AMC Eagle Den Forum

Eagle Gallery => Your Eagle(s) => Topic started by: Prafeston on December 31, 2013, 01:26:19 PM

Title: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on December 31, 2013, 01:26:19 PM
Many of you know me from back in the Nest days. I was a very active member for several years using the same username. I joined the forum because I have always loved the AMC Eagle and was looking into them and considering buying. I finally bit the bullet in Sept. 2011 when me and my GF drove to the Eagle meet in Cordova, IL where the AMC Nationals where being held. There I found a beauty woody wagon and I put a deposit down on it that weekend. I owned the car for almost a year, but I always felt it was too nice for me so I sold it in June of 2012. Here is a link to "Trailer Queen" or "TQ" as I called her! :) http://forums.amceaglesden.com/index.php?topic=36546.0

I was without an Eagle for almost another year until I found a pretty decent looking SX/4 locally. Mostly rust free. And several of the SX/4 goodies. Problem was the car had been sitting for almost 4 years so it wasn't running. I bought it anyway hoping it would just be an easy gas tank drain and carburetor clean out! Unfortunately after months of messing with it I could never get the dang thing running. The PO was nice enough to let me keep it on his property while I tried to mess with it. The car resided over 200 miles away from where I live so I was hoping to get it running and not have to pay someone to haul it to me. Finally after like 6 months of sitting on the POs property he had moved it off the gravel and I did not like it's new home. So that weekend I tried one more time to get it running, but to no avail. So I called up a local shop and had them come pick it up. After just a day at their shop they pulled the valve cover and saw it had a broken push rod and the inside of the engine was a rusty mess! So after several weeks of searching I finally pulled the trigger on a 4.0 engine and decided to just have the shop do the swap. For now it will be staying carburated, but eventually I'd like to upgrade to the 4.0 injectors and wiring harness. That's where the project sits now.

A bit more about the car. Non-sport, but is sporting a rear spoiler and louvres, sunroof, center console gauges, tach cluster, black interior, T5 transmission. The interior is in very nice shape. Drivers A pillar plastic needs replaced as well as both sunvisors. Headliner is drooping! Drivers seat has one small tear. Exterior is a dull copper penny color which is why I've named her Penny! The paint is dull, but the body appears to have little to no rust and just one small ding on the passenger door. Underside is the same way. Some surface rust here and there, but for the most part rust free and no spots of cancer...at least that I can see. I might have to take the skirts/flares off and give it a thorough look one of these days. Rear louvres are plastic and do have a few small cracks. Sunroof appears to not be leaking. I've already purchased sport mirrors and steering wheel and already has 215/75/15 tires mounted on a Cherokee Turbine wheels. I'd like to turn this into a weekend cruiser and show car. And I use the phrase show car generously. I don't mean I'll be prepping it and painting it to make it a show winner or anything. I just want a sweet classic I can take to shows when I get the chance so that I can spread the AMC love! :) The car would possibly see some offroad use, but only for fun and not for sport.

On to what you've all been waiting for...less text, more pics! :)

Here she was the day I bought her! Glasses found in the glove box and still worn today! :)
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130420_160448_zpscc2b41a3.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130420_160448_zpscc2b41a3.jpg.html)

General pics to show exterior condition when bought. Driver front wheel wasn't holding air so PO had installed the spare.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170314_zpsa26e7ba2.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170314_zpsa26e7ba2.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170252_zps0cc9d6ef.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170252_zps0cc9d6ef.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170356_zps92419138.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170356_zps92419138.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170430_zps0765e127.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170430_zps0765e127.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170412_zpse4771902.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170412_zpse4771902.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170755_zps6dd0db71.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170755_zps6dd0db71.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170405_zps65729f6b.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170405_zps65729f6b.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170346_zps4a3c47f4.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170346_zps4a3c47f4.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170326_zpsb0e7e788.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170326_zpsb0e7e788.jpg.html)

Hard to see the small dings, but their like 3 inches above the trim above the SX/4 Decal.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170443_zps7076fda8.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170443_zps7076fda8.jpg.html)

General pics to show the interior condition when bought.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170500_zps5dfca720.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170500_zps5dfca720.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170507_zpsf4c40065.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170507_zpsf4c40065.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170516_zpse28ebb36.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170516_zpse28ebb36.jpg.html)

The small tear on the drivers seat. Actually found more towards the center of the seat and not on the edge closest to the door.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170527_zps4767abc2.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170527_zps4767abc2.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170607_zps900c56e2.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170607_zps900c56e2.jpg.html)

Some vintage aftermarket wiper delay system. I tried it out when I got a fresh battery for it. It was non-operable.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170628_zpscd25fce0.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170628_zpscd25fce0.jpg.html)

Center Gauge Cluster. PO had installed a wooden shifter knob. Might like to have a stock one at some point.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170633_zpsecf43da4.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170633_zpsecf43da4.jpg.html)

The broken A pillar.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170639_zps8907e28a.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170639_zps8907e28a.jpg.html)

Sunroof!!!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170649_zps77a144b7.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170649_zps77a144b7.jpg.html)

Bad visors.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170701_zps79c49498.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170701_zps79c49498.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170706_zpsaf7233d0.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170706_zpsaf7233d0.jpg.html)

No AC :(
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170711_zps890d1df4.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170711_zps890d1df4.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20130421_170737_zps5cdf305b.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20130421_170737_zps5cdf305b.jpg.html)

A work in progress
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20130608_174007_zps57b8638f.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20130608_174007_zps57b8638f.jpg.html)

The tires I had mounted. Goodyear Wrangler AT/S 215/75/15 I bought them off a Wrangler owner who drove the car off the lot. And immediately changed to bigger wheels/tires when he got it home. Less than 50 miles on tires.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20130526_130733_zpsab38f7cc.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20130526_130733_zpsab38f7cc.jpg.html)

And here they are on the car.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20130608_144447_zpsdcb7646e.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20130608_144447_zpsdcb7646e.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20130608_181212_zps8d0d1048.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20130608_181212_zps8d0d1048.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20130608_173703_zpsf1e72795.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20130608_173703_zpsf1e72795.jpg.html)

And lastly for this post. Getting hauled to the shop! :( Also when I went to work on the car that weekend the drivers rear tire was completely flat. I sure hope the PO didn't put a hole in my new tires!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20131005_164547_zpse0a8c43a.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20131005_164547_zpse0a8c43a.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on December 31, 2013, 01:30:48 PM
Here are some of the things I purchased before I even started doing much to try and figure out what was wrong with the car.

Thanks to vangremlin for the sport stuff he pulled of an Eagle in the Junkyard in CO.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20130806_000952_zps4288ab3e.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20130806_000952_zps4288ab3e.jpg.html)

I found a bunch of wasp nests behind the mirrors!!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20130806_001059_zps8883260f.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20130806_001059_zps8883260f.jpg.html)

Mudflaps purchased from an EVO member I think. They actually hooked me up for the price of shipping I believe. One flap had a rip that is sewn back together or used staples or something. Still a good find!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20130725_210621_zps49f16dc6.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20130725_210621_zps49f16dc6.jpg.html)

Nice find on eBay. NOS set of Marchal fog lights with covers and wiring harness.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20130501_223730_zps240e981d.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20130501_223730_zps240e981d.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on December 31, 2013, 01:35:32 PM
Pics showing the condition of the old engine. Yikes!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20131220_1530090_zpslmng0drl.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20131220_1530090_zpslmng0drl.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/IMAG0584_zps36d3ca1f.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/IMAG0584_zps36d3ca1f.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/IMAG0582_zpsed53ee45.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/IMAG0582_zpsed53ee45.jpg.html)

And here is the 4.0 I purchased for $580. Sold the AW4 for $250 and I'm still looking to sell the NP231 TC.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/IMG_20131104_150059_zps8ae4de04.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/IMG_20131104_150059_zps8ae4de04.jpg.html)

And here is how she sits at the shop right now. Hopefully the 4.0 is being dropped in this week!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20131220_160151_zpsbnkulh2r.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20131220_160151_zpsbnkulh2r.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20131220_160141_zpsblv0p6tf.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20131220_160141_zpsblv0p6tf.jpg.html)

Little bit of rust starting to pop up on the drivers side frame rail in the engine bay.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20131220_162648_zpsvtbatmv8.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20131220_162648_zpsvtbatmv8.jpg.html)

Passenger side isn't quite as bad.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20131220_162657_zpstvkjuvol.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20131220_162657_zpstvkjuvol.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: rollguy on December 31, 2013, 03:00:30 PM
It is nice to see your project finally get going in the right direction.  I am sure the car will be worth every Penny you put into it  ;D
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on December 31, 2013, 03:41:21 PM
I am sure the car will be worth every Penny you put into it  ;D

Your username should be funnyguy! ;)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: 1985amceagle on December 31, 2013, 04:11:59 PM
hey rafe, I think you will have to follow the other members advice, I see you have birds pooping on penny, just like tq
Pooping on an Eagle is a serious offence, a crime punishable by firing squad....time to bust out the pellet guns  >:D
Those birds most be punished!
Get a cat!

But then they leave paw prints on your car.. hah.. I've come out multiple times to paw prints up my hood and windshield.
now besides the pelet your going to have to invest in real mean dog to chase the cats.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on December 31, 2013, 04:14:58 PM
Thanks for the great update Rafe!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on December 31, 2013, 04:23:24 PM
hey rafe, I think you will have to follow the other members advice, I see you have birds pooping on penny, just like tq
Haha, that's funny you dug up those old quotes from my other thread. Those dang birds! They ought to know better. An Eagle could eat one of them! :)

[/quote]
Thanks for the great update Rafe!

I've been meaning to update everyone at the Den for some time. I've had a thread going since the beginning over on the other Eagle forum.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 01, 2014, 04:21:51 PM
Spent last night Photoshopping Penny into a sport. What do you guys think?

