halftrackinfo

pictures of your halftrack => post updates on the progress of your restoration => Topic started by: spec4don on November 16, 2011, 08:44:16 PM

Title: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on November 16, 2011, 08:44:16 PM
I've had a couple down weeks after my surgery so I decided to restore a couple items on my HT

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1411.JPG)

Restored my gauge cluster. New glass, cleaned and painted the cluster. Cleaned and service the gauges.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1418.JPG)

Had some metal bent and fabbed up some drip rails just for fun. The center two are the originals It was a fun project. Being around Steves M2 and watching it in the parades last weekend I really want to get going on mine.

Don G.



 
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on November 16, 2011, 09:23:16 PM
Nice job Don...how did you do the painting and get the lines so perfect?  I sent off my gauge cluster housing to Bob's SpeedO (I have NOS gauges for it that are perfect) and when it came back, initially it looked great.  But, on closer inspection, he had printed off a decal of some sort for the red/black center ring and glued it on.  The thing is, the cut around the ring isn't even smooth...it's very obvious that it's a piece of printed paper as opposed to a silkscreened or handpainted face....I was less than thrilled!  Especially for the amount of money that I paid for him to do a "professional" job.  Needless to say, I unfortunately won't be using his services again.

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on November 16, 2011, 10:12:20 PM
Hi Tom, the gauges are the original gauges from the cluster. Except the temp gauge is an NOS replacement. I just cleaned them up good. I guess I should of specified the cluster face was intact I just cleaned it up good then taped it off and painted the back side. I had it apart to put the glass in so painted the pieces of the cluster.

However I am restoring a second gauge cluster and my Dad the model railroader has made me some of the center decals for the other gauge cluster. So the second one will be a decal. My Dad also made up a speedometer face and a tach face. They came out really good. For the cost a gauge restoration I'll put up with a little imperfection.

Don G. 
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on November 17, 2011, 01:02:44 AM
looking good don
that gage sure cleaned up. do you guys in oregon get rained out for the winter or do you have a shop so you can keep going?
once it starts raining here i loose access to alot of my stuff stored outside, unless i want to go mud bogging.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on November 17, 2011, 12:26:21 PM
Steve my shop is too small for the half track to fit inside but I have a lean-to next to the garage where it sits. Although it's out side it is dry and that is important. Steve is going to let me haul my HT into his shop to do the frame so it will be a nice flat area to put the frame back together.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on November 17, 2011, 09:56:55 PM
i was recently at steve As' shop. that should be a big help. we used his new A frame hoist to unload some halftrack stuff.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 20, 2011, 09:25:50 AM
Here's a link to a video of Steve and I putting my frame into his shop. Got phase one completed. Airarced the out side frame rails off. next we cut out the 4' extension out. Then put it back together.

Steveo, you sent me a measurement from one of your frames from the revit to the bracket. Would you be able to give me an overall measurement from the front bumper or the end of the frame to the rear cross member? Mine is a roller model. If you have a bare frame? Thanks 

http://youtu.be/IuPqMXbMHaE

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on December 20, 2011, 01:20:54 PM
overall the frame is 18' 1 3/4" long, not including roller or winch attachments
http://halftrackinfo.com/index.php?topic=206.0

if you have a couple points you would like more measurements from let me know. i see your frame is missing the bracket that i took one of the measurements from.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 20, 2011, 04:26:19 PM
Thanks Steve I wrote down the measurement from the bracket to the rivit. Forgot you sent me an overall measurement already. I think it's old timers disease or CRS  ???   Was from the front bumper or the front of the frame rail?? This will one of those measure like 5 million times before I start welding.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 31, 2011, 03:28:27 AM
Well today was a good day, Steve and I cut the extension out of the frame of my half track. A couple of weeks ago we cut the outside frame rails off and today we brought it back to where it should be, I HOPE ::) Anyway a buddy of Steves who is a body aand fender man who does frame work is coming over monday to check things out for us. We came back to 18' 1 11/16" Heres a couple of shots I have more posted on the G503.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5443.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5448.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5449.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5455.jpg)

With any luck we'll have her welded up next week, I can start going back up hill

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Thomas on December 31, 2011, 04:26:41 AM
nice job Don!!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on January 02, 2012, 11:45:42 AM
Don, Am I seeing it right that you are missing a small section of the original frame? I find it strange that they would cut out a piece of the frame when they stretched it.

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 02, 2012, 06:41:57 PM
Steve, when they stretched the frame, they cut a 6"section out of the outer outer frame, then split the inner frame. I believe because of the length of the extension they didn't want the welds inline. Normally you cut the frame at a 45' angle not vertical like they did. Hence the outside frame acted more like a fish plate. That would be my hit anyway.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 07, 2012, 01:12:15 PM
Well got the outside frame 2/3's welded. Decided it was ok to take it off the jacks.  ;) Decided it would be easier to weld the inside frame with the transmission out. Easier to get my BIG A## in there and make a good weld. I weld mostly with wire now so I'm very rusty  on stick especially up hill and over head, just don't do it much any more ::) Anyway Steve and I started preping the trans to come out last night, we were going to pull it Monday, so it just take one more thing loose an hour later Sheezam! the trans is out ??? I like come on? thats it? It was cake :o I was really expecting a battle!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5463.jpg)

It's loose

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5466.jpg)

out she comes

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5470.jpg)

Were ready for the final weld and start restoring all the frame stuff then paint the frame and hopefully start putting armor back on ;D

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on January 08, 2012, 11:49:06 PM
looking good don
is that a coating of cement on your trans? i have one halftrack that has a tar coating on it.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 09, 2012, 02:01:36 AM
Steveo that's just plain old grease and grime. I'll bring it home and give it a bath. ;D

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 12, 2012, 09:25:03 AM
Well the frame is welded up, not pretty but should hold. Welded most of it with stick. My old wire feed gave up. But I went inside the welded and found a burnt connection. Cleaned it up and back in business. Sounds like detracking next.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 05, 2012, 12:21:02 PM
Finally got pass the snow and floods and got some more progress on the track. Steve and I are rockin and rollin on the track this week. I'm glead Steve is letting me use his shop. I like being warm.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5593.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5594.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5597.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/100_5602.jpg)


Having fun, did put a NOS pintal hitch back on. So some parts going back on ;D

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: KC on February 05, 2012, 06:22:50 PM
Hello Don,
I noticed your rear idler braces are wrapped around the rear cross member, just like a M2. Usually the M3 idler brace is mounted on the side of the frame. Wonder why yours are different?
Keep up the progress, one piece at a time.
Karl
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on February 05, 2012, 07:23:28 PM
i have only seen one other halftrack like that with the idler brace. it was at the littlefield museum in there bone yard. they said it was a 75mm gun motor carriage. i wonder if that was an early style type.

your going to have to remove your pintle again to install the rear bed.
http://www.cybermodeler.net/armor/m3/images/kruse_m3_20.jpg
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 05, 2012, 10:42:04 PM
Karl  and Steve. Clint noticed that also. Here's my respo0nse from the "G":

Clint, I didn't even clue in on that But now that you mention that I remember seeing them on the side. Makes me wonder. My halftrack is a Diamond T M3
s/n M3 2705. According to Joe M. my HT was delievered in 1942, Now According to Hunnicuts book Diamond T built 324 T 19's from Jan of 42 to April 42 until the M7 Priest was built. After the T-19's were designated obsolete the rest were converted to M3A1s. I wonder if because the Diamond T chassis was used as motor gun carriage is why it has the old style wrap around turn buckels.

I'm just guessing here. But my HT also came with pedistal lights. the motor gun carriages were we converted to pedistal lights because the concussion would bust out the fender mount lights. My data plate says mine was an M3 not an A1.

Steve thanks for pointing out about the pintal. Now that I look at it that was a big fat Duh-h-h-h. Good thing it's only hand tight and can come back out.

Don G.

Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on February 06, 2012, 06:07:23 AM
Don, You were just to excited in starting the assembly faze!

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 21, 2012, 06:52:19 PM
Not making great strides but still moving forward. Got the drive sprockets and idlers back from the sand blaster. Got the brake drums turned. Rebuilt the wheel cylinders and brakes on the rear axle.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1466.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1467.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1467.JPG)

Still overhauling the hydrovac.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 19, 2012, 08:22:45 PM
Hadn't posted anything for a while been working on some small stuff so no dramatic progress. Rebuilt my hand brake. Small item but a lot of work. Progress ia progress

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1480.JPG)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on March 20, 2012, 12:21:40 PM
Hey, it's the small stuff that really makes a restoration come together...and you've got to work on what you can when you can.  Everything's looking great so far.  Keep it up!!

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on March 20, 2012, 08:13:07 PM
looking good don
do you have your halftrack back home from steve's yet?
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 20, 2012, 08:52:35 PM
No the halftrack is still there. Still have some frame work to do then paint. But still plugging away. Home projects getting in the way right now.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on March 20, 2012, 08:57:11 PM
One piece at a time will Get'er Done.

Nice work.

