CAB RESTORATION: Phase (2) Sheet metal fabrication prep.

Trolly construction for cab restoration.

Even before we could start the sheet metal work required we were in a bit
of a bind about how we could have the cab resting on something which was
both very stable and easy to do the work on. I sat around pondering several
ideas how this could be done and finally settled on building a trolly which
could support the cab and yet still be movable enough to spin it 360 degrees
easily if required. Using wood, (2 x 4's, 2 x 6's, and 4 x 4's), I built a 3 ft. x 3 ft.
square trolly which works absolutely fantastic for the cab restoration. With
a few minor adaptations this trolly will also work well when the day's come
for restoring the Dude's cargo box.

After the last pieces of the interior were removed we could easily see the
areas which needed particular attention due to rust problems over the
years. It was easy to spot, (in several areas), that Dodge was not big on
proper surface prep. or the liberal use of quality primers when building
these rare 1970's era trucks. That won't be an issue for this lucky truck after
she's all ready for final paint!

In the photo to the left you can see that as more of the truck is exposed, there are more rust problem areas which are well evident. At the bottom of the passenger side front door pillar there is literally nothing of any value left to work with. The entire lower hinge support will have to be completely removed and fabricated. As well, the step plates, lower door reinforcement plates, and floor pans will also have to go. A heavier gauge of sheet metal will be used than factory spec. for improved performance over the years ahead.