couldnt sleep tonight, woke up at 12, and figured i would go in the barn to clean. Mom was still up, so i asked, and she said yes. So, instead of cleaning, i figured i would replace steering parts on ol smoky. So, i take the side panels off, and unbolt the steering gear thing a ma bob, and the gear was welded on. So i cant loosen it and take it off like i did the other one. So, i thought it would be a great idea, not, to try and cut off that shaft for the gear, so i have the clearance to take out the gear. Bad idea. It didnt cut right, and much to my suprise, still didnt come off. The shaft from the motor is in a convinient spot, and that spot is right in the way. Soo, i have to put it all together, and now the steering is complete trash. It takes two turns to even start moving. So, im mad, should have stayed inside, or, cleaned like i planned. Oh, and the new parts i have arnt the right ones anyway. Figured that out mid way. So now im kinda screwed. I might rob parts off of the Lemon. But, even if i do that, i would still have to take out the motor, to take out that shaft. And if im taking out the motor, might as well put in a 16hp while were at it. Sounds like the old girl is gonna get some much needed attention. So maybe all this crap and sleep deprived decisions, will lead to a good outcome.
Once it starts to get sunny, I might go back out, and open the back door. Let some nice light in there, and start cleaning. On a side note, is there a way to prevent mufflers from rotting out? Im considering taking off my Nelson muffler, and either running a straight pipe, or use a 'nelson' that my dad makes, to prevent it from rotting out.
Thanks, Luke
I see a future series coming up: Rebirth of ol smoky?
Till then, stay tuned