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: PeteG on March 21, 2012, 07:54:15 AM
Looking good Don, but the sign in the motel bathroom says not to use the towels to shine your shoes or clean your luggage. I'm pretty sure they meant parts too. ;)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 21, 2012, 12:01:23 PM
OOPS :o
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 06, 2012, 08:49:17 AM
Well been cleaning up my frame and getting it ready for paint. Had to drill out all the cut off rivets. The sprockets and idlers are getting painted today. Pull the rear diff last night, will take it in and get it rebuilt.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/halftrack_rd.bmp)

Going to be at Tower Park the week after next. I posted this over on the Gee, Any halktrack guys that are going to be around we are planning on meeting at Steve1973's Lodge 366 Thursday at about 3:30pm. Informal, sip some Adult beverages (BYOB) and talk halftracks, see you there.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 08, 2012, 01:37:35 PM
Got some more parts painted,  Steve's friend Mike painted them for me. I'm a lowsy painter, Give me a rattle can every time.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/drums4.png)

moving ahead

Don G ;D
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on April 10, 2012, 11:18:23 AM
hurry up don.
you need to have it ready for tower park  ;D

keep up the good work
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 28, 2012, 10:58:57 PM
This is from Steve 1973:

 Well, Don and I got a bit more done on the track this week. Monday, Don tore down the front hubs, brakes and backing plate to clean and paint. I was busy putting tube bumpers on my Dad's non military jeep. By the end of the day Don had the parts at the sand blasters for some good cleaning.

Today I felt ambitious so I tackled the boggie suspension and took it apart. The one nice thing I can say working on Don's halftrack is that I learn the correct way of doing things on his track so when I work on mine in the future I will know what to do. The first thing was to clean the threads down in the volute springs so that I can get a good bite with the spring compression tool.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/100_58561.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/100_58551.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/100_58531.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/100_58581.jpg)

We are pushing ahead.

Don G.











So, next Monday Don and I will finish dismantling the crabs then haul the lot to the sand blasters for cleaning. Were getting close to getting the frame painted!







I was dreading the nuts on the boggie arms but since I got a 3/4" impact gun and upgraded to a 1/2" air line they were no problem. All but 2 that is. we will need to use some heat on those.

 









So, next Monday Don and I will finish dismantling the crabs then haul the lot to the sand blasters for cleaning. Were getting close to getting the frame painted!

Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on June 20, 2012, 01:00:04 PM
Well been working on the front end now I just have to put it back together. The honey-do's been keeping me occupied right now:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/frt_drums.bmp)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/frt_brakes.bmp)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/front_axle.bmp)

Did mange to rebuild another gauge set, came out ok, need a new oil psi gauge.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 29, 2012, 01:47:25 AM
Parts are still going back on! Too much home work rtght now >:( Also my social director seems to have a lot of plans for me right now.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/front_brakes_1.png)


(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/front_bakes_2.png)

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: gab on July 29, 2012, 05:22:44 PM
Hi Don

Did you have the roller or did you have to rebuild the mounts?   Greg
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 30, 2012, 12:01:08 AM
About a month before I bought the track, the guy took the roller to the scrap yard :'( I did weld on new ears. I did get a used roller from the midwest. It needs work and is still attached to a piece of frame ::)

Don G,
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: gab on July 30, 2012, 06:15:54 PM
Bummer.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 31, 2012, 12:33:22 AM
Steve and I got a bunch of parts put back on today ;D

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/front_axle_1.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/rear_diff.png[img])http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/rear_axle.png[/img]

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/rear_axle.png)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 10, 2012, 12:06:19 PM
Been a while but Steve and I removed the last major assembly. The engine and it is off to the rebuilder. I could probably do it my self but to real honest, I  hate working on engines >:( So after putting parts on I feel like I'm back stepping, but it needs to be done. Thanks to Steve1973 for documenting my progress.


(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/engine_1.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/engine_2.png)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on September 12, 2012, 11:11:48 AM
Don,

It's good to see you're onto another phase of the resto. Was the engine a running?

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 12, 2012, 01:20:36 PM
It was running good, but the water pump was bad. I'm pretty sure my track was rebuilt in the 50's due to having the threaded freeze plugs. That and the motor was painted OD Green. So I'm hoping it will be a cheap overhaul.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 30, 2012, 08:01:19 AM
I posted this over on the G also:

If you have followed my M3 thread, I'm currently working on the rear suspension. I believe my track went through a rebuild program in the 50's. I have been cleaning up arms and came across this repair that was made to the sealing surface's. Looks like they were filled with brass then turned down. I talked with Gary and he said he hadn't seen that before either. I wonder if this was Military or maybe done by the old millwright at the mill it was at  Anyone have anythoughts??

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1633.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1631.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1632.JPG)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 06, 2012, 05:02:26 PM
Hey!! Steve and I got her off the Jacks and and put some tires on it and and rolled it out the the door for the first time in a year. Next is to PSI wash the frame, prep then off to the paint shop. I'm really excited about that  ;D We've made some real progress in the last couple of weeks.  8) Hope you like the low rider halftrack

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/LR_2.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/LR_3.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/low_rider.png)

Enjoy Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: gab on October 07, 2012, 09:55:36 AM
Hi Don
Did you make new track armor brackets or did you buy? Also did you rivet them or bolt them on? Thanks.       Greg
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 07, 2012, 01:23:45 PM
Greg. I got a the front ones from Outsider and bought a couple repros. Steve1973 turned me on to some round head allen bolts with nylock nuts. I'll get some pictures and post them
Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on October 07, 2012, 08:26:19 PM
Where are you going to hang your fuzzy dice? ;D
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 08, 2012, 09:51:29 PM
I need to build the chain steering wheel first and find the dingle balls :-\

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on October 09, 2012, 09:34:50 PM
Greg. I got a the front ones from Outsider and bought a couple repros. Steve1973 turned me on to some round head allen bolts with nylock nuts. I'll get some pictures and post them
Don G.

The bolts we used for the brackets are 7/16" allen button head grade 8 bolts with mechanical locking flanged nuts, not nylocks. Here is a photo of them.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/100_7243.jpg)

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: gab on October 10, 2012, 04:38:08 PM
I was thinking about grinding a bit and turning bolt heads down to the rivet look.   
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 11, 2012, 08:39:04 AM
I was thinking maybe you could fill the hole with bondo maybe?

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: gab on October 11, 2012, 05:41:05 PM
That would work.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 14, 2012, 06:14:30 AM
Today was wash day. PSI washed the frame, have some minor degreasing to do, a little rust preventative and she'll be ready to head to the paint shop. I think then I'll be ready to head up hill

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/wash_day_2.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Wash_day_1.png)

Enjoy Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: gab on October 14, 2012, 08:46:43 AM
I think you have been heading up hill for a long time, your about to start down. It is really starting to come together.      Greg     
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on November 03, 2012, 07:59:00 AM
Friday marked a milestone in my restoration, Steve and I moved the frame over to the paint shop. It is painted. I went over Friday after work Steve and Mike (the painter) already had it off the jacks and the tires on it. So Monday it comes back to the shop and parts can start going back on. Yahoo :D

Prep for paint:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Paint_2.png)

Painted:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Paint_7.png)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 05, 2012, 12:17:29 AM
Christmas arrived early this year, got my new wiring harness from Vintage Maine. Looks really good!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Thundercat97 on December 05, 2012, 01:11:15 PM
You will love it... they do great work and I have one on my M3.   Very easy to install.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 05, 2012, 02:03:33 PM
Thundercat, imay need to pick youi brain as I start the install. I was going over the diagrams and such Still a little confused by the whole tilt switch and the front lights. The pedestals have 3 wires but I know you have to swtich pedistals to get the black out feature.

It will be  fun.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on December 06, 2012, 01:26:29 PM
Thundercat, imay need to pick youi brain as I start the install. I was going over the diagrams and such Still a little confused by the whole tilt switch and the front lights. The pedestals have 3 wires but I know you have to swtich pedistals to get the black out feature.

It will be  fun.

Don G.

Don,
The tilt switch is your dimmer switch. Since you have pedestal lights the switch is not used and can be omitted. The tilt switch is only for the early style headlights that have hi/low beam. The later style pedestal lights uses two styles, each using only two pins but different location from each other. The pedestal headlight uses two 12V pins to operate the marker light and headlight. The pedestal blackout light uses 12V for the marker light and 6V for the blackout light. The housing is your ground. Hope this helps. Don, wiring is my specialty. ;)

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 25, 2013, 11:05:18 AM
Been working on a lot of little parts and mounting them on the frame. Here are some shots of my frame as I'm putting on the brake lines and the wiring harness:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/frame_3.bmp)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/frame_2.bmp)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/frame_6.bmp)

The wiring harness is really nice!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 05, 2013, 10:05:34 AM
Putting more parts back together ;D

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/boogie_1.bmp)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/boogie_2.bmp)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/boogie_3.bmp)

We're having fun now!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 14, 2013, 06:22:54 PM
The engine  is being torn down as we speak. Do have to put in some .020 over pistons and rings. Bore taper is at the limit along with the intake valves. But everything else is looking really good. I'm pretty sure this was refurbed in the 50's.

Hope to have the engine, trans and transfer back byu the end of next month. If Steve gets healed up we'll probably try to re track it next Monday.

Don't forget Tower Park is sneaking right up on us!

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/engine_1.bmp)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/engine_6.bmp)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/engine_7.bmp)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on March 11, 2013, 05:45:35 PM
Made more progress on Don's halftrack. The brakes are all bled and work! He only had a few leaks. Some fitting were not tight. Today we moved his track back into building 1 in front of mine to start putting the track suspension back together. We got the rear idler hubs back on and all greased up. We also filled the rear axle with gear oil. Don is going to grease up everything Thursday. Hopefully by Friday It will have new tracks on it. I hope to do some de-greasing on mine this weekend.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN0368.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN0371.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN0372.JPG)

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 17, 2013, 10:07:02 PM
Well Steve and I made a big jag on the track friday night, got all the greasing done and the rear diff filled with oil. We bleed the brakes a few nights ago. but the big jag was getting the boogies back on. She's sitting on her own suspension again. We're going to track it tomorrow.