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/PennySport_zpsq8d48dfs.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/PennySport_zpsq8d48dfs.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/PhotoGrid_1388573341607_zpsayvgom7k.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/PhotoGrid_1388573341607_zpsayvgom7k.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 01, 2014, 04:24:25 PM
You need to add red accents to where the chrome accents are on the flairs, and other Krayton parts to include the bumper ends and the hood trim strip.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 01, 2014, 04:29:30 PM
I'm not sure about the red stripe. Which is why I didn't do it on the Photoshop. Not sure it will match the copper very well.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 01, 2014, 04:31:31 PM
We need to find a factory copper sport and see what it looks like.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 01, 2014, 05:01:24 PM
I think the sports were pretty rare in copper.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 01, 2014, 05:09:26 PM
I think they were too.  Most of the copper cars seemed to have been Kammbacks and wagons.  My fender and hood started out life as a Copper Kammback.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: priya on January 02, 2014, 11:57:21 AM
So is the transmission you're putting in automatic or manual?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 02, 2014, 12:00:31 PM
I'm keeping the T5. Had to buy a T5 adapter so it will mate to the 4.0 engine.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: 1985amceagle on January 02, 2014, 02:45:27 PM
I thought the 4.0 would have the same bell housing pattern as a 4.2, or did Chrysler change the bell housing at one point in time?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 02, 2014, 02:57:11 PM
The bellhousing is fine. I think. It's the crankshaft in the 4.0 that doesn't match up. I think that's the case. Cost was only like 30 bucks for the pilot bushing to mate the T5 to the 4.0 crank shaft.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: priya on January 02, 2014, 03:38:58 PM
I'm keeping the T5. Had to buy a T5 adapter so it will mate to the 4.0 engine.

I thought AX4 refered to the factory manual transmission and you said you sold that.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 02, 2014, 04:04:06 PM
AW4. The 4.0 I bought came with an AW4 Auto trans and NP231 TC. I sold the AW4. My car came with a T5 and it's staying. Sorry for the confusion.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 03, 2014, 12:48:21 PM
Did another quick rendering from the back side. What do you think?

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/PennySportRear_zpsvpqdiwvt.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/PennySportRear_zpsvpqdiwvt.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/PhotoGrid_1388729682636_zpslhq3w31k.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/PhotoGrid_1388729682636_zpslhq3w31k.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 03, 2014, 01:47:52 PM
I prefer the second picture.  The extra blackout is really nice.  I need to refresh the black striping on my lenses when I do the repaint.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: rollguy on January 03, 2014, 10:21:46 PM
Every time I see that color combo, I think of Dave's (vangremlin) Kammback.  I absolutely love that color combo.  The 4 door sedan I have will get the same color treatment (if I ever get around to it!).  I will be using semi-flat black, sometimes called satin black.  If I was really ambitious (and had the $), I would get the flare trim anodized black.  However, I doubt that it would be worth the cost for 8 pieces of molding (I would do 2 sets).  I think a good Scotch-Brite scuffing and a coat of semi-flat black may have to do.   Dave got his bumpers powder coated, but I am not sure if they offer a semi-flat or satin for powder coating.  If so, that would be the way to go for the bumpers and the flare trim.....Rich
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 04, 2014, 08:56:17 AM
OE sport bumpers were coated with something as they black just does not wear off.  I suppose they had to use something different that would adhere to the aluminum bumpers better.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: captspillane on January 04, 2014, 06:38:36 PM
The bellhousing is fine. I think. It's the crankshaft in the 4.0 that doesn't match up. I think that's the case. Cost was only like 30 bucks for the pilot bushing to mate the T5 to the 4.0 crank shaft.

The 4.0 stickshifts use a different pilot bushing but the crankshaft itself is compatible. The lip is a little different, but the new bushing will work on the 4.2L and the old one will work on the 4.0.

Did you use the 4.2 flywheel? The 4.0 flywheel is thinner and the starter ring is different.

Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 05, 2014, 09:50:32 PM
Using the 4.2 flywheel.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 07, 2014, 10:56:46 AM
Decided to go a different route for my fog lights. Also helping another nester out by selling him my NOS fogs I was going to use. I hope these yellow fogs will look pretty cool on my Cooper car. I think they will. The covers are weird. Held on by a rubber band pretty much. The cats eyes on the covers have holes so if you have the lights on with the covers on the eyes will light up yellow. Pretty neat! The cat on the fog light itself is like a gold color rather than the black found on the chrome/black 750/759s. I think I like the black cat better, but the gold seems to go well with the yellow too. So I'll live with it.

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140106_231645_zpshiugcqbr.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140106_231645_zpshiugcqbr.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 07, 2014, 11:02:08 AM
Looks like a plan to me.  Make sure and take some pictures when it is done.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 07, 2014, 11:03:46 AM
You know me. I love pics! There certainly will be some! I did notice the lights just have one wire coming out of them and no stock plug on the end. I might canniblize the rusty pair that were on my car when I bought it. We'll see what it takes to get them wired correctly.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 07, 2014, 11:33:09 AM
Self grounding?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 07, 2014, 12:09:26 PM
Not sure...if nothing else I could try installing using the wiring provided with the kit. Comes with everything needed for install including switch.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 08, 2014, 08:25:12 PM
Called the shop today after work and talked to the mechanic. Things are coming along. Sounds like anytime now they'll be ready to try starting it up. I'm getting excited! I think the biggest issues now are going to be the Carter Carb and whatever gunk may be in the tank. I do have a spare Carter for them. Would love a Motorcraft, but I'm not looking to pay 300 for a MC and Adapter plate. I hope to get a call before the end of the week saying they fired it up and it's ready to get the exhaust made up!

Speaking of exhaust. I need an new system. What are you guys doing for mufflers? I'd love to have a nice sound to the car. Nothing annoying, but something with a little throatiness!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: maddog on January 08, 2014, 09:00:54 PM
i'm running a glasspack from thrush on Eagle Eyes but once I get Survivor's engine swap done I will be redoing the entire exhaust with a traditional looking high performance cherry-bomb muffler seeing as I like how they sound.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: drock87 on January 08, 2014, 10:56:55 PM
Rafe, I need to do a full exhaust this spring and have been thinking the same thing. I'd wanted to do headers, but am beginning to rule that out. I googled different mufflers with straight 6 (ie...flowmaster super 44 with straight 6). I seem to like the super 44.  I'm going to have my exhaust guy make some recommendations though. Let me know what you're thinking....
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 08, 2014, 11:17:24 PM
I also did a YouTube search on Cherokee 4.0 Exhausts and found several Flowmaster Super 40 videos. They do sound pretty good. I'm thinking that route as well. I plan on calling my shop tomorrow and asking them for the number to the exhaust guy cause they don't do mufflers and stuff in house. They had a guy weld the cracks in my exhaust manifold so I, like you, plan on calling him up and talking to him. See if he has any recommendations. I'd like to find a muffler cheaper on CL or eBay as I'm guessing if I buy it through the shop it will be quite a bit more. I found a Flowmaster Super 40 NIB and the price is good, but the in to and out of pipes are 3" which I think is way to big.

There was also some nice sounding Magnaflow exhausts too.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: drock87 on January 09, 2014, 11:43:35 AM
Magnaflows are quite a bit more expensive though, aren't they?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 09, 2014, 11:48:59 AM
I stuck with a stock set-up less the Cat, for some reason my Cat got lost and I had to improvise.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 09, 2014, 11:59:12 AM
Magnaflows are quite a bit more expensive though, aren't they?

I'm actually finding some Magnaflow 2.5" exhaust for 80 on eBay. The Super 40 is 90. So they are pretty comparable in price.

I stuck with a stock set-up less the Cat, for some reason my Cat got lost and I had to improvise.

Do you have any video with stock setup minus cat? I'm going catless as well. And what is the stock muffler? I have to get new exhaust routed to the 4.0 anyway and most of my current exhaust is pretty bad rusted so I'm not even sure I'd want them to reuse any of it. Definitely don't want them throwing on the old muffler. I think there are holes in it!

This is the video on YouTube that has me thinking Flowmaster Super 40. (This is a 4.0 Cherokee w/o Cat. The original uploader stupidly has music playing the background of a video meant to show sound of an exhaust system! Uhg! You can still hear it pretty well though and I like the sound. If anything it might be louder and meatier than I'd like it to be.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=up-ra-jPwJw

And here is another.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PShX-Dh0Ozs
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 09, 2014, 12:06:22 PM
No video.   I used the stock SX/4 set up via the parts store.  A piece of straight pipe in place of the cat and a series 30 cross over pipe (the one behind the cat) was then abled to be used in place of the hard to find series 50 cross over.  One of my deer hits took out everything from the header pipe back, even the cat flange.  Made the job easier.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 09, 2014, 12:08:01 PM
Here is my old article from the Eaglepedia.   http://amceaglesden.com/guide/index.php?title=Header_Pipe_Back_Renewal
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 09, 2014, 03:27:34 PM
Called the muffler place today. $250 from engine to muffler tip sound about right? That includes the price of a Flowmaster Super 40. Which I've found online for around $90 bucks. Sure hope it's ready to go to the muffler place soon. Then I'll really know we are getting somewhere!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 09, 2014, 04:23:43 PM
Not bad considering the muffle is $90.  Its been about 6 years since I did mine and I think it ran about $150 including the straight pipe car replacement which was about $8.  My OE style muffler was about $50.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 10, 2014, 01:51:01 PM
Well for $30 bucks I couldn't pass this up the other day.

Supposedly from a Gen1 Dodge Dakota. Haven't had a chance to see how close of a fit it will be. I plan on picking a couple different ones up for dirt cheap and seeing what the closest fit is. I'd still like to try Gen1 S10s and Gen1 Rangers.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140110_001902_zpshdz9suoa.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140110_001902_zpshdz9suoa.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: drock87 on January 10, 2014, 03:08:21 PM
What is it? lol
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 10, 2014, 03:59:56 PM
You should know. Someone will! :)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: drock87 on January 10, 2014, 04:06:52 PM
:water reservoir: puzzles.   :o
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: mudkicker715 on January 10, 2014, 04:08:56 PM
Windshield visor. Does it have lights?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 10, 2014, 04:12:26 PM
Front skid plate for the T-case and suspension I am guessing.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 10, 2014, 05:23:34 PM
Windshield visor. Does it have lights?

