Moparts
71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 03:37 PM
Its time get serious on restoring my 71 Duster 340. I bought this car back in Jan and have been doing little things on it as time and $ allowed. Its almost time for paint so I thought I'd share the build.
The guy I bought the car from got it from the original owner in Escondido, CA. He thought was going to restore it but wasn't really in Mopars, so after owning it for 6mos he deceided to sell it. It came with the original carb, wing, and a lot of new, in the box, parts. We agreed on a price and I picked it up on Superbowl sunday, listening to game on the way home.
Shortly after getting it home I started digging around to get the original owners contact info. Thanks to my wife she found the correct phone #. I finally got in contact with Woody and listened to all his stories about the car he had. It was sitting on the showroom floor when they bought it, and it was pretty spendy at the time as its loaded with options. It had the name "Dusty" written on the decklid and I asked it that was its nickname, he laughed and said no...it was called "The Ruster". Thanks to the surface rust and being stored under a heavy canvas tarp outside for 15 years...
The car has the #'s matching motor and trans. The fender & inspectors tag were on it, but no build sheet has been found. It runs and drives well, other than looking & sounding like something Joe Dirt would drive! I've rounded up all the parts I need to complete the restoration. It didn't need much as the only thing changed on it was the exhaust, cam, wheels, and carb. Time to get busy!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 03:38 PM
Heres how the interior looked when I got it. Take note of the original cassette player!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 03:40 PM
Heres how it looked after cleaning it up and rubbing what was left of the paint out.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 03:41 PM
Front view
Posted By: 68mannix
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 03:41 PM
doesnt look bad at all from a starting stand point keep the pics and updates coming
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 03:43 PM
Heres the fender tag for the #'s crowd..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 03:45 PM
The engine compartment, missing a few items that I had already removed for resto (heater box, wiper motor, wiring harness, etc)
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 03:46 PM
Eng compartment pass side
Posted By: 79machocharger
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 04:01 PM
Cool car, looks real original. You have to love 71 duster 340 4 speeds.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 11:21 PM
I've owned a few 340 A bodies over the years and have had a blast with all of them. I wanted a 70 Dart 340 when this one came along and knew I couldn't pass this one up. Unmolested Duster 340 4spds are pretty hard to find nowadays.
Since getting the car home I have gotten some things done on it already.
First was the heater box restoration.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 11:23 PM
Heater box after restoration. A big thanks to member 71TA (DMT) for providing much needed gasket kits for this car.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 11:30 PM
I also got the seats and carpet done. Quite a contrast to the pic above of how it was when I got it. I used original style cotton batting on the seats and am very impressed with the results. It give the seats that plush firmness that foam didn't. Although the seats are out of it now.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 11:38 PM
When I got it all of the spare parts were in the trunk and I didn't get to see the spare tire till I unloaded it. Needless to say it confirmed that the door sticker was correct, and that it did come with Ralleys when new. Later the orig owner confirmed this, but its been wearing those slot wheels since 72. I had to put it on the front to see how it would look. Although not the original spare, I'll take it as its one of the original wheels and tires!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 11:53 PM
All of the rust has been fixed and it will be off to the media blaster & painter soon. Time to completely disassemble it and get it mounted to the rotisserie in the next week. Here you can see the lower patch panel, rear window corner, trunk gutter corners and the go wing support repairs. Also the front windshield corner and pass 1/4 patch were done.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/18/11 11:57 PM
Try not be jealous of my lightweight race seat! Boy did that make for an interesting drive around the neighborhood yesterday. Shouldn't take too long to pull the rest of the int parts out. No more joyrides till after its painted..
Posted By: Thread Ender1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/19/11 12:26 AM
I like it.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/19/11 02:16 AM
Sweet car, keep us posted. I have a soft spot for those cars.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/19/11 04:38 PM
Heres a neat/odd detail on the cars. Its says "E5" on the drivers side front rad support. It will be going back this way too.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/20/11 04:08 AM
I got some more progress done today. I spent most of the day getting the grille out and apart....without breaking anything!!!
I also got the tail lights, harness, dome light, wiper washer bottle & lines, horn and ECS system pulled out today.
Posted By: Three40
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/21/11 02:03 PM
Wow! What a great find. Fe5 Red 4 speed with hood pins and a black vinyl top.Just when you think these finds are starting to dry up this one pops up.Awesome car.Please keep us posted with more pictures and keep up the great work
Posted By: SeventyGTX
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/21/11 07:54 PM
Quote:
Try not be jealous of my lightweight race seat! Boy did that make for an interesting drive around the neighborhood yesterday. Shouldn't take too long to pull the rest of the int parts out. No more joyrides till after its painted..
Just curious, who's going to paint it for you? Somebody in Reno?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/22/11 04:38 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/22/11 04:46 AM
Heres my son beating out Kyle Busch during a race. He's got the 3rd gear powershift down pat!!
SeventyGTX, my friend who paints cars on the side is going to paint it. Hes one of the main lab tech at Sherwin Williams and does really nice work.
Posted By: Daty Rogers
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/22/11 11:00 PM
Quote:
Heres my son beating out Kyle Busch during a race. He's got the 3rd gear powershift down pat!!
SeventyGTX, my friend who paints cars on the side is going to paint it. Hes one of the main lab tech at Sherwin Williams and does really nice work.
Love the seats, my sub was a milkcrate, stunk driving around.
-Daty
Posted By: 69B3GT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/26/11 09:31 AM
Nice project
I like the mags
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/26/11 04:06 PM
Thanks for the comments! Still making progress, not much to show though. I got the driveline ready to dropout, and bagge & tagged everything.
These pics are for UCUDANT for help in his vinyl top install. The first is the rear window, showing the staples and the cut line on the top material.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/26/11 04:09 PM
This pic shows the driprails and the trim line where the top material was cut. It was overlapped at the top and cut along the driprail, but did not overlap under the drip rail.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/26/11 04:12 PM
This pic shows the front windshield area and the vinyl top overlap. Again it is trimmed so it doesn't interfere with the window gaskets.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/26/11 04:24 PM
Heres the driveline ready to drop out. I got the rotisserie mocked up and need to make some adpater brackets for it. Duster on a stick coming soon.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/26/11 05:05 PM
If you're a total purist look away now...
I'm going to add one thing that Duster 340's should of had. They will be painted red and have the 70 Dart 340 emblems.
Posted By: Kern Dog
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/27/11 08:30 AM
Those were optional on the Twister models, right?
Nice looking raw material. Thats a car t5hat certainly deserves to be saved. Thanks for posting and keep the updates coming. Are you keeping the bench seat?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/27/11 06:34 PM
Thanks!
Yes the scoops were available on twisters, but should have been on 340's IMO. I know some people may not like the fact I'm putting the scoops on it, but its my car.
Yes the seat stays, its already recovered and ready to go back in after paint.
Posted By: 79machocharger
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/29/11 04:28 PM
Oh you just hurt me alittle with the scoops(lol). Just kidding it yours car and your doing a great job
. I know what I would add to the hood and it probably wouldn't make the purist happy either as it's not a v24 car.(lol)
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/30/11 03:40 AM
If the paint was still good on all the sides I probably would have painted it like the V24 and drove the hello out of it. This will probably be the last car I restore for awhile and I'm trying to keep it original, but make it the way I want it too.
I didn't get any progress done this weekend, as I was fighting with my wifes Expedition over a power steering pump swap.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/30/11 11:36 AM
Quote:
I didn't get any progress done this weekend, as I was fighting with my wifes Expedition over a power steering pump swap.
Just a tip... the line attached with the banjo bolt at the p/s pump (obscured by the pulley) can be left on with the line.... I disconnect the line near the master cylinder at the other end. You can tie a long wire on the disconnected end tied near the Macter cyl to help reroute the hose too.
I have heard some folks pull the radiator to make room to pull the pulley for access
Thanks for the pics, I missed those before the install. I had 3 staples on each side originally too. Cant wait to see your car done.
Posted By: ramairthree
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/02/11 02:55 AM
Great Save!!
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/04/11 02:57 PM
In taking my 71 Duster appart I found numorous holes that had been added over the years and the engine bay had been repainted. Could you post a few good/clear shots of the front floor pans looking straight down as well as a good shot of the firewall and both inner fenders so I can have a look at all of your factory mounting holes, etc.? Also a few good shots of the core support blackout paint, especially around the edges so I can attempt to duplicate the pattern (you'll need these too later on!)
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/08/11 03:28 AM
I got the gas tank pulled, the door glass out, and the rusted window trim screws removed today. Under the tank if definately black. The undercoating was sprayed with the tank installed. I will get pics I can post shortly.
Scott:
I'll post those pics for you, but they'll be from my Iphone. Seems like the front blackout was done from the bottom front with the grille support bolted on. I have lots of really good pics on my digital camera's memory card, but I can't post them on here.
I also spent a good portion of the day figuring out how to get the rotisserie I borrowed to work, and to troubleshoot why my welder wasn't working.
Turns out its more for a Chevy body/ frame than a Mopar. No worries I will fabricate the correct arms tomorrow. Its going to set me back day to get it all straightened out but I don't want to rush it.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/08/11 03:41 AM
Quote:
Thanks!
Yes the scoops were available on twisters, but should have been on 340's IMO. I know some people may not like the fact I'm putting the scoops on it, but its my car.
Yes the seat stays, its already recovered and ready to go back in after paint.
First of all you are right, I think the scoops are a bad move but as you said, it's your car One suggestion....Buy another hood (they are not expensive) and add the scoops to the spare rather than the chopping on the original to add the scoops and have both hoods painted at the same time so it's easy to go back later. I'm doing the same with my (2) trunk lids to add a rear spoiler to the spare.
You have a very important car there, it's details are rare and hard to come by and they'll all be gone once you paint and restore it, PLEASE wear out your digital camera getting a zillion greasey little mundane looking nut,bolt, and paint over spray, etc. detail photos, I'll gladly pay you for them on a disc!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/08/11 04:10 AM
No worries Scott got it handled.
I have taken lots of pics and will be more than happy to make a copy of them when done. I have one memory card just for the car. Its interesting how the flash can bring out somewhat unseen details...like the big sideways "A" on my 8 3/4 it caught today.
I'm still a little baffled about the under side color. Its black under the gas tank and on a few drips I found so far, but the inner fender area is dark grey, and the inside of the fenders are a lighter gray?
Will WD40 help bring out some of the colors on the surface rusted areas? If not whats good to use? Unfortunately the Dusters time in Utah and Kansas helped erase some of the underside details with surface rust.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/08/11 04:18 AM
When I sanded the fenders on my Cuda I hit the black V21 paint but there was not red underneath...just grey primer. After talking with Rodger Gibson he confirmed that the black was shot and then the red was shot over it. ...just a thought
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/09/11 02:57 AM
Delays, delays....I didn't get done what I wanted to today but made use of the time that I had. I noticed that the lower pinch weld area was painted black on both sides. I'm guessing this was done at the same time as when they blacked out inner fender area that can be seen behind the wheel opening in the fender.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/09/11 03:02 AM
Heres a pic showing a few details. The area under the gas tank was definately black, runs and drips are evident in areas. You can also see the sideways "A" on the rear end.
Were the rear shocks staggered on 340 cars? In this pic you can see the shock extender on the top mount of the passenger side?? Is this stock?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/09/11 04:01 AM
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/09/11 05:37 AM
The black coating you are seeing is the dip coating that the body was immersed in, the rocker blackout and inner fender blackout was applied later and is a different in that it's paint and not dip sealer/primer, and the shade of black is different.
When I steam cleaned my 8.75 rear end I not only found the "A" but MANY other markings and ink stamp details that were invisible before I removed some of the grease and rust. Mine looked similar to yours, a fine rust patina all over it which hid a lot of details, most of that wipes right off with a rag and water. If you clean it don't just have someone sand blast it, etc. go nice and slow using the mildest cleaners possible gradually progressing to more aggressive stuff so that you don't accidentally errase some hidden inspection marking details.
Posted By: Thread Ender1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/09/11 06:17 PM
Here are some markings i found on my diff, if anyone is interested.
.JPG "6818293-DSCN2597(Large).JPG")
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/09/11 07:48 PM
Thanks SB Duster!! I appreciate the pic, as it will help me to locate the markings on mine. Any other pics you have will be welcomed.
Posted By: Thread Ender1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/09/11 09:30 PM
Quote:
Thanks SB Duster!! I appreciate the pic, as it will help me to locate the markings on mine. Any other pics you have will be welcomed.
heres a few more..
.JPG "6818540-DSCN2599(Large).JPG")
Posted By: Thread Ender1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/09/11 09:33 PM
This also has the side ways A , you can bearly see it but it is there. I assume they might of hung them from end to end at the plant like a dry cleaner?
.JPG "6818544-DSCN2601(Large).JPG")
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/10/11 02:54 AM
Great pics SB! There should also be some paint markings on the center section, near the casting numbers and along the flat beam on the bottom, various splotches were gear ratios, assembly date codes, etc.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/16/11 02:55 PM
I got a lot of progress done yesterday. I spent a good part of the day fabbing up and welding my rotisserie mounts. Then I was able to get the driveline out. More pics to come today.
Posted By: CDN72SE
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/16/11 05:36 PM
Nice work.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/17/11 03:10 AM
Thanks!
I got the rotisserie mounted in the front and rear today, but its not ready to flip yet. I'm hoping to drop the rear end and springs out tomorrow.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/17/11 04:28 PM
Looking good!
Be careful to measure the centerline hieght for clearance before rotating it. Also be sure the doors, hood and trunk lids are wired closed or you could get a nasty surprise when gravity takes over!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/28/11 02:06 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/28/11 02:07 AM
Heres a pic of the black underside by the gas tank / shock area.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/28/11 02:10 AM
Heres the rest of the underside. Nothing dramatic jumped out detail wise, other than the trans tunnel having a lot of black in it.
Posted By: 68427vette
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/29/11 01:34 AM
was this the car that was on ebay a while back???? cool car.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/29/11 02:12 PM
Yes it was on ebay back in Jan, and discussed on here.
Its loaded on the trailer and ready for its date at the media blaster.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/29/11 02:23 PM
What are you gonna do to the motor?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/30/11 04:06 AM
I'm still on the fence about what to do with the motor. Its #'s matching so I might rebuild it with a few performance mods (lighter pistons, roller cam), or set it aside an put something bigger and better in it...
Posted By: 68427vette
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/30/11 02:31 PM
congrats,, i was thinking about buying it,, finding such a good car to start with, and a 4 sp,, is hard to find,, awsome you got it!!
Posted By: mopars_1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/30/11 04:19 PM
Im really jelious of the Duster.. littereally my dream car. If it were me, Id build the original motor with a few performance upgrades.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 12:09 AM
I'd reccomend saving the original engine in a bag and building another 340 or even a 360. Add a stroker crank (night and day difference in power and looks and sounds totally stock). If you want to save a few bucks you can use the original heads, intake, carb, accessories, etc. on the new engine and just save the numbers shortblock. Two reasons I reccomend this. #1 you will always have a numbers matching car (which is exceedingly rare with 340 stick 71 Dusters) and #2 you can bag on it guilt free when it's done. Nobody will know it's not the original engine unless you tell them, they all look the same on the outside.
*I hope you are getting a bunch of pics of your forward radiator support blackout brfore getting it stripped? From all angles if you haven't, not much good info on that.
Posted By: 69Cuda340S
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 01:30 AM
Cool car. Yeah I would put that numbers block aside and drop a small block stroker in there then go burn some rubber. I keep my numbers matching standard bore original 340 engine in dry storage where its safe.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 02:12 AM
68427 & Mopars1- Thanks! It was my dream Duster too when I first saw it on ebay. Unmolested #'s matching red 340 4spd 71 Dusters are very hard to find and I knew finding another one like it would be hard to do, if not impossible. The fact I was going to pick it up and pay for it in person really sealed the deal with the seller. Its the last car I'm going to restore for awhile and is truly a keeper in my mind.
It goes to the media blaster sunday morning!!
As far as the motor goes I'm undecided right now. In the garage is the #'s 340, a low mile 360, and a dual quad 512. So I have some options. I've been so busy with work and getting the car ready for paint that I haven't thought too much about what the final goal will be. Other than being able to drive it anywhere.
Scott, yes I've taken lots of pics with my good camera. It clearly was sprayed upward from the bottom, although the latch tray support is a little confusing. My guess would be the core support, fender wells and lower pinch welds were painted at the same time.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 04:31 AM
Quote:
I'd reccomend saving the original engine in a bag and building another 340 or even a 360. Add a stroker crank (night and day difference in power and looks and sounds totally stock). If you want to save a few bucks you can use the original heads, intake, carb, accessories, etc. on the new engine and just save the numbers shortblock. Two reasons I reccomend this. #1 you will always have a numbers matching car (which is exceedingly rare with 340 stick 71 Dusters) and #2 you can bag on it guilt free when it's done. Nobody will know it's not the original engine unless you tell them, they all look the same on the outside.
*I hope you are getting a bunch of pics of your forward radiator support blackout brfore getting it stripped? From all angles if you haven't, not much good info on that.
Would it really be worth is for a 340 duster? Restoring a car is expensive as it is already adding the cost of another motor just puts you deeper in the hole. I'm facing the same issue with my 383 roadrunner and I can't justify the expense. A buddy of mine did this with his 64 GTO and the motor trans and rear end have been sitting around collecting dust for 20+ years. If you do sell the car then the next guy will have to tear the car apart if he wants the numbers matching motor in it. Sorry for the hi-jack but holding these cars with kid gloves is getting too expensive.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 05:59 AM
Quote:
Would it really be worth is for a 340 duster? Restoring a car is expensive as it is already adding the cost of another motor just puts you deeper in the hole. I'm facing the same issue with my 383 roadrunner and I can't justify the expense. A buddy of mine did this with his 64 GTO and the motor trans and rear end have been sitting around collecting dust for 20+ years. If you do sell the car then the next guy will have to tear the car apart if he wants the numbers matching motor in it. Sorry for the hi-jack but holding these cars with kid gloves is getting too expensive.