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/DSCN03801.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/DSCN03831.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/DSCN03841.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/DSCN03851.jpg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 21, 2013, 12:22:45 PM
Ok now we went and did it! She's tracked ;D Man been waiting for that to happen. Glad there was 3 of us Steve, his dad and me. Going to invest in some longer pry bars before we do Steve's tracks

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_1.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Track_4.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_6.png)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Thomas on March 21, 2013, 01:40:10 PM
wau good Job!! great!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: gab on March 22, 2013, 03:47:33 PM
Down hill from here.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 07, 2013, 01:47:36 AM
Well like the karate kid, tracks on, tracks off Found a puddle of oil under the rear drum Steve and I got really good at pulling the R/ side brake drum on the rear axle. Put in a new seal leaked again. Put in a speedy sleave (not cheap) leaked again. Now I'm getting a little frustrated at this point. I begining to think I've got a casting flaw in the drum. It only leaks with the drum in one position.
So after another frustration just happen to pick up the old seal and I see:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Seal_damage_2.png)

So off comes the drum AGAIN and we find this:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Seal_surface.png)

Anyway took care of the issues in the seal surface. So she's back on the ground and we moved her over to the other shop.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/On_the_ground.png)

The engine shoud be here in 2 weeks

Don G.


Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Thomas on April 23, 2013, 02:25:07 AM
is only gread work! super !
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 27, 2013, 10:29:29 AM
Got a call from Steve, My engine and tranny came back from the mechanic. It showed up at the shop yesterday. All I can say is WOW, hope she runs as good as it looks. Thanks to Matt for the attention to detail.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN0575.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN0569.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN0572.JPG)

It will be exciting to get it into the track

Don
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on May 03, 2013, 08:26:23 AM
Well I'm breaking down the last major component for restoration, the cowl. Now to get the the parts to the sand blaster. Then to restore the dash ;D I think now it's parts going back on!!!

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/cowl1.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/cowl_2.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/get-attachment.jpg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on May 05, 2013, 06:48:06 AM
Some day illness that far along . Nice work
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on June 04, 2013, 05:37:45 PM
Well got some big chunks done this last week. I decided to sit my floor on the halftrack. Looks realy good, another outstanding Outsider production! Steve, Matt and myself also got ambitious and installed the engine and trans. I needed some alone time with the track when we were done ;D

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Halftrack_mech_1.png)

Just after we stuck the engine in.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Halftrack_mech.png)

Matt and myself, Matt did my engine and trans, young old school mechanic

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Halftrack_out.png)

Steve needed to move some stuff out side so we got some shots in the sun!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on June 05, 2013, 09:09:09 AM
Lookin good Don.
Plop in the radiator, strap a board to your a** and go for a cruise. Don't forget the goggles ;D

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: supertrack on June 06, 2013, 11:07:07 PM
Very beautiful job ! :)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on June 09, 2013, 09:44:02 AM
Nice job keep the pics coming
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 11, 2013, 08:57:24 PM
Well this summer has been a blur! Finally got to get back the halftrack! Started wiring the dash.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1765.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1767.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1768.JPG)

Fun!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: prestone on August 12, 2013, 04:54:25 AM

very nice your job

regards

prestone
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 07, 2013, 08:48:18 PM
Made a little more progress on the dash:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/HPNX1808.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/HPNX1807.JPG)

Starting to come together

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on September 08, 2013, 06:03:45 AM
Nice job don.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: andy on September 22, 2013, 11:38:55 AM


X2 Don, and thanks for the pics, they will help me do my wiring!!!
Andy

Nice job don.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 27, 2013, 12:55:12 AM
Stopped by Steve's shop tonight and installed one of Mr Lockwood's exhaust systems on the halftrack, it looks beautiful. everything went together like it should. Although I'm really glad I did not have to do it with the armor on. It's a really tight fit :o

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/muffler_3.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/muffler_2.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/muffler_1.jpg)

Next comes the fuel system

Thanks for the kind words. Means a lot that you folks appreciate the work!

Don G 
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 30, 2013, 12:32:42 AM
Since it was monsoon weather here, got pretty close to finishing the dash! My horns should be in next week then it should be time to transport the cowl to Steve's shop and put it on!!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/HPNX1819.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/HPNX1818.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/HPNX1821.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/HPNX1823.JPG)

Stay Tuned!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: prestone on October 03, 2013, 12:46:52 PM
very good job



Prestone
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 11, 2013, 02:01:18 PM
Well the dash and cowl are mostly done. If all goes well I will try to mount it Monday. Here's a couple of shots waiting to be loaded.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1827.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1829.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1824.JPG)

Also been working on my chassis which is at Steve's shop. Only got a few more items to do, next big project. the radiator install. I just bit the bullet and had a new core put in the radiator.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 15, 2013, 09:17:34 AM
Well made a big jag on the old track yesterday. It' is really starting look like a track. Steve and I got the cowl mounted and started hooking everything up. I think I'm just begining to see a glimmer at the end of that tunnel, just a a glimmer. :D

Enjoy!

Don G.
 
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_7.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_18.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_19.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_24.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_25.png)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_27.png)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: prestone on October 15, 2013, 01:08:16 PM
it is very very nice job

Prestone
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 31, 2013, 10:24:18 PM
Well, been working on lot's of little things but decided to hang the doors so I can tighten down the b-pillars. She's really looking like a halftrack now :mrgreen: Sorry if the pictures are a little blurry I haven't mastered my phone camera yet ???

Enjoy

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_28.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_29.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_31.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_32.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_33.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_34.jpg)

Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: prestone on November 01, 2013, 12:47:56 AM
waow

as usual, beautiful work.

steel box with no regulator, no utisation shielded cables?

regards

Prestone
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: eleanor on November 01, 2013, 07:03:26 AM
Looks awsome!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on November 01, 2013, 09:15:29 AM
Some one can correct me but I don't think the M3's had the coil box only the early M2's. I know my track was rebuilt sometime in the 50's so may have been removed then too.

Don G.

Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on November 01, 2013, 09:25:50 AM
I forgot one picture of my floor courtesy of Outsider. Got part of it in. have to finish the track armor. The floor is a work of art!

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_28.png)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on November 01, 2013, 01:45:01 PM
It's coming along very nicely Don...

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: supertrack on December 05, 2013, 12:56:48 PM
I have a question ,why do you put a french speedometer ? Why don't you put an US speedometer ?
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 05, 2013, 04:07:28 PM
I put in the French one right now because I'm restoring the original one I have. I have it torn down and need to send the odometer and trip meter off for refurb. I just kind of ran out of time. (That whole work and family thing) Not to worry the NOS one will be there soon!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: supertrack on December 06, 2013, 10:23:49 AM
Ok i understand , see my post in a few time .  :P
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: prestone on December 08, 2013, 05:29:22 AM
Hey Don

or are you in your project?

regards

Prestone
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 08, 2013, 04:06:28 PM
Hadn't posted in a while, Got the track armor installed along with the fuel hoses. It was Minus 11 at the house this AM hope to get to work on the track tomorrow. Maybe even get her started.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Track_291.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Track_281.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/track_311.jpg)

Sorry they are a little blurry but my cell phone takes crappy pictures, Steve is going to get some good ones Monday.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on December 12, 2013, 04:10:13 PM
I thought I would do a post this time. This Monday was a big moment as we got Don's engine started. This took place just shy of two years to the day that we moved Don's halftrack in my shop. He has come a long way and boy it looks fantastic to say the least. It defiantly puts my track to shame with what all he has done to it. Here are some photos of the restoration thus far followed by a video of the engine start I put together. I've learned a lot working on his track and mine. Also, a big thanks to all of you on the forums, parts suppliers and to our mechanic Matt who has done lots for the both of us.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN13992.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN14012.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1402.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN14041.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN14051.JPG)

Here is the video link
http://youtu.be/lN8Vi6Am6Mo

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on December 15, 2013, 04:51:06 PM
Nice work don. Keeps the fire going on my end when I see your work. Hopefully ill start mine up in a month or two. Keep the pics and video coming.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on December 16, 2013, 08:21:02 PM
Don took his halftrack out for a drive today. It's the first time driving it under power. Enjoy

Here is the link

http://youtu.be/XwvhDRCxqbs

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on December 16, 2013, 08:58:16 PM
And now the fun begins!

Sounds like the typical HT.....Engine is real quite,  All the rattles are deafening.

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 17, 2013, 10:29:37 AM
Well it probably help if I had the floor plates bolted down. I had the center floor board laying in the back, should of took it off before I drove it. ;D

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on December 17, 2013, 10:43:47 AM
makes me want to pull mine out of storage and drive it. ;D
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on December 17, 2013, 05:10:41 PM
Don, Trust me. By the time you get all the lids on the different compartments all it will do is get louder.

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 22, 2014, 10:37:42 AM
Well took a little sabbatical from the halftrack for a bit. Had some home work to catch up on. Decided to put some of the cab floor plates and the seats in today. Thank God they weren't relying on me for war production it took a couple of hours. But I also had to remove the radiator and the water pump I'll bet that only took me 20 minutes, go figure!
Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on January 28, 2014, 05:35:06 AM
Don made some good progress yesterday as he got most of his front floor plates in and one half of the troop seats/storage lids installed. First he had to make an extra trip home to get all the stuff he forgot to bring. ;D He will have the radiator back today and I gave him an NOS water pump in exchange for his leaking one. ??? He should have the radiator and water pump back on tomorrow. Keep up the good work Don! Tower Park is three months away!! :D

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1465.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1463.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1464.JPG)

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on January 28, 2014, 10:05:27 AM
looking good don.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: andy on January 28, 2014, 12:43:56 PM
as usual don, excellent. I use your thread as reference building me!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on January 28, 2014, 07:51:38 PM
Hey Don, Looks like you got the puzzle pieces figured out.

