 11, 2019 9:50 pm
Don Im still waiting for a warm sunny day for the top. We seem to be short of those right now. Last saturday was 72 and sunny with no wind. Perfect day to put the top on but I had the rear wheels apart. Maybe next week.
I understand.

I have the funds set aside to get my shop built, but it hasn't been consistently dry enough in the Houston area to get to the back of my property to pour a slab in a very long time. I'm hoping this summer has a dry stretch in it.
1924 Touring


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Tue May 14, 2019 5:07 pm

I have friends coming thursday evening to help load the 8in1 into my trailer. I am painting it in a buddys booth friday after work. Final paint!!!!
I have the tailgate ready for paint.
20190514_153904.jpg
Withe grain door.
20190514_153936.jpg
Without grain door.
Im fussing with a latch nut for driver side as it was MIA.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by RustyFords » Tue May 14, 2019 6:20 pm

looking good....always enjoy every update, especially since work has prevented me from having any T time lately. I hope to remedy that this weekend.
1924 Touring


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Wed May 15, 2019 4:25 pm

Well today was great! 72 and sunny. Not much wind so I put a top on.
20190515_123825.jpg
I didnt take a photo of pad but the 1/4 " pad Tim Morsher sent me worked great. Top material tacked on.
20190515_123845.jpg
I used air stapler to set it and tach it about 3 inches apart and didnt stretch too much so the nice edge on foam would stay as a straight corner.
20190515_145108.jpg
I ran a piece of 1 inch tape as to have a nice straight edge and an even reveal for hidem welt.
20190515_150513.jpg
After finishing corners I installed the hidem with nails about 2 inches apart. I will set nails later when Im sure I like everything.
20190515_151648.jpg
A nice arch on sides and rear. Thats where the tape was worth the time.


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Wed May 15, 2019 4:29 pm

Maxed out photos I guess.[attachment=1]20190515_154440.jpg[/attachment]
[attachment=0]20190515_154920.jpg[/attachment]
Not bad for a beginner?
I have some metal bands that wrap around the front of top for MP cab. I need to make new ones as I only have one and its in poor shape. I can finish the front and install those when time permits.
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by W Brian Jordan » Thu May 16, 2019 5:40 pm

Looks really nice Dallas!


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Thu May 16, 2019 7:09 pm

Brian, I'm glad you kept all those cab pieces!


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Daniel828 » Thu May 16, 2019 11:44 pm

Dallas, where did you buy the top material and the hidem welting?
Looks great!!!
Thanks
Dan


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Fri May 17, 2019 7:24 am

Danial, Langs has it all. You can buy the material by the foot.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Rich Eagle » Fri May 17, 2019 9:14 am

Beautiful work. Those tops are great satisfaction and it looks to have gone well.
Rich
When did I do that?


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Fri May 17, 2019 9:24 am

Thanks Richard, it took alot less time than my roadster top. I set all the nail last evening and will post a photo later. I am short 2 end caps for the hidem on the front of the cab or it would be complete. I have the bed loaded in the trailer and will be painting final coat at my buddys shop tonight. Its all coming together. Its been a two year project to get this far.


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Fri May 17, 2019 5:56 pm

FINAL PAINT!!!!!!!
20190517_170936.jpg
Tailgate hanging
20190517_170944.jpg


leikec
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by leikec » Sat May 18, 2019 7:48 pm

Wow! Very nice job.

Jeff C


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat May 25, 2019 11:24 am

Installing more metal bits on the bed. Lots of wood screws here. The metal strips that protect the top boards have 23 little screws in each side. One on the front and the rear wraps the tailgate.
20190525_075257.jpg
The angle iron on the flat area fore and aft the fender is a combo of screws and carriage bolts. As they say " they dont make em like this anymore"
20190525_075308.jpg
Trying to get things done before surgery Tuesday. That will keep me down a few weeks.

