Print Page - Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy!

The Shop => Project Cars => Topic started by: Mavericke on January 17, 2010, 01:22:25 PM

Title: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on January 17, 2010, 01:22:25 PM

Ok, so this started as a project thread for the "White Castle Queen"... my 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon, but once we got down to the nitty gritty, we found it was too far gone to be saved. It was rotted in places I don't even have names for, lol! So once we finished stripping the 80', we pulled in my 1985 Limited to rebuild it using alot of the parts from the 80'. So with that being said... we'll start from the begining.

First off, if you're wondering about the "White Castle" reference and if you're even the slightest bit interested about how I got my hands on her, check out this thread titled; "Mav & Dusty Go To White Castle - The Story Of The Free Wagon". You can view it here. --> http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=23443.0 I do hope you've got your reading goggles on and a good since of humor... oh yeah, and you should probably be warned that there are some dangerous stunts involved - don't try it at homes folks. Viewer discretion is advised.

Ok, with all of that out of the way... I wrecked my Blazer and totaled it in December of 2009. Everyone came out unharmed, but my poor tricked out 2002 Chevy Blazer ZR2 was totaled beyond repair. It was kind of a blessing in disguise because I was trying to sell her awhile back to fund my Eagle project and get out of the payments (even though she was less than a year from being paid off). I won't get into too many details... you can actually read all about it here --> http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=23839.0

So, in my desperation to get a daily driver on the road, I just jumped into one Eagle project after the other to find somethgin worth saving. Prefferably something with four doors. I obviously didn't want to purchase another vehicle and be stuck with payments again, but I have to have something 100% reliable and safe to haul my children back and fourth to town 16m away. So, that puts the 82 SX4 Sport project on hold (yet again) and it left me with the 1985 AMC Eagle Wagon Limited... the wagon was solid from the firewall back, but the front frame rails were rusted beyond belief. My buddies and I jumped in anyways with the intent of repairing the damage. About halfway through the project, I was searching through Craigslist and found another 1985 Wagon... but this one was a sport and it was rust free.... the problem? She was wrecked. Well, even still... that's going to be easier to fix than the frame rot on the Limited. Plus, if I combine the two... then I'll end up with one really cool Wagon! So I bought the $400 wrecked Eagle and had it delivered... when the seller showed up with his flat bed, he asked me if I wanted to steer her down the ramps. I agreed and I sat inside the car and patiently waited for him and his partner to push the car down.... after a few moments of awkward silience, he said... ok, just push the gas down one time to set the idle, then crank the engine over and fire it up. I snapped back with, "It runs!?!". He laughed and told me to fire it up and drive it off.... so I pumped the pedal one time and turned the key and she instantly fired up. I drove her off the ramps and down the driveway.

This is where my future daily driver landed...

Mav's 1985 AMC Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/04031047c.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01202226.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01202226.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_12060001c.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=12060001c.jpg)
The brown/tan/gold one is the 85 Limited.... the white one is the 1980 rust bucket.
From here on out, it will be documented as it happened by dates in chronological order. Enjoy!

01/17/10 - Preparations
So I've spent the last week buying up parts. Most of them haven't arrived yet, but should be here by Wednesday. I requested a week's vacation from work next week to tackle this project... I've asked friends to help, but we'll see what happens when the real work begins. The majority of the important parts are here. I've got a 1983 Eagle 258 here bored .60 over and totaly overhauled. I'll keep it simlple and say everything is new. It was never put into a vehicle and it has been sitting for just over a year or so. I'll be sure to lube her up real good before I crank on her. I've inspected what I can and she appears to be in perfect shape. A zero miles engine... can't wait.

I had a list of all the parts that took me 20m to type out.... highlighted it to copy it and hit the wrong key and erased it. Perfect. Needless to say - you're going to have to wait on that list now, LOL! Sorry!

Here are a few pictures to tide you over.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01131428.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01131428.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01131431.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01131431.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01131430.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01131430.jpg)

More to come soon!

01/19/10 - Goodbye to the 1980
This is why the 80' project was canceled.

Rust in all the door jams.... most of the doors are gone. The front passenger side fender is toast. The rockers are shot. ALL of the floor boards are shot and the front sub frame is just starting to swell.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01182332.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01182332.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01182006.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01182006.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01181418a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01181418a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01190128.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01190128.jpg)

Here are a few things I've found inside the car... a retro windshield sunguard (which obviously wasn't used very often considering the fading of the carpet), a NOS oil filter (looks older), the original car owners manual, a chilton's manual, and service records from 1984 through 1997. Cool stuff!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01181955.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01181955.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01181955a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01181955a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01182008.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01182008.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01182012.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01182012.jpg)

Yeah, it sucks... but everything happens for a reason.

We have it almost totally stripped (minus drive train). Good news for you though Brandon... assuming the headliner is good in the Limited... we successfuly salvaged the headliner in the 80 and you can have it. It's not perfect, but it'll deff hold a new cover.

I've posted the limited before... but not sure where... I'll be posting more soon, but here are the only ones I have right now. This is how it was delievered to me. Oversized wheels and a stearing box that has rusted out and broken away from the frame... so no steering at all.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/th_09151519-1.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/?action=view&current=09151519-1.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/th_09151519a-1.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/?action=view&current=09151519a-1.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/th_11121439a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/?action=view&current=11121439a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/th_09151520.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/?action=view&current=09151520.jpg)

01/20/10 - More Preparations
More pics...

I just had to show these... First off, we were kinda proud to finally have a garage door opener... took us most of the day, but it works! lol! The second picture is my new work space. This was all full of boxes and furniture just two days ago... it's been crazy, but now I finally have most of my workspace. Of course, this is only temporary until I get the barn set up. :P And lasty, here are all my service manuals and stuff... the big red one in the middle is my hardback 1980 TSM, its pretty cool. Suprisingly though I'm enjoying reading the blue Chilton's the most.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01182238.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01182238.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01171732-1.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01171732-1.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01191826.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01191826.jpg)

01/21/10 - Getting started... again.
So, the new project is officiallt underway. Four days wasted on a car that was too badly rotted to be saved... On day five we drug in the 85 Limited... and by the end of day 6, she is almost completely stripped down. The interior is being replaced and updated, she's getting prepped for paint, and we are currently pulling the engine which has proven to be a rather difficult task. We've almost got her though.

Once the engine comes out, we have some frame rot/cancer to repair - then we will be coating the engine back and underboday with primer and rolled on Herculiner.

Here are the current pics...

The steering box has long since rusted from the frame so there is virtually not steering, and we couldn't fire her up and drive her in because I stole the radiator out of her several months ago for the orange SX4. We drug it from my barn, through the 1/4 thick ice and several inches of old snow to the front yard where we then pushed it into the garage. The only piece that suffered damage was the passenger side taillight and I have extras.

Here is the rust damage... this is not the only spot, but believe it or not she's really not all that bad compared to the 80.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210629.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210629.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210359.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210359.jpg)

Here are the mice we've found so far in the interior... along with two perfect end caps and an Aerosmith CD, woot! The total number of mice so far is now at 12.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01202315a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01202315a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210046.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210046.jpg)

Here are some of the pulled parts from this one (the 85) and the 80... Also, a possible wiring issue, and some fender damage.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01202315b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01202315b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210031b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210031b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210403a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210403a.jpg)

And here some shots of our progress... I keep taking photos from the exact same spot periodically... I want to make a video tranistion out of it from scapper to roller! And don't mind Dusty... we were up late and way too tired to be thinking clearly. He just wanted to pose like Spiderman... pretty good job too, lo!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210129.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210129.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210446a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210446a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210544.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210544.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210614a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210614a.jpg)

Having a hard time getting the engine/tranny/transfer case out in one piece... we think we've got it worked out now though; I'll be posting pics for sure, so stay tuned!

01/23/10 - An extra pair of hands

Brandon (83Eagle!) is here... he made it about a quarter till 11am. We started right away... he helped me clean out my garage, hang some shelves and organize all the extra parts from the 80 and 85 so that we had more adequate work space. Once we finished, we had a small lunch and we've been going ever since... going to break for pizza soon, then back at it for awhile. Going smooth although... Brandon's poor poor fragile lil' hands are getting awfully banged up. I think she (my Eagle) likes him. LOL!

Stay tuned!

01/24/10 - War Wounds

Here are the only two pics I got from Brandon's visit, lol... I'm sure he'll post all the cool ones he got. He's kind of injury prone with a ratchet and torque bit, LOL!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01231741.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01231741.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01231741a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01231741a.jpg)

We didn't even get out to the barn... he literally pulled up and we started working. We came in a couple times for food, but mostly just cranked away on organizing the garage and ripping out the interior of the Eagle.

01/25/10 - Progress

Ok, time to make this thread official and remove the "White Castle Queen" from the title... I'll post this and then go back and clean up the thread. So, as of now the Eagle is sitting with no tranny or transfer case. We tried pulling the engine with them attached and it was a "no-go". The we tried disconnecting just the tranfser case... still, we couldn't get the engine unwedged. So, then we disconnected the tranny - which was a huge hassle... Dusty forgot to drain the tranny first so everything dumped out on us and all over the floor. I'm all out of quick-dry too... so it was messy.

So after the tranny was out, we thought it'd be smooth sailing.... LOL... what a joke that was. The exhaust is now in the way. We busted out the sawzaw when the transfer case was still attached and we cut the exhaust off, but it looks like it's actually going to have to be unbolted from the manifold... well, the bolts are so rusted that there almost really isn't a bolt there... you'd that'd be good right? No bolt - no exhaust pipe.... wrong. It's all fused together!

Sooooo.... I've just started disconnecting the intake and exhaust manifolds off the head so that we can pull the exhaust out in one piece. After that.... she should, theoretically, slide right out. I've already removed everything in the way; radiator, condensor, washer and overfill bottles. And everything is disconnected.

I'll post more as it happens. Unfortunately, it's time to go back to work... my week off is now over. Joy. So it'll be a couple a hours a day until it's done.

We finally got the sandblaster working... here are a couple shots of it's work. We haven't really used it much though.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242307.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242307.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242313b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242313b.jpg)

Here's the 3" lift kit I bought for it... not sure what I'm going to do about the sagging rear leaf springs just yet. Leaning towards add-a-leaf, but I haven't gotten any deffinitive answers/info yet to help me make up my mind. The lift says 3" for the front, but I hear you only get 1 or w inches out of it... I'm betting though that with new coil springs and those spacers... I'll get at least 3". Same with the rear.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_8fbb_1.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=8fbb_1.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_RearLift.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=RearLift.jpg)

Here are a couple concept pictures.... the visor fits perfectly. It was for my 02' Chevy Blazer. It'll take some very minor trimming with the dremel and of course some drilling for mounting holes and wiring for the lights, it's going to look pretty cool. The bumper concept is impossible... well not impossible, but not worth the $100 for the bumper cover and all the cutting that would be involved. The problem is the cover is about 3" too wide... when I pull the old wrecked cover off of Shelly's 00' Jeep Cherokee Laredo, I'll toy with the idea some more and do some actual cutting. My idea is to cut off the corners and use the the original Eagle bumper caps. Or... cut off the corners... trim off a couple inches on each side and then reattach the corners. No matter what is done, the grill will not work. It takes up too much room to fit the orginal headlights in, and if you convert (like I'm doing) to the cherokee headlights - they will stick out too far and not fit in the fender well. So either way, you won't be using a Jeep grill - sorry. But who knows... once I start cutting, anything could happen.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242313.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242313.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242313a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242313a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242212.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242212.jpg)

Oh yeah, and my valve cover showed up today from Collin's bros! Awesome! I went with the black one this time... it just looks awesome! I'll post pics later.

01/25/10 - Brandon's Photos

Here's a couple shots of Brandon scraping the random residue left over from the carpet and the padding.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_0123002226.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=0123002226.jpg) (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Brandonscrapingcarpetremenants.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Brandonscrapingcarpetremenants.jpg)

Here are some shots of the empty interior of the 85 Eagle...
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Carpetout2.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Carpetout2.jpg) (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Carpetout.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Carpetout.jpg) (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Chas84LimitedNoInterior.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Chas84LimitedNoInterior.jpg)

Here are some other random shots of Brandon's
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_ChasThisGuysGarage2.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=ChasThisGuysGarage2.jpg) (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_ChasThisGuysGarage.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=ChasThisGuysGarage.jpg) (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_mediablaster2.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=mediablaster2.jpg)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Stackoseatstableofboltsmiscboxoftri.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Stackoseatstableofboltsmiscboxoftri.jpg) (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_TookoutallthedoorpanelsTrim.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=TookoutallthedoorpanelsTrim.jpg) (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_carpetout3.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=carpetout3.jpg) (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_downsized_0123002008.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=downsized_0123002008.jpg)

Now for the intellectual shot of the bunch. Here's Dusty and I pondering the predicament about getting the engine out.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_MavDustyPondering.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=MavDustyPondering.jpg) (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_MavDusty.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=MavDusty.jpg)

I think the decision was made that I would just grab the chains and muscle the darn thing out myself... I'll get back to you on that one.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_MAvMuscles.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=MAvMuscles.jpg)

01/26/10 - The Engine is Out!

Yep, the engine is finally out THANK GOD! Gah, that was just ridiculous. We kept tugging and dropping and tugging and dropping and it kept lifting the entire car... Mudkicker even told us about this specific plate and still we missed it... anyways, we were getting hung up on the two bolts that connect to the front differential. We figured we'd have to disconnect the exhaust to get to the bolts on the plate, but getting the exhaust off seemed more of a daunting task than just weasling our way into those bolts.... the bolts on the exhaust were rusted and fused to the manifold. Not to mention that the nut was so far down the bolt that it needed a deep-well socket to be reached, yet with the clearance down there - a deep-well was impossible. I was digging for a blade for the sawzaw when Dusty finally broke the final bolt lose... I was going to just start chopping away, lol!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine1.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine1.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine3.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine3.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine4.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine4.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine5.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine5.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine2.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine2.jpg)

I played around with the sandblaster again today... having fun with it, althought I think it's something better used outside, lol! Black sand is everywhere! I forgot to take pictures of the sand blasting job - but it's actually working pretty good. I sandblasted a rear wiper motor for a fellow nester and it looks great! Then I shot it with a thick coat of black rubberized rust resistant paint. It looks brand new! Which by the way... that freaking motor was a pain to get out. The motor was easy, but the wiper arm was a bear... it was rusted and fuzed with the motor arm... what a pain! I tried everything to get it off of there and when I was ready to give up I finally just grabbed a prybar and yanked a few good times and it popped off... the hatch is trashed from it, LOL! Don't fret though... the hatch was rotted out anyways. I'll post pictures tomorrow.

01/27/10 - Shopping List

Wow, no comments? Man... I was really anxious to see what you guys had to say about the most recent progress. Must be sleeping? Lol! Ok so several days ago I tried typing up my shopping list for what I've bought (and or aquired through trade) for the Eagle and the few things I still need to get. Then I acidentaly deleted the text before I could post it. So anyways... here it is again.... 20 min later, LOL!

Already purchased and waiting to be installed:

Holley 2300 Carb with new jets, adaptor plate and rebuild kit
Espo front coil springs
eBay Sway bar links
99 Grand Cherokee Projector/Halo Headlights
99 Dodge Ram Projector/Halo Foglights
99 Grand Cherokee Headlight wiring harness
Jurjen's MUI ignition upgrade kit - I got the Pertronix 3.0 ohm coil off of ebay, the adaptor plate at the EN store, and the rest at Autozone - http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=13269.msg228088#msg228088
Carpet molded for my Eagle Made by Auto Custom Carpets ACC
1983 AMC I6 4.2 stroked and bored .60 over with new oil pan, water pump, oil pump, and motor mounts.
A new aluminum valve cover from Collin's Brothers, Black powder coated with 4.2 logo - this is the best place to buy them on the web for quality and cost. Period.
Lund Windshield Sunvisor for an 02 Chevy Blazer - near perfect fit
LED flexible underglow lights with wireless remote, multiple presets and multiple colors - from Sharperglow
All LED bulbs throughout the car (brake lights, turn signals, interior lights) with relays to prevent rapid flashing and/or no flashing - from HyperLEDsInc
ebay Used 4.0 exhaust manifold to run true dual exhaust
Inline radiator flush kit
New rebuilt tranny and transfer case
New refurbished gas tank
NOS guage cluster with 0 miles on the odometer!

Front coil 3" donut spacer and rear leaf 3' lift
Orion 6" front speakers and Orion 5x9" rear 3-way speakers
Two MASSIVE 12" subwoofers in a slot ported box with a 1000W MASSIVE amp, cap, and monster cables.

Items that I still need to pick up:

Rear leaf springs - leaning towards 1985 XJ springs
Shocks front and rear
Entire front end kit - ball joints upper and lower, tie rods, etc etc etc
Re-apohlstered seats (almost $1000, woah! That'll be something that waits awhile, LOL!)
Wheels & tires
Brakes front and rear along with new brake lines
Mustang Rear tailight housings with LED's - not sure if I will do this one or not
New mirrors with turn signals - not sure if I will do this one or not
New vinly headliner
New CD/MP3/DVD/GPS player with 7" screen in the front - I had a 3.5" Jensen deck, but returned it for something different. Still looking.
Rear headrest DVD screens for back seat viewing.
Rear window louvers posibbly even the side windows. Will have to fabricate them.
Power moon roof
High powered alternator for all the eletronics on board.
New AC compressor & Condensor

Not bad eh? Still got a loooong ways to go. Budget is maxed at this point... nothing I can do but work with what I have for now and upgrade the rest as I can. Most if which will come with tax money... just as soon as I get all my forms, gah!

As for the louvers... from the different sets I've seen, they all have little plates that side under the trim, then the louvers screw onto them. On the top, the plate has a hinge.... so you can easily loosen the bottom ones and lift the louvers up for scraping ice or cleaning the glass. That's the one downside to louvers... you get leaves and stuff in there and they sit and stain. I mean, you can scrub it off - but it's not fun. The snow isn't too bad imo... especially if you have heated glass. Just brush off the excess and the heaters do the rest. The louvers actually help keep alot of snow from getting on the actual glass.

My mounting bracktes will be almost identical. For the 08 meet, I didn't have time to fab anything... so I went to Walmart and bought some cheap thin cabinet hinges to get me by. They did the job well... left them on there almost a year, LOL!

The side windows just have little tabs and they pop into the window trim. I don't really like that though, because you have to bend the louvers to get them in... if yours are brittle... you may have a hard time getting them out in one piece. I'm thinking double sided tape/adhesive. Again, for the 08 Meet... I had little time to prepare... so I used double sided tape on a good portion of the trim and fender wells.... it also sat for a year and honestly, I was really worried when it came time to peel it off because the stuff was strong, I thought it was going to tear/break the plastic trim... it took some time, but I got them off with no damage. The worst part was trying to get it off the paint, LOL!

Anyways, everyone has been waiting on my louver prototypes for almost two years I think, LOL... but good things come to those who wait. I promise.

01/28/10 - Carpet

the carpet arrived today, so the interior will start tomorrow. I'm going to rattle-can the interior metal with a rust-oleum paint... from the reviews I've read, it's supposed to be the best. I bought a few cans to test it out... won't really know till a year or so down the road, but might be able to get some sort of insight after it dries and try to rough it up with a screwdriver or something. We'll see. I'm going to start sanding and grinding tomorrow and then get it painted so I cab lay that carpet.

01/29/10 - Carpet Pictures

Ok, so if you haven't noticed from my other thread(s), I'm working on the front end right now. Trying to remove the springs. I busted a nut today... *cough* on the car and it scared the heck out of me. There's a pic below. I've also been spending some time sand blasting some of the rust, mostly in the interior floor boards. I'm getting ready to lay carpet and paint interior. Pictures of the carpet are also below. Oh yeah, and I got the other fender off too... it's rusted out pretty bad. Still going to save it though. Might be useful later if I need a chunk of it to save another fender or something. It wouldn't be a bad fender if someone were going to use it and cut out the wheel wells anyways for bigger wheels or something. Again, pics below... along with pics of the new carpet and the paint I am using inside the cabin under the carpet to cover the fresh metal.