The winner is MK! :)

No lights. It looks weathered, but there are no cracks and that's the most important part.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglefreek on January 11, 2014, 11:22:50 AM
It must be age creeping up on me, but I prefer the exhaust to be quieter than that video you posted. I originally had a generic muffler shop muffler with cat delete on my 6cyl. Eagle. It wasn't too loud and sounded pretty good. However, when I moved from CO to TN I was pulling a 2,000 lb trailer and it took it's toll on the muffler and got too loud for me. I went to a local muffler shop and he installed a Jones Exhaust Turbo Tube. It was quieter and had a nice deep tone. When I did the AW4 swap I needed to have the exhaust redone and went to a muffler shop near my work where I had did the swap and he wouldn't work on it without a cat. I told him to install one, which I was considering anyways. I kept the Turbo Tube and it is much quieter but not as quiet as stock. Still has a nice deep tone. I have the same mufflers on my V8 Eagle and they sound horrible, like Bubba's 75 Chevy truck.  I plan on replacing them at some point because it is WAAAAY to loud.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 11, 2014, 01:09:48 PM
I don't really plan on this thing being my daily drivers so I hope I don't mind the louder exhaust. If it turns out I don't dig it all that much I'll figure something out.

Penny sees the Muffler Man on Monday! :)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: maddog on January 11, 2014, 08:49:18 PM
Penny sees the Muffler Man on Monday! :)
that's some very good news.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 11, 2014, 10:59:42 PM
I sure hope so!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: 1985amceagle on January 12, 2014, 12:02:56 AM
that is great news! :blob1:
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 15, 2014, 01:11:00 AM
Well some issues came up. Gas tank needs replacing. They pulled the sending unit and said it was really rusty inside too. I'm getting a quote from a local shop about rinsing and sealing the old tank or just sealing up a tank in better condition that SpreadEagle was going to sell me.

This was the pic I got from my mechanic.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/autocompress1389652973457_zps5mihmmee.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/autocompress1389652973457_zps5mihmmee.jpg.html)

Also looks like I'm gonna be replacing my CV half shafts. The boots were ripped and dry rotted.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Monkeyjoe on January 15, 2014, 02:51:15 AM
Wow, how often were you having to replace the fuel filters?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 15, 2014, 03:24:19 AM
I bought the vehicle after it having sat for 4 years without being started. And I don't thing it was last on the road in well over 10 tears.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: youngkyle on January 16, 2014, 01:40:48 PM
Quote
PO had installed a wooden shifter knob. Might like to have a stock one at some point.
I'm really diggin' that, so if I ever got my eagle, I'd be interested in a trade or something like that.  I'd probably want wood grain dash too though...
and by the way, what rims are those? I'm sure it's been covered somewhere here before, but I'm interested, in them.  looks like it says jeep? are they from a comanche?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 16, 2014, 02:11:16 PM
Quote
PO had installed a wooden shifter knob. Might like to have a stock one at some point.
what rims are those? I'm sure it's been covered somewhere here before, but I'm interested, in them.  looks like it says jeep? are they from a comanche?
They were found on Cherokees and Commanches. I call them Cherokee Turbines. They might also be labeled Turbocast, but they are not the same as the Turbocast wheels found on the Spirit AMX.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: youngkyle on January 16, 2014, 02:13:50 PM
that's what I though. by far my favorite jeep rims to put on it. 
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: rollguy on January 16, 2014, 05:44:29 PM
I will have an SX4 tank when I scrap what is left of my thrashed SX4 (not a single body panel without a dent).  I will offer it here when it is available. 
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: SpreadEagle on January 16, 2014, 06:04:16 PM
I don't really plan on this thing being my daily drivers so I hope I don't mind the louder exhaust. If it turns out I don't dig it all that much I'll figure something out.

Penny sees the Muffler Man on Monday! :)

Guess who... Buzz down the street gave me a quot of under 200 for down pipe back on Kammy.. May not bee too late to check..
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 16, 2014, 07:24:20 PM
What muffler was that though? And also this is the shops muffler guy so they must be close. Taking it too far will just cost me to have it transported as it not currently running I don't think. I think they were just going to haul it to the muffler shop.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: SpreadEagle on January 16, 2014, 07:41:41 PM
After I posted I thought that's where the extra cost is.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 21, 2014, 03:02:25 PM
Well here's a quick update. I ended up getting the tank from SpreadEagle. It was in much better shape than mine was on the inside. Hopefully it's cleaned, prepped, painted, and installed this week and then they'll see about getting that 4.0 running with some fresh gas. We'll see if my old Carter is worth a dang and if not I do have a spare. Hopefully one of them will do the trick.

Here is the tank I got from SpreadEagle. Outside looks a bit rough, but the inside is pretty shiny and that's all that matters. The shop will be cleaning up and putting rust preventative on the outside of the tank too.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/IMAG0686_zpsywuuupoi.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/IMAG0686_zpsywuuupoi.jpg.html)

The 4.0 is in now, but it's awaiting the gas tank removal and replacement. Then it's off to the exhaust shop and hopefully ready to go. Might need some more things. Suspension, brakes...hopefully no issues with the transmission or tcase.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/1003154_717830071208_81047551_n_zpsc84c5a7c.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/1003154_717830071208_81047551_n_zpsc84c5a7c.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: MudPuppy on January 21, 2014, 03:10:34 PM
 :blob1: excited yet Rafe?
lol I now I would be.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 21, 2014, 03:21:09 PM
Uhg! I'm so ANXIOUS! I was really thinking it would be done by the end of the year, but stuff just keeps coming up and keeps eating my money! :) I sure hope it's out of the shop in under a month. Before February would be great!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: IowaEagle on January 21, 2014, 04:25:49 PM
patience is a virtue we obtain as we work on our AMC's.   At least you know its being done right.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: youngkyle on January 21, 2014, 09:38:35 PM
I'm kinda hoping I'll have my eagle about the same time yours is done. 
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 21, 2014, 09:57:52 PM
In all reality I bought this car in April of last year and thought I'd have it on the road for the Summer car show season. So it's really been a long time coming! So ready to have it in my possession so I can start giving it my own touches and cleaning it up and all that good stuff.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Brentmo on January 26, 2014, 01:24:12 AM
Congrats on getting the engine running, had to be a sweet moment to start it up!  I'm learning too that these eagle rehabs just don't happen on a set schedule.  I like the mock-ups with the sport trim, it looks great with the copper.  Your interior looks in good shape too and with lots of goodies.  Especially  like the tach and gauge package. 
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 30, 2014, 08:07:49 PM
Well I thought it was going to get exhaust done last Friday, but I text the mechanic about it yesterday and they still have it at the shop. Apparently the new fuel pump I gave them failed and they had it replaced under warranty. They are also having issues with the Carter I believe. They said when they give it gas it falls on it's face.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: SpreadEagle on January 30, 2014, 10:13:24 PM
Want to take the Motorcraft from Kammy up there?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on January 30, 2014, 10:20:31 PM
Want to take the Motorcraft from Kammy up there?

Tempting...
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on January 31, 2014, 11:19:22 PM
How's the sending unit on that gas tank?  I ended up having to get a new one.  Can't remember for sure where I got it, although I think AMC Parts Depot carries them.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 01, 2014, 01:24:25 PM
They had to do something with the pickup tubes or something, but we're able to reuse the sending unit from the tank I got from Eric.

Sounds like they've almost got it all worked out. They have driven it in and out of the shop. Said reverse and first gear are working fine and the brakes seem to be working as well. They also did the ECM Test bypass and get this, the mechanic found the old video I made from when I did the ECM Test on TQ and used that to do it on Penny! Thought that was funny!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: SpreadEagle on February 03, 2014, 07:03:38 PM
Not sure if you wanted or had this picture..
(http://i1352.photobucket.com/albums/q646/81EagleKamm/ya2pLrOwUC4ISZ61khl-OYOyD3f3bmyR15U6XZJGSHk-20130303-112141_zpscb76ab86.jpg) (http://s1352.photobucket.com/user/81EagleKamm/media/ya2pLrOwUC4ISZ61khl-OYOyD3f3bmyR15U6XZJGSHk-20130303-112141_zpscb76ab86.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: youngkyle on February 03, 2014, 07:35:08 PM
that's purty.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 03, 2014, 09:03:33 PM
Yep, got those three or four pics from the original owner when he couldn't post pics to the ad! :)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: youngkyle on February 03, 2014, 09:26:18 PM
I had no Idea it had louvers! this is honestly my favorite sx4.  It's not boring old red or black. It's such a nice color, and it looks good inside and out. 
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 12, 2014, 11:50:14 PM
It's supposedly at the exhaust shop. I sure hope that means it's almost finished!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 27, 2014, 11:34:01 AM
Not a text you wanna get from your mechanic when you are like 1 day away from picking up the car at the shop. "Bad news this motor has issues"

After I just gave them $1500 last weekend. I wanna punch something!!

So they've had it running several times before and said it never made any sounds, but they were having issues keeping it running after it warmed up. So I told them I had a spare ICM and Ignition Coil in the car and they swapped them out today. Now it's running fine and stays running after it warms up, but it's apparently developed an upper end tick/knock. They think it could be a rod knock. I asked them if it wasn't just a timing issue and they said it's set to the right timing. Could be a lifter just not functioning correcting. I was hoping to drive this thing home this weekend and now it looks like I could possibly need another engine! Uhg! Any ideas what could be causing this that wouldn't take pulling the engine out and apart to fix?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: youngkyle on February 27, 2014, 12:02:14 PM
Man that sucks.  I was hoping to see a post about driving her home.  If you need a new one, and things go according to plan, im grabbing the parts eagle downstate, and (though I have no idea how you'd get it) I wouldn't need the engine.  Hope you cN figure it out.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: SpreadEagle on February 27, 2014, 12:14:24 PM
Man that sucks.  I was hoping to see a post about driving her home.  If you need a new one, and things go according to plan, im grabbing the parts eagle downstate, and (though I have no idea how you'd get it) I wouldn't need the engine.  Hope you cN figure it out.

