So, I wanted to document a build thread for my new mud toy. Bought it a few nights ago and finally got it home this morning. I got some plans for it, but for right now it's at the teardown stage. Want to get the old motor and trans out by the end of January. It's not gonna look that pretty, but it'll be purpose built. Here's a snapshot of it on the trailer:

 

Got the front end taken apart. Front bumper pushed the passenger side fender in and warped it, but core support looks straight. Going to replace the bumper and fender and most likely go to a 93 S10 front end. 4.3 that's in it definitely threw a rod through the oil pan however. Most likely going to swap in a CPI 4.3 from a junkyard/eBay. Only time will tell

 

Little more progress. Finally got both fenders off, so now all that's left is the core support and then the work begins on getting the motor out. There's plenty of rust in fun little areas that make work interesting.



Also, here's a little gem find. I found the original manual in the glove box in pristine condition. No stains or rips or anything. Even the leather is in great condition.






Tomorrow I'm gonna start working on getting the core support off, weather permitting.

 

Whats the plans for tires/suspension etc?

 

3" Performance Accessories Body Lift, 2.5" Rough Country Suspension Lift, 31's all around on 15x8 wheels with 4.5" BS and 0 Offset

 

That is quick progress. I had the same thing happen with my 2000 a couple weeks back. I slid into a bank and the bumper warped the fender and push it into the hood.

 

Thanks! I've been really motivated to tear into it, summer's coming up quick and I'd like to have it running by then.

Today, I got the inner fenders and core support off. Tomorrow I begin taking off the fan and accessories, prepping for the engine pull. We're supposed to get rain Friday, Saturday and Sunday so it looks like I won't be working on it much this weekend.

 

Not much progress to report today, but once the rain is done and everything is mostly dry, I'll be getting back to work getting the engine pulled.

 

Aaaaaand back to work we go! Today was a long one and I wasn't feeling 100 percent, but I did get the passenger side exhaust manifold, the water pump, AC compressor, crankshaft pulley, and most of the drivers side exhaust manifold off as well.






Here's the two little bolts that don't wanna come out. Need to get a good set of ratcheting wrenches this week, so might not get much else done until the weekend.

 

Progress is not too bad.