Links to the suspension threads, questions, and answers... these aren't all my threads, just some places with info that I'm using on my build. A whole lot of "I don't freaking know!" right now though, LOL!
Scared to Remove Shocks! - http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=24942.msg231647#msg231647
Triangle Leaf springs - http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=24884.0
Redundant Springs - http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=24907.msg231392#msg231392
Taller Shocks For Lifted Eagle - http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=24893.msg231145#msg231145

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01291412.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01291412.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01291412a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01291412a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01281052.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01281052.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01281052a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01281052a.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01291330.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01291330.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01291448.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01291448.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01291330a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01291330a.jpg)

02/11/10 - Scrap it!?

I thought I'd share this with everyone... I'm guessing since Brandon was wondering... other might be as well. Today he asked me if I had scrapped the Wagon project... Here's my answer:

-----------------------------
Oh god no, man! I won't be abandoning that project... I will see it through. Too much time and money into it to see it junked, LOL!

Mark my words... I will be driving it with my family in tow to the meet in Sept.

And it'll look brand new and totally custom... going as far as possibly chopping off cherokee fenders and hood from a 99... to hack and weld onto the Eagle. I'll keep the Eagle fenders, but chop the fronts of them off to match up to the 'kee.... then I'll use the Jeep hood, after I extend it about 12 inches or more to meet the front custom clip...

Basically... it's going to look like a magnum when I'm done... but it'll be a Jeep front end rather than the 300 or Charger front end. At least this way, I'm still partially keepinr to heritage.

Imagine your wagon with a newer Jeep front end on it... lifte a few inches, with 18" rims, true dual exhaust.... halo/projector headlights... a bangin sound system and the torque and sound of a stock V8 while keeping the weight and durability of an I6... basically a really badass magnum is what I'll end up with.... with AMC badges, AMC drive train, and a much more solid frame/body without all the computer electronics that come with the newer vehicles....

It will own ALL. Dominate ALL. And I will have to be burried in it, LOL!
---------------------------------

Does that answer your question? I don't know how well the Jeep conversion wil actually work... but I've been working on measurements... I have the entire front clip, all I need are the fenders and hood.... but I'm still thinking I can save the fenders and fab them out of fiberglass.... maybe even the hood. Not sure yet. I need to take some pictures and show you guys.

The project has been on hold because I was waiting on my oxy/acetelyn tanks to be delivered... they should be here anytime and when they arrive... I'll start cutting away that front end. Don't worry... I wouldn't attempt this on a solid perfect Eagle... that's blasphemy. This fron end stuff has to be cut off and replaced anyways, so I figure it's worth a shot to try it out. If it doesn't work... then I'll go back to the original.

Brandon also asked about a Sedan I may be buying.... yes, this is a very likely possibility. The wagon is moving much slower than planned and I HAVE to get a vehicle on the road asap. If I buy this sedan.... I will not touch anything on it. Everything will remain factory besides, the valve cover, headights (which will only have minor upgrading), wheels and stereo.

Ok... back to the regulary scheduled program.

03/03/10 - Shifting gears again, no pun intended!

Ok, so I need to post updated pics of the Wagon project... it's still going pretty slow. I've been spending alot of time working in the house. Finally got around to running the plumbing for the toilet in the family bathroom and finally got the toilet installed. All the wiring is done on that side of the house as well. Just need to texture and paint in the bathroom and it's done... woot!

So update on the wagon... started cutting away the rust on the front subframe area. Some of the bolts were rounded off into points to look like ice picks. Had to cut the bolts to get the driver's side bumper mount off. Now it's ready to be cut. Still having a hard time getting the pitman arm off of the stearing box, but once we get it off... the cutting will begin.

Also, got the cracked windshield out and removed the dashboard and labled all the wires. Most of the rust spots in the cabin have been sand blasted. I still need to grind a few spots and cut a couple more.... then weld in some new sheet metal and get her taped off and ready for paint.

Even after removing the entire interior.... it still smells like a mouse cage. There was some spilled oil in the spare tire hump and some dead mice were laying in it before...although the mice were removed weeks ago, I still think that liquid has something to do with it. I spread some cat litter over it to help soak it up. Then I'll vacum it out... scrub it and paint it. If that doesn't get rid of the smell... nothing will, lol!

Does anyone know if SX4 rear seats will fit in the wagon... I don't see why the wouldn't... the look almost identical.
Also, how hard is it to remove the black metal insert that covers the spare tire in the hatch area? I'm thinking there coule possibly be more mice up in there out of sight.... plus, I'd like to remove it to make painting easier.

And here is the last thing... I came across another wagon nearby... about 3hrs from home. It appears to be a sport model in great shape... well, excluding the taco'd front end, LOL! But I know I have everything needed to fix it. I could have it on the road in a day assuming the engine still runs. I'm guessing, radiator, water pump and fan... and she'll run. If so... and assuming the body/frame is solid... the project will be shifted to that one. I will continue on this project, but I will not install the new engine in it. I'll just finished repairing the frame/body, sand blast and tune up the old engine, paint both the engine and car, and install interior.... then I will keep it for a spare car for awhile until I find someone that wants to buy it for what I'd have in it.

As of now, the deal has been made and the offer has been accepted... still waiting on these darn taxes to arrive though... I had to mail them out to get the house tax credit so I mailed them priority 3-day mail.... that was Feb 3rd.... I ran the tracking number the other day and apparently they didn't even get my forms until the 13th... so 3 days became 10 days... and the 13th was on a Saturday as well, so they didn't actually get them until the 15th. So... basically, I probably wont get them until closer to the end of March. GRR! I've got alot riding on my taxes! :/ So hopefully soon. And hopefully, this guy holds out for me. I have no idea how the heck I'm going to get it home though, LOL!

Here are a few pictures of the new wagon... $400 - 1985 AMC Eagle Wagon Sport

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_85EagleWagonSport1.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=85EagleWagonSport1.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_85EagleWagonSport3.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=85EagleWagonSport3.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_85EagleWagonSport2.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=85EagleWagonSport2.jpg)

I found it on craigslist. These are the only pictures I have seen. I am still waiting for more. I guess it was just recently wrecked... so 50/50 chance on how well she runs and how solid the frame/body is. Besides the obvious... she sure looks great though, eh? I know I said that I wouldn't back on the 85 Limited project, but if this car pans out... It'd be much smarter to get it on the road first.

03/04/10 - Updates back by popular demand!

Here's one update on the Wagon... at least another side project I'm working on for the Wagon.

http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=25240.0

And here are the only pics I have of the last couple of weeks. Most of which were taken this past weekend. Basically, all I've done is a bit more sandblasting, some minor cutting with the torch (you can see some pics of cut bolts below), we ripped out the cracked windshield, and I removed the dash and labled all the wires.

The cutting and welding should be done soon I hope. Then she'll be getting some body work... popping all the dings and dents and getting her sanded down. I finally got the black primer in the other day so I'm excited about that!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_02271929.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=02271929.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_02272054.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=02272054.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_02151434.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=02151434.jpg)

And, we're working on the custom front end... it's going to be alot harder than initialy expected. Which is bad because we already knew it was going to be really tough. I'd probably back out of it... but since I've already spent several hundred dollars on it... it's going to happen if I have to glue and staple, LOL!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_02151434b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=02151434b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_02151434a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=02151434a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_02041628.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=02041628.jpg)

04/04/10 - Updates back by popular demand!

Ok... so once again now that the car is stripped and I am fed up with the hassle of all the welding.... I have moved this car out to pasture in the Eagle Sanctuary Badlands, lol! She's good from the firewall back so I'm not scrapping her... but work is being suspended on her so that my efforts can be moved forward on the other three Eagles here with REAL potential. First off, I've got that blue SX4 I'm working on... secondly, I still need to finish the body work on the orange SX4 and swap motors.... lastly... here's my newest project. I paid $525 for her and that included delivery. Not a speck of rust. And get this... she runs great! The fan was busted off and the radiator is shot, but she fires up! I drove her off the trailor!

The fenders appear to be good... even the bumper caps look nice. I just need to replace the obvious grill, headlights, trim, buckets, radiator and tranny cooler hose... and then weld in a new front clip... which just so happens to be perfect on the rust bucket out back. We've already cut off the pieces that will go on this one.

Here are the pics... Dusty broke the tip on my welder, but assuming he gets it fixed tonight... we'll spend all day on the wagon tomorrow and I'll drive her up and have her registered on Monday and she will be my daily driver until the blue SX4 is done... then when the blue SX4 and the RAM is finished.... I will pull this wagon back in the garage to swap in the new interior and the stroker.... and of course, give her a nice fresh coat of paint. THEN... work will be started on the orange one... THEN... back to the rust bucket! Woot! Plenty of projects to last me into next summer!

She's a 1985 AMC Eagle Wagon Sport.... I will eventually convert this thread to reflect THIS project rather than the rust bucket (which probably won't see the light of day for another year or more, if ever). I'll be pulling the power window stuff off the Limited... heck maybe even the badges, LOL! I'll have a "Limited Sport".... woot!

Here are some pics I took this morning!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031047c.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031047c.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031047b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031047b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031047.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031047.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031048.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031048.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031048a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031048a.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031048c.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031048c.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031048b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031048b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031049.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031049.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031049a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031049a.jpg)

04/09/10 - Progress!... again.

Here's the progress! Now that the Dodge is up and running and getting me back and forth to work... and some playing.... and dragging Eagles around the yard, LOL.... it's time to get back on this project! So, we've got all the front end torn apart and the wrecked/crushed metal cut off with the torch.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04080701a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04080701a.jpg)(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04080702a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04080702a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04080702.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04080702.jpg)

Oh yeah! And I have officially updated the first post with all the other updates within this thread... it also reflects the progress and gradual decision to move on from one Eagle... to another.... to another... to a truck... and back to this Wagon. This one will not leave the garage until it is running.[/list]

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: wagoneerhauler on January 17, 2010, 01:52:06 PM

Keep us updated Mav. It looks like you have your work cut out for you on this one. It makes it less fun when you have to get it done too. :-\

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Smitch on January 17, 2010, 01:59:16 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on January 17, 2010, 01:22:25 PM

adue (spelling?)

ado

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 17, 2010, 02:28:38 PM

Looks good so far Mav. Can't wait to se this thing in person. Not sure yet as to my departure time. Either Friday evening or the wee hours of the morning Saturday (I kinda like the idea of arriving to your place in daylight. So we will see.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 17, 2010, 02:42:45 PM

Yeah it's easier to find in the daylight Brandon, but even if you show up at 3am... I'll come to town and meet you at the gas station so you can easily find your way to my house.

Thanks for the spelling Smitch!

Quote from: wagoneerhauler on January 17, 2010, 01:52:06 PM

Keep us updated Mav. It looks like you have your work cut out for you on this one. It makes it less fun when you have to get it done too. :-\

Yeah, usually you're right... and the deadline sucks... but for the most part, I'm really excited... it's a good excuse to lock myself in the garage for a week without the ol'lady b***ing, LOL! She's actually encouraging me... woot! Didn't complain once while I was shopping. I came out of Autozone with $300 in fluids and engine paint and rust protectant and stuff... not a word. Walked out of Sears with $800 in tools... not a word. How freaking cool is that!? And it's not like we have loads of money - infact we're in debt up to our knees with this freaking moneypit of a house we love so dearly, but... hey, it's the insurance money for my truck and she knows that. She probably knows how upset I was about the Blazer which is why I get to get away with it all for a couple weeks, LMAO!!!!!

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Smitch on January 17, 2010, 03:04:06 PM

Hope you have decent weather for the job.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: amc78concord on January 17, 2010, 07:45:19 PM

Man, that looks like fun ;D

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 17, 2010, 08:47:24 PM

I got to looking at it a bit closer today... lot more rust than I orginally thought. So I'll be doing some more welding... thats ok though I guess. At least the drive train will be off, so I should be able to get to everything fairly easy. Nothing beyond repair though... the worst part is around the doors. Luckily, I have an 84 Limited out back that has perfect door with power windows and locks... should be an easy enough swap... and it gives me an excuse to put in new hinge pins anyways.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 17, 2010, 11:05:30 PM

Thanks for the update.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: vangremlin on January 17, 2010, 11:23:23 PM

Quote from: Smitch on January 17, 2010, 01:59:16 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on January 17, 2010, 01:22:25 PM
adue (spelling?)

ado

adieu

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 17, 2010, 11:32:24 PM

Ah geez... how the heck do you spell it already!? LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Smitch on January 18, 2010, 03:25:17 AM

Quote from: vangremlin on January 17, 2010, 11:23:23 PM

Quote from: Smitch on January 17, 2010, 01:59:16 PM
Quote from: Mavericke on January 17, 2010, 01:22:25 PM
adue (spelling?)

ado

adieu

Adieu is a french word. It means goodbye.
Ado means fuss.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 18, 2010, 10:54:25 AM

Woot! You da man Smitch!

crashed out at 4am last night watching that HBO show "TrueBlood" about Vampires that live in our world openly, it's kind of a cool different twist on the vampire legend. Anyways, this chick drives a purple Gremlin.... and it's freaking sweet! Just thought I'd bring that up... you see her driving it all the time in several episodes.

Anyways. the girls had me up ay 9:30a.... about to finish my grape jelly muffin and I'm getting back to the grind. I'll post pics tonight

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 19, 2010, 03:54:07 AM

Well guys... bad news.. I think she may be too far gone. At least for now. I'll post pics in the morning... but I just got in from the shop and she's just in pieces... rust everywhere. I'm afraid of investing too much time into her to find that she is beyond repair. Prime candidate for a solid frame or saolid axle swap.... but to patch up for a daily driver... I just don't know. The frame appears to be decent for the most part, but the front subframe is starting to give. If I get to it now and do it right, I can save it... but all of the floorboards are totally gone, the rockers are gone and all of the door jams are gone in the bottom corners.

The door jams I can fix with fiberglass. The floor pans should be easy enough to weld in from the inside of the cab. The rockers.... not sure... totally gone. Fender's are pretty well shot too, but with time maybe could be saved.

Sub frame can be saved with alot of grinding and sandblasting followed by some precision welds and a good undercoating to seal it up.

I'll post pics tomorrow and get your input...

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: ScottD961 on January 19, 2010, 02:12:02 PM

You found some cool things inside for sure,I'm tracking down a shop manual myself right now. As for the car, I dunno, do you think it will be structurally sound when your done ? It sounds like there is a LOT of rust . Just from what you said it almost seems like it needs a whole new body. If you had other cars that were in better shape in your flock they might be a better candidate.Not trying to be negative here but your sure going to have a lot of time & money in just getting it back together & you said you only have a week to get it done ? Wish I was closer Ive got some time off right now , I'd give you a hand but even the body work I have done is no where near what your doing here, I think I'd probably slow you down.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: MudPuppy on January 19, 2010, 02:28:56 PM

Wow :o Mav, do you have your hands full or what? And then you find rust, that sucks!
But I am sure you'll figure it out and it'll work out for ya. Hang in there and don't start ripping the hair out.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 19, 2010, 05:38:11 PM

Well Chantel... I don't have any hair anyways, LOL!

Yep in over my head for sure... I've decided to end work on the "White Castle Queen"... there's just too much rust for me to deal with right now. After looking at it compared to the other two Wagons out back (that I also deemed unfixable)... the Queen makes them look like light work. So... I'm pulling the 84 limited into the garage. I'm currently stripping the interior of the Queen, then I'm slipping the doors back on her and hauling out to the barn.

I've already pulled the limited out and it's sitting out front... I'll have it in the shop tonight.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 19, 2010, 07:03:13 PM

Looks to be a parts car Chas.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: milliard431 on January 19, 2010, 07:05:34 PM

yah, A 1980 parts car at that, pardon me as I wipe away that drool.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 19, 2010, 08:08:28 PM

That's really too bad... I really wanted to have an 80 model.. I don't care which model... just wanted one of the first Eagles. :( I really had my hopes up on this one.. but the good news is that now I know my limits and exactly what to look for when buying an Eagle with potential rust issues. I had a pretty good idea, but I never looked this one over too well - it was free, lol!

Now I know... and from the looks of it, the good news is that the two wagons in the back are prime candidates for restoration. The Limited is at the very least. We have her out in front of the garage... still stripping parts from the 80 right now. Most of the interior is out... all the trim is off. The really cool roof rack is off. The sad news is that after doing all of this... I now know that my Brown Eagle... the "Millenium Eagle" is beyond repair unless I weld in a completely new frame.... which is exactly what I will do. That was my first car - I'll never get rid of her.

Hey, at the very least... I got a really good 1980 engine out of the whole ordeal with the original metal valve cover. I just wish the White Castle trip had a little bit better ending is all.

I'll keep you all posted. I'm taking plenty of pics.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: amc78concord on January 19, 2010, 08:11:29 PM

Aw man! Well maybe someday when become a pro at fixing rust, you can get her back on the road. I sure would, '80 is my favorite year for Eagle, and I like the 'white on woodgrain' look, thats friggin sweeeeet.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 19, 2010, 08:16:50 PM

I don't think there is a way to fix some of the spots unles you literaly cut them out of another 80 wagon... and then you might as well just keep the one you're cutting up, LOL!

The frame is pretty solid... but the unibody is just totally gone... with the rust I can plainly see... Im REALLY afraid to start sanding her down for paint, LOL!!!!! My red SX4 (now orange) had no rust when I started... when I got that top layer of paint off and all the trim off... there was alot of body rust... I imagine most of our Eagles are like that and we just don't know it. You'd be suprised how durable paint is if it's kept up on... so if your body is rotting from the inside and your paint looks good... you may be rotting and not knowing it. Typical on rockers. Any slight bubble in the paint is a good way to spot it...

gah, that just sounds really negative, lol... just bummed that I gotta scrap her and pull in another one. At least I have that option I guess. I just know that half of my week is burned up and I haven't even dropped my engine in yet...

wouldn't be me if I wasn't cuttin' close, huh Doug? LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: amc78concord on January 19, 2010, 08:20:28 PM

It still stinks that you have to scrap her... :'(

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: ScottD961 on January 19, 2010, 09:17:54 PM

That does stink Mav, but this car will yield good parts for your other projects , right ?

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 19, 2010, 10:04:54 PM

Sucks about the '80 Wagon. At least she'll have someparts for others. I am curious to see the 84Limited. I am not recalling it from previous posts of yours. What's the weather forecast looking like out there for this weekend? Just curious.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 19, 2010, 11:21:05 PM

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/09151519-1.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/The%20Eagle%20Sanctuary/09151519a-1.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: eagle87 on January 20, 2010, 12:15:34 AM

maybe you could offer the 80 to someone on here with more time to restore it, just a thought since theres so much documentation behind the car.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 20, 2010, 12:30:42 AM

Well then... I'll make it official... anyone that wants her can have her.

I have gutted the interior already... and I will slowly be stripping everything off of her. So if anyone wants it - let me know now.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Smitch on January 20, 2010, 03:49:01 AM

What kind of shape are the bumper ends in?

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 20, 2010, 03:53:27 AM

Bumper ends are good, except one, and it's still presentable... I'm keeping them though :/

More pics...

I just had to show these... First off, we were kinda proud to finally have a garage door opener... took us most of the day, but it works! lol! The second picture is my new rok space. This was all full of boxes and furniture just two days ago... it's been crazy, but now I finally have most of my workspace. Of course, this is only temporary until I get the barn set up. :P And lasty, here are all my service manuals and stuff... the big red one in the middle is my hardback 1980 TSM, its pretty cool. Suprisingly though I'm enjoying reading the blue Chilton's the most.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/01182238.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/01171732.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1980%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/01191826.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 20, 2010, 11:31:47 AM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on January 19, 2010, 10:04:54 PM

Sucks about the '80 Wagon. At least she'll have someparts for others. I am curious to see the 84Limited. I am not recalling it from previous posts of yours. What's the weather forecast looking like out there for this weekend? Just curious.

Sorry, forgot to mention weather... we've got freezing rain right now and supposed to last through till tomorrow morning... I wouldn think it would be melted off before tomorrow morning, but... who knows. Might be cuttin it close with the drive.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 20, 2010, 11:40:48 AM

How are the shock towers and surrounding metal for that one member who needs them? At least you got a good 1980 motor out of it and probably some other good stuff.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 20, 2010, 12:04:57 PM

Yeah I got a decent interior and a REALLY nice 80' engine. Not a single panel is worth saving. One fender can be saved with some work... but it'd be a huge hassle.