Every owner has a unique set of personal budget and other circumstances that will vary their experiences owning cars and parts.
What does NOT vary is the VERY small number of remaining numbers matching 71 340 manual trans Dusters & Demons existing today, and the value difference between a non numbers matching vs a numbers matching example CERTAINLY outweighs the cost of a replacment short block 340 or 360.......In most cases many times over.
Quote:
Scott, yes I've taken lots of pics with my good camera. It clearly was sprayed upward from the bottom, although the latch tray support is a little confusing. My guess would be the core support, fender wells and lower pinch welds were painted at the same time.
Ok, cool. If in doubt take more pictures, pictures are cheap/free. Once that car is stripped the details will be gone forever. You won't have anything but those pictures to provide details, I can't emphasize it enough, the more the merrier.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 06:37 AM
Quote:
Quote:
Would it really be worth is for a 340 duster? Restoring a car is expensive as it is already adding the cost of another motor just puts you deeper in the hole. I'm facing the same issue with my 383 roadrunner and I can't justify the expense. A buddy of mine did this with his 64 GTO and the motor trans and rear end have been sitting around collecting dust for 20+ years. If you do sell the car then the next guy will have to tear the car apart if he wants the numbers matching motor in it. Sorry for the hi-jack but holding these cars with kid gloves is getting too expensive.
Every owner has a unique set of personal budget and other circumstances that will vary their experiences owning cars and parts.
What does NOT vary is the VERY small number of remaining numbers matching 71 340 manual trans Dusters & Demons existing today, and the value difference between a non numbers matching vs a numbers matching example CERTAINLY outweighs the cost of a replacment short block 340 or 360.......In most cases many times over.
So the price difference is roughly $3-3.5k plus the labor and time of having two engines X2? If you were to sell you still would have to lug around the short block or engine block. Unless you were running in the fast or pure stock races I can't see the need to build another engine.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 02:18 PM
I didn't asign a value difference in dollars because it's impossible to do, what i'm saying is that there WILL be a value difference and it will be substantial, and there will be an even bigger demand difference because there are many people looking for a numbers matching car that will not compromise and will pass entirely if one number doesn't match. The cost of a 340/360 shortbock assembly can vary between practically free and a few grand, a small price to pay to ensure and preserve a cars #'s status and pass on the gamble of running the original block. Yes, it's rare to break a stock block in a street application but it does happen, 340's are thin wall blocks and I've seen many of them crack just from hot or cold weather. IMO it's a no brainer decision, but to each his own.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 02:34 PM
Quote:
I didn't asign a value difference in dollars because it's impossible to do, what i'm saying is that there WILL be a value difference and it will be substantial, and there will be an even bigger demand difference because there are many people looking for a numbers matching car that will not compromise and will pass entirely if one number doesn't match. The cost of a 340/360 shortbock assembly can vary between practically free and a few grand, a small price to pay to ensure and preserve a cars #'s status and pass on the gamble of running the original block. Yes, it's rare to break a stock block in a street application but it does happen, 340's are thin wall blocks and I've seen many of them crack just from hot or cold weather. IMO it's a no brainer decision, but to each his own.
But if you did have to assign a value it would have to be pretty big because of all the work involved. Building a car and not having the motor built and installed has to take away from the value. If you had to tear the car apart once it was painted and detailed to add the original motor wouldn't make sense. Additionally if you were going to do the car why not do the motor at the same time.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 03:37 PM
EDIT that's my stashed away numbers matching block so I agree with Scott. Sleep better and build an engine you can beat on worry free
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/01/11 03:55 PM
Quote:
Looking good!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/02/11 08:31 PM
Its finally at the media blaster!!
I completely filled my camera's memory card getting any last details of overpsray, etc. It should be done in 2-3 weeks and will go straight to the painters. Feels like one hurtle is finally cleared. The debate above is why I'm undecided on what to do motor wise. Decisions, decisions...
Time to clean up & organize the garage and get started on the sub assemblies.
Ohh and get the honey do's done...
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/02/11 10:19 PM
Good luck and keep up posted on your component resto's too
Posted By: 19cuda73
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/02/11 10:29 PM
Quote:
I'd reccomend saving the original engine in a bag and building another 340 or even a 360. Add a stroker crank (night and day difference in power and looks and sounds totally stock). If you want to save a few bucks you can use the original heads, intake, carb, accessories, etc. on the new engine and just save the numbers shortblock. Two reasons I reccomend this. #1 you will always have a numbers matching car (which is exceedingly rare with 340 stick 71 Dusters) and #2 you can bag on it guilt free when it's done. Nobody will know it's not the original engine unless you tell them, they all look the same on the outside.
I agree did this with my 340 picked up a completed rebuilt unit for 2k and it has all the upgrades. yet it looks stock. The original number matching is in a dry storage container.
Keep us posted on your progress. Looking nice and a great car to start with.. 
Posted By: Rhinodart
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/03/11 01:32 AM
Just put a 340 in to be built to stock specs. Hope everyone is aware that stock compression 340 pistons are no longer available in any size!
I am having to go with aftermarket forged pistons which are far more expensive than original style. I will be looking for good used or new stock style pistons at every swap meet for awhile...
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/03/11 03:17 AM
Thanks for the info Rhino, I didn't know that.
I'm hoping to match the engine color the best I can. I was able to really get some good samples from the back of the pass side valve cover and the throttle cable bracket.
I was also doing some 8 3/4 CSI and washing it with Dawn, a rag , and water in a spray bottle trying to find some of the factory graffit marks. I found several but lost the light for pics, will post tomorrow.
Posted By: Neil
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/04/11 03:48 AM
If you just want something fun to drive, and don't want to spend the extra money to build a 4" crank engine, just build a nice running 360 and dress it up like a 1971 340.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/04/11 03:49 AM
With some Dawn, water, fine steel wool, and lot of elbow grease I was able to reveal some unseen details on my 8 3/4. None of these stamps/ marks were visible except for the faint "A" on the rear housing. I was very happy with the results and there should be more once I get the springs off.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/04/11 03:51 AM
The "A" turned out be yellow and a "B" revaled it self. The line on the left is a green slash???
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/04/11 03:52 AM
Some of the 8 3/4 markings. Its a 391 sure grip.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/07/11 01:54 AM
I got quite a bit done today. I was able to get the motor and trans off the dolly and onto carts. Before I did I cleaned up the back of the motor, the bellhousing and trans. Somewhere along the line the orig owner painted the trans black, which luckily preserved a lot of the markings. In this pic you can see a blue 751 & orange blob on the side of the trans. The orange engine overspray on the bellhousing is also obvious along with the runs.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/07/11 03:14 AM
Once I got the u bolts cut off
I was able to clean the under side of the 8 3/4. Which revealed a 9140 & 914 on the rear and diff. It also seems as if there were orange and black marks on the bottom of the diff.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/07/11 03:15 AM
Lower axle tube. Can't really make out whats on the spring perch though..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/07/11 03:22 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/07/11 03:46 AM
I went to take the starter off and it was stuck/ rusted onto the top stud. After sitting overnight with several coats of oil I was finally able to pry it loose. I was hoping for it to be the date coded original starter, as it worked well. Nope it had a 1975 date code...damn
I'll still probably get it rebuilt though.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/07/11 12:29 PM
I was surprised that my water pump and alternator appeared to be the originals as they were dated correctly. Not sure if the starter was but I have that too. Someday I might rebuilt the original mill. Your attention to detail is great
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/07/11 08:29 PM
The colors blobbed onto the bottom of your 8.75 center cection signify the gear ratio. Odd that the tranny is painted black, have you checked the VIN to see if it was swapped out? Maybe just R&R'd the original for a leaky seal or something? Be sure to get pics of the orange overspray pattern on the bell housing as well as the location of the wire clips, etc.
Good stuff, thanks for sharing!
Posted By: Tommy The Chryco
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/07/11 09:19 PM
that is the cleaniest rear end I've ever seen, way too smooth
Posted By: ademon
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/07/11 11:54 PM
I was waiting for the B to show up on your axle, thats whats on my 71 demon.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 01:22 AM
I have a picture of an trans with the same markings I just don't remember where it came from
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 01:28 AM
The rear end is so smooth from all the rubbing and scrubbing with steel wool and dawn soap.
I was surprised with all the markings that showed up condisering the only one that could be seen faintly was the "A". Probably doesn't hurt that the car spent a lot of its life in San Diego & 15yrs under a canvas tarp too.
I'm guessing the orange and black markings denote 391 gears? I have a chart I can dig up about that. I never realized the diff and rear were assembled the same day though (9/14/70).
The orig owner swears the trans is the original one it came with and it was never rebuilt, although he say he went through quite a few clutches! The VIN is all messed up on it, although 6bblgt was able to make out the VIN 115059
I knew it was messed up when I bought it and but its not a deal breaker for me, the car is what it is. Its going back in that way, and won't get restamped
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 01:36 AM
If I'm reading your date code correctly it decodes as (P833 3338 XXXX)September 17th, 1970, the trans in the above photo is mine, yes, it has some of the same paint markings as yours by the looks of things.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 01:41 AM
SPD is OCT 14 1970
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 01:44 AM
Based on that I'd guess it's your original trans. It's not likely that someone hunted down a replacment with the right assembly date back when that car was on the road
Post a nice clear pic of your engine stamping as well as your body stampings if you have them (or just e-mail them to me if you prefer) I can probably offer you some further info on the trans stamping if you do.
*Also, can you post a pic of the date codes on your Rallye wheels? (dates are stamped right near the valve stem holes) Do they all have the same dates or not?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 02:59 AM
Heres the block VIN The car is at the media blaster and I don't have any body stamping pics that I can upload.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 03:02 AM
I've only got one rally unfortunately. The slot mags have been on it since 72! Heres the date off the one I have.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 03:26 AM
Good stuff, that wheel date aligns perfectly with your SPD, engine stamp also looks legit. The trans stamp is likely a bad try bouncing attempt, the LA plant workers seemed to have more issues with transmission stamping than other plants, I've seen a bunch like yours in recent years.
If you feel like investigating and sharing further here are some more date codes I'd like to see/know.
1. Jack mechanism (one of the rivots holding it together will have a two digit code)
2. Hood latch release mechanism (date code is stamped into the verticle face)
3. Wiper motor (stamped into the gold colored metal barrel housing)
4. Radiator (digits are stamped into the passenger side mounting flange about 1/3 way down from the top)
5. Intake manifold casting date
6. Exhaust manifold casting dates
7. Steering box casting date
8. K-member stamp date (located in the very front center verticle surface, often shallow and hard to read)
9. Lower control arm dates (numbers stamped into two forward facing rivot heads on each)
10. Water pump housing casting date
11. Bell housing casting date
12. Temperature sending unit date (2 digit code stamped in tiny digits on the side)
13. Oil sending unit (2 digit code stamped in tiny digits on the side)
14. Date codes on the side view mirror glass
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 04:04 AM
No problem Scott. I can't give you 2 & 3 as Jules is making them pretty right now. Also 1,6,& 10 are missing or have been changed, but all of the others I will get tomorrow.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 04:52 PM
Here ya go Scott. Can you add the date translation to them?
2. Hood latch release mechanism= Jules
3. Wiper motor= Jules
4. Radiator= 265-0
5. Intake manifold casting date= 51370
7. Steering box casting date= F01 7 G
8. K-member stamp date= 271 05
9. Lower control arm dates= L 022&259 R 226&011
10. Water pump-Japan
11. Bell housing casting date= 6/70 (282 NW1 482
12. Temperature sending unit date= None found
13. Oil sending unit= 260
14. Date codes on the side view mirror glass= 8JC0
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 05:40 PM
Good stuff! Now, if you are really board...Post pics of each please
*Also, could you post a pic of the assembly date info on the front of your engine block below the drivers side head.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/08/11 06:01 PM
The engine code is: GW340P 3267 0508
July 8 1970 assy date
Casting date is 5-7-70
I'll try to get the date code pics when I get time.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/09/11 03:53 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/09/11 04:17 PM
I completely understand. As they say, they are only original once....
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/10/11 01:10 PM
Did you notice the last 340 engine that I picked up was cast the exact same day as yours? It was assembled only one day before yours as well? Yet based on the VIN sequence on mine it ended up sitting around the LA plant for a month after yours was installed? Check out some of the date codes on the other engine parts and see if yours are the same or similar.
Posted By: DusterKrazy
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/10/11 09:46 PM
Quote:
I'd reccomend saving the original engine in a bag and building another 340 or even a 360. Add a stroker crank (night and day difference in power and looks and sounds totally stock). If you want to save a few bucks you can use the original heads, intake, carb, accessories, etc. on the new engine and just save the numbers shortblock. Two reasons I reccomend this. #1 you will always have a numbers matching car (which is exceedingly rare with 340 stick 71 Dusters) and #2 you can bag on it guilt free when it's done. Nobody will know it's not the original engine unless you tell them, they all look the same on the outside.
*I hope you are getting a bunch of pics of your forward radiator support blackout brfore getting it stripped? From all angles if you haven't, not much good info on that.
What's your opinion on a 340 car('72 Demon) that was bought with no engine?? (meaning that it will probably never be number's matching)
Just build a 360 and be done with it??!
To the original poster, I love the build and am following it close.
I have the scoops on my '71 Twister and I really like them.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/11 01:13 AM
Todays progress was more CSI on some of the front suspension after running a bunch of errands. Although one of those errands was to return my Lincoln 140 welder that was defective and never worked
Now I can weld at home instead of my brothers shop
Anyways I was able to clean up and find the following today:
1) The T bars cleaned up and revealed 1 & 3 blue paint blobs, along with white (seems like grease crayon) marks on both bars close to the crossmember, along with the black drips along the length.
2) A yellow paint duab was on the middle of the sway bar.
3) A yellow paint duab was in the middle of my steering center link.
4) I found traces of orange paint on my idler castle nut.
5) On my fan I found a # on the front in white (2883215 ?? maybe
), "engine side" on the back in white, along with a stamped pentastar and #'s 46237 below it.
6) On the 2 upper front bumper to bracket bolts there is a sheet metal retaining nut on top of the nut, similar to how shocks nuts are.
Alot of cleaning, rubbing, and scrubbing done. I also started organizing what parts need to go where (powdercoater, painter, chromer, etc) an documenting the details before they do.
Thanks Dustercrazy!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/11 01:17 AM
The fan #. I can't totally make it out, looks like
1) 2883215
2) 2563215
3) 2663215
Does anyone know?
I also dug up one of my Mopar Muscle mags from 97 that shows good undercarriage details on Rich Berlisks 71 Demon that won a bunch of awards after being restored by Restorick and John Griswald
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/11 02:03 AM
Looking good! What parts are you getting powder coated?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/11 03:56 AM
I was able to get some more work in today. I discovered that I still have the original, and still working, factory coil.
Date code that can't be seen in the pic is "3370"
I'm getting the motor mounts brackets, bumper brackets, pulley's, Air cleaner (wrinkle), trans cross member, K member, and a few other items I can't remember powdercoated black.
I'll be using RPM on all the bare metal parts, thank you ECS!!!
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/11 10:14 AM
Where are the naked pictures of the shell? Did the shell get blasted yet?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/11 03:11 PM
Its currently at the media blaster. Theres some bare shell pics on pg2.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/11 06:39 PM
SUBSCRIBED
Posted By: Thread Ender1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/11 07:44 PM
Quote:
The fan #. I can't totally make it out, looks like
1) 2883215
2) 2563215
3) 2663215
Does anyone know?
I also dug up one of my Mopar Muscle mags from 97 that shows good undercarriage details on Rich Berlisks 71 Demon that won a bunch of awards after being restored by Restorick and John Griswald
The fan is 2863215 some #s are stamped with paint and some are stamped into one of the blades i can provide pics.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/11 10:28 PM
Thanks SB! This one got painted.
I ordered my RPM and all my needed stickers on their way from ECS today.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/22/11 05:20 AM
Quote:
Its currently at the media blaster. Theres some bare shell pics on pg2.
Yes, but there's something about bare steel that shows how clean and solid a car is.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/22/11 03:12 PM
No worries, there will be pics when I pick it up and take it to the painters.....maybe this week.
I thought I'd add a picture showing some of the ways I keep this pile of parts organized. As much as I think I'll remember how all this goes back together, I know not to trust my memory
In addition to lots of digital pics (2 memory cards and counting), I also draw out some details, along with organizing the screws and bolts on pieces of cardboard. Then its all bagged and boxed/ toted. I also have a big 5 subject notebook that I use to write down all information I need to know or remember, breaking it down into sections (General/history,Body/Exterior,Driveline/Mechanical,Interior, and Redo/Restore/Purchase). I also keep a tote, and a list of all the new parts I've bought which makes finding them easier later and eliminates (usually) buying the same parts twice. For bigger items I have a couple of shelves on the wall dedicated to just Duster items. I try to keep it so that if I died tomorrow, somebody would be able to find all the parts for the car...odd yes, but DAMHIK.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/22/11 04:22 PM
The corvette shop that shared the body shop I worked in used parts cart. The parts cart had peg board on it with hooks. Everything was bagged and tagged and they seldom lost anything.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/22/11 05:37 PM
I've thought about putting up peg board..
