While she was running, I had to get a shot low and behind to see how things were going in the exhaust...
Once the engine got hot, the thermostat did open up and everything began circulating and she kept everything in, so I then checked the transmission fluid and oil to insure they were where they need to be, had 20+ psi oil pressure at idle and 40+ when rev'ed so I felt pretty confident she was ready to roll. Shut her off and let her sit for about 10 minutes to see if I might have a heat soak issue getting her to refire hot (I'd guess it was almost 100 degrees upstairs since it was 90+ outside and sunny).
The moment of truth arrived and I crossed my fingers...…
She lit right off without issue, dropped her into gear was able to hold her in place holding the brake and bringing up the rpm's, so I let my foot off the brake and she began moving under her own power after 8 or 9 years! Tried the brake again as she rolled backwards and they clamped down good. Once I was back as far as she could go, I put her in drive and again foot braked her against the engine and the brakes held until the rpm's got to the point the rear brakes started to get overdriven and the rear tires began to turn over, but the front brakes held her in place so I'm confident I'll be able to safely drive her down the ramp to load onto the rollback to take her for her ride to the bodyshop!
All in all a good day, but I did discover I had a power steering issue that I need to figure out (no assist) in the days ahead.
The fun never stops!
Until next installment....
ZEBRA 3 OUT