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 29, 2014, 01:01:55 AM
Yep Steve, once I got every thing in there, it was pretty self explanatory. Looks good don't it, some guy I know fabed it up! ;D Wonder who that was ::) Thanks Steve!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 11, 2014, 02:28:22 PM
Time for another progress report! Got sometheing actually complete before this last big blast hit last weekend. After having to pull the water pump and radiator back out. Thanks to Steve I borrowed an NOS water pump till I can get mine rebuilt. Anyway Got the floor complete now. Have to take up to DMV and get a VIN inspection done so I can start working on a Title. Line up punches and keeping everything loose has been the order of the day getting things back together.

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/floor_section_2.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/floor_section_3.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/floor_section_4.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/floor_section_5.jpg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 02, 2014, 09:26:10 PM
Well been working on lots of detail work. Did start putting the front armor back on. But I just finished assembling the rear wall and mounting the locking assembly. We made a trip up to the Oregon State Military Museum to look at another M3 and see how the rear wall is assembled. Anyway here is a shot of the completed wall :D

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/HPNX1870.JPG)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on March 09, 2014, 05:30:56 AM
Nice job don it's great to watch the weekly post and see everything come together.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 10, 2014, 11:16:17 PM
It's starting to look like a halftrack :o Soon as my fenders get painted the front end will be complete except for the roller

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/halftrack_frt_1.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/halftrack_frt_2.jpg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on March 19, 2014, 03:56:02 AM
It was a nice day out and Don decided to take his track out for a spin. Here are some ne photos. I tried to get some video but he was just to quick for me.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN15831.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1584.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1585.JPG)

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on March 20, 2014, 10:56:49 PM
thats lookin great don
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on March 20, 2014, 10:57:24 PM
thats lookin great don
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: prestone on March 21, 2014, 12:05:24 AM
Hey Don

Nice job

Prestone
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on April 04, 2014, 12:00:43 AM
A few more updates on Don's halftrack. The windshield armor is in place along with the two side armor pieces on the left, rear. The right rear has the forward, rear armor plate in place. Monday the final armor plate will be installed along with the front fenders. Once that is done we will have to shim the rear floor for level and the track is good to go. Here are some photos of the front left plate in place.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN15951.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN15941.JPG)

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on April 05, 2014, 12:56:47 AM
More photos of the progress!! :D

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1630.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1631.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1632.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1629.JPG)

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on April 07, 2014, 10:53:50 PM
Well guys, after four long years Don's halftrack restoration is, for the most part, done. All that is left is the front fenders, perimeter rail and the finishing touches. Great job Don! :D

Here is a video of Don having fun with his halftrack.

Enjoy!

Steve A.

http://youtu.be/srli7kQbu1k
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: eleanor on April 08, 2014, 06:04:04 AM
Looks great guys you must be happy to finally get to take her for a spin.
Nice work and your posts have been very helpful for the rest of us.
Best
Art
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: andy on April 09, 2014, 06:02:27 AM
great news don! When do we see you cruising the boulevard for girls and going thru a drive thru   ;)???
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 09, 2014, 08:16:26 AM
I'm thinking that a halftrack could be a chick magnet ;D I'll start the DMV adventure after Tower Park. That could take as long as the restoration >:(

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: andy on April 10, 2014, 07:31:45 AM
I got mine registered here in Canada. They list it as a white 2 dr pick up truck 4wd model M2.   Hagerty insurance insures them with no problems. Mine is insured for 50k and its under $300 yr
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on April 13, 2014, 06:29:04 AM
Very nice don.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on April 16, 2014, 11:34:32 PM
Don And I got the fenders on tonight and pulled ZELDA out for some photos. Yes ZELDA is the track's name. I will let Don explain that to you. Good Story. Any how it is as complete as it is going to get at this point for Tower Park. Here are some photos.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1676.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1677.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1678.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1679.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN1680.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN16811.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN16821.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN16841.JPG)

OK that was the good news. There is some bad news. You know the saying one step forward, two steps back. Well, we have experienced a lot of that with this project. The latest in that is while we were hanging the first fender Don found a puddle of brake fluid under both rear brake plates which means both wheel cylinders are shot. :(  No time to fix now so he capped off the line to the rear brakes and we will deal with that after Tower Park. To top that off I went next door to my other shop to find a puddle under one of my rear brake plate which means mine is leaking also. Sound like we will have to de-track both vehicles to fix brakes when we get back. Oh well, time for some fun first at Tower Park. :)

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on April 17, 2014, 04:58:29 AM
Glad to see the track getting close to the finish line. Sucks to here about both your brake problems.

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: col.halftrack on April 17, 2014, 06:52:38 AM
Man, that is one sweeet :-*halftrack.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: WayOffTrack on April 17, 2014, 03:11:08 PM
Awesome job and fast too, I hope it inspires me to finish mine. Have fun at the show guys.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: andy on April 18, 2014, 12:48:04 PM
Thanks to Dons help and pictures mines coming along too. I noticed you dont have the rail along the top of the armor, you going to add for support?
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 18, 2014, 12:54:29 PM
Andy that's the next BIG project. I have the front original piece that I need to repair then I will have the new portion bent.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on April 20, 2014, 06:50:47 AM
Looking better and better don. The brakes where the first thing I worked on when I got my track. Haven't tested them yet it foing on 4 years now.  Will se how that goes. Have to get it running first. You guys have all the good get together out here oh wel. Beautiful job don have a nice holiday to all.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on May 19, 2014, 10:09:50 AM
Zelda made her first parade!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Rhody_days.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/rhody_days_3.jpg)

Florence Oregon!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on May 19, 2014, 01:07:07 PM
Accessorized!  Looks good with the top too Don!

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: eleanor on May 20, 2014, 05:18:46 AM
Looks greats!
Nice work Don
Art
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on May 21, 2014, 02:43:15 AM
The parade was great and Don did a fantastic job on his eye candy. ;)Our clubs entry took second place for the event. I only got one photo for the day so here it is. We had three Steve's in the halftrack. Don was the odd one. Sorry for the blurred photo, the halftrack wouldn't hold still. ;D

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/DSCN19061.JPG)

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on June 30, 2014, 09:11:18 PM
Well what do you do on a 90' day? If your me you decide to install your perimeter rail :roll: What an interesting project. Lots of drilling. I'll try to get some shots tomorrow.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 01, 2014, 09:44:08 PM
Finished painting up the perimeter rail tonight. Should go on tomorrow. ;D

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/P-rail.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/P-rail_1.jpg)

Lot's of drilling but that's out of my hair. :P

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Torque on July 02, 2014, 04:16:23 PM
Don, beings you have that perimeter rail handy, what is the width at the very front? Need to build one and everything is obvious except the front width.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: WayOffTrack on July 02, 2014, 04:45:13 PM
I need to build two perimeter rails. I just picked up the material at the convention from Outsider. Really nice stuff btw. Did you use the track to as a jig to mock it up. Curious how you went about it. Thanks yours came out really nice too.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 02, 2014, 05:48:26 PM
Torque, I'll get the measurement for you tonight when I get home.  ;)

Wayoff, My track had the front part of the original P-rail from the windshield to the B-pillar. When I went to put it back on I figured out real quick that it was not going to fit, it was too narrow. So I had to cut the angles at the windshield corners to relieve it to move. I think that I would fit the long sides from the B-piller back and fit the rear. Then mount front piece. then figure your angles for the B-piller to the windshield. So to answer the question I would use the track to jig it up. I marked and drilled the holes while it was on the track also. Plus drilled the holes for the canvas bowes at the same time.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on July 02, 2014, 08:40:47 PM
Don, do you have a train track running past your front yard?

BTW, nice work on the perimeter rail.  :)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on July 02, 2014, 09:38:43 PM
Don, do you have a train track running past your front yard?

BTW, nice work on the perimeter rail.  :)

It's pretty cool. Here is a video of it. I will let Don give the specifics. The first time I went out to his place it wand like never mind the halftracks, let's talk trains. ;D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbHf2uB088Y

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 02, 2014, 11:20:16 PM
The angle Iron that attaches to the wind shield and holds the front of the perimeter rail is 1 1/2x 1 1/2 x 3/16's It is 60 !/2 inches. The front of the perimeter rail is also 60 1/2 inches. I'll load up some detail pictures tomorrow.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 02, 2014, 11:28:54 PM
Don, do you have a train track running past your front yard?

BTW, nice work on the perimeter rail.  :)

Tom before I got bit by the OD bug so hard. I started working on my railroad. It is all 18" mining equipment. The gray locomotive  is a 1905 Porter compressed air locomotive, that ran in the Homestake mine in Lead SD. Now that I'm winding down on the HT I can start putting more time back into the railroad. I've got about 700' of track down right now. Wouldn't want to get bored!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 03, 2014, 08:47:21 AM
Here are the pictures, I tacked everything together the took it out on the horses and welded it up. I also painted it while it was on the horses.

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_20140702_210226.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_20140702_210218.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_20140702_210211.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_20140702_210200.jpg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Torque on July 03, 2014, 10:46:42 AM
Thanks, Don. In your first picture are there bends in the rail at both the front and rear of the narrow armor? I thought maybe the front was just shimmed for the angle of the rail?
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 03, 2014, 01:03:15 PM
Torque, My P-rail was cut right at the end of the small piece where the rear armor connects when I got it. So what you see should be original from the B-pillar forward. Oh the Angle piece is a formed angle not a drawn angle.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on July 03, 2014, 01:59:02 PM
Looks great Don.

