Update October 15, 2009: I have located a few more parts for the RJ since my last update. The first is an NOS (New-Old Stock) exhaust pipe Exhaust Shield (WH p/n: 3588) and the second part is the optional Fender Assembly (WH p/n's: FA-58 Fender Assembly), also in excellent condition. The NOS Heat Shield has already been completely stripped and repainted to match the rest of the machine, but I have yet to do anything with the Fender Assembly.
December 15, 2009: The engine is still awaiting a K-90 crankshaft, so is also on hold for the rebuild until one is located. I have two K-90 engines now, but neither is usable as-is for this restoration. One engine has a tapered output shaft and the other is a gear-ended shaft for a 6:1 gear reduction unit. If anyone knows the whereabouts of a standard K-90 crank, in usable condition, please let me know.
February 3, 2010: Got around to refinishing the fenders. Stripped, primed and re-painted. The jury is still out whether the outsides of the fenders will be clear-coated. More than likely when I put them on and see them next to the hood they will need it.
I also located a local source for the RJ heat shield clamps. Unfortunately I have yet convinced the store owner to tell me where he gets them. I currently have about a dozen and he says he's ordering more.
And a few shots of the completed Heat Shield ...
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| Super Secret Project - Stainless Steel RJ-58 (aka "The War Machine Project") |
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Stainless Steel RJ-58:
Frame
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Stainless Steel RJ-58
Lift Handle
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Stainless Steel RJ-58:
Trans. Right Cover, Outside
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Stainless Steel RJ-58:
Trans. Right Cover, Inside
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Stainless Steel RJ-58:
Front Spindles
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Stainless Steel RJ-58:
Rear Hubs
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Stainless Steel RJ-58:
Shifter
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Stainless Steel RJ-58:
Steering Wheel Hub/Spoke
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| February 17, 2010: A plan has been hatched for a Wheel Horse display to be premiered at the 2010 Wheel Horse Show in Arendtsville, PA June 25-26, 2010. Credit for this idea goes to my youngest son Sean who when he first saw the pictures above said; "You guys should display your two tractors side-by-side and call them War Machine and 'War Machine and Iron Man". Once the idea was presented to the owner of the S/S-RJ it rather took off from there. If you're going to show look for these two. |
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I will post some more pictures as soon I can get everything installed. More coming soon......
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