As for shock towers... if you can be more specific... maybe? If what I think you're talking about is what I'm picturing in my head... then yeah, I'm pretty sure they are good.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: milliard431 on January 20, 2010, 12:33:40 PM

A new member, Dustyeagle I think, needs that inner panel of the engine compartment so he can replace the shock tower on his. Can't remember which though

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 20, 2010, 01:04:51 PM

Ah, yeah... I'd love to help, but first off they aren't the greatest (they can deff be repaired though), and secondly... I won't be pulling the engine till it warms up probably. However... I need to get rid of the blue wagon... it's in decent shape as well.. some rust, but repairable for sure.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 20, 2010, 01:50:53 PM

Maybe snap some pictures of yours and post them for him or others to see.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 20, 2010, 02:11:47 PM

Here is the member's thread who is looking for a shock tower and some great pictures from Juhap in the bargain: http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=24035.msg230021;topicseen#new

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 20, 2010, 10:50:56 PM

Thanks for the updae on the Weather. It is supposed to continue to do the same thing here through tomorrow. The roads were not bad here this morning when I went to the school. I think the rain around here is supposed to be stopped by sometime tomorrow. I am not sure. I'll be watching the news in about 10 minutes.

I am still planning on coming out. I do not think I am going to drive straight thru though, so I'll likely hit your neck of the woods Saturday morning sometime. I am going to program the trip into the GPS and check with AAA about road construction thru Iowa on Friday morning when Morgan is in preschool. I think I am going to go to Davenport, then go the rest of the way Saturday morning.

Brandon

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 21, 2010, 12:39:34 AM

Dude, Davenport is like 45m away... might as well come on in. But again up to you man - Im open for whatever. I replied about the weather and stuff on the other thread. Double check the GPS with a map man... sometimes they're screwy. Rock on!

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 21, 2010, 10:23:03 PM

So, the new project is officiallt underway. Four days wasted on a car that was too badly rotted to be saved... On day five we drug in the 85 Limited... and by the end of day 6, she is almost completely stripped down. The interior is being replaced and updated, she's getting prepped for paint, and we are currently pulling the engine which has proven to be a rather difficult task. We've almost got her though.

Once the engine comes out, we have some frame rot/cancer to repair - then we will be coating the engine back and underboday with primer and rolled on Herculiner.

Here are the current pics...

Here she is as she was drug/pushed into the garage. The steering box has long since rusted from the frame so there is virtually not steering, and we couldn't fire her up and drive her in because I stole the radiator out of her several months ago for the orange SX4. We drug it from my barn, through the 1/4 thick ice and several inches of old snow to the front yard where we then pushed it into the garage. The only piece that suffered damage was the passenger side taillight and I have extras.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/01202226.jpg)

Here is the rust damage... this is not the only spot, but believe it or not she's really not all that bad compared to the 80.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210629.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210629.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210359.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210359.jpg)

Here are the mice we've found so far in the interior... along with two perfect end caps and an Aerosmith CD, woot! The total number of mice so far is now at 12.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01202315a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01202315a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210046.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210046.jpg)

Here are some of the pulled parts from this one (the 85) and the 80... Also, a possible wiring issue, and some fender damage.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01202315b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01202315b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210031b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210031b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210403a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210403a.jpg)

And here some shots of our progress... I keep taking photos from the exact same spot periodically... I want to make a video tranistion out of it from scapper to roller! And don't mind Dusty... we were up late and way too tired to be thinking clearly. He just wanted to pose like Spiderman... pretty good job too, lo!
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210129.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210129.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210446a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210446a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210544.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210544.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210614a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210614a.jpg)

Having a hard time getting the engine/tranny/transfer case out in one piece... we think we've got it worked out now though; I'll be posting pics for sure, so stay tuned!

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Pa sx/4 on January 22, 2010, 07:12:39 AM

I could use you for the week end. what is your rate? 2 motivated guy can get allot done ;D Good luck with this one.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 22, 2010, 10:12:13 AM

You know it's funny PA sx/4..... I used to think that jobs like this were only possible for rich folk or retired guys... or unemployed guys that did it everyday for a living. But man, you're absolutley right... it's amazing what a couple of guys can do when they're motivated. I need a car and I want to drive an Eagle... there's my motivation. I have to go all out on it because my kids will be riding in it. I have to make sure shes not going to leave us stranded or hurt my kiddos in anyway. That's the motivation for tearing it all apart and inspecting everything.

Then there's that OCD thing I've got going on where everything has to be perfect or I just sit and sulk on it forever... (I do alot of sulking btw)... thats where the details come in.

And I'ma techy... so I like flashy things too. I haven't even shown you guys my shopping list yet, lol... I typed it one day and it took my like 20m... then I higlighted it to copy and paste it and I deleted it by mistake. Haven't felt like taking the time again yet, lol... gah!

But hey man, thanks for the compliment... now I'm going to have to start using the big garage door opener to get inside because my head is too big to fit in the regular door, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: eagle87 on January 22, 2010, 01:07:08 PM

Just wondering with that front section of frame thats rotted on the one your fixing now, is that part any good on the 80?, as it might be easier just to cut out and install a new section thats in better shape, since you have the engine out anyways which will give you room to work with, just a thought as thats what im going to have to do with my one eagle that has the exact same frame rot, since the frame dimensions have to be fairly close to factory for alignment and such.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 22, 2010, 02:21:04 PM

I'm going to use what I can for sure... I have an 84 out there that already has the engine pulled... I'll be cuttig pieces off of it.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: ScottD961 on January 22, 2010, 02:34:48 PM

WOW This car looks pretty nice. Aside from the fact that it's going to be a lot of work & has some issues, it's a nice looking car. You going to paint this too ? I've heard that mice are fond of Aerosmith btw so they probably invited all of there buddies over to listen , then couldn't get out.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 22, 2010, 02:37:42 PM

I think Mav needs some cats in his shop.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: ScottD961 on January 22, 2010, 02:44:47 PM

Ya & that is something I could help him with because Tuxedo (our resident kitty) loves to play Rambo with them. Or anything else that moves.Could ship em out to ya

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 22, 2010, 06:00:20 PM

Nah, I've got plenty of mousers out here... just started befriending the wild kitties... I've got three of them coming up for food every monring, but only one of them is friendly... they're getting closer by the day though. I had to start feeding them to keep them out of the trash.... a week before I move into the shop, I'm going to starve them for a couple days and then lock'em inside, LOL!!!

nah, I couldn't really starve them... but I'll seriously lock them in the shop for a week ven if I have to set up live traps to catch them first. Bet me, LOL!

So if your outside kitty comes up missing this spring... don't worry, I'll make sure he's fine.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: ScottD961 on January 22, 2010, 11:33:29 PM

Ok will do but trust me this little guy isn't going anywhere on his own . He's spoiled rotten here.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 23, 2010, 12:23:38 AM

Quote from: Mavericke on January 21, 2010, 12:39:34 AM

Dude, Davenport is like 45m away... might as well come on in. But again up to you man - Im open for whatever. I replied about the weather and stuff on the other thread. Double check the GPS with a map man... sometimes they're screwy. Rock on!

The GPS unit was dead on accurate. Suprised me really. When I pulled off to get gas at one point it started to yell at me that I was going the wrong way. It was interesting.

Quote from: Mavericke on January 21, 2010, 10:23:03 PM

So, the new project is officiallt underway. Four days wasted on a car that was too badly rotted to be saved... On day five we drug in the 85 Limited... and by the end of day 6, she is almost completely stripped down. The interior is being replaced and updated, she's getting prepped for paint, and we are currently pulling the engine which has proven to be a rather difficult task. We've almost got her though.

Once the engine comes out, we have some frame rot/cancer to repair - then we will be coating the engine back and underboday with primer and rolled on Herculiner.

Here are the current pics...

Fender damage... not sure what happened here.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210403a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210403a.jpg)

I have seen two other Eagles with almost identical dents in the same fender. Strange.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 23, 2010, 10:52:32 AM

Are you there yet Brandon? The fenders are real "springy" in that area. Looks like it did not spring back. Maybe when you get the fender off you can repair it, easily.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 23, 2010, 07:29:55 PM

I'm hoping to repair it was well... beisdes the dent, the fender is near perfect... the other has no dents, but is rotted... go figure.

And yes, Brandon is here... he made it about a quarter till 11am. We started right away... he helped me clean out my garage, hang some shelves and organize all the extra parts from the 80 and 85 so that we had more adequate work space. Once we finished, we had a small lunch and we've been going ever since... going to break for pizza soon, then back at it for awhile. Going smooth although... Brandon's poor poor fragile lil' hands are getting awfully banged up. I think she (my Eagle) likes him. LOL!

Stay tuned!

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 24, 2010, 08:24:05 PM

Here are the only two pics I got from Brandon's visit, lol... I'm sure he'll post all the cool ones he got. He's kind of injury prone with a ratchet and torque bit, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 24, 2010, 08:27:59 PM

Only two??? Have a safe trip home Brandon.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 24, 2010, 10:37:50 PM

Yeah, we stayed pretty busy.... he kept trying to get me to take more pics, and I kept saying I would and before I knew it - the day was over. :(

We didn't even get out to the barn... he literally pulled up and we started working. We came in a couple times for food, but mostly just cranked away on organizing the garage and ripping out the interior of the Eagle.

As for update on the Eagle... I'll post some pics in a bit.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 24, 2010, 10:40:38 PM

Yeah Chas only got two pictures. e was busy organizing and wrenching and managing.

Chas, I do have a number of good shots. I will ge busy downloading them after I get everyone to bed. Thank you for having me and thank you for the parts. I love what you are doing with the place and I cannot wait t see it when you are finished. I think the organization of the garage turned out well. I am sorry we did not make more progress on the wagon. But we did get a few things done. Good luck figuring out the sandblaster.

It was good to see you again my friend. I enjoyed meeting your family. That is quite the crew you have there.

I got a number of good shots, I think. They are all in my email right now. Once I get everyone to bed I will get them downloaded to the desktop and get them posted. I think I want to do an "Eagle Santuary Pilgrimage" Thread in the road trips. I will link it here and post appropriate pictures in this thread too.

Thanks again. I wish I could have gotten those tires out to you. I I had only known right? Maybe we'll figure something out.

Later,

Brandon

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 25, 2010, 01:29:37 PM

Hey Brandon, glad you made it man. Good times for sure. And don't worry about progress... when I realized the 80' was going to have to be sent to the crusher.... I let go of the notion that I'd have this done under any sort of timeline, lol! Still, the help with getting the extra crap out of the way in the garage and you getting that interior out... big help man.

We did get the sanblaster working pretty good last night... it still needs some adjustments, but mostly I think I need a bigger air compressor. It's actually a pretty good sized tank, but the CFM rating isn't as high as it should be for thenew v blaster. It's working well enough right now though... the entire garage is covered in black sand, LOL!

Get those pictures posted! I'm real curious!

Oh yeah, and my valve cover showed up today from collin's bros! Awesome! I went with the black one this time... it just looks awesome!

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: eaglebeek on January 25, 2010, 02:54:34 PM

Here are the current pics...

Fender damage... not sure what happened here.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01210403a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01210403a.jpg)

[/quote]

I have seen two other Eagles with almost identical dents in the same fender. Strange.
[/quote]

The dent almost looks like the result of someone laying a beam across the fenders to support the rear of the engine while the transmission was out.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 25, 2010, 03:59:36 PM

January 25th, 2009

Ok, time to make this thread official and remove the "White Castle Queen" from the title... I'll post this and then go back and clean up the thread. So, as of now the Eagle is sitting with no tranny or transfer case. We tried pulling the engine with them attached and it was a "no-go". The we tried disconnecting just the tranfser case... still, we couldn't get the engine unwedged. So, then we disconnected the tranny - which was a huge hassle... Dusty forgot to drain the tranny first so everything dumped out on us and all over the floor. I'm all out of quick-dry too... so it was messy.

So after the tranny was out, we thought it'd be smooth sailing.... LOL... what a joke that was. The exhaust is now in the way. We busted out the sawzaw when the transfer case was still attached and we cut the exhaust off, but it looks like it's actually going to have to be unbolted from the manifold... well, the bolts are so rusted that there almost really isn't a bolt there... you'd that'd be good right? No bolt - no exhaust pipe.... wrong. It's all fused together!

Sooooo.... I've just started disconnecting the intake and exhaust manifolds off the head so that we can pull the exhaust out in one piece. After that.... she should, theoretically, slide right out. I've already removed everything in the way; radiator, condensor, washer and overfill bottles. And everything is disconnected.

I'll post more as it happens. Unfortunately, it's time to go back to work... my week off is now over. Joy. So it'll be a couple a hours a day until it's done.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242158.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242158.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242158a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242158a.jpg)

We finally got the sandblaster working... here are a couple shots of it's work. We haven't really used it much though.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242307.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242307.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242313b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242313b.jpg)

Here's the 3" lift kit I bought for it... not sure what I'm going to do about the sagging rear leaf springs just yet. Leaning towards add-a-leaf, but I haven't gotten any deffinitive answers/info yet to help me make up my mind. The lift says 3" for the front, but I hear you only get 1 or w inches out of it... I'm betting though that with new coil springs and those spacers... I'll get at least 3". Same with the rear.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_8fbb_1.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=8fbb_1.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_RearLift.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=RearLift.jpg)

Here are a couple concept pictures.... the visor fits perfectly. It was for my 02' Chevy Blazer. It'll take some very minor trimming with the dremel and of course some drilling for mounting holes and wiring for the lights, it's going to look pretty cool. The bumper concept is impossible... well not impossible, but not worth the $100 for the bumper cover and all the cutting that would be involved. The problem is the cover is about 3" too wide... when I pull the old wrecked cover off of Shelly's 00' Jeep Cherokee Laredo, I'll toy with the idea some more and do some actual cutting. My idea is to cut off the corners and use the the original Eagle bumper caps. Or... cut off the corners... trim off a couple inches on each side and then reattach the corners. No matter what is done, the grill will not work. It takes up too much room to fit the orginal headlights in, and if you convert (like I'm doing) to the cherokee headlights - they will stick out too far and not fit in the fender well. So either way, you won't be using a Jeep grill - sorry. But who knows... once I start cutting, anything could happen.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242313.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242313.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242313a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242313a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_01242212.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=01242212.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 25, 2010, 04:45:06 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on January 25, 2010, 01:29:37 PM

Hey Brandon, glad you made it man. Good times for sure. And don't worry about progress... when I realized the 80' was going to have to be sent to the crusher.... I let go of the notion that I'd have this done under any sort of timeline, lol! Still, the help with getting the extra crap out of the way in the garage and you getting that interior out... big help man.

We did get the sanblaster working pretty good last night... it still needs some adjustments, but mostly I think I need a bigger air compressor. It's actually a pretty good sized tank, but the CFM rating isn't as high as it should be for thenew v blaster. It's working well enough right now though... the entire garage is covered in black sand, LOL!

Get those pictures posted! I'm real curious!

Oh yeah, and my valve cover showed up today from collin's bros! Awesome! I went with the black one this time... it just looks awesome!

Glad you got the media blaster working well enough to make some progress. That is exciting. I got all of the pictures posted to photobucket last night, but I wasn't able to get them posted. I need a break from school work, so I will work on that right now.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 25, 2010, 05:01:34 PM

Its never easy, is it?

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 25, 2010, 05:03:22 PM

(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_0123002226.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=0123002226.jpg)

(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Brandonscrapingcarpetremenants.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Brandonscrapingcarpetremenants.jpg)
Here's a couple shots of me scraping the random residue left over from the carpet and the padding. Giving Chas' the thumbs up in one of them.

Here are some shots of the empty interior of the 84 Eagle...
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Carpetout2.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Carpetout2.jpg)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Carpetout.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Carpetout.jpg)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Chas84LimitedNoInterior.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Chas84LimitedNoInterior.jpg)

I learned a lot taking out the carpet, interior pans and the back seats. Chas' did you get your mouse collection removed?

Here's a shot of Chas putting away some of the final stuff from the big organization project that we did.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_ChasThisGuysGarage2.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=ChasThisGuysGarage2.jpg)

(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_ChasThisGuysGarage.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=ChasThisGuysGarage.jpg)
Talk about an organized garage. We set up shelves to organize all the different parts that Chas had from the 2 wagons. I think it turned out great. If we can do that with odds and ends shelving in his garage, can you imagine what he'll do with this machine shed when he gets to it?

More to come...

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 25, 2010, 05:06:02 PM

You two need to come to my place and organize the Nest HQ

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 25, 2010, 05:12:59 PM

Now for the intellectual shot of the bunch. Here are Chas and Dusty pondering the predicament about getting the engine out.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_MavDustyPondering.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=MavDustyPondering.jpg)

(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_MavDusty.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=MavDusty.jpg)

I think the decision was made that Chas would just grab the chains and muscle the darn thing out himself. Attempt one...
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_MAvMuscles.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=MAvMuscles.jpg)

Here's Chas running his media blaster...
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Mediablaster.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Mediablaster.jpg)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_mediablaster2.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=mediablaster2.jpg)

Here's another shot of another corner of the garage. He's got a box of chrome trim, a box of interior trim and a variety of fasteners. We also hung those shevles on the wall.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_Stackoseatstableofboltsmiscboxoftri.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=Stackoseatstableofboltsmiscboxoftri.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 25, 2010, 05:26:46 PM

Here's a shot of the tailight I replaced. Interestingly I became an idiot replacing it. I took the old one out and grabbed a replacement. Then I had Chas dust it with the compressor and took it over. (Little did I know I was holding it upsidedown) But it didn't fit right. So I went and grabbed the other one; Mav dusted it with the compressor and I took it over to the Eagle. Lo and Behold I finally noticed I had the correct one the first time.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_TaillightIreplaced.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=TaillightIreplaced.jpg)

Other random shots...
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_TookoutallthedoorpanelsTrim.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=TookoutallthedoorpanelsTrim.jpg)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_carpetout3.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=carpetout3.jpg)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_downsized_0123002008.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=downsized_0123002008.jpg)

Here's a shot of me playing solitaire in the van on the way out there. I got stuck in Des Moines, basically not moving for 45 minutes as my GPS unit's batteries were dying (forgot my car charger). Sitting there I was bored.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_PlayingSolitairestuckintrafficinDMo.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=PlayingSolitairestuckintrafficinDMo.jpg)

When I stopped for gas on the way home I noticed the dirty back window and I decided to decorate for the rest of the trip rather than clean it.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/th_RatherBeDrivingCloseup.jpg) (http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/?action=view&current=RatherBeDrivingCloseup.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 25, 2010, 05:29:25 PM

I think that is all the shots I got. Hope you all enjoy them.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: IowaEagle on January 25, 2010, 07:26:42 PM

Great shots and write up Brandon. I see you had a little helper.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 25, 2010, 08:20:30 PM

Quote from: IowaEagle on January 25, 2010, 05:01:34 PM

Its never easy, is it?

My god man... there is always something, ya know? I only make plans these days to look organized, but deep down I know nothing ever goes to plan. It's fun - I just wash I didnt feel so rushed. Either way, I'm not going to skip steps and say "I'll do finish/fix that later" anymore. I mean, the SX4 came out great... but it wasn't finished and it could have been soooo much better. I'm doing everything except paint on this one... I'll paint in the spring.

Quote from: IowaEagle on January 25, 2010, 07:26:42 PM

Great shots and write up Brandon. I see you had a little helper.

Yeah, we brought the girls out a couple times... they like playing in daddy's garage. Everytime they come out, they have to remind me about "daddy's truck fell." and how I shouldn't do that again. Yeah.

Hey Brandon, thanks for those pics... I was totally going to lift that engine out myself, but I really wanted you and Dusty to get the experience of doing it with a hoist... I mean, I may not always be there to sling the engine over my shoulder for you.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 25, 2010, 11:22:02 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on January 25, 2010, 08:20:30 PM

Quote from: IowaEagle on January 25, 2010, 05:01:34 PM
Its never easy, is it?

My god man... there is always something, ya know? I only make plans these days to look organized, but deep down I know nothing ever goes to plan. It's fun - I just wash I didnt feel so rushed. I'm doing everything except paint on this one... I'll paint in the spring.

Quote from: IowaEagle on January 25, 2010, 07:26:42 PM
Great shots and write up Brandon. I see you had a little helper.

Yeah, we brought the girls out a couple times... they like playing in daddy's garage. Everytime they come out, they have to remind me about "daddy's truck fell." and how I shouldn't do that again. Yeah.