Penny has a 4.0 in it now..
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: youngkyle on February 27, 2014, 12:44:16 PM
Ah. Nevermind then
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 27, 2014, 12:49:36 PM
They swapped out the oil and put Lucas Oil in it this morning and after doing that the noise was still there. Then the oil dumby light came on and they shut the engine off.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eagleman on February 27, 2014, 01:20:48 PM
Man sorry to hear that. And it don't sound good. Wish I could say something to ease the pain.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglefreek on February 27, 2014, 01:33:08 PM
That sucks. Did they put a mechanical gauge on it to verify low oil pressure? Sounds like the oil pump might have went bad. Have you heard the sound? Mine has made a ticking sound for thousands of miles. Also, I thought I had a rod knock and it turned out to be one of the torque converter bolts hitting the transmission inspection plate.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 27, 2014, 04:04:25 PM
The oil light came on and they shut the engine off so they didn't have a chance to check oil pressure. Before swapping out the new ignition coil and ICM they put a mechanical gauge on it and it showed 30psi or lbs or whatever the measurement is. But then after the install of the new components the noise started and the light came on.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Brentmo on February 28, 2014, 12:45:38 AM
I'm shocked and so sorry to read about your motor.  What a let down after waiting so long and being so close.  :banghead:  Couldn't happen to a nicer guy.  I'm pulling for you, Prafeston. I hope it's not too major and Penny's up and running soon!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on February 28, 2014, 12:52:48 AM
Hopefully you get some good news and can finish the project.  That would really suck if the engine is bad.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 28, 2014, 01:34:11 AM
Thanks Brentmo and Vangremlin. I sure hope it works out somehow. Otherwise I guess I'm looking for a new motor :(
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on February 28, 2014, 08:35:14 AM
Thanks Brentmo and Vangremlin. I sure hope it works out somehow. Otherwise I guess I'm looking for a new motor :(

I had to go that route myself when the original block in my Kammback cracked.  I was able to pick up a running 258 out of a Jeep for $300.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglefreek on February 28, 2014, 09:18:29 AM
If you had 30 psi oil pressure and then suddenly had no oil pressure, it's either something catastrophic or as simple(but not easy to fix) as someone forgetting to attach the pickup tube properly to the oil pump and it fell out. Since it was just idling I would lean towards something simple. Good luck, hope they get it figured out without much cost to you.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Eagle Groupie on March 01, 2014, 08:34:54 PM
Well, that car looks awesome on the outside. I hope they can get its innards sorted out for you. If it were mine I'd want to rock that thing all over my pothole riddled town.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 04, 2014, 04:01:46 PM
Found out the oil was metallic when the changed it so I'm not going to be looking into making this engine work likely. I don't know what to do next. Now I'm just kicking myself for not just originally having the dang thing shipped to me. I just wasted well over 1000 for nothing! And not I'm about to leave the state for several months and won't be able to take the car with me so I'm not sure what my next move is.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglefreek on March 04, 2014, 07:51:26 PM
Darn! I don't what to tell you. I guess try to get the car to you, if possible, so you can figure it out yourself.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: DownwardFlame on March 04, 2014, 08:46:15 PM
I don't know what the deal is lately, but we've had at least three cars in the last 2 weeks come in for oil changes and the oil looks like a chocolate brown metallic paint.  Your not the only one out there with this issue...
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Amc1320 on March 06, 2014, 08:34:36 PM
How's this working out Rafe, been worried about it?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 06, 2014, 09:17:34 PM
It's bad news. Metallic oil after oil change and so I'm just gonna get it out of the shop. I have two forum members who are going to possibly look into helping with some cheap transportation. I'm waiting to hear back from Casper before I say much else.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: 1985amceagle on March 06, 2014, 10:29:45 PM
sorry to hear about the metallic oil in the sx :(
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglefreek on March 07, 2014, 08:58:45 AM
When you get it in your possession, I would pull the distributor and check the distributor gear and cam gear. I would suspect maybe the oil pump might have locked up and caused damage to your gear.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 10, 2014, 01:46:52 AM
That would be unfortunate, I'm trying to work something out with casper, but it all depends on the possibility of finding transportation to Eastern Oregon. We'll see what happens.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: amchornet on March 11, 2014, 07:49:16 PM
OMG....I cant believe all the good luck you have had with this project!! I hope you get something worked out.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 11, 2014, 08:18:50 PM
Sarcasm I hope! :)

Yeah, casper got back to me and it sounds like at this time it's not gonna work out. I am getting some help from a St. Louis member who will be assisting in getting the Eagle back to my place in Rolla where it will likely stay until our seasonal work is over in Utah. :(
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 26, 2014, 12:47:36 AM
This was documented in the other thread about our crazy mission to transport 2 Eagles in 24 hours while traveling 1300 miles and getting the Uhaul back without paying for an extra day, but I figured I'd add some pics in here too. http://forums.amceaglesden.com/index.php?topic=43252.0

I'll skip to the part of the trip where we finally got to my car. It was around 2:40am and it had been snowing for about an hour as we were on our way to the car. I had to clear off the windshield to see where I was going and we had to spend a good 15 minutes hammering on the ratchets on the trailer because they were completely frozen. We were able to free them up though and I drove my car onto the trailer.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20140323_030510_zps2p8kfshj.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20140323_030510_zps2p8kfshj.jpg.html)

We got to Rolla about 7:00am and unloaded my car at another shop (uhg) but I don't know what else to do with it since I'm about to leave for several months and I just found out my dad is likely selling the house where I was planning on storing it. Next to pics are from when I got back to the car later that night to take some things out of it. You can tell we were driving through some gross winter weather for awhile.

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20140323_190146_zpssq1ty4s4.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20140323_190146_zpssq1ty4s4.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/20140323_190204_zps7syugkis.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/20140323_190204_zps7syugkis.jpg.html)

Today after work I picked up some rear hatch lift supports. I got them at AutoZone for 15.99 a piece. They are made for the SX/4 w/spoiler.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140325_190301_zpsttonxta7.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140325_190301_zpsttonxta7.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Billman on March 26, 2014, 10:09:51 AM
Do you have the part # for those?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 26, 2014, 10:36:57 AM
Yes, I kept the the packaging cause I figured someone would ask. I'll have to get it later though cause I'm at work.

I do know they are made by Mighty Lift.

I just did a search on AutoZone and believe I found them. #D95061 these are for the SX/4 with Spoiler. The ones for a non-spoiler hatch are #D95062 and support 30 less lbs.
http://www.autozone.com/autozone/parts/Mighty-Lift-Lift-Support/1983-AMC-Eagle/_/N-ikhnzZ8ii2g?itemIdentifier=798959_670811_2819_6080%2C9677

My local AutoZone did not have any in-store, but they were shipped in in less than 24 hours.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: DownwardFlame on March 26, 2014, 11:15:51 AM
30 lbs? Holy crap.... That's a heavy spoiler! Lol
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 26, 2014, 11:28:55 AM
I don't think it's actually quite that heavy...but I could be wrong. I had a full 3 piece one off a car before, but I don't recall how heavy it was when I shipped it. You obviously want your lift to support more than the additional weight. If it was exactly the same as the weight of the spoiler than it might be too easy to start letting it sag..
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: priya on March 26, 2014, 12:34:54 PM
It could also be that the hatch struts support the hatch a foot or two from the hinges and thus when you put 5 lb out another 2 feet on a lever its the same as 30lb at the hatch strut mounting position.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: DownwardFlame on March 26, 2014, 01:58:45 PM
That's true, I assumed it would be something like that. I was just trying to be funny. :)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Draekon on March 26, 2014, 03:39:48 PM
I got new struts about 3 years ago, and they are already weak when its cold out.  Don't even use my hatch often.  Definitely going to be looking for better quality ones next time.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 26, 2014, 05:35:27 PM
Where did you get yours?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 26, 2014, 10:38:34 PM
Well, 8 pages deep and almost a year later and I'm starting to think that I was being optimistic putting this in the "Your Eagle(s)" thread rather than the "Projects" thread! :)

I'm coming back with a huge sigh of relief post! I guess I'm not out of the clear yet, but the guys at my local shop here in town had a look at it today and it had oil pressure and no knock. A bit of lifter noise, but other than that was running smooth. Not sure how it up and fixed itself, but they said when they pulled it into the shop it was running like crap and they found that many of the vacuum lines to the carb were either routed wrong or not capped off. They've got it tuned pretty good for now, but think the carb could still use a rebuild. Plus the throttle rod is apparently loose and leaking gas from the carb there. It's great to know the knock is gone. I hope it stays gone and for now I'm gonna have them take a look at my front end/suspension and let me know what all needs replaced. Should anything need done I'll have them do it and install my new front coil springs while they're at it. I'm also going to be looking for some Cherokee rear leafs so I can beef up the rear end a bit so my tires won't rub the fender flares.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 26, 2014, 10:39:56 PM
Oh and duh! I got a quick clip of the motor running. Sorry, you know how audio samples go when trying to listen from a cellphone mic! Plus it was windy and I kept talking! :) But you can tell it's sounding much better than the last video I posted!

http://youtu.be/JySCecBGhug
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on March 26, 2014, 11:08:31 PM
Nice to hear things weren't as bad as you were thinking!  It'll be back on the road in no time!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 26, 2014, 11:18:13 PM
Thanks Van! I'm trying not to get ahead of myself, but I'm starting to feel a lot better about this!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: 1985amceagle on March 27, 2014, 12:33:45 AM
Glad to hear the trip went well, and the engine is running better, hope that is the end of the engine trouble so the old bird can see the road once again
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: doneagle on March 27, 2014, 03:12:30 AM

            HI ......Prafeston   I am thankful to hear the good news I was hopping all a long that they were wrong and there was no knock ....It sounds good from here ......don 
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Draekon on March 27, 2014, 03:03:43 PM
Where did you get yours?