Sure beats the throw it all in a bucket style resto...been there seen that too many times
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/04/11 12:34 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 02:44 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 02:52 AM
Heres the pass side.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 02:56 AM
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 03:02 AM
Brent, your project is moving along pretty quick. Man what a great car too, I can't wait to see it once it's painted. I love 340 Dusters and Darts too.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 03:35 AM
Thanks! Your Cuda has provided some Red & Black inspiration for me.
Posted By: mopars_1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 04:11 AM
Quote:
The media blaster saved a spot I needed to see....F8 green on both sides of the firewall. I read about them clearing paint guns on E bodies before. Only surprise was some hidden rust down on the rockers where the seam sealer was. Nothing too difficult to fix. Off to the painter next!!!
strangely enough, i have this same thing on my 71 340 roadrunner, 71 440+6 charger and a few other cars Ive parted out. all green? wierd..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 05:46 AM
Almost the whole kickpanel metal was green. Paul (the blaster) had never seen that before and he has done a lot of cars including Mopars.
Its no longer the "Ruster" anymore
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 07:36 AM
Did you get any pictures of the green areas before it was blasted?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 04:13 PM
No unfortunately not. I didn't want to delay getting the car back by having him stop blasting, as the blaster was an hour away. With snow in the forecast for this weekend and my painter leaving for Ohio on Sunday I had a tight timeline to get it into the paint shop. Especially since I only have an open car trailer.
Posted By: Thread Ender1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/17/11 05:12 PM
Quote:
The media blaster saved a spot I needed to see....F8 green on both sides of the firewall. I read about them clearing paint guns on E bodies before. Only surprise was some hidden rust down on the rockers where the seam sealer was. Nothing too difficult to fix. Off to the painter next!!!
That green is a primer/sealer.
Posted By: 340wedge
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/18/11 02:59 AM
That green was under my passenger side kick panel but strangely enough none under the drivers side kick..
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/18/11 03:13 AM
Brent, congrats on the transition from "Ruster" to Duster!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/18/11 04:37 AM
Thanks Dmoore! Love your 72's BTW
Primer/sealer makes sense. I've found traces all over now that I've had time to look.
I've got about 3 hours in vacuuming and blowing out media. A leaf blower sure came in handy, although it does a better job of blowing sand into areas I just vacuumed & all over me.
I'm sure glad I stopped at the spray & wash on my way home to vacuum a bulk of the media out...although the owner of that place may not feel the same way when they find 20lbs of media in their hopper
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/27/11 03:00 AM
Now that the Duster is at the painters I've been cleaning up the garage and organizing parts. Today I got the tailights disassembled and cleaned up. I fixed two broken screw holes with epoxy, luckily the broken pieces were there. Next up is restoring them back to new. A little polishing and painting should go a long way. As tempting as NOS ones are I think these will clean up really well and save me $350. Heres a before pic of the lenses..
The painter called me today and he asked "Ya know since this car is so straight are you sure you don't' want to paint this car black?"
If it was any other color I probably would, but I had to say no, stick with the red.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/27/11 04:45 AM
Triple Black with the organisol hood? Sinister
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/01/11 01:05 AM
Today I got the gauges cleaned up and tested. I cleaned up the pins and connections on the back too. Once the needle paint dries they'll be wrapped up till installation time.
I also made an appointment with the machine shop to drop the motor off, 2nd week in Jan.
Posted By: 340wedge
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/01/11 01:29 AM
Care to share the secrets how you detailed and tested them, they look Great!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/01/11 02:07 AM
I tested them with a meter. Can't say they're accurate, but all tested good. Cleaning was done with practically boiling hot water and q tips. They were pretty clean to start with.
Update, 12/1/11
I dropped off all the parts to be powdercoated and rechromed today!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/10/11 12:30 AM
I got the exhaust tip hangers done today among other things. I've been rounding up and selling parts that I've been hoarding for years to help offset the $ spent on the Duster. Heres a before pic of the hangers..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/10/11 12:33 AM
Done and treated with RPM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/14/11 03:15 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/14/11 05:10 PM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/16/11 06:20 PM
This morning I redid my shackles. I bead blasted them first, then painted gun bluing on the studs and then coated them in RPM. Unfortunately I don't have a before pic that I can post, but the were crusty. Heres a before and blued pic.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/16/11 06:32 PM
Heres the finished hangers,I just need to refinish the nuts. My kit should be here any day..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/16/11 06:55 PM
Last night I was able to paint my exhaust manifolds. I chose this route because it looks cleaner than the half painted/ rusty look. Since my garage isn't heated I made use of the laundry room closet as a drying room. With the door closed and the fan on it really cuts down on the fumes..
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/16/11 11:51 PM
Looking good Brent! Keep the pics rolling
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/17/11 01:48 AM
Posted By: Thread Ender1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/17/11 02:36 AM
Im liking that RPM coatings
, ill be making some purchases right soon! Duster is looking good too!
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/17/11 04:35 AM
Your'e doing a great job Brent, keep it up! BTW, if you bolt on those cast painted manifolds and paint them with the engine you can still achieve a mostly stock appearance and hold off the rust when the orange paint starts to burn off. Trust me, the "right" look is something that will grow on you.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/17/11 05:29 AM
Thanks!
I do plan on painting the overspray on them, its the rusted look I don't care for. If I change my mind I can always bead blast them again.
I just try to do at least one thing on the Duster everyday, be it big or small. Any progress is good progress!
Heres a before picture of a bunch of the parts, notably the hangers and shackles.
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/17/11 05:10 PM
Your moving right along.
I never knew, or if I did...I forgot that the 71 passenger side 340 exhaust manifold changed to the newer style. I've toyed with the idea of buying an old oven off Craigslist to cure the Eastwood manifold paint when I need to do some. I no longer run fast enough to do it in the one in my wifes kitchen!
Posted By: jrwoodjoe
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/18/11 12:16 AM
Your brackets and suspension parts look AMAZING.
Joe
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/18/11 08:18 PM
Thanks JDMopar and jrwoodjoe! Yeah if stuck them in our oven my wife would probably try to oput me in there too!
I'm not too worried as they will sit on the shelf for a few months and the motoro should be fired within 6mos for sure... but hopefully 3 months
Yesterday I was only able to get my talight lenses redone. Heres a before pic.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/18/11 08:26 PM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/18/11 09:03 PM
Any good resto should include research. Heres a 2 magazines and a book that I reference A LOT!
That E body fastener book is truly amazing with all the info it contains.
Posted By: johnscudashop
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/18/11 09:53 PM
Awesome build!! keep up the great work. !!! The Exhaust manifold to cure paint in the oven is funny. Good satire that only us car guys could understand .. Lol!! It could could put you in the dog house with the wife for sure.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/18/11 10:18 PM
Ain't that the truth! She draws the line at drying parts in the laundry room.
Since I put a sink in the garage she's been pretty happy about me not washing parts in the kitchen sink. Good thing she wasn't home when I was washing and rinsing seat belts...
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/18/11 11:16 PM
Quote:
Good thing she wasn't home when I was washing and rinsing seat belts...
Next time she's out neatly arange them in the dishwasher and let it do it's thing, works GREAT on old dirty seat belts, hang them to dry so they dry nice and flat, use a rag to wrap the webbing where it attaches to the ends and carefully spray the metal parts with WD-40.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/19/11 12:17 AM
I have cured wrinkle finish paint on an air cleaner in a kitchen oven before..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/19/11 02:39 AM
After 2 days in Evaporust I pulled the snubber out. Polished it with steel wool and coated with RPM. I also replated the bolts.
Does anybody know if evaporust works slower when cold?
Up next are the lower spring plates.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/19/11 04:23 AM
Yes, Evaporust works slower when it's cold, it also has a useful lifespan, basically derusting "X" #lbs of rusty metal parts before it starts getting week, eventually it stops working and becomes basically neutral.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/19/11 04:56 AM
Thanks Scott. I figured it may work slower in the cold (my garage is about 35 degrees), but I knew about its lifespan. Pretty neat stuff! Nothing like set it and forget it! I already figured out how to dip my leafsprings in it without needing 20 gallons..
That project is next on the list.
My plan is to get the rearend assy under the car as soon its ready to come off the rotisserie, along with casters in the front. Thanks go to RestoRick and his assembly sequence chart to make things go together quickly.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/19/11 05:49 AM
various sizes of PVC pipe is your friend when it comes to long parts
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/19/11 06:10 AM
4" leech line PVC tubing is $5 for 10' at Lowes. I plan to start with the longest leaves first then shorten the tube as I go.
Posted By: GB5andGY8
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/19/11 06:58 AM
Brent, I just discovered this posting and hadn't realized you'd made this much progress since when I first saw this car. You do some excellent work!
Do you need a hand with any go-fer kind of stuff? I have been off this past month since I retired from the Navy and I have pretty much exhausted the honey-do list... it'd be nice to work on a Mopar and it might inspire me to work on the Charger.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/20/11 05:03 AM
Congrats on the retirement Paul, and thank you for your service!
I definately could use some help on the big projects. My plan is to have everything done by the time the body gets back from painting. PM me your #
I think you should pick some small projects on the Charger to help get motivation rolling...
Wanna buy a 512 for it...
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/30/11 05:23 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/30/11 10:59 PM
Heres a great example of how well products like Evaporust work. A few days soaking and this is what comes out. I cleaned it off with some hot water and fine steel wool. Next up will be some RPM and Krylon battery protectant for that cosmoline dipped look.
Posted By: MUSLCA
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/31/11 03:15 AM
Looking good.....
Wilson
Ontario
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/01/12 07:26 AM
Thanks MUSCLA!
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!
Air cleaner is done!
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/01/12 04:00 PM
Was the wife's oven involved at all?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/01/12 08:26 PM
Quote:
Was the wife's oven involved at all?
I don't know what you're talking about....
Actually no spousal appliances were harmed in the beautifying of THIS air cleaner
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/02/12 12:59 AM
Nice work Brent!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/06/12 12:34 AM
Thanks Dave!
I've been busy just haven't posted much. Today I got one of the leaf springs done. I had them sandblasted to save myself some time and picked them up yesterday. I took a rough scotchbrite pad to the exposed areas of the spring to smooth it out, along with a rubbing of heavy steel wool. I then stained them with gun bluing and then RPM. It took all day to one, so I'm done for today. Since it was 65 today it was a perfect outdoor project. Heres a before pic of the spring..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/06/12 12:39 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/06/12 12:54 AM
In case anyones curious this is what the gun bluing looks like that I use. I bought it al Wal Mart in the gun cleaning section, its $3.43 and goes a long way. Works good to mimic the phospate look on bolts too.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/06/12 05:30 AM
Well today took it its toll. My harbor Freight heat gun quit working...time for another.
I also realized that Krylon battery protectant can't be applied on top of RPM..
so I'm stuck with my beautiful natural finish lower control arms without the cosmoline look unless I can figure out how to remove the RPM.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/06/12 05:34 AM
Well actual Cosmoline might work, there are also some other dips out there that will likely work.
Posted By: cdp
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/09/12 03:04 AM
here's a link to what I had experimented with for the A12.....that still needs finished.
Anyways, Shafco makes some spray on cosmoline that is like original. I had to spray it about 15 times over the course of a week to get the look I wanted.
Only issue, its tacky and will attract dust.
https://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/show...rue#Post5111652Wish RPM was out at the time I did these a few years ago.
Posted By: cdp
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/09/12 03:22 AM
You want to see something amazing, and thats taking your drive shaft and soaking in evaporust. Simply use a 4" PVC capped on one end just like you did the leaf I did these leaf springs. Works great.
Thanks for the bluing tip!
Posted By: 68427vette
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/09/12 02:43 PM
Quote:
Well today took it its toll. My harbor Freight heat gun quit working...time for another.
I also realized that Krylon battery protectant can't be applied on top of RPM.. so I'm stuck with my beautiful natural finish lower control arms without the cosmoline look unless I can figure out how to remove the RPM.
have you guys tried putting your parts infront of a kerosene tube heater?? put it on a wooded rolling cart,(noot too close) heat it up, roll it away,, apply,, roll it back, for another area, etc , a heat gun seams sooooo,, long of a process?,
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/10/12 02:45 AM
Thanks CDP for the tips. The driveshaft is next on the list, after the pedal assy.
68427 Thats a good idea on the heater for large items, especially my driveshaft. I'll be stopping by my brothers shop and borrowing some of his heat soon.
I'll be helping with the bodywork this week.. so progress pics coming Thursday!!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/24/12 05:07 AM
Things have been a a little hectic, but progress is continuing. Between wind, fire, snow, and life I find that things which are important sometimes are not. Its those things too, that are driving me to get this car done as soon as possible. The car should be painted within a month..
I've gotten all of the splash shields redone, pedal assy redone, and the LH vent/box redone. I also drilled out the hood for the scoops, which helped the oil canning that it was doing. The painter was happy about that.
Heres the before on on the starter shield.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/24/12 05:08 AM
After on the starter shield
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/24/12 05:09 AM
Before on the pedal assy parts, well most of them anyway.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/24/12 05:10 AM
Pedal assy after. I need to order some new pads, and may even spring for the trim!
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/25/12 05:11 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/25/12 11:30 PM
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/26/12 01:56 AM
Quote:
Honestly honey I don't know how all that dirt got in the tub...
Hopefully it got the whirlpool treatment.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/26/12 02:27 AM
Quote:
Quote:
Honestly honey I don't know how all that dirt got in the tub...
Hopefully it got the whirlpool treatment.
Funny you mention that because it got about 20 min a side with the jets on!
While that was soaking I was re phosphating my accelerator bracket assy, and T bar adjusters.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/26/12 02:46 AM
Quote:
Honestly honey I don't know how all that dirt got in the tub...
Now that's a first! Hope she didn't catch you!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/12 02:46 AM
Naked Duster! This ones for you Moparpollack!
I spent the day going over all the little details on the car, prior to painting... which will be VERY soon!!
There was a lot of factory sloppiness found, such as extra lead slop on the lower rockers, grinder marks on the upper qp, file marks all over, etc. But its super straight with minimal filler needed. The drivers side is about the same way. I got asked again...You sure you don't want to paint it black? Last chance since the paint is being bought tomorrow. If it was any color than red I'd go with black honestly.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/12 02:48 AM
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/12 02:58 AM
Don't forget to give him the smaller bolt on parts that get painted body color (mirrors, gas cap, trunk latch, etc.)
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/12 03:52 AM
That's what I like to see a primo body with no rust.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/12 04:45 AM
Scott- Don't worry that was part of the "details" I went over today. I told him the fender tag only comes when the paint goes in the gun.
Pollack-I figured you'd like that.
I'm getting really excited about it. On the other hand I'm starting to realize that I'm not as far ahead on the other parts as I'd like to be.
The painter is going to get the engine paint matched so I'll post what he comes up with. He's also going to see if theres a match to the dash paint, using the glove box (the untouched are behind the trim). His day job is a lab tech at the Sherwin Williams paint plant here, so he's kinda of paint geek which helps when it comes to details.
Posted By: KnuckleDuster
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/28/12 12:08 PM
Great car! Awesome thread! Lots of great tricks and tips for when I go cosmetic on mine.Made for a nice 5am read on my night off.
Nice work
Can't wait to follow the rest.
Wish mine was that original when I got it!
No fender tag or build sheet,crappy repaint in red instead of the original black ,VIN'less block with broken ears,missing tons of brackets and bolts and little stuff...you get the picture...but then again I guess it does leave me more free to take my liberties.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/10/12 04:24 PM
Thanks Knuckle! Liberties are a good thing! Your car is originally black?
I got all the chrome back on wed. When I picked up the chrome I dropped off all the trim to be polished. I've had to work on the daily driver so I haven't got as much done on the Duster lately as I would have liked.
I did get the rear end detailed, and the brakes redone. I got my tail housings back from Scott Smith, wow do they look nice. The rear brake drums were definately painted red, and are currently soaking in Evaporust. Driveshaft is next for soaking. I ordered brake & fuel lines, along with new e brake cables, u joints, flexible brake lines, and some Dynamat.
I'm bummed about parts delays right now though.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/10/12 04:26 PM
Another shot of the rear..The lighting makes the colors look off, but they are redone they way I found them. I used clear packing tape to copy them, then made stencils from that.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/11/12 02:04 AM
Before and after evaporust! A lot of the red paint washed off, but as you can tell it covered the whole face of the drum. Original Mopar drums still in spec!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/11/12 02:07 AM
I got my tail light housings replated by Scott Smith, Harms Auto, and they look awesome. I did the reflective paint myself. Time to bolt in the new gaskets and polished lenses!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/06/12 12:50 AM
Thought I'd send out an update. I've been staying off of here lately, as I'm getting fed up with all the BS that goes on this time of year on here.
Anyways, things that are done:
-Motor is back from the machine shop,I should be painting it this week.
-All the chrome and trim is finished and ready to go back on.
-Driveshaft is all redone and ready to go back in.
-All the front suspension parts will be here this week. Along with water pump & exhaust shield.
-All the parts that have been sent out with the exception of the body and the forward light harness are back and ready to be installed.
-The Duster should be painted any day now...
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/06/12 01:46 AM
Looks like it's going together nicely.
what are you using for an exhaust system?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/06/12 02:35 AM
Thanks!
I'm going to use a TTI 2 1/2" with the factory 340 manifolds.
Posted By: cdp
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/11/12 04:35 PM
Keep this progress going! Love seeing this Duster come back to life.
Did you get this off ebay a few years ago. Seems I remember seeing it on there...or one similar.