Hey Brandon, thanks for those pics... I was totally going to lift that engine out myself, but I really wanted you and Dusty to get the experience of doing it with a hoist... I mean, I may not always be there to sling the engine over my shoulder for you.

You are going to primer it though right?

The girls really did have fun in the garage. Abby didn't like the compressor though. I wish I would have gotten a shot of her falling asleep on that Eagle seat. It was so cute.

I do believe that had we had another day or two we would have had that engine out and the stroker in. I like the updated pictures. Thanks for those too.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 25, 2010, 11:38:27 PM

Nah, I pobably won't even prime it. I'll paint the inside of the cabin an the door jams for now so that I don't have to do it later, but I won't touch the outside yet. The weather just isn't right yet.

I will prime all of the spots I work on though and I will prime and hurculine the underbody as well. I'm even going to shoot a clear coat on the silver stuff just to help protect it.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 25, 2010, 11:45:37 PM

Okay I was just curious about protection from the elements. Thanks.

Title: Re: Mav's 1980 AMC Eagle Wagon Lifted Custom Stroker - The White Castle Queen
Post by: Mavericke on January 26, 2010, 09:53:27 PM

Dusty-Spider strikes again!!!
Because Spider-man was already taken, Spider-Dusty didn't sound right, and Dusty-Man jsut didn't make sense for a super hero name.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/cid__MMS95Resized95Pix.jpg)

Yep, the engine is finally out THANK GOD! Gah, that was just ridiculous. We kept tugging and dropping and tugging and dropping and it kept lifting the entire car... Mudkicker even told us about this specific plate and still we missed it... anyways, we were getting hung up on the two bolts that connect to the front differential. We figured we'd have to disconnect the exhaust to get to the bolts on the plate, but getting the exhaust off seemed more of a daunting task than just weasling our way into those bolts.... the bolts on the exhaust were rusted and fused to the manifold. Not to mention that the nut was so far down the bolt that it needed a deep-well socket to be reached, yet with the clearance down there - a deep-well was impossible. I was digging for a blade for the sawzaw when Dusty finally broke the final bolt lose... I was going to just start chopping away, lol!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine1.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine1.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine3.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine3.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine4.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine4.jpg)
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine5.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine5.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/th_engine2.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon/?action=view&current=engine2.jpg)

I played around with the sandblaster again today... having fun with it, althought I think it's something better used outside, lol! Black sand is everywhere! I forgot to take pictures of the sand blasting job - but it's actually working pretty good. I sandblasted a rear wiper motor for a fellow nester and it looks great! Then I shot it with a thick coat of black rubberized rust resistant paint. It looks brand new! Which by the way... that freaking motor was a pain to get out. The motor was easy, but the wiper arm was a bear... it was rusted and fuzed with the motor arm... what a pain! I tried everything to get it off of there and when I was ready to give up I finally just grabbed a prybar and yanked a few good times and it popped off... the hatch is trashed from it, LOL! Don't fret though... the hatch was rotted out anyways. I'll post pictures tomorrow.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on January 26, 2010, 11:14:19 PM

Updated the original thread with all the new info and organized the photos and information and also changed the project thread from the 80 to the 85.... enjoy all the pics, but be warned - the first post has ALOT of pics, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on January 27, 2010, 01:41:26 PM

Wow, no comments? Man... I was really anxious to see what you guys had to say about the most recent progress. Must be sleeping? Lol! Ok so several days ago I tried typing up my shopping list for what I've bought (and or aquired through trade) for the Eagle and the few things I still need to get. Then I acidentaly deleted the text before I could post it. So anyways... here it is again.... 20 min later, LOL!

Already purchased and waiting to be installed:

Holley 2300 Carb with new jets, adaptor plate and rebuild kit
Espo front coil springs
eBay Sway bar links
99 Grand Cherokee Projector/Halo Headlights
99 Dodge Ram Projector/Halo Foglights
99 Grand Cherokee Headlight wiring harness
Jurjen's MUI ignition upgrade kit - I got the Pertronix 3.0 ohm coil off of ebay, the adaptor plate at the EN store, and the rest at Autozone - http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=13269.msg228088#msg228088
Carpet molded for my Eagle Made by Auto Custom Carpets ACC
1983 AMC I6 4.2 stroked and bored .60 over with new oil pan, water pump, oil pump, and motor mounts.
A new aluminum valve cover from Collin's Brothers, Black powder coated with 4.2 logo - this is the best place to buy them on the web for quality and cost. Period.
Lund Windshield Sunvisor for an 02 Chevy Blazer - near perfect fit
LED flexible underglow lights with wireless remote, multiple presets and multiple colors - from Sharperglow
All LED bulbs throughout the car (brake lights, turn signals, interior lights) with relays to prevent rapid flashing and/or no flashing - from HyperLEDsInc
ebay Used 4.0 exhaust manifold to run true dual exhaust
Inline radiator flush kit
New rebuilt tranny and transfer case
New refurbished gas tank
NOS guage cluster with 0 miles on the odometer!

Front coil 3" donut spacer and rear leaf 3' lift
Orion 6" front speakers and Orion 5x9" rear 3-way speakers
Two MASSIVE 12" subwoofers in a slot ported box with a 1000W MASSIVE amp, cap, and monster cables.

Items that I still need to pick up:

Rear leaf springs - leaning towards 1985 XJ springs
Shocks front and rear
Entire front end kit - ball joints upper and lower, tie rods, etc etc etc
Re-apohlstered seats (almost $1000, woah! That'll be something that waits awhile, LOL!)
Wheels & tires
Brakes front and rear along with new brake lines
Mustang Rear tailight housings with LED's - not sure if I will do this one or not
New mirrors with turn signals - not sure if I will do this one or not
New vinly headliner
New CD/MP3/DVD/GPS player with 7" screen in the front - I had a 3.5" Jensen deck, but returned it for something different. Still looking.
Rear headrest DVD screens for back seat viewing.
Rear window louvers posibbly even the side windows. Will have to fabricate them.
Power moon roof
High powered alternator for all the eletronics on board.
New AC compressor & Condensor

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Bosgarage57 on January 27, 2010, 02:37:41 PM

Wow Mav, you are gonna have a bangin wagon, question on the louvers, how do they go onto the windows and rear windshield? Do they just glue on? If so has anyone looked into using mustang ones? I have no clue about any of this I was just throwing it out there. I really like you using LED's and getting under car lights, it is going to look VERY nice when you get it all done. Keep us posted please.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on January 27, 2010, 03:06:41 PM

Oh yeah, I'll document everything. Thanks for the compliments... she'll be a sweet ride when I'm done for sure.

As for the louvers... from the different sets I've seen, they all have little plates that side under the trim, then the louvers screw onto them. On the top, the plate has a hinge.... so you can easily loosen the bottom ones and lift the louvers up for scraping ice or cleaning the glass. That's the one downside to louvers... you get leaves and stuff in there and they sit and stain. I mean, you can scrub it off - but it's not fun. The snow isn't too bad imo... especially if you have heated glass. Just brush off the excess and the heaters do the rest. The louvers actually help keep alot of snow from getting on the actual glass.

My mounting bracktes will be almost identical. For the 08 meet, I didn't have time to fab anything... so I went to Walmart and bought some cheap thin cabinet hinges to get me by. They did the job well... left them on there almost a year, LOL!

The side windows just have little tabs and they pop into the window trim. I don't really like that though, because you have to bend the louvers to get them in... if yours are brittle... you may have a hard time getting them out in one piece. I'm thinking double sided tape/adhesive. Again, for the 08 Meet... I had little time to prepare... so I used double sided tape on a good portion of the trim and fender wells.... it also sat for a year and honestly, I was really worried when it came time to peel it off because the stuff was strong, I thought it was going to tear/break the plastic trim... it took some time, but I got them off with no damage. The worst part was trying to get it off the paint, LOL!

Anyways, everyone has been waiting on my louver prototypes for almost two years I think, LOL... but good things come to those who wait. I promise.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 28, 2010, 07:51:58 PM

Sweet that engine is out. Yay! That's awesome Chas. Congrats. One step closer to having the wagon on the road. I thought that was an '84 Eagle though. Hmmm.

Keep up the great work. With that list of parts I have no doubt you'll have a one of a kind wagon.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on January 28, 2010, 08:01:41 PM

Yeah, I kept saying it was an 84... I had that stuck in my head, but checked the title the other day... it's an 85 for sure. :P

Thanks for the encouragement! I can't wait to finish her... the carpet arrived today, so the interior will start tomorrow. I'm going to rattle-can the interior metal with a rust-oleum paint... from the reviews I've read, it's supposed to be the best. I bought a few cans to test it out... won't really know till a year or so down the road, but might be able to get some sort of insight after it dries and try to rough it up with a screwdriver or something. We'll see. I'm going to start sanding and grinding tomorrow and then get it painted so I cab lay that carpet.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on January 30, 2010, 01:37:19 AM

January 29th, 2010

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 30, 2010, 01:53:45 AM

Looking good so far Chas. Keep up the good work. Do you have another fender to graft onto the '85's driver's side? Just curious. Are the ones from the '80 salvagable? Okay gotta go check out the other threads.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on January 30, 2010, 03:27:07 PM

Actually the driver's side seems to be the same fender thats rotted out on all of the Eagles I have, LOL... the 80 fender is salvagable with some work... ok alot of work, lol... but if I have to use it I will. I have one other wagon out there I haven't looked closely at yet, It has a big ding in it, but I can fix that. Otherwise, I think it's a good fender. But the new SX4 out there is missing a driver's fender as well.... not like I'll be touching it anytime soon, but at some point - I will have to find one from another source.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on January 31, 2010, 01:00:03 AM

Yeah I think you have some other tasks to work on before having to worry about the fender. Who knows one might show up for sale here on the 'Nest.

Keep up the good work.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: ScottD961 on January 31, 2010, 09:41:14 PM

So did you get the wagon on the road for work ? 16 miles to town is a bit of a hike in this weather !

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: rollguy on January 31, 2010, 11:00:19 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on January 30, 2010, 03:27:07 PM

Actually the driver's side seems to be the same fender thats rotted out on all of the Eagles I have, LOL... the 80 fender is salvagable with some work... ok alot of work, lol... but if I have to use it I will. I have one other wagon out there I haven't looked closely at yet, It has a big ding in it, but I can fix that. Otherwise, I think it's a good fender. But the new SX4 out there is missing a driver's fender as well.... not like I'll be touching it anytime soon, but at some point - I will have to find one from another source.

There are plenty of rust free fenders here in CA. The problem would be shipping it without damage. The '83 Limited wagon I sold to the wrecker last year is still there (http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k13/rollguy/1120091240.jpg)
(http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k13/rollguy/1120091240a.jpg)
Let me know if you would like me to get the fenders, and how the best way to ship them..Rich

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 01, 2010, 12:41:55 AM

what do you think they'd cost from the wrecker? Shipping might not be so bad if the cost of the fenders aren't to bad. And I'm not too worried about them getting damaged. I doubt they'd get too bad that I couldn't fix easily... I can fix anything but rusted out holes, LOL! After closer inspection... both fenders are beyond repair. Gah! I'll post today's work in the morning... finally got the springs off.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Pa sx/4 on February 01, 2010, 08:12:29 AM

hay mav. i can get fenders for 40 each. shipping 2 fenders for the same side would cost the same as i would think due to the size ( box would be the same size just heavier) . If that don't work out there are 4 in the junk yard i will check out for you.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 01, 2010, 12:26:43 PM

Sweet! Yeah, I'm curious about shipping... I wonder what one of the weighs?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: IowaEagle on February 01, 2010, 07:39:38 PM

they don't weigh a whole lot -- I am thinking mine felt they weighed around 25 pounds.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 01, 2010, 08:58:54 PM

I'd guess about that much too from the ones I've carried.

My estimate would be about $100 to ship both of them together UPS. Might be able to ship greyhound or something slower for alot cheaper... bucket brigade would be nice, lol!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on February 02, 2010, 12:14:07 AM

I have heard that greyhound has good shipping rates.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 11, 2010, 02:15:12 AM

I thought I'd share this with everyone... I'm guessing since Brandon was wondering... other might be as well. Today he asked me if I had scrapped the Wagon project... Here's my answer:

-----------------------------
Oh god no, man! I won't be abandoning that project... I will see it through. Too much time and money into it to see it junked, LOL!

Mark my words... I will be driving it with my family in tow to the meet in Sept.

And it'll look brand new and totally custom... going as far as possibly chopping off cherokee fenders and hood from a 99... to hack and weld onto the Eagle. I'll keep the Eagle fenders, but chop the fronts of them off to match up to the 'kee.... then I'll use the Jeep hood, after I extend it about 12 inches or more to meet the front custom clip...

Basically... it's going to look like a magnum when I'm done... but it'll be a Jeep front end rather than the 300 or Charger front end. At least this way, I'm still partially keepinr to heritage.

Imagine your wagon with a newer Jeep front end on it... lifte a few inches, with 18" rims, true dual exhaust.... halo/projector headlights... a bangin sound system and the torque and sound of a stock V8 while keeping the weight and durability of an I6... basically a really badass magnum is what I'll end up with.... with AMC badges, AMC drive train, and a much more solid frame/body without all the computer electronics that come with the newer vehicles....

It will own ALL. Dominate ALL. And I will have to be burried in it, LOL!
---------------------------------

Does that answer your question? I don't know how well the Jeep conversion wil actually work... but I've been working on measurements... I have the entire front clip, all I need are the fenders and hood.... but I'm still thinking I can save the fenders and fab them out of fiberglass.... maybe even the hood. Not sure yet. I need to take some pictures and show you guys.

The project has been on hold because I was waiting on my oxy/acetelyn tanks to be delivered... they should be here anytime and when they arrive... I'll start cutting away that front end. Don't worry... I wouldn't attempt this on a solid perfect Eagle... that's blasphemy. This fron end stuff has to be cut off and replaced anyways, so I figure it's worth a shot to try it out. If it doesn't work... then I'll go back to the original.

Brandon also asked about a Sedan I may be buying.... yes, this is a very likely possibility. The wagon is moving much slower than planned and I HAVE to get a vehicle on the road asap. If I buy this sedan.... I will not touch anything on it. Everything will remain factory besides, the valve cover, headights (which will only have minor upgrading), wheels and stereo.

Ok... back to the regulary scheduled program.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: mick on February 11, 2010, 10:56:31 AM

:occasion14: Here's to your dedication and vision!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 11, 2010, 01:43:09 PM

Quote from: mick on February 11, 2010, 10:56:31 AM

:occasion14: Here's to your dedication and vision!

Hey Mick, you'll have to buy me a real beer at the meet!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: mick on February 11, 2010, 02:37:27 PM

You can count on it!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: ScottD961 on February 11, 2010, 04:51:14 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on February 11, 2010, 02:15:12 AM

I thought I'd share this with everyone... I'm guessing since Brandon was wondering... other might be as well. Today he asked me if I had scrapped the Wagon project... Here's my answer:

-----------------------------
Oh god no, man! I won't be abandoning that project... I will see it through. Too much time and money into it to see it junked, LOL!

Mark my words... I will be driving it with my family in tow to the meet in Sept.

And it'll look brand new and totally custom... going as far as possibly chopping off cherokee fenders and hood from a 99... to hack and weld onto the Eagle. I'll keep the Eagle fenders, but chop the fronts of them off to match up to the 'kee.... then I'll use the Jeep hood, after I extend it about 12 inches or more to meet the front custom clip...

Basically... it's going to look like a magnum when I'm done... but it'll be a Jeep front end rather than the 300 or Charger front end. At least this way, I'm still partially keepinr to heritage.

Imagine your wagon with a newer Jeep front end on it... lifte a few inches, with 18" rims, true dual exhaust.... halo/projector headlights... a bangin sound system and the torque and sound of a stock V8 while keeping the weight and durability of an I6... basically a really badass magnum is what I'll end up with.... with AMC badges, AMC drive train, and a much more solid frame/body without all the computer electronics that come with the newer vehicles....

It will own ALL. Dominate ALL. And I will have to be burried in it, LOL!
---------------------------------

Does that answer your question? I don't know how well the Jeep conversion wil actually work... but I've been working on measurements... I have the entire front clip, all I need are the fenders and hood.... but I'm still thinking I can save the fenders and fab them out of fiberglass.... maybe even the hood. Not sure yet. I need to take some pictures and show you guys.

The project has been on hold because I was waiting on my oxy/acetelyn tanks to be delivered... they should be here anytime and when they arrive... I'll start cutting away that front end. Don't worry... I wouldn't attempt this on a solid perfect Eagle... that's blasphemy. This fron end stuff has to be cut off and replaced anyways, so I figure it's worth a shot to try it out. If it doesn't work... then I'll go back to the original.

Brandon also asked about a Sedan I may be buying.... yes, this is a very likely possibility. The wagon is moving much slower than planned and I HAVE to get a vehicle on the road asap. If I buy this sedan.... I will not touch anything on it. Everything will remain factory besides, the valve cover, headights (which will only have minor upgrading), wheels and stereo.

Ok... back to the regulary scheduled program.

Well dang, tell us what your really gonna do, lol. :rotfl:

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 11, 2010, 06:50:27 PM

Won't know for sure until I'm doing it.

I just know it's hard work customizing and building from scratch. It takes dedication and good'ol fashioned inginuit. Alot of guys find that since they can't order parts out of a catalog, then they just duck their tails, scrap their projects and move on to buying the flavor of the month, lol! Not me man, I'll try to find the part... if I can't find it... then I'll fabricate it.

But just you wait... you guys have seen what myself and a couple of extra determined hands can do in two weeks... wait till you see what we can do in a few months.

The oxy/acetylene tanks arrived today. Loaded and ready to go. Welding up a dolly for a nice shop cart. I went with the mid-sized tanks for portability around the shop.

She will be a treat for the eye... and an amazing machine to fly in!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: IowaEagle on February 11, 2010, 07:11:20 PM

So, are we going to caravan to Brandon's when its Meet time?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 11, 2010, 07:33:19 PM

Yeah, that's what I was thinking Doug. Maybe even do so on the way back and clear up some space in your basement (if I don't do so earlier).

Anyone else coming up my way? It'd be great if we could get a few or more of us together.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: IowaEagle on February 11, 2010, 07:39:34 PM

That is a good idea. We have a Des Moines member who may be attending. There may be some others who will be using I-80 who are East of you and me.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 11, 2010, 08:16:29 PM

Nice, we should post a thread under the Meet board for members rolling up I80! Might find more than planned!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on February 11, 2010, 11:53:02 PM

Chas, I have no doubt that you will follow through on the project. I can't wait to see it. I hope the sedan works for you. I think I am going to try and set up a thread with an RSVP like you and Doug did for the meet. Need to know how many goodie bags to get ready (assuming I can find more stuff).

I think a caravan is a great idea.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 12, 2010, 01:14:33 AM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on February 11, 2010, 11:53:02 PM

Chas, I have no doubt that you will follow through on the project. I can't wait to see it. I hope the sedan works for you. I think I am going to try and set up a thread with an RSVP like you and Doug did for the meet. Need to know how many goodie bags to get ready (assuming I can find more stuff).

I think a caravan is a great idea.

As long as the Sedan is in as good enough shape as the seller says, then I can fix the rest and have it up in day. In fact, I'll take the parts with me that are needed to get it on the road... I'll fix it in his drive way and drive it four hours home. Wanna meet me in Chicago for the weekend? Bring the wifey... I'll bring mine and we'll find something to do!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on February 13, 2010, 04:59:39 PM

That would be fun, but we don't have the money right now.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 13, 2010, 06:03:21 PM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on February 13, 2010, 04:59:39 PM

That would be fun, but we don't have the money right now.

Dangit! Tell Doug you need a raise already, LOL!

But hey man, how much was gas getting to my place? A tank here and a tank back? If just you come, I'll leave Shelly at home too and we can get a sinlge hotel with two beds of course... (I mean, you're cute and all, but not THAT cute, LOL!) and I'll cover hotel. We'll go to a White Castle and spend $20 on a briefcase of burgers and we'll be set. I'll cover the food and hotel if you can swing gas and time to make it! C'monnnnnnnnn you know you want to!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Screamin'Eagle on February 13, 2010, 06:18:26 PM

Well if you go to White Castle and get that many Burgers your both gonna be able to swing gas for days....