Oh, and that train is just too freakin' cool!  I've got to get up there sometime...
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 03, 2014, 03:55:02 PM
Your welcome any time Tom  ;D Got a spare room too!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on July 04, 2014, 10:23:25 AM
thats looking good don.

i was going to start my perimeter rail the very day you started yours but it was 107 degrees here so i gave up.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 04, 2014, 09:00:23 PM
I feel your pain. It was around 90' when I did mine. I lost about 7lbs.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on July 06, 2014, 08:54:31 AM
Don,
Nice work, it looks real good. I was sitting at my blast cabinet the other day sweating, that had to be fun. :D

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 15, 2014, 09:58:32 AM
We had our annual Club camp at my place this weekend. Did some trailing. Heres's a shot of Zelda and Steve's track on the trail!
I'll post some more as I get them :mrgreen:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/1861/Zelda_5.jpg)

Enjoy Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: andy on July 15, 2014, 01:19:05 PM
Great Don, you and Steve have been my saviors during my restoration

Andy
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: bright87 on July 15, 2014, 09:31:00 PM
I love seeing our machines in use, not just put on a trailer. Great picture Don, wish I was there!!
Michael
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 22, 2014, 05:05:14 PM
Hey does anyone have the measurements of the footmans loops that go on the back door of the M3? Also I think I've asked this before does any one have repro tailight guards for sale? Outsider I think had the brackets?

Took a little halftrack break. Found out why my 5ton was blowing oil the bearing s are out of the turbo. Always something!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on July 23, 2014, 05:36:38 AM
Don, Steve-O said he had some done. My fabricator got busy so he is behind on getting my stuff done.

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: col.halftrack on July 23, 2014, 08:58:57 AM
Don,
 I have some taillamp sheet metal if you do not find it closer.
 Kevin
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: RocnTJ on July 23, 2014, 06:41:45 PM
Don,

I have a question for you.   I finally broke down and started disassembling my tracks.   Everything of course was thoroughly rusted and difficult to get apart.   My biggest problem was geting the shaft out of the crab assembly.  Both guide blocks on the ends of the shaft were frozen solid  and the shaft was frozen tight in the crab and the spring mount.   I had my little 20 Ton press maxed out trying to get the shaft out.   It finally let go with quite the bang.  Fortunately all my body parts and the press are still in one piece.

Steve mentioned that you put a grease zerk on the spring mount to get some grease into this shaft to keep it from freezing up.   Do you have any close up pictures of where you mounted it?   My shaft is necked down on the middle so it seems like a grease zerk would aid in keeping movement in this shaft.

Thanks for your help.

Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: scotty71 on July 23, 2014, 09:55:12 PM
Do you mean something like this?

Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: RocnTJ on July 23, 2014, 11:33:41 PM
That's it.  Thanks.  I was debating whether to put it on the top or the bottom but that looks like as good of spot as any.   

Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on July 24, 2014, 07:16:22 AM
Don,
Nice to see the halftracks out in the woods.
I like the spot for the grease fitting.

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 24, 2014, 09:29:45 AM
Tom I put my zerk in about the same spot as Scott but I put mine up on top of that sleeve. and used a 90 degree fitting. Thought process was it would be more protected up top and easier to see. I'll try to get a shot of it. I had 1 pin necked down and one pin that was straight. I did have to take one pin down to the the machine shop to have them press it out.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: bright87 on July 24, 2014, 03:31:13 PM
Here is a picture from another thread on this website.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 24, 2014, 05:25:55 PM
That's where I put mine!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: RocnTJ on July 24, 2014, 10:19:53 PM
I was going to put it on the top but it looked like the springs could hit it if they compressed all the way.  That is probably an unlikely occurrence.  From that picture it looks like there is plenty of room.  Thanks for the pictures and the help.

Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: HenryVIII on July 25, 2014, 10:42:58 PM
I put mine about 30 degrees down from the top, Not too far down that it will hit if the crab moves to the stops and not directly between the springs. Just at about the same angle as if you were trying to drill the hole with a drill without taking it apart.

Henry
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 08, 2014, 07:23:22 PM
Waaaa hooo ; Guess what arrived in the mail today! Guess! A brand new title for my halftrack Thank you Oregon DMV! Next is plates and I'm Legal!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on August 08, 2014, 09:08:51 PM
Nice…congrats Don!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: andy on August 09, 2014, 12:32:54 PM
Nice don! I have hagerty insurance on mine and the dmv registered it as a 4x4 2dr pickup, this was them not me after they asked me a few questions about it lol
Waaaa hooo ; Guess what arrived in the mail today! Guess! A brand new title for my halftrack Thank you Oregon DMV! Next is plates and I'm Legal!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 20, 2014, 09:21:00 PM
Decided it was time to get my rear brakes fixed. I was prepping the halftrack to pull the track. Kind of like my transmission, hour and half later the track and rear drum is off. Now if I could find the special place I put my wheel cylinders at. :(  But I'm sure she wont go back together that fast :roll:

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/zelda_6.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/zelda_51.jpg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: SNAFU 62 on August 21, 2014, 12:12:24 AM
That looks like a long day Don.  Hope you have a good time and you find your wheel cylinders.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on August 21, 2014, 03:37:24 PM
Don,
I found the special place! ;D They were on the nut and bolt cart on the bottom. I went over today and searched everywhere for them. Hurray!! I placed the box on the table as you enter the shop.

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 21, 2014, 04:45:59 PM
 >:( Really? I tore my shop apart looking for them! Thanks,  Steve do you have anything stored in that special place? Steve is always taking care of my light work ;D

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 26, 2014, 08:17:05 AM
Well got the left wheel cylinder back in and the drum reinstalled, adjusted the turn buckle, new outside idler half, new sprocket. Steve came out and helped me install the track, didn't go too bad. Took it out for a run, what a difference! Ran really smooth.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on August 26, 2014, 08:13:15 PM
Nice Don...do you think that's what was causing the wear problem at Tower Park?
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 26, 2014, 10:39:17 PM
Tom, I think the wear on the sprocket teeth were letting the track walk back until it was catching on the sprocket tooth causing it to jump. That and the idler being a little out of line. How ever I ran it after I adjusted the idler turn buckle which caused to track better on the idler but I still had the jump. The new sprocket seems to have made a big difference. I looked at my other sprockets and they were built up with weld. I'm beginning to think that heavy wear on the reverse side of the sprocket is the norm. Which is really counter intuitive as you would think the wear would be on the drive side of the sprocket.

I'm just guessing here but that is the only explanation I can come up with ???

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on August 27, 2014, 06:01:37 PM
it looks like you are getting closer to completing your halftrack.

im curious.  you have another unrestored halftrack, are you going to start on that one when you are done?
i ask because after my first restoration i didnt think i would do another one. then after a few years i was back at it.

Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 27, 2014, 09:49:27 PM
Well that's a tough one, I want to enjoy this one for a while. But I have a WC-13 command car just begging to be next on the restore list. But I think I would like to do a M2A1 or maybe dummy up a 75mm tank destroyer. Just kind have to wait and see. If I did it wouldn't be till after I retire.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on August 28, 2014, 07:33:48 PM
Don,
If you move right on to the other halftrack it should go twice as fast ;D.

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 28, 2014, 09:45:07 PM
Gary you must be using that new math ???

Did get the right side pulled off and the new wheel cylinder in. Even got the Boss to come out and help me bleed the brakes! However I wasn't sure how to answer the question of the night:

Me: "Just get into the drivers seat and I'll have you pump the brakes." So she gets in.

Her: "How do you fit in here?"

Not quite sure how to take that ??? Discretion being the better part of valor:

Me: Very carefully

Don G   
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: SNAFU 62 on August 28, 2014, 11:20:17 PM
That is a classic Don. I can see the whole discussion right now.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on August 30, 2014, 07:42:10 PM
Quote
Gary you must be using that new math ???

That's my mechanics math, if you do the same job twice you can almost cut the time in half.

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 01, 2014, 09:19:49 AM
Some how I'm not sure that works with halftracks!!  ::)

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on September 02, 2014, 06:51:29 AM
Quote
Some how I'm not sure that works with halftracks!!  ::)
I think you're right on that ;D

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 06, 2014, 06:01:55 AM
Well had a very interesting turn of events the last couple of days. Got the new wheel cylinders in. Steve helped me retrack the left side. Then pulled the right side, welded up the sprocket, new idler half and the because I just wanted to see if I could do it I retrack it my self :o Well me and my Ford 3000. Note to self: don't do that again :(  Anyway she runs really good now right up to the point the brake pedal went to the floor :x

Okay now I'm pissed! Pretty much figured out that my hydrovac blew a seal. So I decided I would bypass the hydrovac and at least have manual brakes. So I stop at my local hose supplier to have them build me a jumper hose. The only brake hose they can make has a 1/8" I.D. The lines on the halftrack are 5/16" That's not going to work. So I'll build it out of steel. About halfway home it dawns on me, I had them make the jumper line from my steel line to the block on the rear diff :(  Major restriction from the rear wheel cylinders, now I know why the rear wheel cylinders blew, too much back psi. Now as to weather or not that contributed to the hydraovac failing? Unknown! So I'm back to steel on everything.

Just something to keep in mind.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: andy on September 06, 2014, 12:03:31 PM
Humm in the car world pedal to floor is master cylander not a booster. Also dont see why a differance in brake line would cause differant psi's. Are u sure its not master?