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Rich Eagle
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Rich Eagle » Sat May 25, 2019 11:56 am

Wow! That's really coming along. Very nice.
Medical issues can be incentive can't they? We all take our turn.
Best wishes.
Rich
When did I do that?


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sat May 25, 2019 12:27 pm

Thanks Rich. Its bitter sweet. My buddy said if I take all the sheetmetal to him he would paint it while Im down. I got it to him this week. It will be hard to wait to put it together but I dont want to mess this up.

I get some new metal bits in my neck next week.


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sun May 26, 2019 12:07 pm

A few photos of bed and how it works
20190526_114652.jpg
Rods in closed bed style
20190526_114203.jpg
Locks to keep sides closed. 1/4 turn to unlock.
20190526_113507.jpg
Folded out with support rods in place and cotter puns to keep in place
Attachments
20190526_113603.jpg
20190526_113844.jpg


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sun May 26, 2019 12:09 pm

Tailgate latches
20190526_114420.jpg
Latched closed
20190526_114445.jpg
Unlatched

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Ruxstel24
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Ruxstel24 » Sun May 26, 2019 12:23 pm

Dallas, every time I look here, I am more amazed. What an engineering masterpiece of the day !! And you have made it better than new, IMHO :D

Best wishes Tuesday and a speedy recovery.
The truck will be there waiting. :mrgreen:


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Sun May 26, 2019 3:16 pm

Thanks Dave. Maybe not better but it is usable. It will never look better than now because the way its made it gets scratched just moving the many parts. It will make a nice truck for hauling people or just about anything.

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Duey_C
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Duey_C » Mon May 27, 2019 1:41 pm

That looks fantastic! Love the top job you did!
Hahaha, I saw the arch as soon as I saw the tape pic. :)
Since I lost my mind mind, I feel more liberated

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Ed Baudoux
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Ed Baudoux » Mon May 27, 2019 2:02 pm

I would sure like to see this in person. Will it be at the OCF this year?
Grayling Michigan
1927 Fordor
1926 Huckster
Founding member of Northern Michigan Drone Skeet Shooting Club :twisted:


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Dallas Landers
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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Dallas Landers » Mon May 27, 2019 3:00 pm

Thanks Duey! Turned out pretty good for a beginner.

Ed, I plan on it. By then I should have some miles on it and be better at shifting that chicago 3 speed. If they will have me and I can find a trailer big enough.

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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by Duey_C » Tue May 28, 2019 2:22 am

"a beginner"... My sweet T's Dallas.
A master craftsman. And don't you forget it.
Oh crap, remain humble if you can. ;)
Since I lost my mind mind, I feel more liberated


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Re: 8in1 American Convertible Motor Truck Body " restoration"

Post by D Stroud » Tue May 28, 2019 5:21 am

Duey, I met Dallas a couple of years ago last Jan. when he came here to look at some junk,er, I mean TT parts, when he was coyote hunting about an hour away from here. He mentioned on the forum that he would be in the area and I asked him to come on down. We visited for awhile and I sold him some parts. After we had talked for awhile, I realized that he would be the guy to take over my TT project if he was interested as I'm getting older and I knew that I wasn't going to be able to finish it. I just had a feeling that I should let it go to him, no one else around here was interested in it. I made him a deal he couldn't refuse( :D ) and as they say, the rest is history. I feel very blessed to have been able to find all of the parts that I did over the years(about 20 or so) and all them are coming together. I stumbled across that bed at a farm sale in N.E. IA. years ago just by accident, I had no idea what it was other than it was a cool bed that would fit on my extended TT chassis. When I got it home and started figuring it out, I was amazed at the engineering that went into it. I have only seen one other like it, and that was in a Museum in Murdo S.D. Dallas is building it the way that I wanted to, but I never had the expertise or resources to do so. Our family has been following his progress ever since and we all are so grateful to him and his family. As you said, "a beginner, my sweet 'T' " ! :D Thanks Dallas, Dave
1925 mostly original coupe.

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