;D

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on February 13, 2010, 06:23:38 PM

Quote from: Screamin'Eagle on February 13, 2010, 06:18:26 PM

Well if you go to White Castle and get that many Burgers your both gonna be able to swing gas for days....

;D

LMAO!!!!!!!!! Seriously, that one caught me off guard... bought fell out of my chair, LOL! Kudos man!

Hopefully, this trip to Chicago is alot less eventful than my last trip, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on February 14, 2010, 12:58:11 AM

For February and March I am pretty much stuck in Omaha. I have a youth group trip the last weekend in February. And I have to work the other weekends pretty much straight thru May. I did work up the rest of the schedule and made sure that I have the meet and the holiday weekends and every other weekend in the summer off throughout the restof the year. I submit it to the youth tomorrow and to my boss Thusday.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on March 03, 2010, 10:26:56 PM

Ok, so I need to post updated pics of the Wagon project... it's still going pretty slow. I've been spending alot of time working in the house. Finally got around to running the plumbing for the toilet in the family bathroom and finally got the toilet installed. All the wiring is done on that side of the house as well. Just need to texture and paint in the bathroom and it's done... woot!

So update on the wagon... started cutting away the rust on the front subframe area. Some of the bolts were rounded off into points to look like ice picks. Had to cut the bolts to get the driver's side bumper mount off. Now it's ready to be cut. Still having a hard time getting the pitman arm off of the stearing box, but once we get it off... the cutting will begin.

Also, got the cracked windshield out and removed the dashboard and labled all the wires. Most of the rust spots in the cabin have been sand blasted. I still need to grind a few spots and cut a couple more.... then weld in some new sheet metal and get her taped off and ready for paint.

Even after removing the entire interior.... it still smells like a mouse cage. There was some spilled oil in the spare tire hump and some dead mice were laying in it before...although the mice were removed weeks ago, I still think that liquid has something to do with it. I spread some cat litter over it to help soak it up. Then I'll vacum it out... scrub it and paint it. If that doesn't get rid of the smell... nothing will, lol!

Does anyone know if SX4 rear seats will fit in the wagon... I don't see why the wouldn't... the look almost identical.
Also, how hard is it to remove the black metal insert that covers the spare tire in the hatch area? I'm thinking there coule possibly be more mice up in there out of sight.... plus, I'd like to remove it to make painting easier.

And here is the last thing... I came across another wagon nearby... about 3hrs from home. It appears to be a sport model in great shape... well, excluding the taco'd front end, LOL! But I know I have everything needed to fix it. I could have it on the road in a day assuming the engine still runs. I'm guessing, radiator, water pump and fan... and she'll run. If so... and assuming the body/frame is solid... the project will be shifted to that one. I will continue on this project, but I will not install the new engine in it. I'll just finished repairing the frame/body, sand blast and tune up the old engine, paint both the engine and car, and install interior.... then I will keep it for a spare car for awhile until I find someone that wants to buy it for what I'd have in it.

As of now, the deal has been made and the offer has been accepted... still waiting on these darn taxes to arrive though... I had to mail them out to get the house tax credit so I mailed them priority 3-day mail.... that was Feb 3rd.... I ran the tracking number the other day and apparently they didn't even get my forms until the 13th... so 3 days became 10 days... and the 13th was on a Saturday as well, so they didn't actually get them until the 15th. So... basically, I probably wont get them until closer to the end of March. GRR! I've got alot riding on my taxes! :/ So hopefully soon. And hopefully, this guy holds out for me. I have no idea how the heck I'm going to get it home though, LOL!

Here are a few pictures of the new wagon... $400 - 1985 AMC Eagle Wagon Sport

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: jim on March 03, 2010, 10:41:07 PM

The shelf in the back of the wagon isn't hard to pull. It may be somewhat time consuming the first time.
Just look for all the stuff that has to come off first
and then look for the screws.
There is a plate on the passsenger side that needs to come off so it will fit through the hatch.
I had wondered why there was a plate on one side until I took one of these out.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on March 04, 2010, 01:03:48 AM

LOL... funny how we figure stuff out like that huh Jim? The car is gutted... not a piece of trim in there... I was looking at it and I remember seeing all the screws... I bet I have everything off and it'll probably come out allright. Hopefully, I find at least one more mouse... then I'll fell better knowing I got them all.. otherwise, I'm going to always think there has to be one more because it still smells horrible... omg it stinks...

I don't know what I am going to do once I end up with several complete cars... how the heck am I going to keep the rodents away??? There has to be a way to repel them from vehicles... like those bird repellants with the high frequency sound waves or something. I'd like to think I can seal up that barn comepletely.... but it's supposed to be my shop, not a storage area. :(

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on March 04, 2010, 08:09:29 AM

There are ways to keep rodents away. I cannot think of any off hand, but I know there are. The cat should help, but I think I saw a thread on keeping rodents away on here awhile back. Might try a search for the subject. Setting up a couple of those bucket traps around the shop would help too I'd bet.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Pat on March 04, 2010, 11:31:51 AM

Don't know if they work, but a few ways I've read about are moth balls, Downy® dryer sheets, or Irish Spring® soap. Again, not saying they do or don't work. Never had a need to try them Have just read about them from other people who have had to store vehicles.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26
Post by: Whuntmore on March 04, 2010, 11:46:03 AM

Sorry Mav, and I know you're busy with everything and all, but you got anymore really cool pics of the work you're doing? I've been following this thread for a bit now, and as a fan, I gotta see some more work, before/after shots of how it's coming.

Pul-ease!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on March 04, 2010, 06:50:31 PM

I haven't gotten very far... I'll download them off my phone now though. :P

Nice to know I have fans! Now if I could just find some fans into my music... then I'd be well on my way to becoming a rockstar!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on March 04, 2010, 07:05:58 PM

Here's one update on the Wagon... at least another side project I'm working on for the Wagon.

http://forums.amceaglenest.com/index.php?topic=25240.0

And here are the only pics I have of the last couple of weeks. Most of which were taken this past weekend. Basically, all I've done is a bit more sandblasting, some minor cutting with the torch (you can see some pics of cut bolts below), we ripped out the cracked windshield, and I removed the dash and labled all the wires.

The cutting and welding should be done soon I hope. Then she'll be getting some body work... popping all the dings and dents and getting her sanded down. I finally got the black primer in the other day so I'm excited about that!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on March 04, 2010, 07:24:44 PM

"It's going to happen if I have glue and staple." - Mavericke
Gotta love that.

Nice work. Keep it up.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26
Post by: Whuntmore on March 04, 2010, 07:30:09 PM

Don't forget to post the pics of the glue and staples!!!! ;D ;D ;D

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 03, 2010, 07:05:07 PM

Ok... so once again now that the car is stripped and I am fed up with the hassle of all the welding.... I have moved this car out to pasture in the Eagle Sanctuary Badlands, lol! She's good from the firewall back so I'm not scrapping her... but work is being suspended on her so that my efforts can be moved forward on the other three Eagles here with REAL potential. First off, I've got that blue SX4 I'm working on... secondly, I still need to finish the body work on the orange SX4 and swap motors.... lastly... here's my newest project. I paid $525 for her and that included delivery. Not a speck of rust. And get this... she runs great! The fan was busted off and the radiator is shot, but she fires up! I drove her off the trailor!

The fenders appear to be good... even the bumper caps look nice. I just need to replace the obvious grill, headlights, trim, buckets, radiator and tranny cooler hose... and then weld in a new front clip... which just so happens to be perfect on the rust bucket out back. We've already cut off the pieces that will go on this one.

Here are the pics... Dusty broke the tip on my welder, but assuming he gets it fixed tonight... we'll spend all day on the wagon tomorrow and I'll drive her up and have her registered on Monday and she will be my daily driver until the blue SX4 is done... then when the blue SX4 and the RAM is finished.... I will pull this wagon back in the garage to swap in the new interior and the stroker.... and of course, give her a nice fresh coat of paint. THEN... work will be started on the orange one... THEN... back to the rust bucket! Woot! Plenty of projects to last me into next summer!

She's a 1985 AMC Eagle Wagon Sport.... I will eventually convert this thread to reflect THIS project rather than the rust bucket (which probably won't see the light of day for another year or more, if ever). I'll be pulling the power window stuff off the Limited... heck maybe even the badges, LOL! I'll have a "Limited Sport".... woot!

Here are some pics I took this morning!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/04031047c.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031047b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031047b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031047.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031047.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031048.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031048.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031048a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031048a.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031048c.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031048c.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031048b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031048b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031049.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031049.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04031049a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04031049a.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 03, 2010, 07:09:42 PM

I may be speaking too soon, but that wagon looks to have easy fixes on it. I believe you do have all of those parts. So which vehicle are you going to concentrate on so you have a daily driver? This Wagon, the SX/4 or the Dodge?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 03, 2010, 07:15:34 PM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on April 03, 2010, 07:09:42 PM

I may be speaking too soon, but that wagon looks to have easy fixes on it. I believe you do have all of those parts. So which vehicle are you going to concentrate on so you have a daily driver? This Wagon, the SX/4 or the Dodge?

Wagon first because it's the easiest of the three. I have everything needed and it runs good.

Then the Dodge because it too should be easy, but it's not a family rig so it has to be 2nd... and I'm not 100% sure that I won't run into any "uh ohs".

Then back to the SX4.... it's close to being done. The frame repairs are almost complete... then we drop the motor/tranny... and put in the new wiring harness.... then it'll be good to go.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 03, 2010, 07:53:36 PM

Yeah now that you said that I saw the build order mentioned in the update. Sorry, must not have read carefully enough. Hope the build on the wagon goes well.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 03, 2010, 08:07:34 PM

Thanks! I expect a quick fix!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Pat on April 03, 2010, 09:22:27 PM

Mirrors on that look like the ones on Old Rusty.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 03, 2010, 09:54:02 PM

yeah, obviously not Eagle mirrors... I hated them at first.... but the more I stare at them, the more I really like them.

They are kinda big and ghatti for the Eagle.... but I like having big mirrors for the wide view in back. If the chrome was cleaned up on them, they'd look really nice.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 03, 2010, 09:58:15 PM

I had those mirrors on my Bronco II. Definitely not AMC. I kind of wish I would have replaced my original ones with ones like that, but the price was right on the mirrors I got.

Man I wish we lived closer I would so help you out on projects.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Limited Eagle Wagon Stroker - WARNING LOTS OF PICS - 01/26/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 09, 2010, 02:16:30 AM

Here's the progress! Now that the Dodge is up and running and getting me back and forth to work... and some playing.... and dragging Eagles around the yard, LOL.... it's time to get back on this project! So, we've got all the front end torn apart and the wrecked/crushed metal cut off with the torch.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/04080701a.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04080702a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04080702a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04080702.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04080702.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 09, 2010, 02:37:25 AM

Quote from: Mavericke on April 09, 2010, 02:16:30 AM

Here's the progress! Now that the Dodge is up and running and getting me back and forth to work... and some playing.... and dragging Eagles around the yard, LOL.... it's time to get back on this project! So, we've got all the front end torn apart and the wrecked/crushed metal cut off with the torch.

And I have officially updated the first post with all the other updates within this thread... it also reflects the progress and gradual decision to move on from one Eagle... to another.... to another... to a truck... and back to this Wagon. This one will not leave the garage until it is running.

Wasn't it running to start with? :)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 09, 2010, 01:58:12 PM

Why yes, yes it was, LOL!

It's probably the best running Eagle here. Once the welding is done... the rest will slap on there in a heartbeat.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 10, 2010, 10:10:17 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on April 09, 2010, 01:58:12 PM

Why yes, yes it was, LOL!

It's probably the best running Eagle here. Once the welding is done... the rest will slap on there in a heartbeat.

Okay that makes sense.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 12, 2010, 10:52:15 PM

Ok, ready for this? Check it out baybay!!!

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/1985Sport-BeforeAfter.jpg)

This is the 1985 AMC Eagle Sport I bought with tax money last week for $525 and that included delivery from 4 hours away... the seller was very cool. From the moment I fired it up to back it off the trailer... I knew this was going to be my baby. This car will protect my children. It will help me keep my job, lol... and when I need to work on Shelly's Jeep... then she can drive this and I'll drive my truck.

So far, we have replaced the water pump, belts, radiator, fluid, battery, hood, front clip and maybe a few minor things that I can't rememeber. I still need to tune her up, but she really doesn't need it. Maybe an oil change... but she's running great. I was going to replace the plastic valve cover, but she's not leaking! The only thing on the engine was maybe some spilled oil over the nears... maybe some bleeding from the oil cap... and the water pump's weep hole had been well... weeping. I almost didn't replace it... and I'm so glad I did because when we pulled it off - the pump was not spinning. It had been crushed in from the wreck. We wouldn't have know unless we pulled it off and checked. I just happened to be at Autozone buying the belts for the Eagle and a timing gun for the truck and I saw another guy buying a water pump for his "whatever"... and I thought what the heck... it's only $25. So I jumped on it. I would have bought the timing chain too since the front of the motor was so easily accesible, but they didn't have them in stock and I didn't think she really needed it. Anyways... she's hauling balls now!

Dusty and Jayson worked really hard on this... it was a "first" for them both. Dusty is a very skilled welder but he has only worked on motorcycle frames and the random "here and there". Plus he had to use my cheap Chicago Electric Mig... Jayson grinded everything down... sand blasted everything and did all the measuring to make sure the clip was where it was supposed to be. These guys kicked total butt... I pretty just worked at my actual job the whole time. I did actually install the water pump and the radiator... and I will be the one to reinstall the grill and components. Plus I uh... supervise... gotta make sure they aren't slacking, LOL!

There are a couple quirks though... for one, I forgot to install the :censored: AC condensor... so now I'll have to pull all the off to do so, lol! And secondly, she's idling REALLY high when in park.... AND she kinda wanted to over heat when I took her down the road and back. Once she heated up, there was a slight knock... but again, I think with the proper liquids inside, she'll be fine. We still haven't changed the oil. As for the idling... not sure yet. We just got her going and pulled her out of the garage to do the timing on my truck. The Wagon will be back in the garage asap. She will be my daily driver by the end of the month.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/04121431a.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04121431b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04121431b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04121431.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04121431.jpg)

My "new" radiator... before and after. And then a couple pictures of the welding/grinding work Dusty and my brother pulled off for me.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04120253.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04120253.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04120300a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04120300a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04112337.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04112337.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04112336a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04112336a.jpg)

Here's what's left of the 1980 "White Castle" Eagle and here's part of the process of it the front clip being installed on the Sport.
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04111236b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04111236b.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04101136.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04101136.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04101136a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04101136a.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04112336.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04112336.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04112113.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04112113.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04121302.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04121302.jpg)

ANNND... we're not done yet... I bought some new headlights to try out. It also doubled as a good gift for a good pal on the Nest here because I knew he really liked my old headlights and I really wanted to try out the projectors... so here they are.... notice the box and brand.. how cool is that? I always order my headlights from the same guy... motorblvd on the auction site. Very cool to deal with and very fast shipping.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04091552.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04091552.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04091553.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04091553.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04091553a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04091553a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04091554.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04091554.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on April 12, 2010, 11:03:10 PM

Looking good Mav. Congrats. on finally getting one you can drive ( after a little surgery ).

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 12, 2010, 11:13:29 PM

Thanks man.... she's getting there. Just some paint and some TLC and she'll be a road warrior soon. I can't wait! Not sure about the hood though yet... I've always wanted a wagon hood... but after taking off the smashed power buldge hood... I kinda miss it. We'll see.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 13, 2010, 12:49:00 AM

That looks great so far. So I take it you'll be bringing this to tme meet in September? Can't wait to see it. You need to update your list of vehicles on your signature sometime to reflect the changes in your fleet.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 13, 2010, 01:26:43 AM

Yeah, good idea Brandon... thansk for the kudos and helping me stay focused! Yes, I intend on bringing the family in this wagon to the meet. I've actually considered bringing two Eagles if they're done... and my brother my bring the Spirit if it's one the road.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 13, 2010, 01:28:19 AM

I have not seen the spirit before. Have I? Any of those rides have a tow hitch on them?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 13, 2010, 12:11:12 PM

yes, most them have hitches... which is wierd because I had never seen one on an Eagle before.

Most ar connected to the bumper though. Not sure what it would tow.

As for the Spirit... we nevermade it out the barn when you came out :/ totally forgot... we put you to work right away, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 13, 2010, 06:00:35 PM

Hey you updated your vehicle list in your signature. Nice.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 13, 2010, 06:18:50 PM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on April 13, 2010, 06:00:35 PM

Hey you updated your vehicle list in your signature. Nice.

Yeah, I took your advice.... it was over due. Updated some other stuff too.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: jim on April 13, 2010, 10:26:43 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on April 13, 2010, 06:18:50 PM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on April 13, 2010, 06:00:35 PM
Hey you updated your vehicle list in your signature. Nice.

Yeah, I took your advice.... it was over due. Updated some other stuff too.

If the collection keeps growing the forum will have to start adding hard drive space. ;D

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: amc78concord on April 13, 2010, 10:34:21 PM

Quote from: jim on April 13, 2010, 10:26:43 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on April 13, 2010, 06:18:50 PM
Quote from: 83Eagle! on April 13, 2010, 06:00:35 PM
Hey you updated your vehicle list in your signature. Nice.

Yeah, I took your advice.... it was over due. Updated some other stuff too.
If the collection keeps growing the forum will have to start adding hard drive space. ;D

Just buy like 10 terabytes and call it good ;D

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 13, 2010, 10:44:26 PM

Yeah no kidding... I probably need to weed out my project threads. I could probably get rid of a couple of them at this point... but they sure do tak awful long time to type up, LOL! And I refer to them alot... so idk... maybe I just need to finish them and call it a day, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: jim on April 13, 2010, 10:49:26 PM

I wasn't talking about the threads. I was talking about the length of the signature! ;D

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on April 13, 2010, 10:51:29 PM

I was wondering if he had enough room to list everything. Hey, Mav. you've got the sanctuary, you need the room in the signature. ;D

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 13, 2010, 10:54:27 PM

LOL... yeeah yeah yeah.... I think there are others here with much longer signatures! Don't be mad because mine is poetic and totally cool... I mean, we can't ALL be great, right?

LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on April 13, 2010, 10:58:35 PM

I see 1 5h1trolet & 1 Mopar ( & they bought AMC ). Everything else is AMC. Looking good.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 13, 2010, 11:02:01 PM

Yeah, the Chevy wasn't my first choice... but the price convinced me. I'd love to have a Dodge Ram van identical to this one with the 360 in it.

I actually already have a 304 that I'm considering dropping in it... just not sure about how the tranny would match up.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 14, 2010, 04:39:43 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on April 13, 2010, 11:02:01 PM

Yeah, the Chevy wasn't my first choice... but the price convinced me. I'd love to have a Dodge Ram van identical to this one with the 360 in it.

I actually already have a 304 that I'm considering dropping in it... just not sure about how the tranny would match up.

I always liked the Ram vans myself, but after having some of them in the fleet at work I'd take a ford or chevy over the Dodges anyday as far as the full size vans go. Of course none of them were v8, so I might be speaking out of turn. The 360 seems like a great engine.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 14, 2010, 06:15:27 PM

Yeah, well I've had nothing but bad luck with Chevy... although it did keep us safe in the accident. Chevy parts are also expensive. Ford's prices are cheaper, but the parts seem to hold up. They both rust out, although you see more rotted out S10's than you do Rangers, lol! Not sure about the vans. But Dodge seems to be in a class of it's own.... back in the day, I'm not sure I'd own a Dodge truck... but really since taking on alot of Jeep's ideas and later AMC's... I've found alot more similarities than you would imagine.

Anyways... I was always a Ford/Motorcraft guy... but I'm pretty much all Mopar now. I mean, I love Jeeps... I love Dodge... that must make me a Chrysler guy. *shrug* Or should I say Fiat... LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 14, 2010, 07:30:48 PM

Yeah I think it honestly has more to do with the care of the vehicle than anything else. I thought the Dodge Passenger vans we had were dogs. But they were 3.9 V6 powered as opposed to the V8 Fords. V8s (or bigger) in vehicles like that just perform better. For the human services field I was sad to see the Chevy Astros go. Those were easy to work on and were bigger than any minivan, but smaller than the full size.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 14, 2010, 09:41:49 PM

The astros were nice... my parents owned for awhile when I was a kiddo. Still... an ugly grocery getter though. What is it with you and grocery getters? LOL!

