William Estaver's Journal

Thanks to all forum members for the great posts they've contributed on the "Leaf Spring" repair/replace topics.
A fellow member supplied me with two used springs, which were in very good shape, nicely matched, very, very reasonably priced, and included poly bushings and pads. There is happiness here at the "Farm".
Wire brushed away the minor surface rust on the replacements, and found all clips and rubbers in good shape.
Will not disassemble leaves, as all the liners appear to be in place.
Applied 3 staged coats of "Loctite Extend Rust Converter" to, and between all surfaces. Cures to a nice black finish.
A good wet application of liquid graphic spray into the leaf joints will be done prior to mounting.
Began the removal work on passenger side, which has a broken leaf, 4th one down.
Applied penetrant oil to all fasteners a couple of days ago, and today just loosened a half turn on all to see if any were going to be problematic.
All released nicely, but one of the shackle nuts proved to be 'frozen' and wrung off, so 2 new shackles will be purchased, just in case the other acts up too.
Will try 'trailer' aisle at local 'Greyco Hardware' for similar shackles, as they have a wide variety of hardware, including the SAE fine thread fasteners often needed on the Midget.
Next will be cutting the seam slots in the 2x4 blocking for the jackstands next to the front spring hanger, and the adventure will begin.

Rusty old pair in 'spares' box that came with the car, but had no screens or filters. Housing brand unknown.
Couldn't find elements to fit, so made my own.
Used to replace OEM filter cans.
Wire brushed away rust, treated with 'Extend' rust converter.
Silver paint and clear coat.
Made screens from rain gutter screen.
Cut down 'Shop Vac' foam filter.
Sprayed foam with filter oil spray.
Added missing acorn nuts.

Built new back panel from 1/4" plywood. PO had butchered the original to install 4 audio speakers.
The outer edges of the original were as originally manufactured, so I was able to use it to outline the new panel.
The original panel was constructed as a 'hinged' piece to allow for the upper section to attach on a different plane than the lower.

Laid 3mm "Quiet Walk" underlayment on seat floors and slope deck between rear wheel arches, before laying indoor/outdoor carpet.
Laid Foil Bubble Insulation in footwells and all of tunnel, before carpet.

Soon to finish full tune up... dial in time and balance carbs.

She may be wearing a tattered dress, but she's grand fun.