I don't remember.  I think I bought them online, so maybe RockAuto?

Oh and duh! I got a quick clip of the motor running. Sorry, you know how audio samples go when trying to listen from a cellphone mic! Plus it was windy and I kept talking! :) But you can tell it's sounding much better than the last video I posted!

http://youtu.be/JySCecBGhug

What did you do to fix it?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 27, 2014, 03:51:55 PM
Well I hope these AutoZone ones last for awhile. I guess I'll find out. They were the cheapest ones I could get locally.

I have no idea what happened to fix it. I filmed the car running up in KC and there was no oil pressure and you could hear it making a pretty terrible noise. Maybe their gauge was broken or not hooked up right? And all the shop here in town did was switch some vacuum lines around and tune the carb a little bit. Sounds like it was a pretty simple fix that the other shop just wasn't willing to find. They had me believing it was pretty much a ruined engine.

I'm hoping it's still got some life left in it.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Amc1320 on March 27, 2014, 07:54:19 PM
Good news Rafe!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: maddog on March 27, 2014, 11:09:42 PM
from what I could hear of it over the wind it sounds pretty good.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Brentmo on March 29, 2014, 11:39:23 PM
So glad to hear the motor is running!  What good news1
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 03, 2014, 01:06:49 AM
Well I scored some goodies this weekend for Penny. I installed new rear marker lights and put the front end back on. Also installed my Cherokee Hook style wiper arms with some new wipers. Here is another recent video of the 4.0 engine running. Idle sounds a bit high, but other than that not too bad.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYHHy8lgL0c

The two marker lights on the left got put on today.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164152_zpsz5senxbm.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164152_zpsz5senxbm.jpg.html)

My driver side bezel was cracked so I got a replacement.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_1640510_zps1blqg6gv.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_1640510_zps1blqg6gv.jpg.html)

80s Grill with just one broken slat at the very top in the middle.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164241_zpswrtuvyca.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164241_zpswrtuvyca.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164254_zpslipo4d5n.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164254_zpslipo4d5n.jpg.html)

Spirit grill with a hole in the grill and several of the slats cracked and missing pieces. I'm considering cutting out all of the slats except for the main cross and then installing some sort of mesh/chicken wire behind it.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164331_zpszg2rlcks.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164331_zpszg2rlcks.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164345_zpsavmqyrma.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164345_zpsavmqyrma.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164351_zpsmwoiqjnk.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164351_zpsmwoiqjnk.jpg.html)

And then I also tried out all 3 grills on the car. Well, I installed the 80 grill and rested the other two over top to see which one I'd like better.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140402_175539_zpsrkyvuln7.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140402_175539_zpsrkyvuln7.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140402_175623_zps7sxku3p2.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140402_175623_zps7sxku3p2.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140402_175712_zps1jcjtcj7.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140402_175712_zps1jcjtcj7.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Eagle Groupie on April 03, 2014, 10:11:05 AM
I like the grills in the second and third pictures. It looks better with some vertical lines in there.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: MudPuppy on April 03, 2014, 10:58:44 AM
#3 or #1, if you were planning on blacking her out... #2 would look a bit out-of-place with the chrome T IMO.

A question regarding the Cherokee wipers though... Can they stand vertical on their own? Unlike our original arms. It irritates the snot out of me when I am washing a vehicle and can't put (& leave) up the wiper arms.

P.S.
I just got caught up on the whole engine not being bad, I missed that when I was out of town apparently. But Congrats, so glad to hear that it wasn't as big of a problem that you were thinking it was. So you get to take her to Utah with you now too.  :occasion14:
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: maddog on April 03, 2014, 09:49:43 PM
A question regarding the Cherokee wipers though... Can they stand vertical on their own? Unlike our original arms. It irritates the snot out of me when I am washing a vehicle and can't put (& leave) up the wiper arms.
my sister has a 94' Cherokee and the wiper arms do not stand up by themselves. now as for later models I have no idea.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: amchornet on April 04, 2014, 11:20:46 AM
So glad to hear she is running! You should look into a new carb unless you were planning on fuel injection.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 04, 2014, 11:28:57 AM
I bought a rebuilt Carter off a forum member.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Billman on April 04, 2014, 11:56:40 AM
I'm a little goofy but I like the Spirit grill. Never did care for the egg crate style. Also very happy to hear the engine isn't a loss.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: 23baseball3 on April 05, 2014, 09:04:45 AM
I've also always liked the Spirit grille.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: doneagle on April 08, 2014, 10:04:40 PM

           HI    I like the first two more .don



                                                :eaglebig:
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 08, 2014, 10:56:41 PM
Heard back from the shop. The new 2" lift rear leaf springs lifted it more like 5" and the new shocks I bought won't even remotely fit and the rear shackles are apparently laying flat. I will be calling General Spring KC tomorrow.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: DownwardFlame on April 09, 2014, 11:14:04 AM
When you first install new lift springs, they always lift more than advertised. They may just need some time to settle with the weight of the car on them.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Draekon on April 09, 2014, 12:01:38 PM
Also, your old springs were probably sagging a bit, so 2" above stock may appear to be more like 4" above where your car was.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 09, 2014, 01:26:29 PM
Yeah, but they were asking if the leafs were even meant for my car. They said they seemed way too short and the only way to even get them to mount has the rear shackles laying flat. Should I just call General Spring KC and see about getting the normal stock springs and seeing if they'll take the lifted ones back?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Draekon on April 09, 2014, 02:56:16 PM
If the shackles are laying flat, then there is probably something wrong with those springs.  I would call General Spring and see what they have to say.  My shackles are close to vertical with stock replacement springs on, so even if 2" up meant 2" in, my shackles would still be angled fine.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 09, 2014, 08:03:13 PM
Yeah, I need to call them. Was waiting on pics from the shop of the shackles and what the car looked like with the lifted springs, but they never sent them today. So I guess I'll just call the spring place tomorrow anyway.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 10, 2014, 04:55:59 PM
Well here is what the rear shackles look like with the new leaf springs that were supposed to give me a 2" lift. Apparently they seemed way short with the arched leafs and it made the shackles lay almost all the way flat. Still don't have a shot of the car from a wide angle.

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/IMAG0266_zpsjohu4odn.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/IMAG0266_zpsjohu4odn.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/IMAG0265_zpsyiyz8zu1.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/IMAG0265_zpsyiyz8zu1.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/IMAG0264_zpslrsqhx9r.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/IMAG0264_zpslrsqhx9r.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 10, 2014, 07:09:56 PM
Well here is what the "2 lift looks like! I'd say that it's a bit larger than "2!! I'll have to figure something out. Guess I better call GeneralSpringKC tomorrow and see if I can't just get a regular set.

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/IMAG0270_zps2qgjlclg.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/IMAG0270_zps2qgjlclg.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/IMAG0268_zpsypz9uu42.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/IMAG0268_zpsypz9uu42.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/IMAG0269_zpsx5e2bgsv.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/IMAG0269_zpsx5e2bgsv.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/IMAG0267_zpslqdtgf82.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/IMAG0267_zpslqdtgf82.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: SpreadEagle on April 10, 2014, 09:12:24 PM
I probably wouldn't of had them arch the springs but I've heard they do settle after a bit.  When you arch a spring the space between perch and shackle will get closer..

As the spring settles it should start using the shackle..
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 10, 2014, 11:08:13 PM
Yeah, but how long will it take to settle? And I can't even put a shock in there right now. I think I'm just gonna see what the spring place will do for me. I'm in KC now and will be heading back to Rolla this weekend. I'd like to take a new set back down with me and then return the arched ones when we are coming back through.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: SpreadEagle on April 11, 2014, 01:18:54 AM
Wonder if you get custom shackles... Think you can get the front raised to look good?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Draekon on April 11, 2014, 02:32:54 AM
Wonder if you get custom shackles... Think you can get the front raised to look good?

They don't even really need to be custom.  Lift shackles for some model jeep (don't remember which ones) fit the Eagle.  When I got my replacement leafs, I also got some new shackles, which were 1" longer than stock, but the closest they had in stock.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: doneagle on April 13, 2014, 09:02:37 AM

      HI sent pm ....don
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 13, 2014, 08:21:47 PM
Thanks Don, some others on the Facebook page also suggested what you did in the PM. The shop said they tried prying back on the shackles when lowering it, but that the springs were just too short.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: doneagle on April 13, 2014, 11:02:22 PM

       HI from the pictures it doesn't look like the springs are to short they just need some help getting to where they belong ....Good luck getting them there .........don   
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 13, 2014, 11:14:19 PM
It looks like I'm going to have to completely remove the top shackle bolt as well. Looks like they didn't replace those bushing even though they had them.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: doneagle on April 14, 2014, 01:57:15 AM

             HI     I like the wheels you have on Penny ...I have a set like that for silver ...your not to far from Houston are you about 50 miles ....that is where silver came from .....the frame bolts should be soaked in WD40 or some thing to remove the rust to make easier for removal ......don     
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: BenM on April 14, 2014, 03:30:14 PM
Springs do settle, especially leaf springs, especially arched leaf springs. If you're lucky six months from now they'll be exactly where you want them.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 16, 2014, 12:29:11 AM
Paid for the work done at the new shop and drove the car home today. I need to either figure out how to make the lift springs work or install the new stock springs I purchased this weekend. The spring shop will give me a refund on one pair, but not a refund on the 2" arch done on the first pair.

Since getting it home though I installed new window sweeps (outside anyway, not sure how to get the inner one off or the new one back on) and window channels on the driver side. Also installed the driver side sport mirror I got from Vangremlin a long time ago. Gotta figure out how to stop it from wiggling though. Vacuumed out the drivers floorboard as well. Tomorrow I work on trying to get the shackles in the right position and then will likely clean out the inside of the car thoroughly.

