It has been some time since the Cruiser has been on the trails, let alone the pavement. Since moving to Florida, she has, for the most part, sat in the driveway and most recently in the garage. Everyone has their reasons why they let something sit for a time, but now it’s time for me to put her back into service.
She needs some attention, mainly in the body and paint areas. Will be knocking out some other things that have needed, and or wanted, to get done as well. So first thing was first, bring her into the daylight. Batteries were dead, brakes were weak, and tires a bit low. Was able to push her out and she rolled the rest. Topped off the fluids, including adding some oil to help lubricate the top end of the engine when starting, since it has been some time. After slaving in a battery, she fired right up… missed that sound.
With the body needing some attention, the best way to help with that was to remove the body armor. Sliders needed redone anyway, so they had to come off regardless sooner or later. Removing the rest helps out in reaching areas of the body behind which I can not access, either easily or not at all. Made quick work with a sawzall, making sure I cut close as possible to be able to re-attach later down the road. I put the body armor on 7 years ago, so Lilly looks a bit different with it all off.
Removing the armor also showed some of the “visual enhancements” from the armor pressing into the body. One thing I will fix when re-installing them is giving them a bit more distance from the body. Over the next month I will determine which places I will fix and which will leave alone. I will of course attempt to fix all, but only my body repair skills will determine how far I get. Those of you who are aware of the right rear quarter from a friends Jeep, that will remain until my skill level becomes much greater. Besides, if you don’t have a nice dent some where, you’ll always be afraid to wheel it.
Over the next couple months I will be tackling the body and paint, as well as redoing the rear cargo drawers, fixing some wiring, replacing steering shaft u-joints, overhauling the brakes, installing the right year transmission hump to stop the excess heat coming in, and general preventative and regular maintenance. Primary goal for right now, weekend beach and camp vehicle.