Andy
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 06, 2014, 10:43:49 PM
All true Andy except for the fact that I was also loosing fluid and I didn't have any leaks. After I bypassed the hydrovac it functioned fine. But the ID on the hose being 1/8th of an inch and the brake line is 5/16" That is an ID difference is 3/16 of an inch in volume reduction. That is huge. I believe it created a restriction and caused me 2 issues. One it would make the rear brakes work slow and be slow to retract. Two with repeated applications I believe it would cause a PSI build up in the rear brakes and cause the blown out wheel cylinders.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on September 07, 2014, 07:12:07 AM
Don,

NAPA gave me a part # 4900 brake hose for the rear of my M2 in case you want  stay with a flex hose. They matched it to the old one I took off.

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 07, 2014, 08:12:04 AM
Thanks Gary, I'll keep that in mind. According to Kevin, the M2's had a rubber line and the M3's were steel so I think I'll just stick with it for now.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 15, 2014, 08:06:00 PM
So Zelda's got a new doo! Painted her the weekend before last and spent most of last week putting on stars, hood and bumper numbers. The louver star was bear took me about an hour just to do the masking 8) Anyway got my plate in the mail last week too so soon as I get that mounted I'm ready for a drive!

Don G

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1882.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1883.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1879.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1879.JPG)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on September 15, 2014, 09:39:38 PM
Looking great Don!!

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: eleanor on September 16, 2014, 05:30:40 AM
Looks really nice Don,
what are you going to do with all your spare time now?
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve-0 on September 16, 2014, 06:51:03 AM
looks good don.

now come over to my place and finish mine up  ;D
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on September 20, 2014, 03:10:23 PM
Very nice don.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 20, 2014, 09:16:02 PM
Thanks Guys! I think the boss is already calculating my available time :(

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 09, 2014, 05:17:06 PM
Took Zelda to the fuel depot the other day :mrgreen:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Zelda_7.png)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: andy on October 10, 2014, 11:46:55 AM
i was hoping for a gas station shot filling up with onlookers gaucking at you
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 14, 2014, 03:34:57 PM
Andy I went to the card lock so was not at real traveled place. Except for the old toothless tweeker that stopped by to tell me how he drove one of those!  ::)

Had a great weekend with Zelda! Went on my first Tactical. It was a blast and Zelda preformed great. Here is a cool shot taken on Sunday:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Zelda_8.jpg)

Thanks to Steve for letting me borrow his gas fired Ma Deuce :D

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on October 14, 2014, 10:51:50 PM
Nice Don!!  Glad to see her getting some "practical" use!

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on October 22, 2014, 05:33:57 PM
Here is Don test firing the 50 cal.

http://youtu.be/quJdJes3VgQ

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on October 22, 2014, 05:49:46 PM
Thanks for posting Steve!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 09, 2015, 01:24:50 PM
Zelda out stretching her legs at the December Tactical on the Oregon Coast, God I love driving my halftrack! She's not a trailer queen by any stretch. She earns her pay!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Zelda_patrol.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Zelda_9.jpg)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: eleanor on January 12, 2015, 02:33:52 PM
Nice pic's hombre
Zelda looks great!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 17, 2015, 09:16:22 AM
Another cool picture from last weekend. Love taking Zelda to the field!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Camp_Adair.jpg)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on April 17, 2015, 07:16:26 PM
Looks good Don, she looks at home in the field.

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: eleanor on April 19, 2015, 07:21:10 AM
Looks great Don!
Awesome job
Art
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on April 19, 2015, 11:04:10 AM
Now all you have to do is muddy her up!   ;D
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on May 10, 2015, 03:07:47 PM
Zelda, at a fund raiser for Branches of Valor. A Veterans support Group.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Camp_Harlow.jpg)

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on May 19, 2015, 10:39:13 AM
Summer is starting! Zelda at the 107th Rhody Days Parade. This was her very first parade after I got kit running! She's a Veteran now!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/Zelda_Rhody_days.jpg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on June 01, 2015, 09:56:25 PM
Zelda at this weekends Tactical. I was following 2 Hellcats. I did some major off roading following the tanks it was awesome Zelda preformed like a champ!!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Zelda_field_3.jpg)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Monkeypirate on June 02, 2015, 03:29:07 AM
It must be fun getting to put it through the paces!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on June 10, 2015, 05:30:15 PM
Okay, here's a video clip of the first morning convoy, this was taken from a jeep that was following us.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZifYKr-PP0I

Enjoy!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: supertrack on June 19, 2015, 01:23:10 AM
very nice
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 05, 2015, 07:21:13 PM
Well been down for knee surgery (June 24). Been getting pretty restless, the boss took pity on me and helped me install my radio box in the halftrack. The radio it's self heads to the shop next week. Found a guy in town who repaired them when he was in the service. Still have all the wiring to do but excited to get it up and running.

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1947.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1946.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/HPNX1944.JPG)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on July 05, 2015, 08:10:26 PM
Looks great Don…now I have an idea what it will look like when I get mine installed!

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on July 06, 2015, 05:26:24 AM
Looks good Don, nice to see the boss is working for you ;D. Get healed up.

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 06, 2015, 07:30:11 AM
I'm lucky the Boss doesn't mind helping now and again. Thanks To Steve I have the installation manual, its a help, but not a big help. I had to modify and add spacers. There are some critical measurements you have to maintain, due to the antenna pockets in the canvas ;)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on July 12, 2015, 05:27:48 AM
Nice don just keeps getting better and better
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on September 16, 2015, 09:47:48 PM
Took Zelda to a car show at the local High School. 4 miles from the house so I drove it there. Ended up taking Second in the 1940 to 1949 class It was lots of fun and lots of interest from the other owners.

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Zelda_car_show.jpg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on September 16, 2015, 10:03:03 PM
Hay Don, she looks great! I see your next to an old Chevy truck like mine and it's green! ;D I need to get that done one of these days. Congratulations on second place.

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 08, 2015, 12:10:45 PM
Zelda had another busy weekend! Up at Camp Rilea, on the Oregon coast.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Zelda_field_8.jpg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Zelda_field_7.jpg)

Just too much fun. A friend of mine drove, it was fun watching my track drive by and engage the enemy.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: RocnTJ on December 08, 2015, 01:41:02 PM
That looks really neat Don.   

I have hooked up with a reenacting group down here and hope to get my track out in the back country with them in the near future.   The biggest hurdle I have is getting it moved back and forth.

Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 08, 2015, 02:00:15 PM
Tom I've been having a great time doing the reenacting thing. We have a great group.

Don G.

PS have you ever had time to build some more headlight brackets?
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on December 08, 2015, 04:33:54 PM
Nice Don…good to see you putting it to good use and what it was designed for.

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: RocnTJ on December 08, 2015, 08:46:37 PM
Tom I've been having a great time doing the reenacting thing. We have a great group.

Don G.

PS have you ever had time to build some more headlight brackets?

The parts are all sitting on my work bench just need to weld them up.   I will probably have time over the holidays to finish them up for you.

Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 08, 2015, 09:38:05 PM
Thanks Tom, I'm finally retired so hope I'll get more work done on the Halftrack this winter ;D I'm planning on Tower Park this year, hope we can hookup and spend some time together (same for Tapper 02) Also planning on hitting the convention I hope!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on December 09, 2015, 07:09:54 AM
Don,
The halftrack looks great. Great picture in the woods.

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on December 12, 2015, 05:56:18 PM
Nice pics don
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 17, 2016, 08:46:00 PM
Got my new hauler home yesterday. M818 5ton. Only has 4600 miles on it. I drove a M817 in the service. What a rush driving it home. She'll look good hauling the halftrack. The M52 was too slow!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/3510/medium/M818_2_2_.jpg)


Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: vj on February 28, 2016, 10:01:06 PM
  Don,    all looks great,     
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 22, 2016, 09:59:34 AM
Zelda was up at Camp Adair Oregon this last week end. There were 4 Divisions trained there to go overseas during WW2. We represent the 70th ID the Trailblazers. Oregon's own. This Bridge leads to the Engineer Training area on the Luckimute River. 312 miles on Zelda now! Did I tell you I love my Halftrack?

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/Adair_1.jpg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on March 22, 2016, 11:02:07 AM
Stop it Don!  Damn you're making me jealous!!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: prestone on March 22, 2016, 12:28:09 PM
merits you love Zelda with the realized work

Little question ; Zelda loves Don . . . ?   ::)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on March 26, 2016, 06:01:33 AM
I look forward to spending time going into the field with mine. One day. Thanks don.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on November 22, 2016, 10:32:51 PM
It's been a while. Don't retire, you'll be too busy to get anything done. Anyway Made another trip up to Camp Adair with the 70th Infantry. Really had a great time. Zelda preformed flawlessly on a 20 mile road march. I've missed driving Zelda.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_000710.JPG)

I did something different in October, decided to take my reenacting to a whole new level. Attended the Airborne Demonstration Team Jump School. Did make my 5 jumps and got my wings....... yeah I'm that dumb :mrgreen:

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/1861/medium/ADT.jpg)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on November 23, 2016, 12:00:08 AM
Congrats on jump school Don!  That's incredible.

I never could find a good time to go when I was reenacting with my unit in California, but I still want to go one of these days.

Again...congrats!

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on November 23, 2016, 06:00:22 AM
I am a firm believer that there is no good reason to jump out of a perfectly good airplane! ;D

Congrats!

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Darth_Kitten on November 23, 2016, 09:44:39 AM
There is no such thing as a "perfectly good airplane" :-)

I am a firm believer that there is no good reason to jump out of a perfectly good airplane! ;D

Congrats!

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on November 23, 2016, 11:29:07 AM
That's great Don, it must have been a blast 8)

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on November 23, 2016, 04:26:28 PM
There is no such thing as a "perfectly good airplane" :-)

Ok, I'll give you that one. That's why I don't fly!