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140415_191620_zpsvbwtzdjx.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140415_191620_zpsvbwtzdjx.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140415_195259_zpslijsmdq5.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140415_195259_zpslijsmdq5.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: amchornet on April 16, 2014, 10:31:36 PM
Whoever arched those springs went too far..wayyy to far
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 16, 2014, 11:01:07 PM
I asked for a 2 inch lift. He arched them an extra 2 inches. I got them on much better now. The shackles were just not put on right.

I also cleaned out the rear and vacuumed everything real good. It's starting to feel like my car. It's a shame I'm going to have to leave it for like 6 months :(

Here is how it sits now. Much better than before.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140416_191122_zpsifttoixy.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140416_191122_zpsifttoixy.jpg.html)

Removed the rear seat in hopes of finding the build sheet. No luck. Vacuumed real good while everything was out.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140416_164444_zpsvzk7lmde.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140416_164444_zpsvzk7lmde.jpg.html)

The carpet is in surprisingly good shape.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140416_164455_zpsts94sp3v.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140416_164455_zpsts94sp3v.jpg.html)

Even have the original spare tire and cover.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140416_165315_zps1or8owf8.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140416_165315_zps1or8owf8.jpg.html)

Seats all cleaned up and back in. They look great. Probably cause no one can fit in the back!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140416_172328_zps5pshqsir.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140416_172328_zps5pshqsir.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on April 16, 2014, 11:04:16 PM
Looking much better.  Keep up the good work!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: MudPuppy on April 16, 2014, 11:07:16 PM
Looks a lot better. Where did you get your leafs?

I like to get into the back seat of mine sometimes and just sit there for a bit (with the seatback in front of me pushed forward of course) and everytime I do I can't help but laugh.

And what, no pics of the vintage McDonald's game pieces?! lol
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 16, 2014, 11:42:27 PM
Thanks guys! The leafs are from GeneralSpringKC out of Kansas City. I have a spare set now, but will be returning them since I got the lifted set to work.

Me and the wife hopped into the back seats just to try them out. The passenger side had the front seat all the way forward but the driver side had the seat all the way back. Andreas legs were wedged on either side of the seat back! haha.

I should have checked the date on McDonald's Monopoly Game pieces at least. I just tossed them or sucked them up in the vacuum one. Oh well!

I am having an issue with keeping the batter charged. Not sure what is draining it but the shop charged the battery up yesterday and I drove it a couple miles home no issues. Then today it was completely dead. Couldn't even pop the rear hatch. The battery is brand new so I think something is drawing power. Uhg. I hate electrical work!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: MudPuppy on April 16, 2014, 11:53:31 PM
Thanks guys! The leafs are from GeneralSpringKC out of Kansas City. I have a spare set now, but will be returning them since I got the lifted set to work.
Thanks! I'll have to keep them in mind if/when I need some.

Me and the wife hopped into the back seats just to try them out. The passenger side had the front seat all the way forward but the driver side had the seat all the way back. Andreas legs were wedged on either side of the seat back! haha.
I pulled the seat back once, it makes you pretty much do the splits lol.

I should have checked the date on McDonald's Monopoly Game pieces at least. I just tossed them or sucked them up in the vacuum one. Oh well!
Should've kept them, a little memento of your cars history. I kept mine or maybe that just makes me weird lol

I am having an issue with keeping the batter charged. Not sure what is draining it but the shop charged the battery up yesterday and I drove it a couple miles home no issues. Then today it was completely dead. Couldn't even pop the rear hatch. The battery is brand new so I think something is drawing power. Uhg. I hate electrical work!
I feel ya. I hate electrical too. On mine the dome & courtesy lights won't turn off, already replaced the driver side door switch and they still are on. Need to find the time to get to the passenger side and hope to god that it's that one or more electrical digging for me as well  ::).
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 16, 2014, 11:56:13 PM
What is the courtesy light? I know my dome light turns off.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: MudPuppy on April 17, 2014, 12:03:35 AM
I call them courtesy lights, not sure if I am correct or not, but they are the lights near your feet near the kick panel.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 17, 2014, 12:15:59 AM
There are lights down there? I never knew.

I'm guessing they would go off and come on with the dome light so I'm guessing that not my issue.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: MudPuppy on April 17, 2014, 12:28:38 AM
Yeah, they work with the dome light.
My old wagon's worked as they should've.

Did TQ's not work? Or Penny's?

Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: 1985amceagle on April 17, 2014, 12:32:11 AM
Quote
I feel ya. I hate electrical too. On mine the dome & courtesy lights won't turn off, already replaced the driver side door switch and they still are on. Need to find the time to get to the passenger side and hope to god that it's that one or more electrical digging for me as well  ::).

I'm not sure about sx/4s but wagons also have a switch, or at least the wire at the back hatch to turn the dome, and courtesy lights on when grounded.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: MudPuppy on April 17, 2014, 12:41:36 AM
Quote
I feel ya. I hate electrical too. On mine the dome & courtesy lights won't turn off, already replaced the driver side door switch and they still are on. Need to find the time to get to the passenger side and hope to god that it's that one or more electrical digging for me as well  ::).

I'm not sure about sx/4s but wagons also have a switch, or at least the wire at the back hatch to turn the dome, and courtesy lights on when grounded.

I don't think there are any wires back there, but I will look more thoroughly now that you mention it. Thanks
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 17, 2014, 01:11:10 AM
TQ probably had them and I just didn't remember. Penny hadn't been in my possession long enough to realize. Plus the battery is always died.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: bertosalceda on April 18, 2014, 09:16:31 AM

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140415_195259_zpslijsmdq5.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140415_195259_zpslijsmdq5.jpg.html)

Congratulations, you have got a beautiful SX4.
Cleaned carpet and seats, door panels and headlight bezels are again in its places, you are getting to finish a great job
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Blue4Door1985 on June 22, 2014, 04:50:18 PM
Well I scored some goodies this weekend for Penny. I installed new rear marker lights and put the front end back on. Also installed my Cherokee Hook style wiper arms with some new wipers. Here is another recent video of the 4.0 engine running. Idle sounds a bit high, but other than that not too bad.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYHHy8lgL0c

The two marker lights on the left got put on today.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164152_zpsz5senxbm.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164152_zpsz5senxbm.jpg.html)

My driver side bezel was cracked so I got a replacement.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_1640510_zps1blqg6gv.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_1640510_zps1blqg6gv.jpg.html)

80s Grill with just one broken slat at the very top in the middle.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164241_zpswrtuvyca.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164241_zpswrtuvyca.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164254_zpslipo4d5n.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164254_zpslipo4d5n.jpg.html)

Spirit grill with a hole in the grill and several of the slats cracked and missing pieces. I'm considering cutting out all of the slats except for the main cross and then installing some sort of mesh/chicken wire behind it.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164331_zpszg2rlcks.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164331_zpszg2rlcks.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164345_zpsavmqyrma.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164345_zpsavmqyrma.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140401_164351_zpsmwoiqjnk.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140401_164351_zpsmwoiqjnk.jpg.html)

And then I also tried out all 3 grills on the car. Well, I installed the 80 grill and rested the other two over top to see which one I'd like better.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140402_175539_zpsrkyvuln7.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140402_175539_zpsrkyvuln7.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140402_175623_zps7sxku3p2.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140402_175623_zps7sxku3p2.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20140402_175712_zps1jcjtcj7.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20140402_175712_zps1jcjtcj7.jpg.html)

Will the early 80's spirit grill fit an 85 Eagle without any modifications?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on June 22, 2014, 07:54:21 PM
Yes, may require sliding over the nuts that screw it down in a few places.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on August 14, 2014, 05:06:34 AM
Uhg, I miss my car! :(

I hope to get back to Missouri in October or November and snatch it up. Probably staying out in Utah for a little longer than we thought. We like it out here! Just wish I had some more of my toys!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on August 20, 2014, 01:19:37 AM
So I want to have a plan of attack when I get back to Missouri in the next month and a half or so.

Engine: When I left the car was running pretty well. Took it around the block a few times. There seems to be a problem with the choke plate and some carb adjustments, but other than that I think the engine would be ready to go. I do have an aftermarket oil pressure gauge I'd like to install...but first I want to look into the stock one in my gauge cluster cause I'd rather just fix it...if that's possible.

Leaking: It was leaking some oil though when I pulled it into the driveway, but it appears to be coming from the oil dip stick tube. Is this something that can be replaced? Is it likely mine is broken or just needs tightened back down?

Dead Battery: The battery was not lasting through the night so there is a drain somewhere in the system. Would there be a usual suspect? Especially considering what the shop may have done with the wiring to get the 4.0 and electric fuel pump in my car...where should I go looking for power drains?

Blinkers: My blinkers are not working. Hazards work fine, but nothing happens when the switch is turned for left or right at the column. I don't recall if it stayed in the on position through the turn and flipped off as if it was working or not. So I know the bulbs are working, does that mean my switch is probably broken? What part would I be looking to replace?

Electric Fuel Pump: The shop installed the pump, but did not put in a relay of any kind. Currently as soon as the key is put in the on position it starts running. Found this out the hard way when I was testing the radio in the car with the key on and the car not running. Started smelling gas and realized the pump was running. Had been wondering what that strange sound was, but thought it might have been the radio as it wasn't working. Where do I splice in a relay? Guessing I'll need a considerable length of wire to go from back be the tank up to the engine or under the dash.

I'd also like to remove the dash and take out this stupid aftermarket intermittent wiper module which is wired up all weird. While the dash is out I'll install the proper one I bought from Vangremlin...and while I'm at it I should probably buy one of those Ford tach kits too cause mine isn't working.