I mostly agree with the statement about how the vehicle is taken care of... but still there are some cars that are just junk fomr day one. Read anything about Toyota's recent fiasco? Exactly. That Blazer I had was the biggest POS I owned.... and I loved it probably more than a man should love a machine... well unless it's the chick machine in Terminator:3.... any man could love kind of machine, LOL! But that's not the point... I babied that truck... upgraded... dealt with all the tweaks... I guess I'm being more hard on it than I should. When I wrecked it, it was running fantastic with just over 100k on it. Maybe, I'm more hard on it because I miss driving a newer vehicle that was set up perfectly the way I wanted it. I mean... that truck and I had spent alot of time together. It was my first (and probably last) "new" vehicle. Still though... alot of issues with that thing from day one. The have horrible crappy intakes that blow out if your truck sits in the sun too long, lol! Ok... it's not that bad... but it's still pretty bad. That's just a junk-poor design flaw.... and they never fixed it! Take it to a dealership and the idiots will install another crappy cardboard gasket that will blow again! Duh!?

The same goes for my Dodge in that aspect... from what I've read... the Belly styled FI-318 Magnum has probably one of the worst intake gasket design flaws ever... this design flaw was carried from 92-07!?!?! WTF? See, that has nothing to do with how you take care of it... they just blow because they are crap junk designs.... and I expect that out of new vehicles... but to continue doing the same thing for over 10 years is a bit ridiculous, don't ya think?

Ok... rant off.
Sorry, lol! Obviously,not aimed toward you... just getting really upset right now because the tax money is gone - we spent more than we probably should have... and it's all on ths truck that popped up last minute... this "great deal" that cost me twice as much as planned... $250 to legally have it tagged...
$140 for new intake gaskets and new plenum repair kit....
$170 for distributor
$5.99 x 8 Bosch Platinum 4-prong plugs
$80 for all new fuel lines
$60 for an oxygen sensor
$85 for a Map sensor

plus several other things I can't remember... like wires, oil, filters, fluids, about 6 rolls of black electrical tape, thermostat & gasket, a full tank of gas that was burned up really fast because of how horrible she was running... by the way, that's 32g and she was dry... do the math! Oh yeah, and all the fluids? The expensive Castrol GTX High Milage performance stuff? All ruined because of the bad intake gasket... had to drain the coolant again too. It's one thing to buy a part... and another thing to buy the same stuff twice, like those fluids... and then the thermostat that I got the first time was tricking the truck into running too cold and too rich... so I had to buy another one. Get this... you have to remove the alternator to get to the thermostat housing... it's about 2 hour job! GRR!

So tonight... we install the new plenum kit and gaskets and the new oxygen sensor... if that doesn't fix it... then I'm going to finish the job the PO started... but this time I will just drop a match in the gas tank! LOL!

Ok.... NOW the rant is off... sorry, LOL! Needed to vent!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 14, 2010, 09:57:31 PM

Wow. Nothing comes easy does it? I think you need to meet my buddy Chris. He has a similar rant style as you. Stuff seems to like to challenge him more than others, just like you. But just like you he somehow aalways seems to land on his feet.

I am sorry the truck is turning out more expensive than you thought. It will be a heck of a runner when you get through with it I am sure.

Quote from: Mavericke on April 14, 2010, 09:41:49 PM

The astros were nice... my parents owned for awhile when I was a kiddo. Still... an ugly grocery getter though. What is it with you and grocery getters? LOL!

Take it to a dealership and the idiots will install another crappy cardboard gasket that will blow again! Duh!?

Ok for the record, I never said I'd buy an Astro for me (maybe for a winter tank if it were AWD and I never had to pay for gas). They were big roomy and cheap to work on. Perfect for carting people around town to and from work. I personally felt they drove like an underpowered golf cart.

I realize when I sell the Elantra 2 things will happen...

1. My choices for vehicle to drive for ethe day = Minivan, Wagon and bigger wagon
2. I will own all American Vehicles for the first time in 10 years (unless you count the 1/2 a Mitsubishi I have out front).

Nothing wrong with grocery getters at this point in my life as long as one of them is an Eagle.

Cardboard gasket? My other buddy Chris cut out a gasket out of cardboard to replace the one for his carb on his 79 Catalina when he sold it. We ran into the new owner a year later at Advanced replacing that gasket.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 14, 2010, 10:17:24 PM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on April 14, 2010, 09:57:31 PM

Cardboard gasket? My other buddy Chris cut out a gasket out of cardboard to replace the one for his carb on his 79 Catalina when he sold it. We ran into the new owner a year later at Advanced replacing that gasket.

LOL! That's terrible... I thnk we've all tried that route at least once. You gotta learn somehow. I even tried it twice with the valve cover... what a mistake, lol! Leak was worse after the work than before, LOL!

And you're right.. as long as it's an Eagle - you're safe in my neck'o the woods!

And the truck... again, you're right.. at least when it's done - it'll so bad@ss that you won't believe it... I mean, basically the engine runs good... it's just got some quirks... once all those sensors are replaced and after I clean here out real good... I bet she'll purr like a kiten and roar like a lion baby! I have faith in this penum repair kit... I found it on the Dodge Ram Charger forums... apparently, people from all over the world order these kits from this particular place... I looked them up and found at that they are located an hour away from me! So drove out and picked everything up today.... looks sturdy... they only deal in Mopar, but I mentioned some custom I6 valve covers... we'll see what happens.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 14, 2010, 10:22:06 PM

Once you get the truck running good you can slow down on the other projects I am sure. Are you going to undercoat the SX/4 and the 85 Sport with anything?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 19, 2010, 07:40:44 PM

Yes, Brandon... they will both be coated, but I think I'm just going to use a thick paint and roll it on.

Every vehicle I've seen with the under coating has rust UNDER the coating... granted, it's a small amount, but I think that stuff traps moisture or something.

I've been testing some paint... I'll know more after the winter hits. It was used on my Blazer and it lasted about 3 years. I wouldn't mind spraying on new paint every other winter to save it. It's cheaper and the underbody coating only lasts a few years longer and it's harder to put on.

I'm still weighing options... anyways, pics are coming real soon fo the wagon. Wait till you see it! I'll post them tonight!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 19, 2010, 08:42:10 PM

I'm thinking of POR 15 the undercarriage of my Eagle before winter. Then, looking at options.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 20, 2010, 10:01:59 PM

Ok, I said these were coming last night... my bad. Enjoy! Please comment!
(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/04181911.jpg)
So here she is, ready for her maiden voyage... unbeknownst to us all... because we weren't even thinking about it... she is strutting tires that are WAY too big. The maiden voyage barely got past the turn in the driveway and it tore up one of my fenders pretty bad. It's fixable, but it still sucked, lol!

Ok for starters... here is my valance work. The white one was dented up pretty bad. So I borrowed one from the blue SX4 until I have more time to repair the white one. This blue one did has some dings, but not nearly as bad. Apparently, I forgot to take pictures of the finished product... you're not missing much. I didn't have any fine grit sand paper and it actually looks pretty rough, but at least the dents are gone and the black looks better than the white. It's basically prepped now for a total paint job later this summer. They are posted in order... the last one is what it looked like just before I painted it black.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04140940.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04140940.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04151026a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04151026a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04151026.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04151026.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04151035.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04151035.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04151218.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04151218.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04151025.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04151025.jpg)

Here are the foglights that I found inside the latest SX4 that came out of Ohio. I was sooo excited to find these... then my heart was broken. After some more consideration though... I have come up with an idea to save them. I'll post pics on it when they are done.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04140914.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04140914.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04180057a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04180057a.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04180057b.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04180057b.jpg)

And here are some shots of us working on the headlight buckets, lights, and grill. I just pulled out the headlights from the Orange SX4 to use temporarily until I can take the time to make some headlight bucket modifications for the projector beams. These headlights are going to Brandon. They have some small scraches in them from the wreck last summer, but no more than what you'd get from a summer of driving anyways. They still function properly.

Oh yeah, one of the pics (the first one) is a shot of my bondo job on the fender. I didn't take my time with this. I simply slapped some bondo on and shaved it down to fill in the rust hole so that I can spray some black paint on it and protect the good parts until I take the time to do all of the body work and paint it.

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04171514.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04171514.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04180057.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04180057.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04181709.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04181709.jpg) (http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/th_04181709a.jpg) (http://s152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/?action=view&current=04181709a.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 21, 2010, 12:35:35 AM

Nice work. I have the wheels out of the shed as you saw earlier. I have an hour or three of homework, then I'll run to see what shipping will be. I'll give you a call if anything changes from the quote you got.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: amc78concord on April 21, 2010, 06:47:07 PM

Looks good Mav, I like the updated headlights...Looks like a real well done job to restore the Eagle. Good job! :)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 22, 2010, 06:52:46 PM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on April 21, 2010, 12:35:35 AM

Nice work. I have the wheels out of the shed as you saw earlier. I have an hour or three of homework, then I'll run to see what shipping will be. I'll give you a call if anything changes from the quote you got.

Sweet! I can't drive her until I get wheels, but the truck is running well enough to take back and forth to work so I'm content. Take your time buddy - I appreciate it more than you know!

Quote from: amc78concord on April 21, 2010, 06:47:07 PM

Looks good Mav, I like the updated headlights...Looks like a real well done job to restore the Eagle. Good job! :)

Thanks man! She's getting there. That was all just the basic stuff.... alot more labor intensive than I expected. :/ But it turned out so much better than expected. The front frame rails seem a bit wavy where the bumper mounts connect, but the frame is straight. They're wavy because of where the welds went in.... and it's sturdy too, we just could have filled in some more flux to smooth it out and we didn't because we had already gone through about 7 rolls of flux core wiring fro the welder... at $12 a roll, it was starting to get expensive.

The next job... once my brother's truck is done and Shelly's Jeep is repaired from her ditch accident back in December... then I'll pull the wagon back in the garage to rip out the interior and finish up the body work. I'm going to do my best to paint the car the exact same color. I really dig it. I'm just going to leave this engine in for now and get as many miles out of her as I can. She just runs too :censored: good to rip it out.... and why fix something if it isn't broken!?

The stroker will sit for now until I find a use for it. Since the Orange SX4 has been neglected... and now that I have confirmed that the engine has blown.... I'm seriously considering dropping the stroker in it along with the 5-speed tranny I've been holding on to.

The choices are limitless at this point... I've even considered selling the zero mile stroker just so that I could use the cash to dump into another engine or two and do it all myself.

Anyways, thanks for looking, posting, and supporting!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on April 22, 2010, 09:04:24 PM

Good luck Mav., hope you get the Dodge fixed soon. Good to hear the Eagle is up & running. Going to see if I can just transfer my title tomorrow without actually putting plates on till I get it re-inspected. Have my brake hoses now, wiper blades are next ( even I can do that. Just leaves the exhaust. All I want to do is patch it to get through inspection. If I ever get my 360, it'll need new exhaust anyway. Don't want to buy something I'm not going to use long.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 22, 2010, 09:08:32 PM

Thanks man... it's getting there.

Good luck on yours too.... just like I say to all the other guys... wich you lived closer, we'd git'er done! It's just bittersweet because you really don't live too far... just far enough for it to almost cost too much to make it for a quick fix. :/ Of course, Brandon drove twice the distance to hang out with me a few months ago. He was just lookin for an excuse to get out though, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on April 22, 2010, 09:18:40 PM

If I could afford the time off , I'd do it. Plus my niece moving maybe the end of this month or the middle of next month, puts my schedule kinda mixed up right now. She has a key already, gave her one the last time she was here. She's been here enough times now, she can find it without me. Never know, may show up on your doorstep one of these days. Better call the :police: >:D!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 22, 2010, 09:20:29 PM

LOL... nah... I'll call pizza delivery, and have the wifey pick up some brew!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on April 22, 2010, 09:32:59 PM

Better make it Dew instead of brew for me. Don't drink, a shot of Nyquil® will put me out like a light for about ½ hour & then my prostrate kicks in. Hope you have an extra bathroom ;D.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 22, 2010, 10:35:01 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on April 22, 2010, 09:08:32 PM

Of course, Brandon drove twice the distance to hang out with me a few months ago. He was just lookin for an excuse to get out though, LOL!

Dude ain't that the truth. I am half tempted to load those wheels up and head that way Saturday Morning. I think there and back would be too much for one day though, since I have to pick Sam up by 8pm and the earliest I'd be able to get out of here is 10 or 10:30 :(

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on April 23, 2010, 12:45:17 AM

Dude, you know you could stay the night. The only thing is that I work so I won't be off until 10p... and you're more than welcome to come over and hang out with my brother in the garage all day, but I'd think you'd probably rather me be there, lol... I mean, maybe I guess, LOL!

If you're not busy Sunday... I'll be there all day! Maybe show up evening Saturday and take off midday Sunday?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on April 23, 2010, 02:11:17 AM

I have to work Sunday and I would have to be back by 8pm to get Sam. Traveling with a two year old is hard enough. See the "How Much Does a Stock Wheel Weigh" Thread.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: idahoeagle on June 11, 2010, 01:36:06 AM

Mavericke, where did you get the coil spacers from? I'm going to be buying an SX/4 in a couple weeks and really don't like my vehicles stock height, but not wanting to go straight axle just yet... Been there, done that though... Used to have an 85 Wagon that I straight axled. A very capable car that demanded respect in traffic... Hehe! People in lifted F250s were about eye level with me and I was on 35s...

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on June 11, 2010, 08:17:17 PM

Nice!

The coil spacers I found on the popular bidding site... if you cant find them, send em a PM and I'll dig up my old purchase and get you some contact info. They were pretty reasonably priced too.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on June 30, 2010, 09:43:51 PM

As you all know, my internet access is limited right now, but I wanted to update you on my progress of the wagon.

We have replaced the front suspension and added the 3" lift. With the new springs, shocks and lift... she actually gained a good 4-5" of clearance and I think the Jeep wheels I had before will fit with maybe some very slight rubbing from time to time.

The rear suspension is what we're working on now. We are replacing the rear leafs with leafs from a 91 Dodge Ram 1/2 pickup... they are the exact same length and they will bolt on almost exactly as the originals. I am hoping this will give the rear end some more "beef" and a slight lift with the current 3" lift and new shocks should give her the extra height I was looking for.

I took several pictures of ther suspension stuff... the first side was a bear trying to figure it all out. I deff recomend taking the hood off and using the actual Eagle spring compressor kit. The first one took us about two hours to get out... the second one took all of about 30m.

The rear end has been rough... we're almost done. One side was broken already and we didn't know it. All of the bolts were so rusted that it took every bit of strength to get them off... everyturn was just excruciating. But we got it done. We even had to do some cutting with the torch.

She'll be ready to go soon.

Update on my $2900 laptop... they are only covering $400 so I'm screwed. I'll fight it till the bitter end though.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: thereverendbill on June 30, 2010, 10:15:10 PM

don't you just love that .... you have given the insurance company money money month over month and when it comes time to "cash in" they fight you on it like you have a choice of how much you pay them for the coverage. i hate insurance companies

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on June 30, 2010, 11:35:10 PM

Can't wait to see the wagon. Sucks about the computer.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on July 17, 2010, 01:45:11 AM

Been a couple weeks, how's the wagon ( yours, not mine ) coming? Forget if you ever got the doggy Dodge running right. Insurance co. still not wanting to pay for the computer? Somebody was looking for a roof rack, if you don't have one, sell the one off mine & put the money towards my EXTREME MAVERICKE MAKEOVER / repairs. Wanted it off anyway if you remember. One of these years, I may actually start making enough to start sending you something toward the Eagle. Scheduled return to the job date is 17 Aug., probably be Sept. before they start having any real field trips. May have some " drop offs " before then. That's where you pick them up at school & just take them to where they're going. Once you " drop them off ", that's it. You're done & they find their own way back to school or home. Usually just practice, not regular games. Not good for the paycheck. Most of them are close enough to only pay the 2 hour minimum. Hopefully when you do get the funds & get started on mine, you won't find any unpleasant surprises. It looked solid from what I saw. If you notice the time, that's from Arthur. He's paying another visit tonight. Dr. gave me some new prostrate dope a couple months ago, helping A LOT!! Probably not getting up more than 5 or 6 times a night, sometimes even less. Compared to the 5 or 6 minutes I was sometimes, I'm happy. Mentioned to the dr. about how good it was & she said it should only 0 - 1 times a night. Explained to her about the difference between 5 - 6 minutes & 5 - 6 times a night. She said Oh okay. I guess that is better then.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on July 17, 2010, 11:59:15 AM

Last I head from Mavericke they were paying for the computer, but taking forever. Plus I think some other more pressing repair surfaced at the house that the money will have to go towards.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on July 17, 2010, 12:00:22 PM

That's not good. Best of luck to him. Thanks for the update Brandon!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on July 17, 2010, 01:19:24 PM

Yes, he has certain things that are house related that need to be finished up during the next couple of weeks.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 18, 2010, 08:29:56 PM

Yeah thanks for the concern gusy.... the thing is; I need money. And I can make extra money once my barn is cemented... and once the house is done, then I can have the cement poured. The insurance company paid me $2400 for my 3k laptop and all the money went to the last few thing for the house.

Going to sell my last good set of louvers...
Trying to sell the truck... or Jeep...
Going to slap that blue SX4 together and get it running and get it sold...
Plus some other random parts...

I need to pay the Nest for EG's cars. Jerry for his SX4 and I need to come up with $2600 to replace my laptop. That's alot of car work to make those funds in a timeley fashion. Laptop HAS to come priority... but it shouldn't be long once the cement is poured. heck, if someone offered me the right amount for my wagon right now... I'd probably take it.

It runs better than any I6 I've ever seen/heard. All the vacums are hooked up and working including smog. There isn't a speck of rust in it. Interior is decent except the headliner. I've already replaced the seats. New tune up and water pump. New AC condensor. New shocks, New leaf springs, new coil springs, a 3-4" lift and nice Jeep 5-spoke rims with good tread tires. heck the build is on this thread. I'm not TRYING to sell it... but I sure will if the right buck comes around. And that buck wouldn't have to be a whole lot at this point. :/

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: thereverendbill on July 18, 2010, 10:09:01 PM

man, if i had the money it would be yours for just being awesome. but sadly i found out today that in order to win the lotto you have to play the lotto :'( Once i get some things going in a straight line here i am willing to make the drive and give ya a hand in anyways i can man

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on July 19, 2010, 01:57:41 AM

Quote from: thereverendbill on July 18, 2010, 10:09:01 PM

man, if i had the money it would be yours for just being awesome. but sadly i found out today that in order to win the lotto you have to play the lotto :'( Once i get some things going in a straight line here i am willing to make the drive and give ya a hand in anyways i can man

I'll second that statement Bill. My sentiments exactly.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 26, 2010, 10:23:34 PM

Thanks for the thoughts fellas. Things are starting to look a bit better.

The band is jamming steadily again and my voice is really starting to come back from the surgery... bout time, only took a year. Seems stronger than ever though. Maybe it's all the yellin at the kids, LOL!

The wagon has had a total suspension overhaul... The rear has been lifted probably 6 inches... forgot to measure it before we started. I didn't realize that i was going to have to move the shock mounts, brake line mounts, and actually purchase longer lines... it turned out to be a bigger project than anticipated, but still only a days worth of work once you get a plan of action. It's sitting right now because I need a $10 brake line, LOL.... some day.

Anyways, I'll get it all worked out soon.... the house is almost done. Just paint and flooring left.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: thereverendbill on July 26, 2010, 10:31:27 PM

bout time we get some good news from your end :P Wish i had good news from my end, dog got out today and "apparently" tried to attack someone and caused damage to a truck so most of my evening was spent with the law and i got nailed for the dog not being liscened and not being 100% on all shots so it looks like i have to come up with around 300 bucks by the end of next week or i get a hefty fine and get to go see a judge. So there goes all of the overtime money i worked my tail end off for. Looks like the eagle gets to sit another month before I can even remotely get any funds for it. Like i say and quote "when things seem to be going in the right direction for me I get scared cause something real bad is going to happen"

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on July 27, 2010, 02:46:29 PM

Glad you hear you are making progress Mavericke. That is great. Afer the headliner my wagon is going to have to sit still until I get the sink fixed in the kitchen and the shower fixed. Both things I do not know how to do. I wish we lived closer together to help each other with projects.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 28, 2010, 06:34:20 PM

Bill... you said those two cursed words.... "Good News".... *sigh* well, the good news is that I drove the wagon to work today. The new lift is amazing and she rides like a brand new car. For once, I have a %110 fully operational eagle... just need to pretty her up now. Sorry to hear about the Dog.... Shelly's german Sheperd bit someone that came in the yard that didn't belong and we got hit with $3500 when we got sued by his lawyer. That took us a couple years to pay off. :/ I feel your pain man.