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on November 27, 2016, 06:31:03 AM
Maniac
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 14, 2016, 09:02:34 PM
Another fun weekend with Zelda.Wet but fun!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_002611.JPG)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on December 15, 2016, 07:38:50 AM
Looking good! What I wouldn't give for it to be warm enough to rain right now. Temp this am is 11 deg f.

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on December 16, 2016, 08:00:53 AM
At least the driver looks somewhat dry ;D

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 16, 2016, 08:57:41 PM
Did manage to Stay some what dry, but Dang it was cold. Now I miss the Oklahoma heat. Getting ready to move Zelda back to Steve's shop for the winter. Been without power for 3 days now. So just a wanted to wish all you fine folks a Merry Christmas and a great New Year. Although I haven't met a lot of you face to face it's been a great pleasure to have got to know you through this forum.

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on December 18, 2016, 06:32:03 AM
Nice pics don look forward to when I can have my track out reinacting
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on January 17, 2017, 10:09:16 AM
Hey Don,
  Do you wear a tanker's helmet driving around..or just your pot?

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 26, 2017, 08:46:33 AM
Hi Tom, yes I just use a steel pot. Most of the pictures I've seen show them with just a steel pot.

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 10, 2017, 10:03:12 PM
Zelda went out to the 4th of July parade in Creswell Oregon!

Don G
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_062011.JPG)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: 8683jb on July 10, 2017, 11:24:51 PM
Zelda's looking pretty dang good Don.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 08, 2017, 08:31:28 PM
Made a little trip up to Scappoose Oregon. Did a little halftrack camping! Then took Zelda on a road march! Lots of fun!

Don G

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_06666.JPG)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_06623.JPG)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on August 13, 2017, 05:01:43 AM
Nice don
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on August 13, 2017, 06:18:56 AM
Looks good 8)

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 09, 2018, 08:38:46 AM
Well actually did a little work on  Zelda Wednesday, after using Steve’s fuel tank in Zelda for a couple of years, it was time to get it back to him and install the new tanks that have been sitting for a while. Steve has a cool system for draining tanks, so we transferred the fuel to his track, pulled the tank and moved it to his track.

Have the new tanks in place now I need to plumb them up and get the wiring in. It will be nice to have both tanks in. Glad Steve didn’t charge me rent on the tank!

Anyone who tells you how much free time you’ll have when you retire is full of it!

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Outsider on March 11, 2018, 02:56:47 PM
Anyone who tells you how much free time you’ll have when you retire is full of it!

Don G

My sister retired a couple of years ago and now says that as hard as it is to get time now to do her chores at home done, she can't figure out how she did it with 4 kids at home and job and chores!

Steve
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: 8683jb on March 11, 2018, 05:06:05 PM


Anyone who tells you how much free time you’ll have when you retire is full of it!

Don G

Yeah, but Don - it’s still ‘way better than working! Plus, all the time you’re now spending on half tracks, dozers, etc. would otherwise be wasted producing revenue or some other ridiculous endeavor.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 25, 2018, 08:12:44 PM
A little upgrade to Zelda, new fuel tanks! Steve finally decided to repo his tank that I’ve had for ah, well, gee a few years. But it will be nice to have twin tanks! Paul makes some nice tanks!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/E01B1ED7-7DFD-4D89-978F-171EAB716513.jpegb)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/5E13AE74-843D-4329-977A-A5E3E16F8E51.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/7CDDA75B-142B-456F-9B11-504A6C76FB5F.jpeg)

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on March 25, 2018, 11:03:38 PM
 ;D
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on April 01, 2018, 06:31:33 AM
Nice don if you could pics on your plumbing before you install the line covers.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 05, 2018, 09:08:34 AM
Had to do a little modification but they are  in just have to have to button up the covers and we have twin tanks.

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/FBEFACE5-ECE6-4FA5-BF30-C5178F1E471B.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/24517783-B9AE-4D76-9CE4-A235865CA2DC.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/BC7F77D3-8E9E-4F27-AF80-9C250DF86923.jpeg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on April 08, 2018, 05:44:32 AM
Thanks don nice tanks
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on May 19, 2018, 07:19:30 PM
Well when you get your halftrack done you get to fun things......... like today took Zelda to the Bethel Boosters car show! It’s nice to help educate kids on History.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/BDE7E666-41F6-483E-B086-23032D8F37A3.jpeg)

First outing of the season!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: steve1973 on May 19, 2018, 09:11:54 PM
Looks great Don. I wish I could have gone, darn FLU!!! :-[

Steve A.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on May 28, 2018, 09:27:49 PM
Attending a Memorial Day service today, was honored to be asked to brong Zelda

Don G

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/6501BD20-2204-47D2-92C1-2BBCBAD9B13F.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/92FD9A7D-0CE4-4594-8FE2-FE43AA5A4E34.jpeg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 17, 2018, 08:51:42 AM
Zelda attending a 4 th of July parade!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/1F3042ED-FE21-4229-946A-5ED7C964B5FB.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/07865170-523F-47E9-800C-C0BE9BFB1A74.jpeg)

Glad to get her out and about!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: 8683jb on July 17, 2018, 11:47:00 AM
Looks great Don! I'm looking forward to doing that with mine.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 13, 2018, 09:04:59 AM
Got to do some really cool tows at Warbirds over the west. The week end before last! Had a great time until the Tach drive froze up. Then you hire a DUKW to winch you up on the trailer!So a new distributor, intermediate shaft and replacing the oil pump later Zelda’s back up and running! Glad some friends came down to help! Boy she sure runs good now!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/F76E71D7-FD2E-47E2-A5A7-68E3936CF856.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/42D864C3-03D9-4366-BDAF-5EE4AB4448D0.jpeg)

A WW2 Vet, pretty girls, and a halftrack. Doesn’t get any better than that!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/57469B23-8B86-4D4E-AC98-59D88E456FFB.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/E84DEF0B-2626-4294-AA1A-1E10F1030782.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/2BD8CA1F-27D8-4445-8205-AE48134ACE7D.jpeg)

Thanks to friends Matt and Levi for coming down to help repair Zelda. Went back to standard ignition and she runs great! Really pleased.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: 8683jb on August 13, 2018, 11:23:11 AM
I'm glad Zelda's tip-top again!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on August 13, 2018, 12:25:30 PM
She's keeping you on your toes Don!  Great pics...

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: beerman on August 13, 2018, 10:32:07 PM
Sorry to hear about your break down, but glad you up and running again. Do you think you could share with us the root cause of the failure so the rest of us and be on the look out for that type of failure.

Thanks, Jeff
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 14, 2018, 09:19:56 AM
Hi Jeff, the problem was when the engine came back I didn’t check the grease cup on the distributor to make sure it had grease. I assumed! You know about assume! I was turning it in but my bad. I also didn’t realize there is an oil cup on the nose of the starter. You have to pull the starter to service that!

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: beerman on August 15, 2018, 09:02:50 AM
Thanks for the information on the failure. I often worry about these type of failures that can happen and try and keep a few extra spare parts around for times like these. Never can have too many spares.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on August 19, 2018, 05:31:56 AM
Didn’t know about the starter cup thanks don. Sucks to break down at an event but always someone in the community to help out.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Smadge on August 25, 2018, 06:05:10 AM
Don,

How did that cause the oil pump to go out? Did the distributor mess the gear up? I just want to make sure i don't run into the same problem.

Paul
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 25, 2018, 09:42:42 AM
So the oil pump didn’t go out but the drive was damaged. On the White engine the oil pump is driven by the cam. The oil drives the distributor. When the Tach drive froze it caused the intermediate shaft tab the shear off in the oil pump drive. The intermediate shaft is between the distributor and the oil pump. The main thing is make sure the distributor is well lubed. And purchase a new intermediate shaft to have on hand.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Smadge on August 26, 2018, 06:11:07 AM
Thanks for the info!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 17, 2018, 08:03:29 PM
Zelda had a great play day a couple of weekends ago. Lots of off roading lots of fun!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/B45376C4-191A-45EC-BA28-A71B6F557060.jpeg)



(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/6BAEA490-1029-4C3D-92E7-3B7ED87BBCA9.jpegr)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: coreyelliott on December 17, 2018, 09:06:22 PM
That is an AWESOME pic!  Looks great!

Corey
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 27, 2019, 08:25:23 PM
Finally got a chance to tear the piece of frame apart and get the roller off of it. Took it to the Machine Shop to have them press the shaft out. 200 tons no go! So they drilled it out. So here she is at the sand blaster, then Zelda will finally have the correct front roller!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/2B91AFC2-D85A-4083-A232-2C2DB18B8838.jpeg)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: coreyelliott on January 05, 2020, 09:12:49 PM
Well when you get your halftrack done you get to fun things......... like today took Zelda to the Bethel Boosters car show! It’s nice to help educate kids on History.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/BDE7E666-41F6-483E-B086-23032D8F37A3.jpeg)

First outing of the season!

Don G.

Hey Don,

Do you have a close up picture of the sign that you place out in front of Zelda?  We will want something like that and I've been struggling with what exactly to display. 

Thanks!

Corey
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on August 10, 2020, 08:04:41 AM
Finally got Zelda out of the barn, haven’t been to any events since December! Went to a small gathering for the B17 Alliance in Salem! Normally this would be a huge event. But it was just fun to get her out!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/3044C75F-21EF-410D-AAFD-07524F4DB493.jpeg)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: 8683jb on August 10, 2020, 08:30:18 AM
Looks great Don. I like the 48-star flag!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spillmk1 on August 10, 2020, 12:50:07 PM
Very nice!!