Posted By: fc7freak
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/11/12 10:44 PM
Looks great! Can't wait to see some fresh paint.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/12/12 06:52 PM
Thanks cdp & fc7!
Yes its was on Ebay a little over a year ago.
Its got etch and epoxy primer on it now! Should be red this week!!
I can't wait. Its SUPER straight, lots of time spent on crisping up body lines, etc. These pics don't do it justice, they are pictures taken with my phone of our monitor. My wife switched to Ubuntu and I don't have picture resize program for that format yet.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/12/12 06:53 PM
Heres the underside. Its an LA built car.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/12/12 07:02 PM
Heres how it looked in the ebay ad. I picked it up Feb 6th 2011
Posted By: 79machocharger
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/12/12 07:07 PM
Wow, it's looking awesome. It's come a long way that's for sure!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/12/12 09:36 PM
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/13/12 01:55 AM
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/13/12 09:16 PM
Quote:
Heres the underside. Its an LA built car.
Is it red yet????
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/13/12 09:37 PM
Is it
red yet????
No..My painter was going to take yesterday off of work to paint it, but couldn't. But it should be red this weekend.
Thanks Dave. I'd really love to have your white Duster in the garage. But I think the next car will be a who cares about originality pro touring machine....probably my Demon 340.
Posted By: 1970b7cuda
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/13/12 10:55 PM
I have one just like it.. How many times have we heard that one..
BUT I DO..
Posted By: 1970b7cuda
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/13/12 11:26 PM
1971 340 4 SPEED
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/13/12 11:26 PM
The attachment didn't work. Is your car the same as my Duster or Demon?
Posted By: 1970b7cuda
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/13/12 11:34 PM
E-5 RALLY RED DUSTER 4 SPEED .. SAME INSIDE AND OUT
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/14/12 02:13 AM
Hey man I can appreciate that! Some times you just want to drive the [Edited by Moparts - Family Friendly Site - Keep it clean] out of em!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/14/12 02:41 AM
Wow!! 1970b7cuda, you ain't kidding about having almost the same car!
And a very similar member name...spooky! I'd love to see more pics of yours, especially the engine. I PM'd you my email address.
You're right on the $ Dave.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/14/12 10:40 AM
Quote:
Wow!! 1970b7cuda, you ain't kidding about having almost the same car! And a very similar member name...spooky! I'd love to see more pics of yours, especially the engine. I PM'd you my email address.
You're right on the $ Dave.
Can't wait to see it painted. You're attention to detail and posting how you did things ROCKS. Now no hiding those twin Duster 340 car pics fella's....he'll need to post his own thread so we can see em.
Recognize this FC7 71 from Vegas? It's been 7 years since I left but I bet I still know of several cars hiding there. One pop top B body had a Hemi too
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/15/12 07:13 PM
Quote:
Is it red yet????
No..My painter was going to take yesterday off of work to paint it, but couldn't. But it should be red this weekend.
Thanks Dave. I'd really love to have your white Duster in the garage. But I think the next car will be a who cares about originality pro touring machine....probably my Demon 340.
Sitting... waiting... for...newly...painted...pics!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/15/12 09:41 PM
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/16/12 03:02 AM
still cool, though!
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/21/12 05:31 PM
Quote:
Is it red yet????
No..My painter was going to take yesterday off of work to paint it, but couldn't. But it should be red this weekend.
Thanks Dave. I'd really love to have your white Duster in the garage. But I think the next car will be a who cares about originality pro touring machine....probably my Demon 340.
Btw My roadrunner will be going off to paint jail/free storage soon. I know it will take awhile but the results should be worth it.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/21/12 11:22 PM
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/25/12 04:51 PM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 01:18 AM
After 4months I finally have a FE5 red Duster again!!
The following pics are teasers until I can get it out in the sunlight. The weather today was wind/snow.
It still needs some buffing but heres the body. Its looks orange but really turns red with natural light.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 01:20 AM
Heres the trunk and rear panel. I got it off the rotisserie today so I can take that back to my friend.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 01:22 AM
Side shot that been mostly buffed.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 01:24 AM
Front shot.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 01:31 AM
Last one. I one of my had my little helpers with me today. She really loves the red!
I'll be bringing the car home saturday when the weather will be better and it will be all bolted together.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 02:33 AM
The engine detailing is coming along too. After I F'd up the bypass hose paint I took a break.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 03:01 AM
Looking good! Your mess ups dont look that bad either.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 03:13 AM
Congrats, looks great
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 03:57 AM
Thanks guys!
Pollack, I'm passing on whats left of my patience for you to use during your Birds stint in that stretched space time continuum called the body shop.
I was really worried that the color wasn't going to turn out right after seeing the pictures of the body in base coat under the ultraviolet light, cause it looked orange. Even the painter was concerned. I even had a bad dream last night that it turned out blotchy and dull orange. Thankfully that all went away today when I got to see it in the light. Its gonna POP when its out in the sun.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 04:25 AM
Mine looked orange too, and as soon as you start to add contrast it really comes alive. Any chrome or black accents especially textured stuff like stipes or vinyl. I'm happy for ya
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 02:30 PM
Thanks, but I haven't even picked out a color yet. The car was JJ1 from the factory and I've always like b5 blue. My car can sit a while I also have to get the drivetrain rebuilt.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 03:57 PM
IF you like B5 you should consider B7, its stunning in person..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/26/12 03:58 PM
It changes color depending on the light and angle. My RR was B7 originally.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/27/12 02:41 AM
Looking great Brent!
Another hurdle down now its time to have fun!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/27/12 03:04 AM
Thanks Dave! Pretty much everything is here, so any delays will be on my shift!
I'll probably be putting the stripes on first
Posted By: gtx6970
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/27/12 01:08 PM
Quote:
The engine detailing is coming along too. After I F'd up the bypass hose paint I took a break.
shoudn't the bolt holding the heater hose support be black phosphate ?
just askin
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/27/12 02:29 PM
I believe you're right Bill, thank you.
Once I get the engine completed I plan on posting up pics for a critique.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/27/12 03:29 PM
Quote:
It changes color depending on the light and angle. My RR was B7 originally.
Is that a 68 bumper on a 69? Not seeing the back up lights.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/27/12 08:50 PM
Good eye, it is a 68 I didn't care for the 69 backup lights, and a friend had a perfect 68 bumper. I got some cheap rectangular small driving lights and made a bracket for them on each side of the license plate, after this pic was taken.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/29/12 01:33 AM
Every now and then you get lucky. About 4 years ago I bought a Centerforce clutch assy and throwout bearing for my 69 RR, never using it. Once I bought the Keisler kit I put it all in a box and duct taped it closed. Figuring I had bought the 11" clutch I opened it today to make sure, so I could sell it to buy a clutch set up for my 340.....Nope, I actually bought the 10.5 clutch kit, that bolts right up to my freshly resurfaced flywheel
Nothing like not having to spend $400 for a clutch kit.
Today I got a few more things painted, RPM'd, and cleaned up despite not feeling very well.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/29/12 01:45 AM
Yup I've done that a couple of times.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/29/12 01:54 AM
hope ya feel better... You use coins in the expanded clutch spring to keep it stretched to get the pedal spring off for this right? I have that bad boy on the shelf too and a Lakewood too
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/29/12 02:24 AM
I left the spring out when I rebuilt the pedal assy.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/08/12 04:02 AM
SHE'S FINALLY HOME!! More pics to follow tomorrow. Got to go dye Easter eggs with the kids
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/08/12 04:28 AM
Posted By: 19cuda73
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/08/12 04:37 AM
Let the fun begin. Need to see more pics
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 02:54 AM
Finally was able to get some pics today.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 02:55 AM
More
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 02:56 AM
The front fenders still need to be buffed out, probably thursday.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 02:58 AM
Along with the fenders the engine compartment and trunk need to buffed, so I'm figuring out work arounds for the time being.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 03:00 AM
Hopefully the decklid will be done in the next week, or two.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 03:01 AM
I got some more details done on the motor today too.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 03:05 AM
Last one. I may start on the grille resto next now that the car is home. Dynamat (placed inconspicuously) and the headliner will be first to be done on the body.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 04:02 AM
Car looks FANTASTIC! .......No hood scoops?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 05:14 AM
Thanks Scott! Not yet, the holes are there though.
Last week I got my carb back, plus a set of SBP center caps.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 05:15 AM
Nice! Didn't burn up huh?
*Your choke is under way....
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/10/12 05:20 AM
Thankfully no. Can't say the same for a 70 6BBL Cuda, a 71 Challenger Vert, NOS shaker bases, Hemi parts, and A LOT of other parts.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/11/12 11:24 AM
Now I can't wait to see the grille
Nice work buddy, I'll want allot of tips from you
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/12/12 02:29 AM
Best tip I learned from my car, buy Evaporust by the gallon, and get some RPM
I got the driver side vent installed, along with the Dynamat. I was also able to cleane the garage some, and send back an incorrect lower ball joint to Rock Auto. Heres the roof
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/12/12 02:31 AM
Heres the floor. Thats probably all I will do for now. If more is needed than I'll do it after getting it running and driving. Its in the doors and rear panels too, you just can't see it.
Posted By: burdar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/12/12 02:11 PM
Do you have your leaf spring clamps on the wrong way? I'm putting mine back together and noticed yours are on different then mine. I doubt it affects the function of the spring any.
This pic shows the clamps on Dave Waldens Challenger. The rubber insulator is on the top of the spring...not the bottom.
https://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/upload2/4502617-Dsc05279-1.jpg
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/12/12 03:27 PM
Posted By: burdar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/12/12 04:04 PM
I saw your picture and thought "Oh crap" did I just put my clamps on wrong?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/14/12 04:57 AM
Today I was able to get some little things done. I installed the dual exhaust bracket, tip hangers, brake hose bracket, pedal assy, dome light wiring, fender splash shields, axle bump stops and the k frame bolts. I got my tie rod sleeves into the evaporust which revealed some yellow paint on one end of each assy. I also cleaned some of the buffing compound off of a few areas, It felt good to take parts out of the "ready to be installed" totes and throw away some empty bags.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/14/12 03:28 PM
Before shot of the grille? Maybe detail the original paint and how well the fatory detailed them
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/15/12 02:16 PM
Quote:
Today I was able to get some little things done. I installed the dual exhaust bracket, tip hangers, brake hose bracket, pedal assy, dome light wiring, fender splash shields, axle bump stops and the k frame bolts. I got my tie rod sleeves into the evaporust which revealed some yellow paint on one end of each assy. I also cleaned some of the buffing compound off of a few areas, It felt good to take parts out of the "ready to be installed" totes and throw away some empty bags.
You mean like this?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/15/12 02:40 PM
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/17/12 01:50 AM
Maybe,My sleeves & clamps are original, the outer & inner's were replaced a few years ago.....So......are we having fun yet??
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/19/12 12:38 AM
Honeydo's got in the way of more progress, but I was able to get some things done. First thing was to bring down the pile of parts from the attic in the garage.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/19/12 12:41 AM
Then I concentrated on getting the tail end done along with putting the rest of the misc brackets on the underside. I'm happy with the results.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/19/12 03:10 AM
I was hoping to have gotten the front suspension together by now. Unfortunatley I got the wrong part in the right box (the spindle mounting bolt holes were too small) on one of my lower balljoints. I have to wait for Rockauto to refund my $.
The good news is that Amazon sells them (Moog) for the same price so I won't have to pay for shipping.
Tomorrow list of things to do includes:
1) Fuel and brake lines
2) Gas tank & straps
3) Refinish tie rod assy's and mount them to the centerlink.
4) Start on the headliner installation.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/19/12 01:52 PM
Quote:
I was hoping to have gotten the front suspension together by now. Unfortunatley I got the wrong part in the right box (the spindle mounting bolt holes were too small) on one of my lower balljoints. I have to wait for Rockauto to refund my $. The good news is that Amazon sells them (Moog) for the same price so I won't have to pay for shipping.
Tomorrow list of things to do includes:
1) Fuel and brake lines
2) Gas tank & straps
3) Refinish tie rod assy's and mount them to the centerlink.
4) Start on the headliner installation.
Sounds like you got a drum brake ball joint. The ball joints are the same just not drilled to the bigger size.
https://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/show...amp;Search=true
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/20/12 04:16 AM
I thought about drilling it out but sent it back since they shorted me a boot too.
Today I got everything done I wanted to except for the tie rods. However I did get the carpet in.
It was a nice 70+ degree day so I got the vinyl top out out of the box and into the sun to get the wrinkles out. Headliner is in but not glued yet. I've got to order new sailboards for it.
The rest of the buffing should be done tomorrow.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/24/12 06:14 PM
Any updates or did you start building a car and stopped being an automotive journalist.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/24/12 07:31 PM
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/25/12 11:15 PM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/26/12 01:56 AM
Well its finally buffed out. SO I've been able to start getting stuff put on. Although between life and work, the Duster is slow going currently. I was hoping to get the stripes put on the side today but had to go set up a trail ride/drive course for work instead. I'm starting on the grille resto..
Seems fixing the cracks and such will be the easy part to do. I got the missing slat replaced already. Although I'm still trying to figure out how I'm going to paint the 3 colors.
Any suggestions will be appreciated.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/26/12 02:39 AM
First you'll need to call 3M and order a case of masking tape................
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/26/12 02:46 AM
......Yes, 3M phone call. BTW, it's only two paint colors and in some cases only one. Look to see if your grill was molded in grey or black plastic (it's difficult to tell so be SURE). If it's grey then it was masked and painted silver, then masked again and the black accents were added. If it's molded in black it was only masked once and the silver paint was added. Before you strip it or paint it take
A LOT of close up pics of the blend zones, you'll likely find the factory work quite sloppy/incomplete/ with fuzzy as opposed to sharp transitioning overlap edges.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/26/12 04:44 AM
Yes, I bought stock in 3M tape on Monday!
My grille was molded in grey. I already found a color thats a match for the grey.
I'd love to see what the factory jig for the grille masking looked like. I remembered a thread from a few years back and it has some good tips about restoring the grille..
https://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/show...t=1#Post6001265Another good thread:
https://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=0&Number=4105378&an=0&page=0I figure grey first, black, silver, then touch up the grey. I'm going to be extremely busy the next few months so its a good project to spend and hour here or there on.
All the delays caught up to me and its going set back the car a couple of months. I had planned to have it done by now, knowing I'd be really busy with work from now till July.
My new goal is 4th of July, or early August...
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/26/12 02:28 PM
I always paint light colors before dark colors this way the black doesn't bleed through.
Yup life gets in the way of cars.
Posted By: MUSLCA
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/28/12 04:06 AM
.......truely amazing job so far.
Wilson
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/02/12 11:40 PM
Thanks Muscla!!
Stripes are done. I still have some small bubbles to pop. The stripes were an old set that came from Year One and were among the new boxed parts that came with the Duster. They were not very forgiving and hard to work with. If all the little bubbles don't come out then I may buy a new set and start over.
Headliner is started, but I'm waiting for the sail panels to arrive before applying any glue.
Brake & fuel lines are all in place.
The painter still has my decklid, grille support, interior panels, dash and scoops..
Grille resto is ongoing...
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/02/12 11:50 PM
I'm always happy to have my little helpers around
Posted By: MUSLCA
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/04/12 01:39 AM
It's actually muslca (musclecar)
Posted By: MUSLCA
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/04/12 01:41 AM
my old 70 Challenger with the same plates....
Posted By: MUSLCA
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/04/12 01:44 AM
My new plates now......
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/05/12 03:41 PM
Sorry MUSLCA, I fat fingered my response. I went the vintage Nevada plate route on mine, especially because it has my initials.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/05/12 05:04 PM
Thats cool, the Dart's 72 NM plate has my Moms name, and my truck has the wifes intials.... "see it is my truck" ...."uh no, no it's not"
I love this car. It's going to look great done
Dibs on yer slots if you sell them
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/05/12 10:56 PM
Posted By: MUSLCA
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/06/12 01:16 AM
That's okay....I have fat fingers all the time.
Here are the year to date Ontario plates I have for the
Demon....some day.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/01/12 01:19 AM
Some more progress to report.
-Headliner is in and done.
-All parts, except for the decklid are back from the painters
-Grille blackout is painted
-Light wiring harness is done and installed
-Lots of little stuff is bolted on
-Package tray is in
-Rear metal panels and rear side windows are in
Had one set back..My grille was sitting out in the sun drying the last spot filler application before painting and a freak wind gust came up and tossed it off the stool into the garage door and the ground.
all of the cracks I repaired broke again...
The only good side was that it stayed in mostly one piece and didn't break in 2.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/01/12 01:20 AM
Bad interior picture. Headliner turned out good.
Posted By: mopars_1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/01/12 04:01 AM
Quote:
Had one set back..My grille was sitting out in the sun drying the last spot filler application before painting and a freak wind gust came up and tossed it off the stool into the garage door and the ground. all of the cracks I repaired broke again... The only good side was that it stayed in mostly one piece and didn't break in 2.
ouch! thats a bummer!!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/01/12 06:03 PM
Yeah I was pretty mad about that. I had about 5 hrs into it at that point. It was well supported on both sides by the stool. It was still with no wind outside, until the dustdevil came through. It knocked my neighbors trash can over too. Ohh well... Heres a front view
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/01/12 06:09 PM
When I got the Duster home I noticed some faint remnants of decals on the side windows. After a few beers and a lot staring I made out the Hijacker one, but the Edelbrock Tarantula took awhile. I had just the body of the spider to go off of. I finally found a single original decal on Ebay that was a match. A conversation with the original owner later on confirmed this Thanks to Randy (1WildRT) for getting the Tarantula decals made for me.