Brandon... I hear ya man, i can always use extra hands out here and you're always working on projects that I could help you with and knock out really fast. makes lifer easier sometimes just having company.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: thereverendbill on July 28, 2010, 06:44:39 PM

is that the dog you got named Rocky? if so then there must be something about German shepards named Rocky that makes them anti social. the policeman that was up here was keep bringing up the point that I have young kids around the dog, but like I told the officer "the kids poke the dog in the eyes and tear at his lips and he don't even growl" this dog just don't like anyone outside of the family. But on the better part i found out that i am going to be off the hook for a mere 90 bucks. Although i wish I would have the 90 bucks to put into the eagle or my cherokee so that i can retire my dodge and make a mudtruck out of it

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 28, 2010, 06:58:57 PM

Yup, it's Rocky. We built a kennel for him out here a few weeks ago.... he literally bit the fence and yanked a hole in it with is teeth. I couldn't do that with my hands if I tried all day!!! Going to have to reinforce the entire thing with hog paneling.... freaking ogre dog. He's a big baby with the family.... but he just doesnt like outsiders in his space. He's even good with kids he's never seen... but adults, especially men... he hates. Weird.

Forgot to mention the bad news in my last post...

Shelly wrecked the jeep again!!!!!! EXACT same spot... AGAIN!!!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on July 28, 2010, 07:16:13 PM

Mavericke sent me some pictures of the Eagle and I offered to post them on the 'Nest for him.

But first, here's the seemingly never-ending Cherokee front end in it's current state :)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/ChasJeep7-2010.jpg)
At least he's familiar with this repair. And from the sound of it; this incident isn't entirely bad news.

Chas said, "Hey, I drove the wagon to work today. Rides fantastic!"

And with out further ado...

Here's the Eagle.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/2010-07-28Chas85Eagledone.jpg)

(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/2010-07-28Chas85Eagle2.jpg)

Check out the height difference between the Eagle and the Dodge Ram...

(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/2010-07-28Chas85Eagle.jpg)

Personally I think it looks great.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on July 28, 2010, 07:36:31 PM

Thanks for posting those Brandon. Chas needs a break from all the issues he has had to face recently.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 28, 2010, 07:37:05 PM

Thanks Brandon... I have limited internet access to get pics posted. Much appreciated.

The Wagon rides like a dream... I mean seriously... it rides as nice as Shelly's rental car (2010 Dodge charger), obviously not as fast... but very smooth. The height difference is great. I love the looks I've gotten so far. She fires up on the first crank everytime. No stalling. She runs great.

The hatch did pop up on me driving down the road though... that was pretty funny as you might imagine, lol! But other than that... she simply ran like a DREAM.

The lift was purchased on the bidding site. The front has 3" spring spacer, new springs, new shocks, and the rear has new shocks, 6" leaf spacer brackets, new leafs from a 91 Dodge Ram 1/2 ton pickup, They are the exact same length and they hook up exactly the same, but they are much more stiff and they have an extra leaf.

Very minor fab work needed. I needed to drop the brake line bracket and had to chop off the rear shock supports on the axle and raise them a few inches so that the stock shocks would bolt up. Quick and easy welds. No big thing.

Thanks for the support guys!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: thereverendbill on July 28, 2010, 07:39:17 PM

:censored:!!!! i am gonna have to make you plate armor for the front end of that jeep. what was hit that was yellow? and i notice you pulled the ranger from out back (see I notice things :P)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 28, 2010, 07:42:37 PM

Quote from: IowaEagle on July 28, 2010, 07:36:31 PM

Thanks for posting those Brandon. Chas needs a break from all the issues he has had to face recently.

Never fret Doug... the way I see it is that I've pretty lucky so far considering all the issues... every accident has worked out in the end and no one has gotten hurt. I also figure that maybe if I have a long string of bad luck... then eventually (if I endure, lol), things will HAVE to get better.... and if everything is an equal trade... then I should be GOLDEN soon.

Quote from: thereverendbill on July 28, 2010, 07:39:17 PM

:censored:!!!! i am gonna have to make you plate armor for the front end of that jeep. what was hit that was yellow? and i notice you pulled the ranger from out back (see I notice things :P)

LOL, yeah man armor would be great... or like what brandon said... put a backup light with a sensor on it to automatically hit the brakes when she gets close to hitting something, LOL! Yep, pulled the ranger up to swap the alternator out on it and get it up and running for my mom when she gets back.

Got another SX4 on the way too... for my brother, will post pics when I can.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on July 28, 2010, 11:34:26 PM

Yeah I forgot to mention the backup sensor idea for the Jeep. If anyone could figure out how to do that it is you (of course there are a few others on here that could easily do it too.

Chas, you need to change your signature again to include the fact that the wagon is your daily driver now.

I have another idea for you I will run by you after awhile. I think you would like it.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: thereverendbill on July 29, 2010, 04:59:35 PM

I am gonna have to stockpile some WJ front end parts for ya from a few of the wreckes sitting in the back of the shop. i would also be happy to build you a plate steel front bumper that has sides that stick out past the front fender if your interested

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on July 29, 2010, 05:48:47 PM

Quote from: thereverendbill on July 29, 2010, 04:59:35 PM

I am gonna have to stockpile some WJ front end parts for ya from a few of the wreckes sitting in the back of the shop. i would also be happy to build you a plate steel front bumper that has sides that stick out past the front fender if your interested

That's awesome.

Add a couple motion sensors connected to the brakes and he'd be all set.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 29, 2010, 06:06:49 PM

Looks like they're going to total the Jeep this time... the axle is bent... very sad... the buyback is $1300.

This is simply going to pay off the loan on it. Not sure what she is going to do about a vehicle... but I'm trying not to get too upset until they actually give me some figures.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: thereverendbill on July 29, 2010, 07:19:25 PM

sounds like you need to start tank shopping :P ..... my wife has been looking at minivans while I have been working and she says that she found the "perfect one" she says that I'd like it as well, but I highly doubt it I am not a mini van sorta guy. I am however a 4 wheel drive anything kinda guy

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on July 29, 2010, 08:19:08 PM

A certain list in Iowa always seem to have a few Grand Wagoneers for sale. Tanks with 360's!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: thereverendbill on July 29, 2010, 08:23:06 PM

Quote from: IowaEagle on July 29, 2010, 08:19:08 PM

A certain list in Iowa always seem to have a few Grand Wagoneers for sale. Tanks with 360's!

I had a 92 with power everything right before I moved from Utah, it started having fuel delivery problems 4 days before move day and i had to sell it cheap to a guy that was interested in my K-5 blazer (that i ended up using to move)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on July 29, 2010, 08:25:15 PM

Quote from: IowaEagle on July 29, 2010, 08:19:08 PM

A certain list in Iowa always seem to have a few Grand Wagoneers for sale. Tanks with 360's!

Don't say that. Mav'll buy 2, 1 to drive & one to strip the drivetrain out of for his Eagle ;D.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 29, 2010, 10:16:22 PM

Quote from: 1OldFordMan on July 29, 2010, 08:25:15 PM

Quote from: IowaEagle on July 29, 2010, 08:19:08 PM
A certain list in Iowa always seem to have a few Grand Wagoneers for sale. Tanks with 360's!

Don't say that. Mav'll buy 2, 1 to drive & one to strip the drivetrain out of for his Eagle ;D.

Yup, you know it.... I'll have a hard time destroying a Wagoneer... but I'll do it in a heartbeat if it beefs up my Eagle, lol! Though... I don't honestly think I could do it unless the wagoneer was in sad shape... and even still, i would probably donate or sell what's left to a wagoneer lover rather than scrap it.

I'd rather strip a wagoneer for parts than let her drive it, LOL!!!!! I'm kidding... she's a good driver with bad luck right now. It's like the "Ghost Jeep" or something... who knows. I will know more in the AM tomorrow.

Man... i gotta get my AC fixed in the wagon... it's totally legal and road worthy now. Fully covered insurance. New personalized plates... (will take a month to arrive), and she's running great.... but :censored: guys... someone HAS to help me with this AC... PLEASE!!!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on July 29, 2010, 10:21:51 PM

As soon as you figure out the AC you can come teach me how to fix mine.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on July 30, 2010, 06:34:11 AM

Are you sure its just not the water shut valve not working? Or isn't the compressor kicking in at all?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 30, 2010, 08:17:15 PM

Compressor kicks on IF I hook it up directly to the battery and it blows cold air... but when it's hooked up to the original wiring... it's not kicking on for whatever reason... bah. Went to AutoZone for a universal thermostat... thought I'd change it anyways if it was cheap... save me a project later on, but they don't carry them.

I still need to bypass it and check, just haven't had the time just yet.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on July 30, 2010, 08:20:42 PM

Your test sort of indicates the built in switch within the control head. Or perhaps a bad fan switch. The fan could work but I believe there is an extra connection on the fan switch for A/C cars that also allows the clutch to energize.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: rollguy on July 31, 2010, 12:15:34 AM

Quote from: IowaEagle on July 30, 2010, 08:20:42 PM

Your test sort of indicates the built in switch within the control head. Or perhaps a bad fan switch. The fan could work but I believe there is an extra connection on the fan switch for A/C cars that also allows the clutch to energize.

There should be a low pressure switch somewhere in the system (usually on the receiver/drier) that senses low pressure and will not allow the compressor clutch to energize. Find that switch (with the engine running and air on), and short the two wires together. If your compressor comes on, the switch is bad. Sometimes there is a Schrader valve under the switch and there is no need to drain the refrigerant, but if no valve, the refrigerant will need to be removed to replace the pressure switch.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on July 31, 2010, 12:21:37 AM

It seems like I remember a 3-prong plug coming off the condensor unit up by the driver's headlight... I don't think it was hooked up to anything..... I just thought about it, but I had to replace the condensor... not sure if that had anything to do with any of it.

Im going to tear into it tomorrw... I'll have more info then. Thanks guys. You can bet that I'll be back asking more questions when the time comes.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: rollguy on July 31, 2010, 12:41:06 AM

Quote from: Mavericke on July 31, 2010, 12:21:37 AM

It seems like I remember a 3-prong plug coming off the condensor unit up by the driver's headlight... I don't think it was hooked up to anything..... I just thought about it, but I had to replace the condensor... not sure if that had anything to do with any of it.

Im going to tear into it tomorrw... I'll have more info then. Thanks guys. You can bet that I'll be back asking more questions when the time comes.

That sounds like it. Just find the connector that plugs into the switch, and plug it in. Your A/C should work.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on July 31, 2010, 08:44:24 AM

Quote from: rollguy on July 31, 2010, 12:41:06 AM

Quote from: Mavericke on July 31, 2010, 12:21:37 AM
It seems like I remember a 3-prong plug coming off the condensor unit up by the driver's headlight... I don't think it was hooked up to anything..... I just thought about it, but I had to replace the condensor... not sure if that had anything to do with any of it.

Im going to tear into it tomorrw... I'll have more info then. Thanks guys. You can bet that I'll be back asking more questions when the time comes.
That sounds like it. Just find the connector that plugs into the switch, and plug it in. Your A/C should work.

It sure does.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: amcinstaller on July 31, 2010, 01:37:59 PM

am i reading this right that you had to replace a part of the a/c? did you have it drained and recharged again after? i know stupid question, but covering all bases.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on August 03, 2010, 12:31:13 PM

The condensor was busted open from the wreck and the system was already totally drained. I replaced the condensor and recharged the system myself with R134a.

I found the plug that was mentioned above... I plugged it in and... the clutch kicked right on. The strange thing is that the plug looks like it should be connected to a three prong connector. The connector only had two prongs. But it's working so Im not complaining. What sucks is that I found this after I already ripped out the dash to find the thermostat. It was already jumpered for whatever reason.... I hooked it back up like normal and it functioned like normal.... except the controler was broken. Literally cracked across the middle and the lever was popping out of the top.... so that became a huge hassle replacing it as well. Now the interior is in a million pieces... BUT... the AC works, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on August 03, 2010, 12:34:21 PM

You are cool again Mav!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on August 03, 2010, 06:48:19 PM

Quote from: IowaEagle on August 03, 2010, 12:34:21 PM

You are cool again Mav!

No pun intended of course, right? lol

I figured that since I've got the interior out, I might as well freshen it up a bit. I'm replacing all the broken and/or cracked pieces. I'm repainting all of it with vinyl paint that works really well and since I'm painting it the same color... it's working out very nicely.

Door panels look amazing.

I've ripped out all the wood grain and replaced the holes with chrome screws. New chrome emblem on the glove box.

Installing a new sound system, speakers, player, subs, amp, gps, dvd player.... it's going to be awesome. The wires have been ran and everything is ready to go... just piecing it all back together now. Will post pictures soon.

She's going to be a great daily driver. She needs some paint, but she'll be fine... still a beautiful specimen. :)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on August 03, 2010, 08:51:35 PM

Congrats on getting the AC fixed. I wish mine was fixed so I could drive it more often.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on August 04, 2010, 06:44:34 AM

A pun? I would never do that.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on August 04, 2010, 12:53:54 PM

Congrats on getting it fixed. You need it now. Were already at 95° here & headed for 100°. Calling for 45% humidity. Going to be a miserable day out there again today.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on August 12, 2010, 08:30:40 PM

Update from Mavericke: "The Eagle is on the road again!!! The trim is on and I replaced all the black with Chrome. The interior isn't done yet, but it's getting there. Drove it to work and it ran like a dream. The AC worked great, but I still think it needs more R134. Oh, get this, the cruise started working today! Sweet!
Trying to figure out how to install the dbl din GPS/DVD Unit. It is going to take some fabbing to look good. Also took the headliner out... I will post a write-up when it is done." - Mavericke.

Here's a picture he sent me....
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/ChasEagle8122010.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on August 12, 2010, 08:32:50 PM

Great!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: thereverendbill on August 12, 2010, 08:34:27 PM

heck yeah! looks like he went playing offroad a hair as well

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on August 14, 2010, 09:01:17 PM

AC working good... Cruise control is awesome.... not sure the 4x4 switch is working and last night once I almost got home my headlights started flickering. Like a strobe... I wiggled the switch and it did nothing. Scared the heck out of me.

I think it has something to do with the ground plug on the high beams being cut off the bulb... this was done because the headlights only came with low beam bulbs. I need to replace all the bulbs anyways.

Also, I hooked up the foglights to all the factory wiring and they are not working.

So the next thing is figuring that out.... oh yeah and I got hit in a rain storm and hit some major puddles and she started stalling out on me. Not sure if I got water in the carb or the dist was wet... but it was bad. I also got leaked on from driver's window and bottom of windshield/firewall somewhere.

The weirdest thing was that when I hit those puddles in the road (VERY bad drainage system on a city street) the rear end started clanging!!! my only guess is that the breather on the rear end was taking in water... ive never experienced that before. We took the hose off because we lifted the car and the original one wouldn't mount up anywhere... havent had the chance to put a longer one in.

Any ideas?

Lastly.... what the heck is the difference in the older modle headlight switches and the new ones???? The plug was different and I took out some sort of black box connected to it. Is this the newer setup so that you'd have variable speeds for the wipers? As of now, I have two speeds and they suck. I can't figure out how to get just the switch off either to replace with the original one... I really don't want to replace that whole piece again.

Oh yeah.... almost all the dash lights have been replaced with LEDs and it gives the dash i nice light blue glow that makes it look like a newer vehicle. I love it.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on August 14, 2010, 11:00:03 PM

Very cool. send me pictures if you want to post some more.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: amcinstaller on August 15, 2010, 01:12:14 AM

check the high low switch on the floor for the headlights, if theres a short there that can cause the random on off condition it sounds like youre having. other than that, maybe add a relay and different power for the headlights if youre running halogens.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on August 15, 2010, 08:09:33 AM

Re: The wiper switch. Two kinds of switches were used; one for the intermittent wipers and one for the regular two speed wipers. The black box is the module that controls the intermittent function; it plugs in between the intermittent switch and the wiring harness.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on August 15, 2010, 02:32:41 PM

Quote from: amcinstaller on August 15, 2010, 01:12:14 AM

check the high low switch on the floor for the headlights, if theres a short there that can cause the random on off condition it sounds like youre having. other than that, maybe add a relay and different power for the headlights if youre running halogens.

I dont have the hi/low switch on the floor. Mine is in the dash. I think the floor switch was only in the 80 models. I was thinking that it could be simply a lose fuse... but the lights are switching from hi/low on their own.

Quote from: IowaEagle on August 15, 2010, 08:09:33 AM

Re: The wiper switch. Two kinds of switches were used; one for the intermittent wipers and one for the regular two speed wipers. The black box is the module that controls the intermittent function; it plugs in between the intermittent switch and the wiring harness.

Thanks for confirming Doug. Looks like Im going to have to reinstall the box and a different switch... two speed wipers suck.

Quote from: 83Eagle! on August 14, 2010, 11:00:03 PM

Very cool. send me pictures if you want to post some more.

I will, thanks Brandon!

Besides the headlights... I now have water dripping on my feet on the driver's side. Obviously AC related... but I would assume dripping water would be on the passenger side. Any ideas?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09
Post by: mudkicker715 on August 15, 2010, 03:09:07 PM

Your ac lines go in on drivers side. Should be visible from under the dash

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on August 15, 2010, 03:09:48 PM

Quote from: amcinstaller on August 15, 2010, 01:12:14 AM

check the high low switch on the floor for the headlights, if theres a short there that can cause the random on off condition it sounds like youre having. other than that, maybe add a relay and different power for the headlights if youre running halogens.

For what it's worth after spending big bucks for the 4 way flasher, hi - lo, turn signal, washer / wiper switch & busting the plastic around the steering column on my '94 Dodge I used to have, it turned out to be the headlight switch shorting out & needing replaced.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: jim on August 15, 2010, 05:50:35 PM

Water dripping on your feet probably means the ac condensate drain is stopped up.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09
Post by: mudkicker715 on August 15, 2010, 06:33:02 PM

Quote from: jim on August 15, 2010, 05:50:35 PM

Water dripping on your feet probably means the ac condensate drain is stopped up.

But if those in lines are uninsulated they could drip

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on August 16, 2010, 02:37:50 AM

They should not drip inside the car. My Elantra did the same thing. I had to jack it up on the passenger side and find the drain hole. Then I had to take out interior until I found the drain hose and put it back into the drain hole. It was pretty easy once I was pointed in the right direction.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09
Post by: mudkicker715 on August 16, 2010, 01:29:39 PM

An eagle has disconnetable lines from inside the car. Just to the right of the steering column. That than go into the evaporator. So its way different than an elantra

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on August 16, 2010, 07:24:15 PM

Quote from: simpson on August 16, 2010, 01:29:39 PM

An eagle has disconnetable lines from inside the car. Just to the right of the steering column. That than go into the evaporator. So its way different than an elantra

Thats exactly where it's dripping from.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on August 16, 2010, 08:27:00 PM

Good to know.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: tougeagle on August 22, 2010, 09:25:43 PM

Pop your rear diff cover and check for water. It will be the first thing to come out if your diff is full of it. As for the stalling, you probably got water in your dizzy, or there's an open circuit somewhere shorting out.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on August 23, 2010, 09:04:42 PM

Quote from: tougeagle on August 22, 2010, 09:25:43 PM

Pop your rear diff cover and check for water. It will be the first thing to come out if your diff is full of it. As for the stalling, you probably got water in your dizzy, or there's an open circuit somewhere shorting out.

Rear end has been fine since then... I think you were right about the dizzy though. That or carb because I just realized that I never put the splash guards back in the wheel wells. Duh.

Posting some pics tonight... you guys are going to flip, lol!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on September 03, 2010, 12:48:27 AM

Mav, if you have some pictures you need posted send them to me.