Keith
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: coreyelliott on August 10, 2020, 04:45:49 PM
I love it!

Corey
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on May 11, 2022, 07:16:00 PM
I guess your really never done, new adds for Zelda. Thanks to Mark Cook for the luggage racks! Looking really good!
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/CCFC6A92-FE6F-4B9E-A3E4-2966F381815D.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/A3EF2FC5-0C6B-4B8B-AA2A-A5157B375557.jpeg)

Don G. Merry
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on May 24, 2022, 07:52:59 AM
Had Zelda down at Ron Fitzpatrick Jeep parts open house. A great gathering of Jeep guys and other military restorers. Made some great contacts.

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/43315A8C-0B6D-40F0-BF49-6E77B7B9A2FC.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/AD67C879-3C9F-46C8-9395-AED9BB362D01.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/BD2CDD10-DEAC-42CB-A357-DCC823F7946B.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/6B51C5CB-C4BC-49F1-8E59-F3E41911DB09.jpeg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spillmk1 on May 26, 2022, 06:06:43 AM
Looks like a great time!!

Keith
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on July 28, 2022, 08:12:06 AM
As I’ve said before, your never quite done. Thanks to Paul Jacobs I have an original armored windshield for Diamond T. It took some work I had to take it to the Machine shop to have it straightened. Then filled in the rust pits. Came out really good.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/14E6123B-7F54-460A-917D-FF4B720FB186.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/3073673E-FF78-4A5C-A13C-6547B701D95C.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/C2CECE41-C85B-4F34-8BBC-27650B26F3FD.jpeg)

This will give me all original armor up front, 90% Diamond T

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: 8683jb on July 28, 2022, 12:07:58 PM
It looks great, Don. Nice job.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: yd328 on July 30, 2022, 05:18:02 AM
Nice work Don. A great find too.

Gary
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on July 31, 2022, 04:21:25 AM
Nice don
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: coreyelliott on August 05, 2022, 02:00:20 PM
Great job, Don!

Corey
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 10, 2022, 03:01:43 PM
Been a while since I’ve posted. Had some issues with Zelda, bad coil burnt points and a couple of other items. So while it was down decided to take on a project ive been putting off for a looooooong time, the front roller. It’s been an adventure so far:

First decided to build the roller clamps from the manual. Suffice to my machining skills need some work and a few key dimensions are missing but it came out not too bad. Have to locate a few more parts.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/00B2FD9B-7EA0-4264-A60E-2EAF7365A62E.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/3366CE55-4906-49F4-8956-FFF220D7908B.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/666A9440-198F-4414-AA0B-86B4C50D129A.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/469A11E9-544C-47E9-87EA-6DED0DF7E3D1.jpeg)

Still have more work to do but I’m gaining on it. It will b be nice to have an original roller.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spillmk1 on December 10, 2022, 04:39:28 PM
Looking great Don!!

Keith
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on January 12, 2023, 07:55:14 PM
Well today was the day, got the roller on Zelda. Here are some pictures of the adventure!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/F9506542-9713-4D9F-933F-624B07E79A6F.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/A62583C7-4851-4945-BB1A-2A082A01AE8A.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/8FD5260E-AA1A-4D5E-9512-64F45451D337.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/C8D9C33F-A631-4948-B454-55C1068D7547.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/BAD37156-D9F0-4955-A580-4CBC1995BE92.jpeg)









Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 03, 2023, 09:53:04 AM
Started on the radio wiring, I’m using the NOS conduit but removed the old wiring. Not a lot of info on the routing as this was supplied by the OEM. I do have the installation manual for the M3. I have had to modify some of the locations from the manual. I’m also adding circuit protection and a cut off switch. I routed the conduit around the back side of the chain box it landed perfectly where I wanted it to.

Don G

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/showphoto.php?photo=296048&title=1f4cf828-bf7a-40be-9a2c-3d253524cc61&cat=2156)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/13DFE4B6-BE40-4B42-BA4D-6DB00CE1FFFC.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/13E9E636-C36E-4CAA-9A7B-E7997F089063.jpeg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on February 03, 2023, 10:52:17 AM
Don,
  Can you include pics of where/how you added the cutoff switch and in-line circuit protection?  I think that's smart, in the event of an overload or other issue that could start an electrical fire.  Not at this point yet but would love to be able to reference how you did it when I do get to this stage.

Thanks, Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 03, 2023, 07:30:00 PM
Your wish is granted

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/2E320044-3575-4A0F-AC9C-1488494AD08B.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/754136ED-AA89-41D9-BCD0-A5A5671FA4FD.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/BDDEAD75-62A9-4991-9048-E4DB13174699.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/84BDDFF0-3D65-4D26-99F3-F38B20C2949C.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/778DB1D9-0788-4CAA-8F88-BC1F23AD3AA8.jpeg)

If you need more detail let me know. If you want I’ll do a diagram. I know the installation isn’t the original configuration, but I think the restoration gods will forgive me because I don’t want it to burn it to the ground if there is a short.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on February 04, 2023, 02:46:39 PM
Thanks Don.  I'll watch from a distance for now but will likely reach out and talk to you before I wire mine up.

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 15, 2023, 11:08:27 AM
Got a little side tracked, doing a little work on a full tracked vehicle. Tearing down my parts tractor for my Clark CA-1 Airborne dozer. Still will be doing my radio project on Zelda. Enjoy!

Don G.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/4187/medium/D6E6E2C9-549C-48F1-AD06-365C924AC26D.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/4187/medium/E835E6F4-FAF5-4436-9EC0-67E759AB1FE7.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/4187/medium/84E5FC20-4B99-496D-84D3-C9DC88B4D730.jpeg)

Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Monkeypirate on February 15, 2023, 01:38:45 PM
Wow! Thats a heck of a project! You must be glutton for punishment!  Best of luck! I'll look forward to seeing the finished results!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: emptyhead on February 19, 2023, 12:54:15 PM
Look forward to seeing the dozer done
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 16, 2023, 08:53:29 PM
Making more progress on the radio installation. Definitely found some discrepancies in the installation manual. Have had to tap dance a few times. The big issue right now there are about 4 different versions of the wiring for the intercom box. (Mine is a BC 606D. Since I don’t know squat about radio’s it’s a bit of a challenge.

Anyone ever wired it up?

Don G
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 29, 2023, 02:41:16 AM
Just about done with the radio install on Zelda, did get the intercom working, but have a bad Mike. Took a shot and ordered one off eBay. Still a few more things to do!

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_3128.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_3126.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_3124.jpeg)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on March 30, 2023, 07:25:27 AM
Finally got the window box project completed, bought this many years ago from Paul Jacobs. Really pleased with the way it came out.

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_2203.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_2205.jpeg)

(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_2206.jpeg)

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spillmk1 on March 31, 2023, 06:00:45 AM
Wow!!!
REALLY nice work Don!!

Keith
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Monkeypirate on March 31, 2023, 11:14:00 PM
Dose anyone know if there was a similar storage on the M2? Very well done.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on April 01, 2023, 09:38:51 AM
Dose anyone know if there was a similar storage on the M2? Very well done.

These were originally designed by the Greek Army for their scout cars. Super Jeep reproduced these. So technically they weren’t in the US Halftracks. But I thought it would be a good addition to Zelda.

So if you wanted to add this to your track put it in the most convenient place. In my case the door looked like the best spot!

I believe Paul still has some for sale .

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Monkeypirate on April 02, 2023, 10:42:07 AM
Always an improvement to be made some place! I may lookinto putting one in the ammo locker. Thanks!
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 04, 2024, 09:40:21 AM
Hi Fellas, been a little absent for a while, life has drug me in some different directions for a while. Zelda has been needing some maintenance this year. Still need a throttle cable and a Tach cable. Planning on swapping tracks left to right this next year. She did attend a few events last month. Got to give rides two two Admirals. That was cool! Zelda is wintering out at a friends warehouse.
Have great holiday season

Don G

(https://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/2156/medium/IMG_3254.jpeg)
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: 8683jb on December 04, 2024, 11:58:30 AM
Always good to hear from you, Don. Having to do maintenance is a great thing! When I was resurrecting my last airplane, I remember often thinking I couldn't wait to have to do routine maintenance on it because it meant it was up and running and now all I had to do was wear it out. It's the same with our half-tracks! I hope you guys have a great Christmas and new year.    Jon
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on December 04, 2024, 12:45:01 PM
Still need a throttle cable and a Tach cable.
Don G
Hey Don,
  Paul has the throttle cables.  Jon Jennings is out of tach cables and is gone for a year.  If you find a source, let me know as I need one too.  Come to find out, my "NOS tach cable" isn't actually for a halftrack.... >:(

-Tom
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: blue70chevelle on December 04, 2024, 07:44:37 PM
Dave Yamulla has NOS tach cables listed as available on his site
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: Tapper02 on December 04, 2024, 09:17:56 PM
Dave Yamulla has NOS tach cables listed as available on his site

Thanks...I'll reach out to him.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on December 05, 2024, 08:33:16 PM
Thanks for the replies! Here’s a shot of my current project:

(https://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/4187/medium/IMG_3411.jpeg)

(https://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/4187/medium/IMG_3413.jpeg)

I tore down my parts tractor a while back. This is the one I’m going to restore.

Don G.
Title: Re: M3 Restoration
Post by: spec4don on February 11, 2025, 09:48:45 AM
Little more progress on the Clark.

(https://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/4187/medium/IMG_3551.jpeg)

(https://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/4187/medium/IMG_3550.jpeg)

If you guys don’t think is appropriate to post these here let me know

Don G.