I got them put on this morning.
Posted By: burdar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/01/12 07:22 PM
This car is really looking great. Sucks about the grill. If that's the only major set back you have you're doing good.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/02/12 12:04 AM
Brent, you are doing a fantastic job there buddy
Love those retro decals too!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/02/12 01:14 AM
Thank you guys! It really helps the motivation.
After seeing the stickers in place I'm back to thinking about reusing the slots. If I can polish them on the cheap then they're probably staying.
But the downside to the slots is the lack of girth on the tires that are available. 26" is about the biggest you can get, which leaves A LOT of room in the wheel wells....something that I can't stand....
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/02/12 01:41 AM
Guess they are staying!
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/02/12 02:00 AM
Looks killer Brent. Sorry to here about the grille but at least you can fix it. I'll be out there in July
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/02/12 04:07 AM
You going to be in Vegas or Reno? If you're going to be up this way, then you might even get a ride in it. I got one month till my deadline to drive it....
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/02/12 05:18 AM
Looking great Brent, keep up the good work!
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/04/12 11:52 PM
Vegas
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/07/12 12:28 AM
Today I got the vinyl top done, with help from my wife!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/07/12 12:29 AM
Here's a firewall shot. Forgive the dirty carpet, haven't had time to vacuum yet.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/07/12 12:32 AM
Dude... you are certainly the man. Find a distributor yet? PM me if ya need
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/07/12 04:41 PM
Thanks Bob! I did find one recently, almost new.If you wind up near Reno let me know.
You should plan on going to MATS or Spring Fling next year with the Cuda, cause ours cars would look good side by side. Especially going down the track in Vegas, loser buys....whadya say???
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 06/08/12 12:01 AM
Always open to some fun...
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/07/12 03:26 AM
Time for an update. Obviously I'm not going to be driving it soon. Kinda bummed about that but life comes before cars. Last week I got the trans and rear end pumpkin detailed. I didn't rebuild them because they worked fine before the resto and they will get replaced at some point. The color was a little brighter than I wanted but once the paint flew it was staying that color.
Here is the driveline ready to install. It should be detailed as found.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/07/12 03:31 AM
Driveline detail other side. The carb and wires are on for pics, not hooked up. I know the wires are not 100% correct, but they are Mopar stamped and half the price.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/07/12 03:34 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/07/12 03:46 AM
Last one. The ring inside the jewelry box
Everything went well, no scratches or dings.
Although I did have a big
moment when I tried to roll it back in the garage. My front body casters were fine rolling the body around..until I added the weight of the motor & trans. The drivers side caster almost folded under...
After a quick dash for the jack and jackstands I hit the metal stash for some tie in supports. Longs story short it held and I barely got it back in the garage. Its up on jack stands now and will be rolling on its own wheels the next time.
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/07/12 03:14 PM
It looks nice! You've done a great job on it,and I can only imagine how you felt when the caster decided to lay down on you!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/07/12 07:22 PM
Thanks JDMopar! Its coming along nicely. Unfortunately I can't finish it unless my 69 Rebel wagon sells. Exhaust, wheels tires, wing, and dash bezels add up really fast..
One of the biggest pains in the rear was the painted bypass hose and the spring clamps...
.. I found that the hose Autozone sells is slightly smaller in diameter than Napas and that the clamps would fit over it easier. I was really close to painting some regular hose clamps and calling it done.
A quick resto tip to pass on: If you need a phosphate coated look on a bolt, lightly blast it in the beadblaster and then use some gun bluing and oil on it. It gives the appearance of a newly plated bolt and can be done in a couple of minutes.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/07/12 11:42 PM
Outstanding job Brent
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/08/12 03:09 AM
Thanks for the gun blue tip.
That will come in handy. Last time I painted a bypass hose so it would look correct, the dang thing leaked like a sieve! The next car I do a correct resto on (A66 70 Challenger)I am going to build a run in stand to put the motor on and fire it up before I paint it up all purty. That way, if it leaks, I can fix it out in the floor instead of trying to do it in the car. Hang in there, and keep up the good work. You'll get it done.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/13/12 04:33 PM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/13/12 04:35 PM
Heres the front underside. Z bar went in pretty well considering the steering box and exhaust were MIA at the time
Posted By: CuriousYella70
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/13/12 04:53 PM
Do you know how long your clutch fork is? I'm having issues aligning my z-bar and clutch rod linkage. My clutch rod and z-bar swing arm about 1" apart and cannot diagnose if it's the z-bar, clutch fork, etc.
Great looking Duster!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/13/12 06:00 PM
Thanks Curious. No I don't know the length off hand. Have you tried Brewers? They should be able to answer that, and give you the correct parts if needed.
On mine if you measure from the side of the trans/bellhousing to the center of the fork its approx 4". Hope this helps.
Posted By: MuuMuu101
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/14/12 06:14 AM
Well, all I can say is that Duster is one clean Duster!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/16/12 04:47 PM
Thanks Mu!
Here is todays project. Some $9 Napa hoses and some stencils will turn them into a somewhat original appearing hose that will fool 99% of the people who see this Duster.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/16/12 08:10 PM
Where did you get your stencils?
Posted By: jrwoodjoe
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/16/12 09:02 PM
Quote:
Where did you get your stencils?
Ditto!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/16/12 09:56 PM
My wife made them with her Cricut machine. The pentastar I did with an xacto knife.
Posted By: jrwoodjoe
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/16/12 10:13 PM
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/16/12 10:42 PM
Quote:
Thanks Mu!
Here is todays project. Some $9 Napa hoses and some stencils will turn them into a somewhat original appearing hose that will fool 99% of the people who see this Duster.
www.rocketresto.com in Olympia Wa. has the correct lower radiator hose #34623164 $50.00
I have never been able to find the correct top hose....anyone??
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/16/12 11:40 PM
I have never been able to find the correct top hose....anyone??
Thats why I'm making my own.
I believe Bill Rolik had some for a brief time actually, might check with him.
Posted By: DynoDave
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/17/12 02:46 AM
Quote:
My wifes Cricut machine made them. The pentastar I did with an xacto knife.
Just showed this to the wife. Hint, hint! 
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/17/12 02:54 AM
Nice work Brent!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/17/12 05:41 AM
Thanks Scott
Any updates on your Duster?
The upper hose turned out pretty good, the bottom, not so good. I let it sit too long after painting/ dyeing it (Daughter wanted to swing). I'll redo the bottom one tomorrow.
I also started back on the grille. All the cracks are fixed (again
) and I'm down to spot putty. Primer and paint should happen this week.
Tonights project....
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/17/12 05:45 AM
I bought a fine point paint pen and a stencil at Micheals yesterday so I could do the "KV" on the plain Napa hoses. It took a little trial & error but I've got it down now.
Its all in the details right?
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/18/12 01:20 AM
Thats slick
I'll be taking notes... heck I had a stamp made for a volatage regulator, it came out near perfect but stamping takes practice
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/18/12 02:19 AM
I hear ya on that one, took me 3 tries to stamp the part # on my fan legibly. Thankfully its almost impossible to see
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/18/12 02:26 AM
Mines getting closer to paint but the weeks keep dragging by......Still, only 4 months late so far, heck that's only a few minutes in body shop time LOL!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/18/12 07:43 PM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/18/12 07:44 PM
I also got my nice new red Edelbrock shocks painted semi flat black to mimic the stock look. Before..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/18/12 07:45 PM
After.. I may leave off the dust boots.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/20/12 03:45 AM
I got the grille partially painted today. I painted the backside grey in the same finish it was molded in. Next came masking and the black. Its going to dry for a few days before I start masking the fins...
I also got the front end all put together and detailed...gonna have to wait on those pics though...
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/20/12 03:47 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/26/12 04:33 AM
Here is what 154 paper clips,39 index cards, lots of masking tape and 7 hours looks like? Its finally painted!!!
The unmasking will be tomorrow, hopefully it turned good. I'm sure I still have a few hours of painting the upper and lower "teeth" mounts black. Then its chrome and picture time.
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/26/12 05:36 PM
Coming up on a year and you are almost done!
Posted By: DynoDave
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/26/12 09:00 PM
Quote:
Coming up on a year and you are almost done!
That's incredible to me.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/27/12 04:00 AM
Ya know I was kinda bummed that I didn't have it done by July 1st. Then I read that and realized I can still get it done in close to a year.
Thanks Pollack and Dave for the motivational words.
Hot August Nights starts in 2 weeks, so hopefully the wagon will find a new home with lots of buyers in town.
The $ from the wagon will literally allow me finish the Duster. Everything left is stuff I can buy new.
I finally got the the grille, the turn signal lenses, and the headlight bezels all painted. I unmasked the grille but still have to detail it. I'll post pictures once its done.
Posted By: MuuMuu101
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/27/12 04:59 AM
Awesome work as usual.
My question is what's next? The Demon?
What ever happened to the AMX you had?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/27/12 03:54 PM
Thanks for the kind words Mu!
Next...I don't know. I really want another 70 Swinger 340...and I think I could put together a Hemi Dart if I sold the Duster
So who knows whats next. The Demon is to teach my kids welding and metal work when they get a little older so it will have to wait. Honestly getting my garage cleaned and organized (again) is probably highest on my list.
The AMX? It made its big debut at AMC national show here in June. Its the 4th one up in the picture. I've been driving and getting miles on it. Although its a pretty impractical car when you have two young kids, since only 1 can go at a time.
Posted By: MuuMuu101
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/27/12 04:15 PM
That's good! I remember following that the AMX thread over a year ago and I thought you just abandoned it and let it sit or something since I haven't heard of it ever again since then.
Posted By: mattsmopars
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/27/12 06:42 PM
Quote:
I finished the lower control arms this morning. I had to replace the bushing twice and the pivots because of a dumb mistake.. I got them coated today and once they're done drying into the car they go! I used the matte clear to help with adhesion since I had coated the arms with RPM by mistake.
I have saw several times in your thread were you say you coated them with RPM. Most likely a stupid question but what is RPM? BTW you have a very very nice duster coming together! I love the detail work you are putting into it. Matt
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/27/12 07:20 PM
Thanks Matt!
RPM is a bare metal coating. It is supposed to preserve the bare metal and keep it looking that way for years. It was created by some former Moparts members. 1 small tub was enough to my Duster and then some.
http://ecsautomotive.com/rpm.php
Posted By: mattsmopars
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/30/12 04:08 PM
BTW can you tell me what you used to restore your aircleaner and the process? I have never had good luck with the wrinkle paint.
Thank you, Matt
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/31/12 01:25 PM
I just had the air cleaner beadblasted. I painted the inside of the base and lid with Semi Flat black. Then I applied several coats of VHT black wrinkle on the outside of the base and lid. The set it in the sun to dry. One thing I did use was a heat gun that I kept constantly moving around as the paint dried. One of the keys with the wrinkle paint is that it needs a lot of heat to "wrinkle" correctly.
A kitchen oven at 200 degrees works well, but its hard to get that smell out after that....DAMHIK
Posted By: mattsmopars
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 07/31/12 01:51 PM
A kitchen oven at 200 degrees works well, but its hard to get that smell out after that....DAMHIK
Now that sounds like the voice of experience......LOL!
MAtt
Posted By: MUSLCA
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/01/12 12:31 PM
Absolutely beautiful!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/22/12 10:05 PM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/22/12 10:11 PM
Posted By: moparpollack
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/22/12 10:47 PM
I'm shocked he wagon didn't sell!
The details will kill the fun of a project.
Keep up the good work!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/22/12 11:38 PM
Yeah, I thought it would have sold easily too. I'm taking a loss on it, but I really want to finish the Duster. Having a 90% complete project stalled out is really frustrating. I've made $ on cars and lost $ on cars, as long as I can break even in the long run then I'm happy. The rotors and bearings just showed up!! Off to the garage..
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/23/12 12:54 AM
Better pump them tires up Brent!
Happy B-Day!
Posted By: MUSLCA
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/23/12 03:40 AM
If you were closer to me I would be all over that wagon.....to replace
the Malibu Woodie I sold to finish my 71 Demon.
Wilson
Ontario Canada
Posted By: MUSLCA
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/23/12 03:43 AM
I miss my wagon!!!!! But I love my Demon.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/23/12 03:59 AM
Looking good! Now I'm guessing that you understand why I charge so much to restore a Shark Tooth Grille eh? Yours looks great! Can't wait to see your car all done. PS, Mine SHOULD be painted within a week! I have some serious catching up to do!
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/23/12 04:01 AM
Also, in case you weren't sure about your grille hardware, here's an original with the right screw details.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/23/12 04:02 AM
2
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/23/12 04:03 AM
Last one
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/23/12 04:40 AM
Thanks all.
Scott, would the phillips screws (pictured) that hold the headlight bezel to the top of the grille be a black or silver finish?
Ohh and yes I now know why you charge so much to restore one.
I hope to replace mine with an NOS/ perfect one down the road.
I got the hubs off the old rotors and the wheel studs soaking in evaporust. Best part of the afternoon was squarely smacking my middle finger with a 2lb sledge
while removing the studs.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/23/12 04:45 PM
+
=
Outstanding job Brent.
Posted By: DynoDave
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/24/12 07:39 PM
Quote:
+ =
Creative use of smileys...and who hasn't done that.
Sure is going to be a great looking ride when you're done.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/26/12 12:44 AM
Do you see that?
Its the light at the end of the tunnel!!
Got a deposit for the wagon in my pocket, should be a done deal in a week or so!!
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/26/12 01:07 AM
Sweet, sorry you had to let one go bro.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/26/12 02:16 AM
No worries. I REALLY, REALLY want to drive the Duster. I have a new goal now. There's a local show here on Sept 29th and I'm taking home a "Best Mopar" trophy!!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/30/12 01:22 AM
I got the spindles redone and the new rotors cleared today. I installed new bearings and seals too. It can set it on all 4's now... wheels and tires coming soon! Here is a teaser pic of the suspension details, any inspection marks were redone as found.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/30/12 01:56 AM
Where did you source your rotors? Did you use RPM on them or something else? Looking really clean!
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/30/12 02:05 AM
Gonna hate to see this come to a close....awsum job Brent!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/30/12 02:21 AM
Rotors came from Rockauto, even though the ones on it were still in spec. I coated them in satin clear. I didn't want to use RPM because of the heat an dthe fact it turns liquid when hot. The spindles are painted in cast iron, again for the heat soak.
Dave I'll be a little sad too, but happy that its done.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/30/12 02:23 AM
How do they Rock Auto units compare to your originals in shape and detail etc?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/30/12 03:46 AM
I didn't compare them too much, as I figured the rotors had been replaced. They were about 1/2 way used up according to the min wear specs and the width of the new rotors. I boxed them up and put them in the attic so I can look at them if you need me to.
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 08/30/12 09:33 AM
You've done an awesome job!! The car looks great!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/06/12 03:32 AM
Thanks OhioMopar! Love your Swinger 340
WAGON IS SOLD!! I spent all afternoon spending $ like a drunken sailor at a Ttty bar!
I got the (correct looking GE) headlights and bezels installed today too.
Still on the fence about the wheel combo..Ralleys either way, but its either 14" with Polyglas tire or 15" with BFG's (235/255)....
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/06/12 03:36 AM
Quote:
14" with Polyglas tire
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/12/12 05:42 PM
Wheel decision has been made, going with OE look and E70 Polyglas tires.
Todays 1st project will be the exhaust system. I called the local guy here and to make a long story short he said 2 1/2 from the manifolds wouldn't work and to buy a set of headers first...
Great guy but since he wouldn't do what I wanted I ordered a TTI exhaust that I can install myself, making either option cost the same. I'm not wild about the hangars but the packaging and customer service was great. After the daughter goes to pre school its off to the garage..
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/12/12 05:52 PM
Good tire choice Brent! You will love that TTI system...I installed the same system on the white car and it fit supurb! Great bunch of guy's!
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/12/12 07:23 PM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/12/12 08:17 PM
I'd be done by now, except that I got sent an automatic headpipe instead of a 4 spd one...and the drivers side will not fit. But TTI is sending one and a return label so I have to give them a
for great customer service.
Onto the next projects:
Wheels and the dash assembly. My box of goodies from Mike at from BEA should be here this afternoon....
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/12/12 08:21 PM
The most amazing part is that Mike will even speak to you....Being a lowly A-body owner al all
Posted By: CuriousYella70
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/12/12 08:23 PM
Quote:
The most amazing part is that Mike will even speak to you....Being a lowly A-body owner al all
Mike is a great guy! Great customer service and like you said, will even speak to us lowly A-Body guys!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/13/12 12:57 AM
Well the exhaust is 3/4 done, waiting for the correct pipe to get here and then I can tighten it all up.
I also installed the new weatherstripping only to find out the trunk seal with was the wrong one and 2 feet too short. It was for a 70 Dart...waiting on that now too.
Got my dash stuff from BEA. Mike is great to deal with! Dash pad fit good with minimal trimming around the studs,and I had to drill the 2 screw holes on the sides. I was little disappointed to see the grain on the pad wasn't same as the original (see the pic), but it looks and fits great nonetheless. I'll work on the bezel later.
Decklid should be done by next week...
Doesn't look like I'm going to make the show on the 29th with Duster..
But I should have it running by then
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/15/12 01:25 AM
Shame about the wrong pipe.
The grain on those pads looks like a softer vinyl?Any more pics to show form and quality?
