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The RedBurb

Every Part Is Replaceable
Overview Gallery Discussion
AugustDiesel said:
Now that the adjuster has seen the truck, I can get to work. With this hurricane coming, I didn’t exactly want the truck sitting under a bunch of trees. First step was to remove the fender, which I pretty much had to cut off.

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Then I had to loose the axle and straighten it out. I do not think the axle has suffered any damage. You can see here how far it slid back though.
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The center pin on the leaf sheered off and back she went. This caused one of the u-bolt studs to snap off, so I’ll have to figure out how to get that out. The u-bolts on both sides are twisted so they will have to be replaced.

I then pulled the spare out and threw it on. Once the axle was straight and back on two tires, the waves in the driver side spring pack settled out, which I am thankful for. Neither spring pack appeared to have suffered damage. The pass shock is bent though.

I then grabbed hold of the grill and yanked back on it as much as I could to get it off the fan.

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I am happy to report that she still moves under her own power, and all of her major systems appear to still work, except for the radiator, which suffered a puncture somewhere. The engine cranked just like normal, oil pressure was perfect, brake pressure was perfect, steering operated perfectly, even the A/C still worked!

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I know the frame is tweaked some, but I can’t tell how much. Any ideas on how to test?

As far as next steps, I am torn on which direction to go. We have a number of options we are thinking through, and ultimately what State Farm does will be the deciding factor.

For now, the rest of the weekend likely involves hurricane prep. Unfortunately, she will have to sit this one out, but hopefully no rescue operations will even be needed.

Andy
Click to expand...
To check the frame measure diagonally on the side not damaged and compare to the other side.
I usually use a specific hole or bracket and measure to something in the back of the truck.
All measurements should be equal.

And keep documenting here this is the best way to keep track of the damage and cost for the claim
 
Figured it was time for an update.

State Farm did me right. It took some negotiating and an email with a massive file containing copies of all my receipts, but they did NOT total the truck. They were able to value the truck high enough to classify it as repairable rather than a total loss, and wired me the claim settlement overnight.

The settlement was significant, but not enough to buy another truck, which was one option I was seriously considering. I had also considered converting BluJay to 4x4 but we decided the time as not right for that yet. So we have landed on repairing Rusty. She still drives, all the major systems still work, and so far it seems that all it needs is a hood, two fenders, radiator and support, and a grill. Also a frame straightening, and there’s a good shop in town that’s highly recommended and affordable. This is the most economical and least labor-intensive option for our family during this season of life.

This also seems to be a good time to get some much needed body work done, as well as build some bumpers that should do a better job at deflecting Hondas.

I already have a hood and fenders and have a radiator support and rear quarter panel on the way, as well as an order to ORD for the miscellaneous items needed to re-secure the axle to the springs. I need to do some research on radiators to determine if I should just get a stock replacement or if now is a good time to upgrade. Hopefully she will be back up and running in no time and I can finally go get measured for a front driveshaft.

I have often asked God to show me what He’s teaching me as I have walked through this process. As time went on, it became clear that it was not time to give up on Rusty, which reminded me of God’s unending grace and Christ’s commitment to never give up on me. I know a truck is an inanimate object, but the symbolism can’t be ignored. I am thankful for the lessons I have learned throughout this process.

I want to give a big shout out and huge thank you to @stan1688 @F.S.F.W @AgDieseler and @KirsL for putting up with me and my endless questions and thoughts as I have weighed my options. If it weren’t for guys like you and everyone else here on CK5, I wouldn’t be where I am today. THANK YOU!!!

And of course, this thread is worthless without pics!

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Andy
 
No worries man!!! I’m happy to answer questions any time! Glad it’s starting to fall into place for you. State Farm has always been good to me too.
 
Justin V said:
So you weren't running a front shaft?


That probably saved your t-case, and maybe the front axle assembly...
Click to expand...

You are absolutely right. No I didn’t have a front driveshaft on because the one I had was seized up and possibly too long (explains why there was a hole in the original transmission case that I swapped out early on). When I put the new transmission in, I didn’t want to risk damaging it again so I never put the driveshaft back in. Never needed to anyways until I had a functional front axle. But dang are you ever right about that saving the axle and tcase. :whistle:
 
Parts are on the way, and went ahead and got started on what I already have, as well as, deconstruction.

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Cleaned the hood up. Going to install it tonight, since it rains often in Florida.

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Also went ahead and trimmed the fenders while I had them out. I’m know it will need more work, but it’s a start.

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And my yard is starting to look like a salvage yard ...

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Andy
 
So I am now on the hunt for a fan shroud. Have checked NAPA, Rock Auto, LMC, and Summit and I am not finding anything specifically for a 6.2. LMC has one for a 454 that looks similar. Would this work or should I be looking for a 6.2 specific?
 
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