1984 F350 Service Truck Restoration
I acquired a 1984 F350 Service truck to restore and start our own small family business. After trailering it home, we realized it needed a new clutch, and some TLC To get back on the road and put it to work. Our 3 year old son Mason and 2 year old daughter Violet have been learning quite a bit as we fix 'er up and help to provide for our growing family.
Step 1
Fresh off the trailer, and ready for repairs.
Step 2
Step one was replacing the passenger door and fende, both kinked beyond repair. Even had my wife bolting on the door at 8 months pregnant with our 3rd child.
Step 3
Discovered the clutch was absolutely destroyed. Had help from my father-in-law putting the transmission back in, decided to fabricate a new master cylinder brace while we were at it. This plate turned out very well.
Step 4
After the clutch repair it was time to start logging miles on the truck, and to get a feel for the rest of the driveline. We wasted no time putting the truck to work and getting things done. Mason has now claimed the truck as his, and he lights up every time we jump in it to go work. He's in love with the truck and it puts the biggest smile on his face.
Step 5
As is eminent with a 40 year old truck, we experienced our first breakdown : a broken valve stem. It was a good learning experience for Mason on how to make a field expedient repair on the side of the road.
Step 6
The truck is serviceable, yet we have many more projects to complete on it, up to and including a paint job in our driveway. But the real next step for us is to foster the love of working with our hands and completing projects with our growing family. Our kids will grow up learning to care for old iron, and save discarded equipment to sustain their lives. We can't wait to get onto the next project!