How about some more part pics? Great job Brent
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/15/12 02:35 AM
Well Brent, it looks like there were either 2 different vendors for dash pads (using different vinyl) or there were two different vinyls used because BEAs dash pad that I got matched my NOS pad as close as you can get.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/15/12 02:37 AM
close
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/15/12 07:58 PM
The pad fits great, probably a little stiffer/ les pliable than OE, IMO. My pad was definately the original, but its a minor detail really. I almost fillet'd my knee open working on the exhaust so I'm taking a break..
Heres a peak at the dash installed and the bezels in place. I'm gonna switch over to that probably and take a break from fighting with the exhaust.
The new head pipe fits great,and I have return slip for the worng one so I have give a big
to TTI's customer service.
Back to work and then lunch.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/15/12 07:59 PM
Big difference between the two.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/15/12 08:00 PM
Sneak peek at the finished look..
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/16/12 05:48 AM
Yup that looks like the driver side head pipe and the recess/indent is to clear the tortion bar (do I win anything?)
The car looks great Brent.... and I did a double take
Even your garage floor is expoxied tan?
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/16/12 06:10 AM
SWEET! Can't wait to trade cars with you for a quick rip next summer in Vegas
You are WAAAAY ahead of me, today I did the rust removal on the front suspension and various other parts (Leaf Springs, LCAs, UA-arms, drive shaft, etc.) with Evaporust, remember those days?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/16/12 07:10 PM
Thanks everyone for the kind words of encouragement! I took a new job that requires more of my time, so Duster work has been pushed back.
I got the gauges done this morning. The BEA panels fit and look great. Heres what I can relate about mine. You will have to drill out the hole for the tripmeter shaft, which isn't exactly centered. You will need to come up with some type of Green/Blue plastic lenses if you didn't buythe lense kit from BEA, as the red Brake & High Beam lense come out easliy. I scrounged around the garage and found a blue lid to cut a couple of circles out of. Then went over it with a green sharpie to get the same greenish blue hue. I used a hot glue gun to keep those and the upper bezel retainers in place. I had to melt the lower bezel posts, the same as the factory did it. I used Meguiars clear lens polish and cleaner to bring back the new appearance to my gauge lenses...saving $200.
Whenit comes to the glove box bezel I'd highly encourage drilling out the holes to a larger size closer to the screw. Somebody over on FABO broke their post off the bezel trying to screw it on their glovebox, so I learned from their mistake. It fit and looks great. The only gripe I have about them, and its minor/anal is that some holes aren't 100% centered compared to factory, but its beautiful, its staying and I'm grateful to have this important part reproduced.
I picked up my new yellow top battery from Summit yesterday.
Bob, thats creepy!!
Yes, tan epoxy coating on floor done by yours truly. You don't have any Robby Gordon posters in there by chance do you? Thanks for the encouragement.
Scott, I'm down to just buying a quart of Evaporust instead of gallons! I have faith you'll get yours done
I'll be at MATS for sure. I plan to run the autocross with the E70's
That way I can get a baseline of how it handles stock, then see the difference once I upgrade the suspension. Maybe I can pursuade Hotchkiss to showcase a before and after with my car in exchange for some free parts!
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/16/12 07:42 PM
Quote:
Scott, I'm down to just buying a quart of Evaporust instead of gallons! I have faith you'll get yours done I'll be at MATS for sure. I plan to run the autocross with the E70's That way I can get a baseline of how it handles stock, then see the difference once I upgrade the suspension. Maybe I can pursuade Hotchkiss to showcase a before and after with my car in exchange for some free parts!
Yes, I had to buy 6 gallons of Evaporust (OUCH!$) but it's all looking good. I find that after an overnight soaking 90% of the rust is gone, but a layer of black oily slime keeps it from getting more so I wipe the parts clean with thinner and then they go back in for another overnight clean up soak which gets the rest.
Your Hotchkis idea is a good one, thought of doing that myself actually. First I'm going all stock (every detail of the car to as close to the fender tag and OE correct as possible considering that I started with a "parts car"), then bagging all the OEM stuff and swapping on all the Hotchkis stuff and some big brakes and better wheels/rubber as I plan to drive the car a lot. I don't mind add ons that can easily be swapped back in a days work, as long as no welding or mods are needed.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/17/12 03:50 AM
That's my plan, unless I deceide to sell it and move away from the stock OE resto.
My decklid is finally painted and will be on the car this week!!!
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/17/12 01:13 PM
Brent, ya just can't sell that car... ever! When you get bored, go the FAST route. A good 71 340 4psd Duster is a hard car to find. You don't know it but I should have had a FC7 340 4spd, V21/V24 houndstooth car.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/17/12 01:18 PM
It wasn't the one in Utah was it?
We'll see. Driving it may change my mind..
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/17/12 01:31 PM
No Sir, it was actually black stripe car.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/19/12 11:19 PM
Wow Bob thats a nice one. FC7 on certain cars looks awesome. I got the gauges mounted and some little stuff done. Im working on cleaning up the wiring.... Just when I thought I was done with dirty parts. My friend called to tell me he dropped the decklid when loading it and was beside himself for it. He hates that decklid and it hates him apparently.
Ohh well sh1t happens so that will be another week. We had a standing joke between us about the grille fighting me and the decklid fighting him, and that I understood how he felt...kinda like a crack in the finished grille. I feel like crap today and think I'm getting sick...
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/20/12 12:42 AM
It's Duster fever!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/22/12 06:00 PM
Finally feeling better.
Especially once I got home from work yesterday to find my tires waiting for me!! Thanks to fellow 71 Duster lover/restorer & member; fc7freak (David) for selling me these. Since they were the original E70 size I had to go that route. Hope to get the wiring cleaned and installed on the dash today. Although I really need to get busy and repaint my ralley wheels so I can get the tires mounted ASAFP!
Duster fever..
Might have been bird flu or something that came inside my recently acquired Chinese parts..
Ever seen the Simpsons episode where the sick Chinese worker coughs in the box before taping it shut?
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/23/12 04:07 PM
Glad your feeling better Brent! In case you & others didn't know it David was once one of the caretakers of my car....and yes, I saw that episode
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/27/12 01:26 AM
Dash is pretty much finished. I'm just waiting for my 2 3 1/2" speakers to arrive and get them mounted. Then its time to install the dash into the car.
I also got the battery charged and in place. I also got the hose clamps installed on the radiator hoses.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/27/12 01:28 AM
Engine compartment. It should be on its wheels again shortly. Then I can get some better pictures.
I also placed an order with Resto Rick today for my undercoating and some crimp clamps.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 09/27/12 08:54 PM
Incredible job
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/04/12 04:30 AM
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/04/12 04:37 AM
Just write a to do list and go at it like an emotionless machine. Dude do you know how many folks are following this post?? You ROCK
Posted By: MuuMuu101
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/04/12 06:07 AM
Quote:
Just write a to do list and go at it like an emotionless machine. Dude do you know how many folks are following this post?? You ROCK
Your car will probably be 1000x's better than my Dart will ever be. And you've been flying on your car! Keep it up! The finish line is just ahead.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/18/12 04:36 AM
Thanks Bob & Mu
I got back at it cause it aint gonna get done by itself.
This picture shows most of what I've done lately:
The decklid is finally done and installed!
Headliner is done for the 2nd time
Dash is in and most everything is hooked up.
All of the weather stripping (hood x2, trunk, doors, and roof) is done and permanently attached.
Wheels are off getting powdercoated.
Undercoating will get done in 2 weeks.
Only downside today was the discovery of some cat urine on the bottom of my car cover..
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/18/12 01:35 PM
Looks good man.
Lowes or Home depot sell humane traps..... Again you and I are on the same page somehow. Cats like Red/black Mopars and tan Eurothane floors
Posted By: Dave Watt
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/18/12 04:11 PM
Quote:
Only downside today was the discovery of some cat urine on the bottom of my car cover..
Are you sure it wasn't the neighbor guy? 
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/19/12 01:08 AM
Man that car is impressive. Well done, man...
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/19/12 02:43 AM
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/19/12 03:00 AM
Looking great man! Can't wait to see the final product all done and out in the sun
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/19/12 04:29 AM
Posted By: VS29H0B
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/19/12 02:32 PM
Quote:
Thanks Bob & Mu
I got back at it cause it aint gonna get done by itself.
This picture shows most of what I've done lately:
The decklid is finally done and installed!
Headliner is done for the 2nd time
Dash is in and most everything is hooked up.
All of the weather stripping (hood x2, trunk, doors, and roof) is done and permanently attached.
Wheels are off getting powdercoated.
Undercoating will get done in 2 weeks.
Only downside today was the discovery of some cat urine on the bottom of my car cover..
Car looks great - keep up the good work.
I'm sorry I have to ask this but here goes: Is the rallye dash bezel from BE/A or just a restored original from the car? I'm in the process of either restoring/replacing my 1971 bezel and looking for a source (restoration used to be CV Platters but I don't know if they still are around).
Also, is that a "MYSHELBY" license plate hanging on that background wall?
Keep up the good work...
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/19/12 05:08 PM
VS29,
The reproductions are quite nice but I put one in a friends car and had some trouble getting all the holes to align for a good fit. It worked out in the end but not a simple screw in deal. The chrome on originals is vacuum metalized, reproductions are hard chromed (like a bumper) if you have them side by side you can tell them from originals, something to consider depending on how much small details count to you.
If you go with original the source I used and would reccomend is
www.gcartrim.com. He did mine and it came out spectacular. If you look at the cost of a restoration vs reproductions you will find that the spread isn't that much if yours is in decent shape to start with. He bought some of CV Platers equipment and was trained by the owner years ago, he's VERY good at gauge and bezel restoration.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/22/12 01:27 AM
VS29, thanks!
The bezel is from BEA and I'd agree with everything Scott said and who he recommends. The cost to refurbish the originals is the same or a little higher than the BEA repops. Fitment on the repop is an issue, not major, but it is there. If your original is perfect but faded than have it redone.
Good eye
Yes, the plate was off my 65 Shelby Mustang clone. I grew up playing and riding in my friends parents 67 GT350, so Shelbys are near and dear to me.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/25/12 04:29 AM
The wheels have been powdercoated, tires mounted, balanced, and center caps installed!
More to come this weekend.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/25/12 01:36 PM
Brent, Did you have those road force balanced? While they look very correct on our cars they are are well known for manufacturing inconsistances such as excessive run out...they will balance out all day on the average balancer but when installed on the car & road tested you will experience lots of vibration if in fact you happen to have an out of round tire.
Go to
www.hunter.com and click on balancers......
Posted By: jrwoodjoe
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/25/12 02:17 PM
You are doing a fantastic job! That is going to be one beautiful car!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/26/12 03:58 AM
Thanks!
Dave, no I just had them normally balanced. Can't you just
to get them round??
I plan on showing it more than driving it at first anyways. Then it will be time to start racking up miles after purchasing some 15" Wheel Vintques Ralleys & BFG's..
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/26/12 05:59 PM
"Can't you just
to get them round??" No but lots of fun would be had try'n!
You will see what I'm talk'n about on your maiden voyage......let me know...
Gonna hate to see this thread end...
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 12:23 AM
Weekend update:
Kids were at the grandparents and the wife at work so I put on a pot of strong Sumantra coffee, cranked up some Rammstein and got busy!
Its partially alive!! I finished all the wiring connections and put 12 volts to her. Engine will crank! Dash lights & possibly gauges not working, along with one fender winkie.Thinking it may be a bad circut board as I had pin (dash feed) break and thought it I had it fixed, but maybe not.
I was able to get the non functional cassette player mounted, after redoing the housing, what a pain in the ass that was. Wards tried to fix it, but they couldn't and subsequently stopped repairing them. Hoping for undercoating next weekend
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 12:27 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 01:04 AM
Here is what a cassette player looks like all disassembled.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 01:33 AM
Looking good Brent! Does the cassette player bracket just screw to the hump?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 02:05 AM
Thanks Dave! Yes it uses (4) 3/4" long screws that go into the tunnel. Not exactly the standard of Engineering that Chryslers are known for. Its been out of the car once or twice cause theres a set of extra holes in there. Hard to screw down with new carpet and padding..
Posted By: 340wedge
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 02:35 AM
Looks great!, My fender winkie works when it wants too also!. I'd love to know how the tuff wheel works with manual steering, Ma Mopar would'nt let you order one unless you had power steering..
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 02:47 AM
Looks really good!
Don't rule out a grounding problem with the lights on the dash,etc. If you didn't leave some bare metal somewhere at the mounting points of the dash frame, it may not be getting a good ground. Paint is a good insulator. I usually leave a small circle nekkid under the bolt in the kick panel area, and the backside of the dash frame where it slides over that bolt gets left nekkid also. Then I use dielectric grease at that point to insure a good connection and to prevent rust. That may not be the problem at all, but just an idea. Keep up the good work.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 04:16 AM
Looks awesome Brent! Post more pics of the engine bay when you get a chance!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 04:55 AM
Thanks JD, I'll be sure to check the grounds before taking apart the dash.
Scott I'll get more pictures when I roll it outside to do the undercoating. Should be getting a new phone next month so I'll have better pics then too.
Just got done installing the detailed torsion bars. In addition to the blue blotches they have white grease markings on them too, close to the boots. It should be down on its wheels on wed so I can roll it outside. Then I can get into the attic access panel above it and get the rest of my parts out, mainly the windows.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 05:04 AM
Not sure what areas you plan to undercoat but keep in mind that not everything under the car was installed when they got it so quite a number of items under there whouldn't get any. Was your car a factory full undercoat car?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 05:15 AM
My car had undercoating on just the rear wheel wells and the trunk extensions. None in the front or in the inside the trunk on the 1/4's. I've already got my checklist of what should and shouldn't be on the car and undercoated.
No worries!
One thing I'm on the fence about is blacking out the front wheel wells. In the picture it looks like my 3yr old did it, but it was factory applied. The black paint over the red was underneath both bumpstops, which leads me to believe the factory did it to cover up the red color. I just don't want to redo it that way...
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/29/12 01:30 PM
You are correct about the black up front, yes they did it so you wouldn't see the red when veiwed from the side, and yes, it was a poor job, mine looked the same. You'll also notice that they didn't get much red paint under yours, mine also looked the same. Most people add a lot more body color under the wheel wells than the factory ever did (often leaving a lot of bare metal and thin primered areas) when repainting their cars, this will make the color show even more, making the blackout even more important to cover it up.
Posted By: AdamR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/31/12 07:27 PM
wow, Ive never seen a car without undercoating up front
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/31/12 09:43 PM
Yes Adam, its pretty typical of Los Angeles cars, black body dip (as opposed to grey) and no sound deadner much further forward of the rear axle
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/01/12 01:37 PM
Theres also a lack of undercoating in the trunk on the inside of the 1/4's, which looks odd to me. LA built cars were different than other plants so it made the resto somewhat of a challenge to get things "correct".
Its ready for undercoat! First time its been back down on its wheels since I tore it apart! Seats in. ECS system and lines are in. Caliper's are on their way. Its getting closer.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/01/12 01:57 PM
Posted By: VS29H0B
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/01/12 02:19 PM
Quote:
Looks AWESOME!
+2 !!!
Nice Halloween figures, etc. too!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/05/12 02:18 AM
Thanks guys!
I was able to get the undercoating done today, along with final install (loctite & torqued) of the rear end assy. The undercoating turned out really good, although its a little more thorough than the factory did in spots.
JDmopar, I'll be sure to give the grounds a thorough check befoe pulling the cluster.
Here's a before picture of the wheelwell. Say bye bye virgin sheetmetal..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/05/12 02:24 AM
Here is the after picture. Its coming together nicely. Time to reinstall the exhaust. Then bolt on the calipers, bleed the brake system, and break the cam in!
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/05/12 03:56 AM
Nice job Brent, looking good!
Posted By: 340wedge
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/05/12 04:32 AM
Yikes that's sweet!
Good work
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/05/12 05:05 AM
Thanks guys!
I was going over the resto list (Resto Ricks resto checklist) I keep in the garage and its about 80% crossed off!! I'm going to have it finished and drivable by Feb, a month before MATS.
Posted By: CuriousYella70
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/05/12 03:24 PM
Quote:
Looks AWESOME!
I must be the only one to notice that Scott removed the hood scoops he's got a thing for making sure 340 cars don't have hood scoops!!
I will never understand why Mopar didn't give 340 cars the scoops. They look so much better on then off (unless you have the Twister strobe stripe or the Wedge stripe).
Posted By: Thread Ender1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/05/12 04:13 PM
Quote:
Here is the after picture. Its coming together nicely. Time to reinstall the exhaust. Then bolt on the calipers, bleed the brake system, and break the cam in!
Brent, the rear shackles are facing the wrong way, nut should be outward.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/05/12 04:58 PM
Wow...... again great job
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 11/07/12 06:22 AM
Thanks Blue I kinda thought something didn't look right.
I just noticed Scotts photoshopping, LOL, now I know what it will look like when I find a good hood locally.
Today I was able get off work early and took my daughter to get ice cream. After that I was able to get my calipers detailed and installed. I also found a nice rear view mirror in my parts stash to replace my bad original one.
I'm going through all the assemblies one by one and rechecking that all fastener's are properly torqued.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/09/12 03:14 PM
Time for an update.
-Back window & trim is in thanks to help from my wife.
-All door lock and latch mechanisms are in place with the correct clips and in great working order.
-The interior is done with the exception of the drivers door panels being installed.
-I addressed the grounding issue on all the mounting points. I also replaced my circuit boards and a headlight switch and almost everything is working now.
-Exhaust is in, again, and tightened up.
-Wing is being painted
-Brakes are bled.
-All fluids are in and topped off
-Side glass should be in next week along with new fuzzies.
