1982 720 farm truck build

[Ratrod720]

7 years ago my dad picked up this 1982 datsun 720 with a blown head gasket for $200. It has some scratches and dents on the front, as well as a rocker that is rusted all the way through. The truck was rear ended and will need a new bed. This is perfect since I'm putting a flatbed on it. 

 

Today I started on the head gasket. I got down to the head but had to stop because I couldn't find a wrench to take the manifolds off. 🙄  I am a little concerned about the timing chain. More pics to come.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited November 11, 2023 by Ratrod720

[datzenmike]

With help you can disconnect the down pipe and lift the head off with the manifolds on. It's awkward but less chance of stripping threads on the aluminum head. Hell of a lot easier to remove the manifolds with head off if it needs to be milled.

 

Head surface must be checked for warp or  low spots with a straight edge. 0.004" is the maximum allowable warp.

 

DO NOT remove the cam sprocket until you know how to block the timing chain tensioner from falling out when the chain is loosened. This will save you 4 hours of unneeded work.

[Ratrod720]

 

I got the pic to work. I don't know if the timing chain is salvable. I was thinking marinade it in MMO or WD-40. The timing chain, I was told, has 15,000 miles on it so fairly new in my book.  

Edited November 11, 2023 by Ratrod720