And I'll have to do something about the lack of radio before I make the nearly 20 hour drive back to UT! I'm sure about a million other things will pop up that I'll need to take care of along the way. Luckily the brakes seem to be working just fine. And hopefully after I finally got the rear springs installed correctly they've had a little time to settle.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglefreek on August 20, 2014, 02:03:09 PM
I'll just reply on the fuel pump. Just because it is running all the time, doesn't mean it is not on a relay. It could be the relay is powered when the key is in the on position.  I would try to get that problem fixed. It's not a big deal when running, but if you were to get into an accident and there was damage to the fuel line the fuel pump would stay running if the engine shut off without the key, letting the fuel pump possibly feed a fire. A simple oil pressure switch would work. http://www.summitracing.com/parts/crt-a68301?seid=srese1&gclid=Cj0KEQjwjtGfBRCN4-LU9ODG1-wBEiQAy_Xp7_XsbJoVJlpn2H5i5VpPWtgvI1UHWpVhQPtnuQFsjWAaAle48P8HAQ
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on August 20, 2014, 02:59:14 PM
Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: amchornet on September 26, 2014, 09:03:25 PM
You want to be careful with the dipstick tube. The stock ones are just pressed in.just twist the tube back and forth and push or pull. The problem is you can break them off in the block! So be careful! The turn signals might be the flasher. They have two one for hazards and the other for the flashers.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on September 27, 2014, 05:23:47 PM
The turn signals might be the flasher. They have two one for hazards and the other for the flashers.

I hope my dip stick tube isn't already broken. I'll be careful when fiddling with it.

I don't quite know what you mean. There are two separate fuses...is that what you mean? One for flashers and one for hazards? I'd really like to figure out what's up with the turn signals not working before I try to drive it from Denver to Utah in a couple weeks... EEKKK!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglefreek on September 27, 2014, 06:19:50 PM
The flasher is the part that  that makes either the hazzards and turn signals flash. There are 2 separate flashers. One for the hazzards and one for the turn signals. The one for the turn signals is up inside the dash usually just hanging there.

(http://contentinfo.autozone.com/znetcs/product-info/en/US/tri/552/image/3/)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: 1985amceagle on September 28, 2014, 09:19:32 AM
If the flasher isn't hanging there, it will be clipped to the side of the car near the wiper switch, I have a pic I can post later.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on October 04, 2014, 02:04:26 AM
What is the part number for the turn signal flasher? Can it be found at most parts stores? Is it easily changed without taking the dash out?

My buddy took a look at the Eagle the other day. He's a mech for a Ford dealership. I had left the battery unhooked. Started right up after hooking it up. He did  have some things to say about it.

"The leak is coming from your transfer case. Nothing serious. Looks like you need a new output seal and a drain bolt. Also some new sealant on the case halfs. Your tach don't work but that should be one wire on the distributor. If you rev the engine with the pedal the idle will stay high if you use the the carb to rev it with your hand the idle goes to normal. Drove it around the block. Clutch is good shifts gears good. There is a rapid clicking v-Belt sound when drive goes away up hill not sure what it is. I dont think it is anything serious.

When you get it back put it on jack stands and have someone drive it so you can find that clicking sound. Also at idle the alt belt looks a little loose.  But when the idle is up the alt pulley seems to have a bit of a wobble to it so you will want to fix that as well."
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on October 04, 2014, 06:28:52 PM
I'm flying back home on Monday and eaglefreek is gonna Dolly my car to the Eagle Motel meet in Denver. From there I'll be driving it from there back to Utah. Wish us well. And if anyone is coming to the meet I could use some help making sure it's up to snuff for the trip.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: rollguy on October 04, 2014, 06:52:19 PM
And if anyone is coming to the meet I could use some help making sure it's up to snuff for the trip.
I will be bringing my tools (I am driving my MB), so I/we (anyone at the meet) can do what it takes.  I am sure there will be plenty of hands and brains available there  :)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: carnuck on October 05, 2014, 12:06:09 AM
Pick up an EL12 (unless EL13 is 2 prong)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on October 05, 2014, 11:37:35 AM
I'll take a look when I get back home. I hope it's something little like that.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: carnuck on October 05, 2014, 12:29:28 PM
If a bulb is out, reular flashers quit. The EL12 will flash as long as the resistance is more than a single 194 bulb. I put one in my MJ because I don't have time to tear apart the grill and redo the right turn signal socket right now. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. The rear always flashes this way

Also check the 4 way signal button isn't 1/2 way pushed in. Push it all the way then pull back.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on October 05, 2014, 03:10:52 PM
All four signals flash with the hazard button on. That's how I know it's not a bulb out.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: 1985amceagle on October 05, 2014, 11:08:47 PM
If a bulb is out, reular flashers quit. The EL12 will flash as long as the resistance is more than a single 194 bulb. I put one in my MJ because I don't have time to tear apart the grill and redo the right turn signal socket right now. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't. The rear always flashes this way

Also check the 4 way signal button isn't 1/2 way pushed in. Push it all the way then pull back.

it seems like the sockets used on the mj and xj were prone to failing. I eneded up replacing mine with ones off of a grand wagoneer.

I'll just reply on the fuel pump. Just because it is running all the time, doesn't mean it is not on a relay. It could be the relay is powered when the key is in the on position.  I would try to get that problem fixed. It's not a big deal when running, but if you were to get into an accident and there was damage to the fuel line the fuel pump would stay running if the engine shut off without the key, letting the fuel pump possibly feed a fire. A simple oil pressure switch would work. http://www.summitracing.com/parts/crt-a68301?seid=srese1&gclid=Cj0KEQjwjtGfBRCN4-LU9ODG1-wBEiQAy_Xp7_XsbJoVJlpn2H5i5VpPWtgvI1UHWpVhQPtnuQFsjWAaAle48P8HAQ

another idea that ive seen, ford used a inertia switch to shut the fuel pump off as a safety precaution, haven't messed with it myself, but maybe one of those switches could be put in line if you wanted to keep the fuel pump running for some reason. I maybe would look at a way to make it run at the flick of the switch in case the car sits a long time, or is ran out of gas and you need to pump fuel back up to the carb. then again, ive used a squeeze bottle to fill the bowl of the carb to get the engine running right away, so you could get away with out having the pump running with the key on, engine cranking or running,
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: carnuck on October 08, 2014, 12:30:41 AM
Hide the switch as an anti-theft device.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 16, 2015, 01:33:18 PM
The Dull Penny is finally coming home to Bullfrog! This weekend I picked up an Eagle in South Western Utah for a member who lives in Denver. In turn he is bringing my Eagle to me and then picking his Eagle up. I still have all the same issues with it, but I'll at least have it in my possession to start tinkering again!

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/s480x480/10988282_981313978547310_4486866379249578492_n.jpg?oh=446ea42c58c53570626713879da0725e&oe=55B5A8CC&__gda__=1437662833_737c9d3e65899a3d34e9322336c9da0e)

I also made a bunch of videos documenting the pickup of his Eagle in St. George...which was a 6 hour drive from Bullfrog...if you are going the speed limit. There is 2 hours of 80mph speed limits and probably another hour or so of 75mph speed limits. The rest is mostly 55-65 range, but we didn't get much over 60 most of the time...at least on the way back so it was a long drive! Also an iffy drive in a $500 Eagle with squishy brakes. Will post the videos later.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: rollguy on March 16, 2015, 09:11:49 PM
The Dull Penny is finally coming home to Bullfrog! This weekend I picked up an Eagle in South Western Utah for a member who lives in Denver. In turn he is bringing my Eagle to me and then picking his Eagle up. I still have all the same issues with it, but I'll at least have it in my possession to start tinkering again!

That's good to hear.  It seems you found the perfect "bucket brigade" to get your Eagle home.  Keep us updated on your tinkering....Rich
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: MudPuppy on March 17, 2015, 11:00:41 PM
So glad to hear that Penny will be with you once again  :occasion14:. And hopefully you'll get her back on the road and get us some wonderful shots of all those gorgeous backdrops you have there in your BullFrog area (unlike my BullFrog, not much for backdrops unless you like lots of tree's lol).
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 22, 2015, 03:09:40 PM
Here are some videos from when we went to pick up the Eagle for Brian in St. George, Utah. I have some more scenic videos I'll try to put together later.

Staying in the RV
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c661mPOchfY

Picking up the Eagle in the Morning
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzpQ6KRWlPw

Breakfast Stop after an hour drive down the road
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBEOrOkkLT8

And then our last stop when we were just an hour from home
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ir473xEUq0A

And here are some pics from Brian's journey to Bullfrog with Penny and then when she was safely off the trailer.

The Eagle in Eagle County Colorado.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/p180x540/10983353_814371052308_5443586306121491601_n.jpg?oh=bba55addeb322658fdcf874704f39bd1&oe=55BC6886&__gda__=1433723298_6887da94b5e1c7b9da55136faa6a1590)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/p180x540/11078195_814371102208_5945034298786307637_n.jpg?oh=bebe0b766ed93978c73a7235c2884eaa&oe=55B1AAD3&__gda__=1438205016_768cebb357240b4b2ba7ff44e3273973)

Finally home!!!
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/q81/s720x720/10351105_814371127158_1946016915990333203_n.jpg?oh=58b38426faadb0de3e9f2590bd139d37&oe=5579C3EC&__gda__=1434266183_f800e45eb897a2a9a5d12bee6ae9bfc8)

Off the trailer!
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/997044_814371157098_8363690986575629921_n.jpg?oh=20d5e8dfcc2c30260d504d9db5fff5c0&oe=5576FECB&__gda__=1438486500_76b42061cd281d566679a7fc8e3500ef)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/11081423_814371187038_6173637783782103642_n.jpg?oh=9a51a19ac9bab08acadf4f9977d00234&oe=556FC445&__gda__=1438113032_df77d327f96d913f8ab0d23e6b69b0ef)

Took a bunch of stuff out of the car and had to go ahead an install these. Not really any room in our small place.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10480649_814371206998_3122769762969553593_n.jpg?oh=12f5610ad6de95f8cc7fe05ac328f769&oe=55AE5C38&__gda__=1437430853_a9be6d9cbddda10be746203c5a6998c4)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 22, 2016, 01:23:49 AM
It's been almost a year since I've had Penny back home with me and I've done pretty much nothing with her. Yesterday I took the rear wheel off cause it's been sitting the the rim for awhile cause the tire won't hold air. Put the spare on and started looking around under the car. The front end has a lot of surface rust on the suspension parts so I've decided to go ahead and remove the whole front end and crossmember so I can take the oil pan off and look into my oil issue. While I've got it all apart I'll either sandblast and paint the front end parts or completely replace with new parts. Many of the bushings look cracked and worn so I'm just gonna go all out. I'll try to clean up and paint other suspect areas while all the stuff is out of the way. If it looks like the engine may need or too I'll remove it as well and rebuild but I know I want to replace the front end parts so I might as well start there and see what my oil pump looks like. Hopefully start in the next couple weeks. Wanna get it up on some good jack stands and start pulling parts!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: rollguy on February 23, 2016, 11:23:46 AM
It would be nice to find that all you have is a bad oil pump.  It should be an easy job to replace it. That would be a lot cheaper than an engine rebuild! There may be more damage, but have hope that a new pump will be all that is needed.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 23, 2016, 03:52:06 PM
It would be nice to find that all you have is a bad oil pump.  It should be an easy job to replace it. That would be a lot cheaper than an engine rebuild! There may be more damage, but have hope that a new pump will be all that is needed.