-Motor should be broken in after Christmas once work slows down.
The only issue I currently have: the trans is stuck in 1/2 gear and I cant get it undone. But I haven't had a chance to rock it since its still on jackstands. I tried using a cresent wrench on the lever boss and didn't have any luck. Never had any issues with the trans before and I didn't rebuild it (saving for a Passon trans).
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/09/12 05:39 PM
Looking good Brent! Nice job on the calipers, is that raw metal or did you paint them? More pics!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/09/12 05:54 PM
I used clear on the calipers. I'll get more pictures once my wing gets put on and I can roll it outside. Assuming I can get it out of gear..
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/09/12 06:05 PM
Don't forget to add the crappy black paint to the wheel wells
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/09/12 06:13 PM
I just can't do it.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/10/12 12:17 AM
Brent, do you have two of those green brake pad retainer's?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/10/12 02:19 AM
Yes Dave, they were and are green. I used some Boyd's model paint I had laying around to redo them, so they look dark.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/10/12 02:17 PM
OK,I see the bottom one now,,,looking fantastic! I see what you mean by not wanting to spray black paint in those wheel well's. I can't remember, was your car undercoated from factory?
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/10/12 02:53 PM
Awesome job! Looking forward to the finished product.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/11/12 01:39 PM
Thanks guys!
My car was only undercoated in the rear wheel wells. None in the front or in the trunk on the 1/4's. LA built cars were made to go fast if you ask me..
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/12/12 01:28 AM
Brent, Were you able to reuse your upper control arms as far as the new ball joints are concerned, going in tight?
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/12/12 01:34 AM
Quote:
Thanks guys!
My car was only undercoated in the rear wheel wells. None in the front or in the trunk on the 1/4's. LA built cars were made to go fast if you ask me..
So no under hood insulation pad either....making your LA built car even quicker in the 1/4....
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/12/12 01:21 PM
They are my original arms and I didn't have any problems with them going in tight. I used some loctite on them too, just for added peace of mind. My years of racing and winning Baja taught me that loctite and proper torque specs will keep everything in place where it needs to be.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/24/12 05:37 AM
Today I got the heater hoses done. They aren't perfect but turned out pretty good for a cost of about $10. Took about an hour using a stencil, a fine point paint pen, and patience. I installed the wing finally!!
Thanks to member blewbyu for the NOS clutch switch that got installed today too.
Up next:
-windshield installed
-mount the ECU under the battery tray on a fabbed bracket
-install the side windows & fuzzies
-break the motor in
My plan is to have it pretty much done and driveable by superbowl Sunday, which would make it 2 years from start to finish.
-
Posted By: autoxcuda
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/24/12 08:41 AM
This is a 71 Demon 340 built at the L.A. plant with a SPD of 127 (Jan 1971)
Did your Duster have brushed on black pinch weld black out?
This car has been repainted once and that is what is lightly covering the original blackout.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/24/12 02:24 PM
Yes it did, and thank you for reminding me to do that Steve! Its going on the to do list now.
Posted By: 79machocharger
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/24/12 04:52 PM
What's this bracket for?
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/24/12 04:59 PM
Most agree that the bracket is there to stop the seats from moving too far forward, all cars have them regardless of seat style. Probably there as a safety stop to prevent the seat from knocking the car out of gear on manual trans cars.
As far as the second page on the wiring, I looked through my book and those pages have been removed (even the one I copied and posted before) I must have pulled them for something and now can't recall what I did with them. I'll do my best to dig them up.
Cars looking great!
Posted By: 79machocharger
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/24/12 05:16 PM
I just noticed the bracket in one of his pics and I've never noticed stick dusters having it before. You learn somthing every day.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/06/13 11:06 PM
Its ALIVE!!
I got the motor/cam broken in today. The weather was decent today, around 35 outside, so I warmed up the oil this morning. Got everything ready in the mean time. Cranked over a few times and nothing...advanced it and pop. Hmmm.. guessing the distributor was 180 out, pulled it, spun it 180, and dropped it back in. Sure enough, that thing lit off on the first crank!! Everything ran smooth.
Thankfully there weren't any leaks anywhere. Well except for one, the exhaust leak. Its the TTI headpipe to the exhaust manifold flange..
Hopefully that can get fixed
Sounded good at idle..
I'm super excited to get clear of that major hurdle! Windshield and side windows go in on Wed, and maybe an alignment next wed.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/06/13 11:31 PM
Posted By: fc7freak
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/07/13 12:13 AM
Brent I know that feeling when that motor fires up and no scary sounds come out. I've really been enjoying your thread and also several good tips you share. Thanks David
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/07/13 03:16 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/07/13 04:32 AM
Thanks guys!
It was a huge relief to get it running to say the least. Not having any leaks or odd noises will help me sleep well tonight too. It sounds really good, not loud, just like it should. Very happy with the cam choice. I got a bad/leaking caliper, so until that gets fixed I won't be tempted drive it before its ready. I should get a lot done on wed. My "to do" lists are getting a lot shorter!
Forgot to add that the best part of the break in was having my two kids come tearing out of the house jumping and screaming that the Duster was running shortly after I fired it up.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/08/13 01:25 AM
Congrats Brent
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/10/13 01:51 AM
I got the side windows and all the door stuff installed today. Worked on getting the swaybar bushings to fit too. Glass company got the wrong windshield so that will get done next week now..
So alignment will now be getting done in 2 weeks. I'm on track to meet my expected completion date though...
Posted By: DPelletier
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/11/13 12:56 AM
She's a beauty!
You should be proud.
Dave
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/28/13 03:52 PM
I put 5 troublefree miles on it yesterday!! Goes to the alignment shop on wed. Expect a write and pics on sunday. I made my deadline!!
Posted By: mopars_1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/28/13 04:26 PM
Quote:
I put 5 troublefree miles on it yesterday!! Goes to the alignment shop on wed. Expect a write and pics on sunday. I made my deadline!!
You stink only due to the fact i wish i could get my roadrunner done.. Your car looks awesome btw, amazing how quickly it came together! Im in the works to buy and restore a 71 340 duster and paging back through this thread is getting me very anxious
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/28/13 07:14 PM
Congrats Brent!
Make sure they afford you an alignment print out before you leave!
Posted By: 340wedge
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/28/13 09:30 PM
Just one word..SEXY
, Most like B and E bodies but to me they don't hold a candle to a well done Duster/Demon!
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/29/13 12:04 AM
Sweet
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/29/13 03:07 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/29/13 04:51 AM
Thanks guys!
It runs good at 2k and above, likes to load up easily below that. I'll work on the tuning and getting a better brake pedal next. Hope to get some more miles on it this weekend. I'll write more and have lots of good pics on sunday.
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/29/13 07:48 AM
Awesome! Good job! I know you are ecstatic! How about sending some good luck and talent out this way!?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/29/13 03:17 PM
Thanks! I'll gladly help with that beautiful black Bee..
I can even bring a completely rebuilt 71 383 Magnum for it..
Posted By: DynoDave
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/29/13 05:32 PM
[quoteIt runs good at 2k and above, likes to load up easily below that.
That's easy..drive faster!
I've been following this for a while...congratulations man....it's just beautiful. 
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:34 PM
2 years ago to the day I brought this tired, worn out, Duster home with me to Nevada. I don't know what made this particular Duster so appealing in the Ebay auction, but I knew this was "the one" in terms of doing a ground up restoration the right car. I wanted to 70 Swinger 340 more than a Duster actually, but finding an A body with matching #'s and all of the cool options in a good color doesn't happen often. Its been alot of hard work but I never wanted to "bail out" of this project. After seeing the results it was all worth it, especially when looking back at what i started with. Thanks go my understanding wife Liz and my kids for all their help. My friend and painter Dave Raber really gets a lot of credit for making this car look stunning, thanks man!! I'd also really like to thank Scott Smith for all his help and guidance along the way.
Sorry the scoops are staying though.
There are so many members on here who I bought parts from, got answers to questions I had, and just provided much needed encouragement along the way, THANK YOU ALL!!
Theres still some little things do and buy (seat hinge covers, washer hose, etc) so its not 100% finished, as almost any car never is. I will continue to post updates now and then. My original goal was 1 year which I could have done if I lived in a perfect world, but you can't control things like your painters house burning down.
I tried to use as many board sponsors for parts and supplies as I could because they truly support our hobby. My next goal is MATS or Spring Fling and some magazine coverage. In the meantime it will be time to get some miles on it and hit some local shows.
It drives very nice and smooth, albeit slower than my 512 Road Runner I sold. No squeaks or rattles so far, just a tranny that likes to leak
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:37 PM
Mean looking...Thought the plate looked better on there than hanging on the wall.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:39 PM
Interior shot. Compare that to the pic on page 1..
It does need to be vacuumed though..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:41 PM
Suspension detail shot..
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:43 PM
Detail picture from the front..obviously the drivers side looks the same.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:44 PM
Caught at sunset.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:45 PM
Passenger side of motor
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:47 PM
Drivers side of the 340
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:49 PM
Trunk shot, with one of the original wheels and tires.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:50 PM
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 04:58 PM
Simply.... an outstanding job Brent. I'm in awe of your work. Congrats man.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 05:00 PM
Please feel free to point any errors I may have made, especially in the engine compartment.
Known items to fix:
1) fuel filter and clamps
2) Scoops...thats for Scott
3) Extra clamp on heater hose
4) Need washer lines
5) Radiator cap (its got a temp gauge on it for insurance)
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 05:35 PM
The alternator is a newer unit isn't it? The appearance differs from my late 71 built/dated 72 model.
That's an original washer bottle? The Repop's cap hole is posioned opposite (as per Scott's prior posts)
I believe the battery cable gets a white multi hole strap into the hole in the inner fender. The longer ones yearone sold in their kit are too long
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 05:42 PM
No orange paint on the exahaust manifolds? Nevermind, I see a trace. Forementioned alternator, alternator belt, washer bottle, missing date codes and etc. on plug wires, wrong oil filter, no wheel well blackout, overall looks too clean and shiney (
)
Looks VERY nice Brent!
*did your battery tray have any blackout paint on it?
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 05:52 PM
Shock hardware and master cyl aftermarket?
Scott look at the washer bottle again.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 05:55 PM
Beautiful!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 06:47 PM
Thanks guys!!
I forgot about the wire straps, I just need to put them on. Originally mine had 2 black and 2 white plastic loom retainers.
Alt is new, will keep looking an OE one.
Washer bottle is an OE one from a 72 Duster. I have the wiper arms, just waiting on blades.
I may do the wheel well blackout before MATS. Maybe I can find a good hood there too.
The only added "option" items on the car are the Tuff wheel & scoops.
The battery tray was fairly crusty so I don't know if there was blackout on it or not, but still have it so I can look for you.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 07:04 PM
Quote:
The only added "option" items on the car are the Tuff wheel & scoops.
And quarter window decals
Seriously though Brent, you did an impressive job on your car in record time, it's a very nice example, one of the best anywhere
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 07:29 PM
Thanks Scott! That means a lot coming from you.
Now get your Duster(s) done!!
I probably would have put the slots on it if I could have found some decent sized 14" tires. But I'm really happy with OE look. Some 15" Ralley's (235/60 fr & 255/60 rear) will most likely replaced them eventually, giving it that stuffed look.
The attention thats its goten so far has been really cool. Seems everyone has owned a Duster at least once.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 07:36 PM
Quote:
The attention thats its goten so far has been really cool. Seems everyone has owned a Duster at least once.
Maybe so, but we all would have really liked to have one as nice as yours
Posted By: RSNOMO
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/13 07:38 PM
A 340 Duster was my first...
Nice...
Posted By: fc7freak
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/04/13 01:07 AM
Brent Your car is one of the best looking Dusters I have ever seen. Please keep the little updates comming. It gives all us other guys that are behind you in our restorations,motivation. I hope to have mine back from paint this spring. Thanks David
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/04/13 06:41 PM
Thanks David! I'll keep updating just not so often. Your car is gonna be nice and FAST when done!!
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/05/13 12:40 AM
Outstanding job Brent
I don't think a professional shop could have done any better
I, like others, have really enjoyed following your progress...The only thing I wondered about while reading your discrepancy list was the blower motor...shouldn't it be painted black? Again, thanks for all the post & saving another one!! Oh, And I love the look of the "painted" scoops, whether factory or not!
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/05/13 05:11 AM
While I won't say that they all were, most 71 blower motors I've seen that were proven originals were not painted and looked just like Brents car, my Duster was the same. It could have been a vendor thing or a plant to plant variable. Brents car and my car are both Los Angeles built cars, the photo attached is a 71 Demon survivor, Hamtramk Michigan car. All 3 cars were SPD'd within a month of each other.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/05/13 05:35 AM
Thanks Dave!
Ohh sure Scott now you post a pic of a survivor engine compartment..LOL
Speaking of how much did it sell for? If nobody wants to post could they PM me, I'd just like to know.
My blower motor was as found when I bought the car, I assume its the original. I just brought some luster back into it with fine steel wool and then used satin clear on it.
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/05/13 11:54 AM
Nice job, man! Car looks awesome! Especially side you added the scoops! Hope you get a ton of enjoyment out of it.
So what's on the radar for your next spectacular feat of automotive excellence?
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/05/13 02:28 PM
Thanks! I knew if the scoops were painted they would blend in more and give it a stock look.
What's next, hmmm good question. I'm gonna enjoy this one for a bit now that its finished. I'd like to get a nice survivor 70 Swinger 340, 4spd next. Although 71/72 Dart 340's keep popping up so I wouldn't mind restoring one of those if I could. We'll see....
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/05/13 03:20 PM
Quote:
While I won't say that they all were, most 71 blower motors I've seen that were proven originals were not painted and looked just like Brents car, my Duster was the same. It could have been a vendor thing or a plant to plant variable. Brents car and my car are both Los Angeles built cars, the photo attached is a 71 Demon survivor, Hamtramk Michigan car. All 3 cars were SPD'd within a month of each other.
Interesting......
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/07/13 04:42 AM
I put about 50 miles on it today, other than the trans and the oil filter adapter leaking it went well. I have got to swap out the 3:91's though. Its definately not the 512 I gave up for it. Paul if you're reading this I still want to buy my 512 back..
It was fun, albeit a bit crowded, to have the 2 kids in the front with me. I picked them up from school in it and they had fun showing it to their friends. I got some good pics of it out in the sun, but this one was cool as I saw a dust devil blowing by.
Posted By: FJR doc
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/23/13 03:33 PM
Brent
I have been following your build closely and I have been impressed with your attention to detail. It's been nice to see your pics as I disassemble my car. Your car is a beauty! I am kinda partial to FE5 Dusters.
Like your car, I found traces of black paint along the pinch weld area even though it didn't have rocker trim. Does anybody know if the paint was done on all Dusters?
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/23/13 05:35 PM
Most of them got the pinch weld blackout, but it only extended up over the rockers if the car came with the optional lower rocker molding trim.
Posted By: 69Cuda340S
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/03/13 05:20 AM
Stunningly beautiful car! Very impressive work!
Posted By: RobX4406
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/03/13 08:03 AM
That's one sweet Duster. BADA$$!!!
Nice job!!!
I like the scoops regardless of correctness. Dusters look naked up front without them IMO.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/07/13 12:46 AM
Thanks guys! Haven't done much on it, no extra time these days. I did make a book about it on my mac. It doesn't look like MATS is going to happen
working on buying a new house instead.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/07/13 03:36 AM
Quote:
It doesn't look like MATS is going to happen working on buying a new house instead.
That's ok 
We can both take our cars there in 2014
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 03/07/13 02:10 PM
Sounds like a plan Scott!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/05/13 12:50 PM
Lifes been busy so not much Duster time, other than chasing down an electrical gremlin. I've been talking about selling the Duster recently.
So yesterday my son drew me a picture so that after I sell it I'd have something to remember it by. Gotta love kids..
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/07/13 03:12 PM
I'll bet it would take more to buy the picture than it would the Duster.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/07/13 05:22 PM
I hope you don't sell it, but I know how you feel.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/30/13 02:39 PM
Took the car out to a local cruise this past weekend and got some more miles on it, up to 100 on it now! Seems almost everybody over 30 has had a Duster at one point in their life
Lots of good stories. Can't make SPring Fling but will make it to a local mopar show here in couple weeks.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/30/13 02:40 PM
Got a few good pics of it while it cruising around town.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/30/13 02:41 PM
Last one..
Posted By: a12superbee
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/30/13 08:15 PM
Quote:
Last one..
Best one.
Posted By: UCUDANT
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/03/13 03:56 AM
Quote:
Last one..
Advice from when I had my Duster.... try to look at traffic more than the Scoops
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/03/13 12:33 PM
I'll remember that!
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/03/13 02:02 PM
I see it's for sale.
Good work man. Hope yout get the coin out of it and get where you want to be!!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/04/13 01:08 PM
Thanks Ohio!
Posted By: dcastine
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/04/13 01:27 PM
Nicest A-Body resto I've seen in a long time - great thread! It was certainly a labor of love (and hate....) - nice job... GLWS
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/27/13 02:12 AM
Thanks Dave! If my duster sells I'll be giving your friend a call about his Dart
I finally got to take the car to a Mopar show today, well an all makes show put on my the local Mopar club (Battle Born Mopars). There were a lot of cars compared to previous years. I won a shirt and a toy Hummer (ironic!) ......
