[Bahama_Blue]

First want to say thank you I’ve learned a lot on this forum. I’m a very amateur mechanic. I wish I would have posted/made account sooner when I started this build. Most of the hard work have been done. I’m closing in on the last half of the build. Cylinder head has been rebuild and resurfaced. Intake manifold has been cleaned and modified. Much to go on about here. A/C delete, blower and housing delete with block off plate. Custom fabricated single speed “race heater” heater inside factory dash Wiring has been simplified and tucked. Vacuum system harness distributor modified at throttle body (HVAC vent vacuum actuators deleted) all new gaskets and more parts coming in soon. And I have many more photos to share.

 

[Bahama_Blue]

More photos

 

[manbearpig]

Looks pretty good so far. I'm guessing you're going to use an electric fan? If so, you can chop that accessory bracket up to show the engine off a little more. Gives me another excuse to show off a pic of my engine, lol.

 

[Bahama_Blue]

Looks pretty good so far. I'm guessing you're going to use an electric fan? If so, you can chop that accessory bracket up to show the engine off a little more. Gives me another excuse to show off a pic of my engine, lol.

Very nice! I really like how it looks! I have some questions. Really dig the header pipe! That plumbing coming off the thermostat housing is super clean and looks very industrial!

1. Did you relocate the power steering or delete?

2. Should I remove the wrap off my header pipe? It’s a brand new stainless header. Many have told me it’s gonna be a headache and that I should leave it unwrapped.

 

[Rhotpursuit]

Very nice! I really like how it looks! I have some questions. Really dig the header pipe! That plumbing coming off the thermostat housing is super clean and looks very industrial!

1. Did you relocate the power steering or delete?

2. Should I remove the wrap off my header pipe? It’s a brand new stainless header. Many have told me it’s gonna be a headache and that I should leave it unwrapped.

Ditch it. If you're worried about heat...Jet Hot or ceramic coating.

 

[manbearpig]

My truck is manual steering (originally power of course). I never wrapped mine, it doesn't get too hot under the hood. I did switch to a Corsica water inlet though, it switches the heater and lower radiator hoses around and gets you more clearance for the header.

 

[Bahama_Blue]

Ditch it. If you're worried about heat...Jet Hot or ceramic coating.

Much appreciated!

 

[Bahama_Blue]

My truck is manual steering (originally power of course). I never wrapped mine, it doesn't get too hot under the hood. I did switch to a Corsica water inlet though, it switches the heater and lower radiator hoses around and gets you more clearance for the header.

very interesting!

I have been strongly considering deleting power steering. I’m hesitant but believe with the weight reduction to the front end it may be completely tolerable. How has your experience been?

 

[manbearpig]

The manual steering box is super light, the downside is it's 6 turns lock to lock. I've got the Unisteer rack and pinion now, it's still not too bad on effort. I can still make a turn with 1 arm if I need to. Downside of that is that it's pretty expensive (I didn't pay full price but still a lot), and the bump steer still gets worse as you go lower.

I'm eventually going manual brakes too, probably with the 98-02 Camaro front brakes and stock S10 rear discs. Goal is to get the engine compartment as empty and clean as possible.

 

[Rhotpursuit]

The manual steering box is super light, the downside is it's 6 turns lock to lock. I've got the Unisteer rack and pinion now, it's still not too bad on effort. I can still make a turn with 1 arm if I need to. Downside of that is that it's pretty expensive (I didn't pay full price but still a lot), and the bump steer still gets worse as you go lower.

I'm eventually going manual brakes too, probably with the 98-02 Camaro front brakes and stock S10 rear discs. Goal is to get the engine compartment as empty and clean as possible.

Following in Crew Cab Sonoma's foot steps??

 

[manbearpig]

Following in Crew Cab Sonoma's foot steps??

Got a link? I may have seen what you're talking about but I'm not sure off the top of my head.

 

[Rhotpursuit]

Got a link? I may have seen what you're talking about but I'm not sure off the top of my head.

He had several threads, but the on e that stuck out was de-nuding the engine comparment. He went so far as to take the balance shaft out of his 4.3. I'll see if I can find it and send you a link.

 

[Bahama_Blue]

He had several threads, but the on e that stuck out was de-nuding the engine comparment. He went so far as to take the balance shaft out of his 4.3. I'll see if I can find it and send you a link.

 

[Bahama_Blue]

Removed wrap from header pipe
New Front rotors and hub bearings mounted to spindles ready for install

 

[Thatoneguylol]

Is that motor built? if so you could always consider a turbocharger.....

 

[Bahama_Blue]

Is that motor built? if so you could always consider a turbocharger.....

The motor is stock. I have thought strongly about boosting it absolutely... I most certainly am considering it. But for now it’s gonna be non-boosties.

 

[brddg]

Just an FYI. The springs on the header go between the bolt head ( after the washer) and the top of the header flange. You will want to tighten it until it seals and the use a jam nut on each one. Looking good btw

 

[brddg]

And you will probably need a longer bolt as well

 

[Bahama_Blue]

Just an FYI. The springs on the header go between the bolt head ( after the washer) and the top of the header flange. You will want to tighten it until it seals and the use a jam nut on each one. Looking good btw

Thanks! I had thought it looked off 😂

I have the jam nut in

the flange bolts may in fact be too short.I haven’t torqued them down . but I’m not completely satisfied with it.

The original exhaust bolts had to be grinded off. I assume I could purchase a new set. Springs are ok.

 

[manbearpig]

Yea, +1 on the header hardware. I've never had a problem with mine leaking. I'm pretty sure the people that do have them hooked up like your picture.