Here's the two pictures of you and the Eagle I told you I would post for you.
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/ChasandWagon.jpg)

(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i268/BKJ99/ChasandWagonII.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on September 03, 2010, 12:55:14 AM

who the heck took those???

I thought you had shots from one of the times we hung out, lol!

(god, I'm getting fat again... )

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: jim on September 03, 2010, 01:09:10 PM

It looks great, but the best thing about it is the custom dual (triple?) hood ornament.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on September 03, 2010, 01:12:55 PM

I think the other three kicked him off. You will enjoy meeting his daughters Jim.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on September 03, 2010, 04:23:12 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on September 03, 2010, 12:55:14 AM

who the heck took those???

I thought you had shots from one of the times we hung out, lol!

(god, I'm getting fat again... )

I don't know. You were tagged on facebook, so I figured you had seen them before. Sounded like you knew what I was talking about.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on September 03, 2010, 08:14:57 PM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on September 03, 2010, 04:23:12 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on September 03, 2010, 12:55:14 AM
who the heck took those???

I thought you had shots from one of the times we hung out, lol!

(god, I'm getting fat again... )

I don't know. You were tagged on facebook, so I figured you had seen them before. Sounded like you knew what I was talking about.

Musta been my buddy Zac or something... it's all good. Just suprised me.

Quote from: jim on September 03, 2010, 01:09:10 PM

It looks great, but the best thing about it is the custom dual (triple?) hood ornament.

LOL! Yeah... just about everyone said the exact same thing. People were more interested in my pup than my car and of course the girls just screamed for attention.... literally. :P

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on September 03, 2010, 08:45:59 PM

Yeah Zac was the one that tagged you.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on September 10, 2010, 11:09:08 PM

My new plates came in today...

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/2010-09-1095153206.jpg)

(http://i152.photobucket.com/albums/s181/Mavricke/1985%20AMC%20Eagle%20Wagon%20Sport/2010-09-1095153143.jpg)

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Pat on September 10, 2010, 11:47:29 PM

COOL 8)!!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on September 11, 2010, 01:13:02 AM

That's awesome. I was just going to text you and see if you wanted that picture posted. Very good.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on September 11, 2010, 12:50:34 PM

Outstanding!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on September 13, 2010, 06:36:50 PM

And I figured out my electrical issue... it's in my ignition... if I hold it forward just a hair like I'm going to start it, then everything works just fine. I've got three days to finish installing the GPS and swap out that ignition... good thing I have a NOS one laying around from the first Meet. :P It should fit right, Doug?

Stay tuned for updates!

PS - The house is almost done... having some issues with the bank for the final re-fi, but she's sure looking good with all the new light fixtures finally installed. Everything is textured and painted... all thats left is the bathroom... for the third time, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on September 13, 2010, 06:44:48 PM

Is it the ignition lock or the switch? Or does the switch need adjustment?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on September 13, 2010, 06:53:34 PM

Quote from: IowaEagle on September 13, 2010, 06:44:48 PM

Is it the ignition lock or the switch? Or does the switch need adjustment?

It's been since before the first meet since I've tinkered with one... I think it can be adjusted though. That's what I'm hoping for. maybe you can point me in the right direction??

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: IowaEagle on September 13, 2010, 06:56:23 PM

The adjustment is made at the switch by loosening the fasteners and then moving the switch up or down as needed. It usually does not take much.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on September 13, 2010, 07:02:13 PM

Quote from: IowaEagle on September 13, 2010, 06:56:23 PM

The adjustment is made at the switch by loosening the fasteners and then moving the switch up or down as needed. It usually does not take much.

Yup, I remember now!! I had to stop and adjust mine on the way to the meet because the car would not shut off. Then it did it again later anyways because the solenoid was locked up, lol! I remember being down there and tinkering with that just before all of this happened... sweet... fast and easy fix. Thanks for the refresh Doug.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on September 14, 2010, 02:00:23 AM

Glad you are getting down to the final touches on the house; that is great. Now I can send you the pictures from Nikki's family farm, so you know what to do to set up some RV parking spaces out at your place.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: amcinstaller on September 14, 2010, 11:58:16 AM

and you were worried about electrical figuring! look at you go sherlock holmes. ;) good to hear you figured it out and itll be fixed soon.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on September 14, 2010, 12:55:08 PM

Quote from: amcinstaller on September 14, 2010, 11:58:16 AM

and you were worried about electrical figuring! look at you go sherlock holmes. ;) good to hear you figured it out and itll be fixed soon.

You and me both... now I just need to magically come up with an undisclosed amount of money that went "poof" from my bank account this morning. I really do not want to sell my first gen PS3.... but if I don't make some parts sales today and tomorrow.... you may only be getting a post card from me at the Meet, lol...

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on September 14, 2010, 03:24:12 PM

I sent a number of ideas for getting cash. Hope you figure something out. We can figure out lodging. Let me know.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on October 06, 2010, 03:26:33 AM

Ok, back on topic about the wagon....

I hit some RR tracks awhile back and the car started some violent shaking... it felt like a wheel was wobbling. I was about 15m from home and about a block from a shop with a lift that gives free estimates... so I thought "what the heck".

After all the mechanics got done looking at it and ooing and awing over it... they got down to business as I took the girls next door for a bite to eat. When I came back I was told that it wasn't the "death wobble" and that I would be fine driving, but that if it happened again while at high speeds... do not hit the brakes because it will make it worse. They said nothing was going to fall off and I would be ok to drive. I left it at that and went on my way because I was in a hurry...

Once I got home, I pulled out the diagnostic report they printed up for me... the mechanic scribbled this on the sheet for me because he knew I'd be doing the work myself...

"Strut rod bushing worn out & stabilizer shock leaking (unable to handle road shock & rotor rev out)"

So... apparently this is causing some major "wobble". I figure that since Kirsten is here and we have to swap out her rear end, maybe I could get her to help me out on my front end before she goes if even she only hand me tools and keeps the girls from killing one another while I'm under the wagon, lol!

Any tips?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: tougeagle on October 08, 2010, 01:01:35 AM

Quote from: Mavericke on October 06, 2010, 03:26:33 AM

Ok, back on topic about the wagon....

I hit some RR tracks awhile back and the car started some violent shaking... it felt like a wheel was wobbling. I was about 15m from home and about a block from a shop with a lift that gives free estimates... so I thought "what the heck".

After all the mechanics got done looking at it and ooing and awing over it... they got down to business as I took the girls next door for a bite to eat. When I came back I was told that it wasn't the "death wobble" and that I would be fine driving, but that if it happened again while at high speeds... do not hit the brakes because it will make it worse. They said nothing was going to fall off and I would be ok to drive. I left it at that and went on my way because I was in a hurry...

Once I got home, I pulled out the diagnostic report they printed up for me... the mechanic scribbled this on the sheet for me because he knew I'd be doing the work myself...

"Strut rod bushing worn out & stabilizer shock leaking (unable to handle road shock & rotor rev out)"

So... apparently this is causing some major "wobble". I figure that since Kirsten is here and we have to swap out her rear end, maybe I could get her to help me out on my front end before she goes if even she only hand me tools and keeps the girls from killing one another while I'm under the wagon, lol!

Any tips?

There is a VERY good chance you will need a torch to break the bolt on the end of the steering stabilizer (shock) out of the drag link. You may also have to completely undo the drag link if the bolt at the base (other end) of the stabilizer is facing up.... recently had mine replaced. After hours of my dad and I taking turns trying to pound it out, we had to take it in. If your strut rod bushings are cracked but not broken apart, there is no immediate need to replace them. However, if there is free play in the strut rod washers, then it is time. If the bushings are cracked up, it would still be a good time to replace them, but it's not absolutely necessary to correct death wobble.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on November 12, 2010, 11:17:06 PM

Well, I just continued driving her as long as I could... hoping to delay the inevitable until spring... last week I was driving home and I was only about a 1/2 mile from home driving about 55mph and without hitting any bumps or anything - I felt a "shift"... then she started the violent shaking again. I slowed down (as this usually corrects the problem) and it didn't stop shaking until I was alomost stopped... I thought that was wierd because she would usually quit shaking if I just let off the gas and let her coast down in speed by about 10mph or so. So going from 55 to 15mph to get it to stop.... well, it worried me. But, it stopped, so I continued on.

Once I hit 25mph.... the shake came back so I slowed down to 15mph again to make it stop.... then again, I attempted to speed up again with the same result. My next thought was... hey, maybe I need to get her going fast again and it'll maybe correct itself for now. So I attempted to hit 55 again and couldn't get over 35mph without getting such a violent shake that I seriously feared for my life and my wagon.

I cannot get her to drive faster than 25mph. The front end is toast.

Shelly's Jeep's front end is tweaked as well... it needs new lowe control arm brackets welded in. So we're down to a half a vehicle. We have a running Escort, but it needs tires... they are dangerously bald. The Jeep has a bad tire as well. It had a bad stem and it was flat and it was driven on for about a mile which tore up the side walls... fixed the stem, but that tire is done for. It's just a matter of time before it explodes.

So we're down to one vehicle that could go "poof" at any time. And did I mention that the Jeep has very high miles on it for the year? It has been "totaled" twice and repaired, it's leaking tranny fluid around the bell housing, leaking oil from the valve cover and the oil pan, the brakes have issues... feels like rotors need turned or replaced - no telling at this point. So yes, issues.

The Eagle will sit until spring... I don't turn wrenches in the cold anymore. Just not doing it. I've patiently waited all year for the cement to be laid in my barn so I could install the heater and have room to work, but it hasn't happened yet because everyone I counted on for help left me high and dry... and further in debt. I'm not bringing the Eagle into my smaller garage because I have 3k in band equipment set up out there along with stage and bar. A car sitting in there really cramps it up. Not fun working on the car in the cramped space... and everyone in the band complains because car parts end up getting strung all over the place... not to mention the garage door being open allows our stupid cats to get in there and treat the drum carpet as a litter box.

Yes, I'm whining. Sorry. Everyone has the right to whine a little bit once in awhile, right?
Lot's of work to do and not enough time, funds, or hands to do it.

Anyone wanna drive out and fix up that front end for me in return for parts or some paint work when it warms up? Just a thought! :P
Otherwise, don't be looking for any updates on the wagon until Spring. I just dropped the insurance on it as well.

On top of the Wagon needing a front end rebuild (everything!!) and a paint job... the dash still isn't finished (custom fiberglass work and 7" dvd touch screen) - the dvd/cd player is in, but it's not pretty. It's just "installed". The wagon also needs the rest of the upper trim installed on the inside, it needs a headliner installed, the holes from the roof rack need welded shut, the fog lights quit working for no reason again, the windshield needs replaced, all the door gaskets need replaced... lots of cold air seeps in driving down the road - also very loud and annoying and finally, the passenger side front door needs new hinges/latch... it simply won't shut all the way without slamming it VERY hard and even then you can still hear it clanging everytime you hit a bump. Omg it drives me nuts!

To top it all off... at some point in a two day period from when Kirsten, Jason and Rachel left... and when my mom came into town - someone wrecked the wagon and did not tell me. Either someone hit something or someone backed into it. The front fender has a huge crease in it and the side marker was destroyed. No telling who did it, how they did it, and why they didn't tell me... but it happened. I never let ANYone drive my Eagle and for two days I allowed a couple people access to it and it got wrecked and now it looks like $hit.

I could go on with the whining all night... but I won't. I'm done. :(

Sorry! Just very irritated with all of it right now.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Sunny on November 13, 2010, 12:57:52 PM

So I just had a MASSIVE reply typed up, but my laptop wasn't plugged in and I didn't realize it and it died.. lol..

Anyways, sorry to hear about your predicament...When it rains it pours though.. right?
I had this huge thing typed up.. now I'm trying to remember it all.. lol..

I guess basically you just need to prioritize and budget really well.. one of my friends is a financial planner, and she's always talking about it.. I guess this is when it comes in useful hah.. Basically, cut out anything non essential for a while..

As for vehicles, it sounds like the escort would be the cheapest to fix up with a set of used tires.. they're cheap, and they're a lot more safe than bald tires, especially if you have kids.. Most tire shops are pretty good at inspecting them before they put them on, but if you have any doubts, check inside the tire yourself just to make sure there's no ply's showing, and the tread or cord's aren't separating, etc.

There's a bunch of different ways you could try to make money, depending on how financially strained you are...
I was in a similar situation a few years ago, and I sold some extra car parts I had, and fixed some of my friends cars for a lot less than a mechanic would charge.
I needed money to buy parts to fix my own car, and I owed a friend of mine some money, and I really hate owing people money so I wanted to pay them back ASAP.. so those were my top two priorities.

I'll throw out a few idea's I've had / tried to make some money.. lol.

Scrap metal: I've made a few grand doing scrap metal on the side, aluminum and copper seem to be some of the best bang for your buck metals.. I wouldn't bother with steel unless you've got a truck.. You need a lot for it to be worth anything.. but things like scrap aluminum rims and stuff I got about 15$/rim last time I dropped a set off. I also picked up an old set of aluminum service boxes and got over a hundred bucks a side... but you could fit rims and stuff into your car.

Garage sale: When I moved in with my room mates a few years ago, one of them lost his job not long after. We ended up having a garage sale, and he made enough to cover his rent for a month and a half, and I made like 200$ just selling stuff I didn't need anymore.. or like tools I had triples of.

You could advertise cheap car painting on the sites I listed earlier aswell, you might get some customers.

Sell higher dollar items on said sites aswell.. stuff that doesn't really fit in at a garage sale.. My sisters bf owed her almost a grand and he ended up selling one of his guitars and spare amps to cover it... or maybe you have some good shape parts you can sell on those sites, or ebay.. or even here, if someone needs them... I have a friend who makes her living selling stuff on auction sites.. she's not a millionaire, but she makes about what I do and I have to work my :censored: off in a shop.. lol

Online surveys: It sounds like a scam, but one of my room mates makes an extra 50 or so bucks a week, for about an hours worth of work online / week. You just have to find a reliable site, some of them are scams.

http://bluerectangle.com/ if you have any books or textbooks laying around, they'll buy them back from you.

Being college students my room mates and I have found out lots of neat little ways to make money on the side.

Either way, I hope you get it all figured out and get your eagle back up and running.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on November 14, 2010, 05:36:45 PM

Thanks for the help man, it's stressful but I'm not too worried about being poor... I'll make it all work out one way or the other. I'm going to work on selling some more parts... I have some comic books to sell.

I finally got another laptop and an HD camera (not sure if I mentioned that before) and I fiddle with video editing so I'm hoping to start making some cash on the side by shooting weddings and special events. And also by converting VHS for people to DVD on the cheap end.

I've also got a fulll PA setup for my band and a box truck to haul it all around in... now that I've got the laptop, all I need to do is get some DJing software like PC/DJ and go out and make some funds DJing.

I can't make any money working on cars until the cement is laid in my barn... it's too complicated and crammed in my garage to do major car work and/or painting. Plus, the band is jamming in there.... so, no go.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Sunny on November 14, 2010, 06:07:40 PM

If you've got a box truck, you could definitely do some scrap metal.
Theres usually ads around here online for people that have some they want rid of, or drive around and I find a lot dumped on country roads.

Either way, hope it works out!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on November 14, 2010, 09:32:06 PM

yeah, lots of guys around here do that... there's not enough money in it to justify doing it in my opinion. I work a full-time job so there's not a whole lot of time I could dedicate to it. The time it takes to drive around and find the scrap plus the gas used... it just doesn't weigh out in my opinion. We had a severely rusted Eagle out here and after stripping everything of use and even saving some body panels that were in "ok" shape... we chopped the rest up and scrapped it and only got like $40 for like 12hrs of work, quite a bit of oxy/acety mixture and several sawzaw blades. I lost money on that deal.

But yeah, I have some other options... were not on the streets yet, so we're doing ok for now, but something is gonna have to give real soon.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on November 14, 2010, 10:38:35 PM

You'll get it all figured out Mav. You always do.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Whuntmore on November 14, 2010, 10:49:32 PM

Ok Mav, any updates? any new pictures? I'm getting pretty frozen over here...

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: tougeagle on January 16, 2011, 10:42:32 PM

Quote from: Mavericke on November 14, 2010, 09:32:06 PM

yeah, lots of guys around here do that... there's not enough money in it to justify doing it in my opinion. I work a full-time job so there's not a whole lot of time I could dedicate to it. The time it takes to drive around and find the scrap plus the gas used... it just doesn't weigh out in my opinion. We had a severely rusted Eagle out here and after stripping everything of use and even saving some body panels that were in "ok" shape... we chopped the rest up and scrapped it and only got like $40 for like 12hrs of work, quite a bit of oxy/acety mixture and several sawzaw blades. I lost money on that deal.

But yeah, I have some other options... were not on the streets yet, so we're doing ok for now, but something is gonna have to give real soon.

They must be cheapin out hardcore.... I see somewhere between 25-40 cents a pound for it here...

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on March 17, 2011, 10:58:42 PM

No updates as of yet. Took it in a couple weeks ago to have the exhaust done and they said they wouldn't do it. Wanted me to change the manfiold myself and THEN they'd do the exhaust... bah... I can run straight pipes myself. I didn't want to do the manifolds. But oh well. That will be put off awhile longer.

The next thing will be gutting the interior again. Not happy with the dash modifications I made so going back to original. Also, need to rip out alot of it to paint. I have to pull the seats to weld the old holes fom the roof rack. Thought I could get away without doing that, but I'm j ust too afraid the welding splatter will get all over the seats and burn stuff... so I figured if I'm going to go that far, then I might as well pull it all out and get it prepped for paint. So that's the next step.

Oh yeah, I got everything for the front end. A new stabilizer shock and new stabilizer links, and bushings for everything down there so I can start driving her again. The plan is to get to this early and get it finished up before the meet, but I have Pat's car to do as well AND the Jeep needs a lot of work as well. IF IF IF I get everything in plenty of time for the Meet... I'm going to drop the 360 in it. Time will tell. Stay tuned.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: shanebo on March 17, 2011, 11:21:05 PM

That was no small undertaking!! Very nice!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on March 17, 2011, 11:25:23 PM

Should be easier to work on this time around since now you don't have to drive it while working on it.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on March 18, 2011, 01:32:02 AM

Yeah no kiddin... AND, I'm not working... so that frees up some time, lol!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: 83Eagle! on March 18, 2011, 07:18:20 AM

still no job leads?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on March 18, 2011, 10:39:41 AM

Quote from: 83Eagle! on March 18, 2011, 07:18:20 AM

still no job leads?

Just... don't ask, lol! I don't think there is anywhere else I can turn in an ap around here except McDonalds and though it'd be a waste of my talents - even they aren't hiring.

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: amc78concord on March 18, 2011, 11:00:16 AM

Mav's Back! =D

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on March 18, 2011, 11:30:47 AM

Yessir, I am! Just spent the last couple of hours catching up on my emails, LOL!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: mazdaman222 on August 02, 2011, 07:29:20 PM

hey do you have any updated pics from the Cherokee front end on the eagle?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on August 15, 2011, 04:30:55 PM

Nope, it's been sitting for awhile. Going to fire her up and bring her around to barn before the Meet though and do some tweeking on her so that she's road-worthy for the Cordova part of our Meet. Beyond that, she's just sitting while I get things in order around here.

Thanks for all the great comments guys!

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Prafeston on September 01, 2011, 12:23:07 PM

Just sent you an egg. Good stuff. Love the visor look. I've always been a fan of visors on pickups and vans and stuff. They look sweet. How hard was it to fab up?

Title: Re: Mav's Lifted 1985 Eagle Wagon Limited/Sport Stroker - Picture Heavy! - 04/09/10
Post by: Mavericke on September 03, 2011, 01:33:07 PM

Thanks Prafeston!

It wasn't bad at all. It's a little "big" for the Eagle, but it's molded so perfectly around the corner that it doesn't look bad at all and from a distance - you REALLy can't tell it's not made for it. Up close it still looks good. With some very minor fabbing - it would look stock, but I'm with it the way it is. It came off of an 02' Chevy Blazer and I did NO fabbing. I think I had to remove the roof rack... not sure if it was necessary or not though because I wanted to take it off anyways. Even if you wanted to keep the roof rack, you could trim the visor to fit just fine. It functions very well. I love it! Thanks again!

AMC Eagle Den Forum

The Shop => Project Cars => Topic started by: Mavericke on January 17, 2010, 01:22:25 PM