Time to Inframe?

[JimT]

(07-30-2020 )Waterloo Wrote:  Jim, I hate to see this, you know my story... Have you called (Jerry) Mr Hagg? Looks like a basic in frame, not much more, it may not be as bad as you think. Your downtime would be minimal and the job would be done right. Mr Hagg removes the hood, lifts out the front structure in one shot, passenger side of motor comes off in one piece, pretty cool, head comes off, drop pan, internals come out, ready for ledges/shims and new parts. Mr Hagg and his team have this down to a science.

Personally, I would bobtail down there and get her done. Hotel is nearby, Mr Hagg has vehicles to drive, and if you want to help, he will allow you to get dirty, its your truck. Bring a bag of tools...

No, haven't talked to anyone yet. Finished putting the engine back together last night, ate dinner and posted here. I knew as soon as I saw the damage that a new cam would be on my parts list. It also confirmed my feeling that something wasn't right. Nothing distinct to point to, just a general sense that something subtle felt or sounded off. I had blocked off this entire week to investigate, glad I did.

No, I won't be stupid and try to run any more loads with the cam as it is! I was tired and not thinking straight when I posted that last night.

In addition to the normal parts, assuming a new head, and the cam shaft, I also need a new crankshaft damper and CAC. I also want to replace the wiring harnesses while I'm in there and probably a few other misc things that I'm forgetting. Also want to inspect the bottom end and need to be prepared to address anything I find there too. When all is said and done I don't think I can swing all the needed parts AND pay someone to do the work. And after everything I've learned here over the last year, I want to be involved with the process to gain more knowledge and experience and ensure things are done correctly.

Started looking through the procedures this morning for camshaft replacement. Doesn't look that difficult. Not sure yet what kind of tools I'd need to buy, but I think I can do it here in my driveway. I'd love to try to do the full inframe here but I know there's some special tools that I don't have for that job. Not to mention a lack of experience doing something like that.