...And I won "Best Restoration!!" There was some tough competition too considering it was an all makes show. Its not much but it was nice to win something finally.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 05/28/13 12:28 AM
Congrats Brent! Nice to see all that hard work getting recognized
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/21/13 04:51 AM
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/22/13 04:38 AM
Well... as with all good books there has to be an ending. It was with bittersweet emotion that I had to sell the Duster to a fellow A body nut named Don in Florida. Its gone to a good home, as it shares a garage with a Hemi powered Valiant Don built and was in a few magazines. Keep an eye out for the Duster at the Garlits shows.
Unfortunately my passion for Mopars left with the Duster. Theres many reasons but mainly the cost just became ridiculous honestly. I couldn't bring myself to buy another muscle mope after the Duster left. It was time to walk away from this hobby. I haven't been on this site much since, and its taken me this long to make the last post of my resto thread. Thanks to everyone who helped and who encouraged me along the way to restore the Duster the right way. At some point I may buy another Mopar but for now I have my 68 AMX and 89 Saleen to play with. Thanks again to all the great folks on here!!
Posted By: mopars_1
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/22/13 05:46 AM
Quote:
Well... as with all good books there has to be an ending. It was with bittersweet emotion that I had to sell the Duster to a fellow A body nut named Don in Florida. Its gone to a good home, as it shares a garage with a Hemi powered Valiant Don built and was in a few magazines. Keep an eye out for the Duster at the Garlits shows.
Unfortunately my passion for Mopars left with the Duster. Theres many reasons but mainly the cost just became ridiculous honestly. I couldn't bring myself to buy another muscle mope after the Duster left. It was time to walk away from this hobby. I haven't been on this site much since, and its taken me this long to make the last post of my resto thread. Thanks to everyone who helped and who encouraged me along the way to restore the Duster the right way. At some point I may buy another Mopar but for now I have my 68 AMX and 89 Saleen to play with. Thanks again to all the great folks on here!!
Brent, I completely understand where your coming from. Im at this point with my roadrunner as well. I havn't really even enjoyed it this summer, almost scared to drive it, hence why I have mine for sale too..
Posted By: fc7freak
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/22/13 12:22 PM
Hey Guys! I know where you guys are coming from. I restored a 70 Challenger R/T. It was so nice I was afraid to drive it. I sold it to raise funds for a new house. Now I am doing a 71 Duster 340 even better.I can't help myself. After I show it for awhile I will start driving it some, but not hard. I will get a nice driver some day for that. Thanks David
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 10/25/13 02:53 AM
Brent, We all enjoyed following your post and learning along the way
Your buyer is getting a NICE car that was built with the "Labor of Love" Enjoy that AMX/Saleen!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/25/14 06:17 PM
It was with bittersweet enthusiasm that my Duster is featured in this months Mopar Collectors Guide. (mar2014). Unfortunately I, Brent Falin, did not get any credit for doing the restoration work, the new owner did. Thanks MCG
Its a game of he said/ she said now. With the magazine and the current owner blaming each other, but I tend to believe the new owner Don. I'm really not surprised this happened, since its so common these days.I am happy the car is in a magazine, that accomplished a huge goal for me. The article had numerous errors in it and was pretty much made up from bits of info from this thread. The new owner, Don, did make some changes on the Duster to be fair, he added buckets, new glass, and some other detail minded changes. I wanted to set the record straight and I know Don is finishing off anything I didn't get to. Don really loves the car and it won't be leaving his garage anytime soon. My enthusiasm for this hobby is coming back some and thoughts of swapping the Saleen for a Dart have been going through my head. We'll see.
Ohh and Scott you'll be happy to know he's putting a correct flat hood on the car.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/25/14 06:40 PM
Quote:
Ohh and Scott you'll be happy to know he's putting a correct flat hood on the car.
Woo Hoo!
*When did the 340 wedge decal get added?
Posted By: RJS
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/25/14 06:59 PM
Quote:
It was with bittersweet enthusiasm that my Duster is featured in this months Mopar Collectors Guide. (mar2014). Unfortunately I, Brent Falin, did not get any credit for doing the restoration work, the new owner did. Thanks MCG Its a game of he said/ she said now. With the magazine and the current owner blaming each other, but I tend to believe the new owner Don. I'm really not surprised this happened, since its so common these days.I am happy the car is in a magazine, that accomplished a huge goal for me. The article had numerous errors in it and was pretty much made up from bits of info from this thread. The new owner, Don, did make some changes on the Duster to be fair, he added buckets, new glass, and some other detail minded changes. I wanted to set the record straight and I know Don is finishing off anything I didn't get to. Don really loves the car and it won't be leaving his garage anytime soon. My enthusiasm for this hobby is coming back some and thoughts of swapping the Saleen for a Dart have been going through my head. We'll see.
Ohh and Scott you'll be happy to know he's putting a correct flat hood on the car.
WOW Brent I wouldn't have done you like that!!!
Putting buckets in that car is a sin, the bench is part of the car's uniqueness.
I can't help but still feel blindsided by the way I lost out on that car.
Ron Sannino
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/25/14 07:17 PM
He added it Scott. Yes, the bench was part of that car's uniqueness. One of the best/worst parts of that article is where they state the dealer "checked off the box for the R4 red and hood scoops"
"Unfortunately my passion for Mopars left with the Duster. Theres many reasons.." Welcome to one of my reasons Ron.
Posted By: RJS
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/25/14 07:31 PM
Quote:
He added it Scott. Yes, the bench was part of that car's uniqueness. One of the best/worst parts of that article is where they state the dealer "checked off the box for the R4 red and hood scoops"
"Unfortunately my passion for Mopars left with the Duster. Theres many reasons.." Welcome to one of my reasons Ron.
WOW I'm one of the reasons you lost your passion for Mopars????
Huh??? I don't understand so please call me.
Ron Sannino
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/25/14 09:39 PM
No Ron it wasn't you, you have a pm. It was the whole process of selling it was all I meant. It sucked. I'm very sorry that it left you feeling that way.
Posted By: RJS
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/25/14 11:17 PM
I got your PM apology accepted
I didn't think we should have any problems but the wording was a little off.
By the way I told you the scoops would have stayed on with me but I never thought of the Wedge sticker and it looks GREAT!
I was thinking of WEDGE as a possible license plate though.
Ron
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/26/14 05:38 PM
Quote:
It was with bittersweet enthusiasm that my Duster is featured in this months Mopar Collectors Guide. (mar2014). Unfortunately I, Brent Falin, did not get any credit for doing the restoration work, the new owner did. Thanks MCG Its a game of he said/ she said now. With the magazine and the current owner blaming each other, but I tend to believe the new owner Don. I'm really not surprised this happened, since its so common these a days.I am happy the car is in a magazine, that accomplished a huge goal for me. The article had numerous errors in it and was pretty much made up from bits of info from this thread. The new owner, Don, did make some changes on the Duster to be fair, he added buckets, new glass, and some other detail minded changes. I wanted to set the record straight and I know Don is finishing off anything I didn't get to. Don really loves the car and it won't be leaving his garage anytime soon. My enthusiasm for this hobby is coming back some and thoughts of swapping the Saleen for a Dart have been going through my head. We'll see.
Ohh and Scott you'll be happy to know he's putting a correct flat hood on the car.
You can't expect MPG to actually put anything correct in their magazine, can you? I saw one of their articles about a Duster owner opting for the Hemi 4-speed in his ride.
Shame he's taking the sweet scoops off and pretty cool he's adding buckets.
All the people that really matter know who restored it, right?
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/26/14 06:14 PM
While buckets seats are a "bolt in" option, you'd have to drill 4 non factory holes in the mint floors as well as add braces to the floors if you do it right when converting from a bench. Shame to do that to such an original car, especially on a car with the desirable fold down armrest split bench, which many would consider a better seat than buckets.
*Adding that 340 Wedge decal to the scooped hood makes the car just scream "I'm a clone!" Sounds like he'll be going back to a flat hood, hopefully he just leaves it all red as it came instead of adding something else.
Posted By: 340wedge
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/26/14 10:30 PM
Quote:
While buckets seats are a "bolt in" option, you'd have to drill 4 non factory holes in the mint floors as well as add braces to the floors if you do it right when converting from a bench. Shame to do that to such an original car, especially on a car with the desirable fold down armrest split bench, which many would consider a better seat than buckets.
Agreed!
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/26/14 11:44 PM
Well, I guess the guy who bought it hasn't been visited by the originality police yet.
Maybe once he realizes the car is absolutely worthless if he changes anything from original, he will leave it alone...
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/14 12:36 AM
Ohio, in your future outings start keeping track of how many 1971 340 4 speed numbers matching A-body cars you see that are restored to a high level of originality/correctness (like this one was before the hood and seat mods) and you'll soon see why I feel that cars like this should be kept as OEM as possible, they are REALLY rare!
There are already plenty of modified and clone examples out there (most of them) and I really like modified cars as well, but there's no need to modify one of the best existing examples out there, it's plenty cool enough as it was originally equipped IMO
Posted By: RSNOMO
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/14 06:07 AM
Quote:
There are already plenty of modified and clone examples out there (most of them)
And those of us that have been around long enough to have seen this from day one know this to be true...
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/14 06:16 AM
Yeah, I really think that putting buckets in the Duster was a big mistake. The odds of the that being the only 71 Duster 340 with a bench seat, 4spd, and the cassette player are pretty good. I don't care for the sticker, but since the hood was "wrong" anyways it doesn't really matter. Hopefully he leaves The sticker off the new flat hood he plans to install. The new owner has added new glass, door panels, aligned all the panels, got the cassette player working, fixed the headliner, and a few other detail oriented items. So its safe to say its going to stay stock for quite some time.
But no matter what he does to it, we all know who really restored it..
Posted By: CuriousYella70
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/14 05:49 PM
Out of curiosity, does the cassette player actually work through the radio? I've never seen anyone who has the cable that connects the two together. Like in my Duster, it's in there but it doesn't 'work' or function like it would have straight from the factory - mainly because I cannot find the wire to make it work.
Posted By: JDMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/14 09:00 PM
If the new owner wants to get rid of that crappy old bench seat, I'll gladly pay shipping on it to help get it out of his way.
Posted By: OhioMopar
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/14 09:43 PM
Oh, I hear you. I hear you every time you condemn someone for making a change to their car that you don't approve of.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 01/27/14 11:29 PM
I've obviously failed to communicate my intentions, as I certainly wasn't attempting to "condemn" anyone.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/02/14 07:14 PM
Cue Whitesnake "Here i go again"….
Thanks to Bob (aka member UCUDANT) for getting me motivated to want another Dart! I have wanted another 70 swinger 340 for quite some time and can't seem to locate my old one. So this one will have to do..EV2 340, 3spd, car. Now has a semi built 68 340 and a 4spd, along with the #'s motor on the stand. Its going to be a restomod with a lot of restoration details that i used on the Duster. I'll start a thread on it soon, for now here a teaser… Ohh and I don't know whats with me and getting cars on Super Bowl sunday...
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/02/14 07:48 PM
Very cool! (and that Bob is a great guy! True Mopar man all the way!).
I had a near twin to that car (same color combo 340, etc.)when I lived in Utah but mine was a 4 speed.
Nice score!
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/14 12:29 AM
You found one! Congrat's
Posted By: haddixj
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/14 01:21 AM
happy you got back into another one
Posted By: autoxcuda
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/14 04:28 AM
Quote:
It was with bittersweet enthusiasm that my Duster is featured in this months Mopar Collectors Guide. (mar2014). Unfortunately I, Brent Falin, did not get any credit for doing the restoration work, the new owner did. Thanks MCG Its a game of he said/ she said now. With the magazine and the current owner blaming each other, but I tend to believe the new owner Don. I'm really not surprised this happened, since its so common these days.I am happy the car is in a magazine, that accomplished a huge goal for me. The article had numerous errors in it and was pretty much made up from bits of info from this thread. The new owner, Don, did make some changes on the Duster to be fair, he added buckets, new glass, and some other detail minded changes. I wanted to set the record straight and I know Don is finishing off anything I didn't get to. Don really loves the car and it won't be leaving his garage anytime soon. My enthusiasm for this hobby is coming back some and thoughts of swapping the Saleen for a Dart have been going through my head. We'll see.
Ohh and Scott you'll be happy to know he's putting a correct flat hood on the car.
I just read that article at a friends place and thought that was your old car.
I sure would be asking the new owner about the restoration credit listed in the MCG article.
I don't see the reason MCG would make up all that detail about Don restoring this car. I'm sorry, the first finger I would point is at this Don guy.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/14 07:42 AM
Steve you're most likely right. Its all too common of a story in this hobby. The Mopar world is a small one so thanks to this thread and the one on FABO the people who matter know who built it. Be it good or bad it pissed me off enough to want to build another one. Sometimes the preverbal kick in the ass comes in different forms.
Posted By: RobX4406
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/14 08:26 PM
A swinger, you bought a Swinger... LOL
Cool you got another ride Brent. Really enjoyed your resto thread on the Duster. I had my eye on that Duster as well, just didn't like the pricing game the owner was playing.
Don't let the dicks get you down about what you like to do.
Posted By: mattsmopars
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/03/14 10:31 PM
Congrats Brent on the new project! Glad to see your back in the game. I saw the duster in the new MCG and thought right away it was your old car. I looked all the way through the article to see if it gave you as doing the resto but saw nothing. As you say the people that matter know who did the restoration on the car.
I also have a friend that did a lot of research on your thread as he has a matching numbers 71 340 bench seat 4 speed cassette deck car that he hopes to do before long so I know your thread has helped a lot of folks.
Matt
Posted By: pinkduster
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/10/14 05:40 AM
I think A-bodies are far more comfortable to drive when equipped with bucket seats. I'm not even a big guy (5' 11" about 185 right now) and I feel like I'm cramped up in my 71 Demon. I can't imagine someone like 6' 5" 250lbs driving a bench seat A-body! My 71 Duster has the factory buckets and it's far more comfortable and it even feels like the buckets have more front to back travel than the bench in the Demon. Maybe the new owner did the seat swap so it would be more comfortable to drive.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/10/14 03:23 PM
I have one bench seat Duster and one bucket seat Duster, I prefer the bench for driving comfort, the bucket seats of the period (most of them, regardless of make or body style) offer basically nothing in side or lumbar support, just a smaller seating area than a bench. IMO the seat height and adjustment front to back seems identical between the two
Posted By: RJS
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/10/14 06:21 PM
Can't wait for Brent's Restoration Part II!!!!!!
Funny about seating I feel I sit more vertical in my Demon than I prefer with the bucket seat interior. I used to have a 74 Dart Sport w/buckets and felt the seat position was more comfortable in that car.
Ron
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/11/14 02:46 AM
Quote:
I have one bench seat Duster and one bucket seat Duster, I prefer the bench for driving comfort, the bucket seats of the period (most of them, regardless of make or body style) offer basically nothing in side or lumbar support, just a smaller seating area than a bench. IMO the seat height and adjustment front to back seems identical between the two
Loved the seating on my yella car...fold down arm rest provided a nice resting spot between shifts....
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/11/14 03:37 AM
Quote:
I think A-bodies are far more comfortable to drive when equipped with bucket seats. I'm not even a big guy (5' 11" about 185 right now) and I feel like I'm cramped up in my 71 Demon. I can't imagine someone like 6' 5" 250lbs driving a bench seat A-body! My 71 Duster has the factory buckets and it's far more comfortable and it even feels like the buckets have more front to back travel than the bench in the Demon. Maybe the new owner did the seat swap so it would be more comfortable to drive.
I have owned several of each variation and I can tell you the bucket seat does sit lower. It was very noticable when I first sat in the black car after having two bench seat cars back to back. The other thing that stood out was how much carpet was in the car!
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/11/14 06:15 AM
Mr. Moore,
Look at your two pictures were the front and rear seat elevations align with the door panel pattern on the pass side door panel. Look to be nearly identical
As far as how far you squish the seat down when you sit in it, I have seen a variable there, regardless of seat design, simply because some springs are more worn/softer than others, plus the difference in foam seat padding or springs added (or not) when new seat covers are added.
Posted By: dmoore
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 02/12/14 02:18 AM
Mr. Harms,
Then it must be the "squish" as you say...as you know these two cars are very low mileage with factory original seats throughout
Posted By: 340wedge
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/08/14 01:03 AM
I got this article on my Cars and Parts Email, Top honors! Congrats to NV69B7RR who restored it! I guess they allowed the hood scoops as one of the modifications:)
http://www.carsandparts.com/Articles/Mopar/News/top-honors
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/12/14 04:56 PM
Thanks for sharing that. Looks like my work is paying off for the new owner. So far it has won:
1. Best restoration- Battle born mopars all makes show
2. FMA choice/best of Garlits show
3. Best Chysler -NMCA
4. Best Engine -NMCA
5. NMCA Best Conservative of show
Not bad for an amateur restoration done in my garage.
If you see it at a show, be sure to tell him you know who restored it
Posted By: viperblue72
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 04/20/14 09:07 AM
Quote:
Mr. Harms,
Then it must be the "squish" as you say...as you know these two cars are very low mileage with factory original seats throughout
Bucket seats in a duster definitely sit lower. I have had both and the bench seat is softer and sits higher. It's actually more comfortable and visibility is much better when you can see over the hood with the bench.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/13/14 06:04 AM
Has anybody in Florida seen the Duster lately?
Posted By: blewbyu
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/29/14 01:45 AM
Quote:
Has anybody in Florida seen the Duster lately?
Seems he is hiding it behind all his lies about the restoration.
Posted By: ScottSmith_Harms
Re: 71 Duster 340 4spd resto, from ruster to duster! - 12/29/14 02:23 AM
My guess is that he'll sell it so he can avoid getting his chops busted in future outings amongst those who know the truth. The internet sure makes for a small world eh?
