Let the good times roll...my rebuild begins

[topcat]

Ok, today was the first time I have been able to get my hands on my Patrol since towing it to the shop (my buddy's ranch )

First things first, here are the numbers:
VIN Plate


Chassis Number


Engine Serial Number


So, I have zero paperwork on this Patrol; so if anyone can tell me the year, I would be extremely grateful. Today my main goal was to take an inventory of the parts I have, things broken, pull numbers and begin cleaning. Right off the bat, I saw that I was missing an oil cap, so I would need to get something so that when I pressure wash I wouldn't get too much in. The cap I got sorta worked but it needed modifying, thus my search continues for a cap that will fit.

Blasting the moss off


Before and After Engine





I was hoping these stickers would blast off but I guess I'm stuck with them for awhile


A view of the dash


Looking better already


Ok so I'm leery of these split rims, so they will be the first to go. Is there a market for the original rims?


I'm super excited about the possibilities that lay ahead; but also torn on which way to go on some things

Any advice you guys have is greatly welcomed!

[Flaggoni]

Welcome !
Looks like a great find for restoration.
Yours, as is mine, is a "68sold as69" (last year with the cool steering-wheel)
It's up to you, of course, on the split-rims, but this two-piece style is very strong and safe.I worked with a lot of them 40 years ago. Armed with a large screwdriver you can patch your own tires "in the bush".
The hubcap is desired by many, however, as they are rare. I'd be interested in bidding on it and any friends it may have!
Mild Bill

[topcat]

Welcome !
Looks like a great find for restoration.
Yours, as is mine, is a "68sold as69" (last year with the cool steering-wheel)
It's up to you, of course, on the split-rims, but this two-piece style is very strong and safe.I worked with a lot of them 40 years ago. Armed with a large screwdriver you can patch your own tires "in the bush".
The hubcap is desired by many, however, as they are rare. I'd be interested in bidding on it and any friends it may have!
Mild Bill

Ok, so dumb question here... if its a 1968 sold as a 1969; how should I register it with the DMV (1968 or 1969)? Most likely this VIN will not be in their system, since it's been off the grid for about 30 years now

[zed]

I recommend you register the vehicle as a 1968. One day California may offer "Centennial" license plates and your Patrol would be eligible for them one year sooner!
Keith

[RiverPatrol]

Holy cow! what a difference that cleanup made in the engine compartment. Did you get any honey from that bees nest?

That Patrol has a lot of potential. I'd drive it just as it is. You'll be surprised how nicely the paint will polish up.

Your VIN puts the year of your Patrol right in the middle of the group of '68-sold-as-'69s. So flip a coin...

Hang on to those wheels, someone is always looking for the original rims. I run the original split rims on all of my Patrols that have them. You just need to find the right tire shop that will work with them. Usually any commercial truck tire shop has the equipment.

Yeah, the hubcap is worth it's weight in gold. Funny how so many of these '68 -'69s still have one on the spare. I've got one just like it from my '69.

Thanks for sharing the pics! I'll get your VIN added to the Registry.

[Esteban]

Welcome to 60Patrol!

Holy cow! what a difference that cleanup made in the engine compartment. Did you get any honey from that bees nest?

We can see that you're not wasting any time. Great to clean it while still on the trailer!

Congratulations !

[RiverPatrol]

Your Patrol is now in the Registry. It's #200. Thanks for the VIN info.

[nizmut]

Wow, nice rig.

[faux40]

Welcome Topcat! Where in California are you located?

John

[topcat]

Welcome Topcat! Where in California are you located?

John

I live in Turlock; the Patrol & shop are in Manteca/Stockton area