Garsh...I sure hope so! With the pan off would I be able to have a peek into the cylinders from underneath to inspect wear?
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglebeek on February 23, 2016, 04:59:10 PM
It would be nice to find that all you have is a bad oil pump.  It should be an easy job to replace it. That would be a lot cheaper than an engine rebuild! There may be more damage, but have hope that a new pump will be all that is needed.

Garsh...I sure hope so! With the pan off would I be able to have a peek into the cylinders from underneath to inspect wear?

99% of cylinder wear is going to occur at the top of piston travel. In many cases it's necessary to use a ridge cutter at the top of the cylinder to allow the piston & rod to be removed. You may be able to see a scored cylinder from below, but if you do you need an overhaul. Chances are the scored cylinder will be low or non-existent on compression and will have a broken ring or other catastrophic damage. :eagle:
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: rollguy on February 23, 2016, 08:15:13 PM
I would suspect that there is crank/bearing damage, before cylinder wall damage from the bad oil pump.  Or you may have dodged a bullet if an oil pump replacement is all it takes to get rid of the noise.  By the way, if you are going to remove the crossmember, you will need to support the engine from above. The engine mounts are part of that crossmember.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 23, 2016, 08:43:34 PM
I would suspect that there is crank/bearing damage, before cylinder wall damage from the bad oil pump.  Or you may have dodged a bullet if an oil pump replacement is all it takes to get rid of the noise.  By the way, if you are going to remove the crossmember, you will need to support the engine from above. The engine mounts are part of that crossmember.

Yeah, I know. I posted on Facebook too and carnuk reminded me of that.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on February 23, 2016, 08:50:49 PM
Here is what I'm working with underneath.

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20160222_161509_zpscopjhwu6.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20160222_161509_zpscopjhwu6.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20160222_161533_zpsz8md69m5.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20160222_161533_zpsz8md69m5.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20160222_161559_zpsbhp1frvh.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20160222_161559_zpsbhp1frvh.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/20160222_161616_zpsxp41vfka.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/20160222_161616_zpsxp41vfka.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 15, 2017, 06:07:37 PM
Well I haven't done an update here for over a year. As you guys have probably already read from other threads I took Penny into a shop to get her fixed for good! Happened across another Utah AMC nut via theamcforum and asked if he'd be willing to take on a project and he agreed. On Valentine's Day my wife and I transported the Eagle 5 hours away using a borrowed truck and trailer. I have the best wife in the world! :) Here is the thread I started for my mechanic in helping him figure out the oil issue. http://forums.amceaglesden.com/index.php?topic=45968.msg356224#new

It's been at the shop for a month now and the oil issues have been solved and my mechanic has been chipping away at some of the other things I wanted taken care of to make it a nice reliable daily driver. Now it's got some new shoes and getting some final touches before I go get it in about 2 weeks.

Anyway here are some pics from it's trip to the mechanic and time at the shop.

Our borrowed vehicles!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/EDB19DDF-D151-4099-B85F-AB0FA9FBFAAA_zpsmx3wkbzt.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/EDB19DDF-D151-4099-B85F-AB0FA9FBFAAA_zpsmx3wkbzt.jpg.html)

I think my mechanic has a soft spot for Wagoneers/FS Cherokees! :)
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/ED99B1E7-808C-42A6-914A-46FED07A6AD1_zpsey4lgveo.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/ED99B1E7-808C-42A6-914A-46FED07A6AD1_zpsey4lgveo.jpg.html)

Dustin (My mechanic) even cleaned my windows!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/340A6366-62EE-48A4-8E71-4B2552F7CCBD_zpsnadnt43a.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/340A6366-62EE-48A4-8E71-4B2552F7CCBD_zpsnadnt43a.jpg.html)

In the air and getting a thorough inspection
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/58B9A507-A7E8-499A-8C8F-EE96730A0BD4_zpsyplcssyp.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/58B9A507-A7E8-499A-8C8F-EE96730A0BD4_zpsyplcssyp.jpg.html)

And back from the tire shop with some new General Grabber AT2 tires in 215/75/15. Oh and he gave Penny a much needed bath!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/45C39FF1-D649-4C5F-A8E0-0DDB55DFF61B_zpssxcjpjwh.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/45C39FF1-D649-4C5F-A8E0-0DDB55DFF61B_zpssxcjpjwh.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/001EB209-D35F-4D65-A5F6-3D5218F32933_zpsvm1bzgqo.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/001EB209-D35F-4D65-A5F6-3D5218F32933_zpsvm1bzgqo.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/F2FC4F8C-07DB-47C2-B1FD-A459FF1C9311_zps61zqb7qu.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/F2FC4F8C-07DB-47C2-B1FD-A459FF1C9311_zps61zqb7qu.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/A7A376F0-FB74-4E7F-9AF0-29B97C816D94_zpsakqyghut.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/A7A376F0-FB74-4E7F-9AF0-29B97C816D94_zpsakqyghut.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: amarshall on March 15, 2017, 10:01:29 PM
Looks great!  I wish I was lucky enough to find somebody local to help out with my project, though so far my wife has also been amazing.

New tires look good, very aggressive styling but not too crazy for a daily driver.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 16, 2017, 12:17:20 AM
Well he wasn't exactly local. I drove 5 hours to get to him! But when you live 3.5 hours from a Walmart it's all relative! :)

Thanks I like the tires I picked. Nice medium ground from mudder to daily.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on March 16, 2017, 09:52:56 AM
Looking good!  It will definitely be great to see Penny on the road, its been a long journey, both literally and figuratively lol!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 16, 2017, 01:00:48 PM
Looking good!  It will definitely be great to see Penny on the road, its been a long journey, both literally and figuratively lol!

And Monetarily! :)

But I've put up with so much and been on such a long journey with this thing I couldn't just give up on it. Plus I have an amazing wife that let's me follow my dreams and she's been 100% behind putting whatever we need to into Penny to get her going right!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 29, 2017, 02:30:05 AM
Penny is coming along. Should be picking her up on the 6th of April on my way home from a trip to Vegas.

Recently had the windows tinted. 25% all around.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/7D1C2D95-1FAD-49AF-A511-ADE10F0BA442_zpsf07v20vj.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/7D1C2D95-1FAD-49AF-A511-ADE10F0BA442_zpsf07v20vj.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/75512011-CA7A-46E0-A349-77CF38B7CCF3_zpsw3yzxm5j.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/75512011-CA7A-46E0-A349-77CF38B7CCF3_zpsw3yzxm5j.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/AFFDE908-7F64-43B0-A0BF-00E5FDF59EFA_zpsynrtcbjz.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/AFFDE908-7F64-43B0-A0BF-00E5FDF59EFA_zpsynrtcbjz.jpg.html)

Dustin found that the other shop kind of half donkeyed the electrical on the fuel pump and also ran one hard line the full length of the car rather than the several hard to soft connections they had going on. He also relocated the pump to a placement that could push better. The old shop still had it mounted too high.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/EF5CDFEF-82B7-4AED-90EE-8D7098BB8529_zpsazju5qr4.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/EF5CDFEF-82B7-4AED-90EE-8D7098BB8529_zpsazju5qr4.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/5460E8C9-B627-4E19-ABB3-506C1BF04FE6_zpsvhoqfc8u.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/5460E8C9-B627-4E19-ABB3-506C1BF04FE6_zpsvhoqfc8u.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/84BF5C34-E806-4624-B89E-5F8DC4C3D40D_zpsfehef4t5.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/84BF5C34-E806-4624-B89E-5F8DC4C3D40D_zpsfehef4t5.jpg.html)

Then we met up at a local yard that had some Eagles. Unfortunately they were pretty picked over but we did grab some things we needed and I was able to snag some items for some other Eagle peeps. But shot I grabbed from the yard was with the old FSJ bodies.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/7CFE0D17-3C66-41CD-A375-583BD7AC2623_zpsubxrpizu.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/7CFE0D17-3C66-41CD-A375-583BD7AC2623_zpsubxrpizu.jpg.html)

After returning Dustin installed the Sport wheel I got from Vangremlin awhile back. It looks good!
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/6C9F380B-480E-4B76-8F33-19FED4575781_zps4ebriza0.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/6C9F380B-480E-4B76-8F33-19FED4575781_zps4ebriza0.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/4FCDA9C1-5194-41A8-9C5D-6C13620A9BE1_zpsd3y370xo.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/4FCDA9C1-5194-41A8-9C5D-6C13620A9BE1_zpsd3y370xo.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on March 29, 2017, 08:45:30 AM
Glad to read that Penny will soon be home!!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: DAVE on March 29, 2017, 08:56:05 AM
am I seeing correctly you only have a parcel tray under half of the dash if so how was that achieved.
and looking great, those are the tires I want on my eagle
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 29, 2017, 11:11:33 AM
am I seeing correctly you only have a parcel tray under half of the dash if so how was that achieved.
and looking great, those are the tires I want on my eagle

Well now that you mention it and I looked through a bunch of Eagle interior photos I'm thinking I'm missing something! I thought it was because I have no AC but I've seen other cars with no AC and they either have no package tray or a full package tray minus the AC vents.

Full package tray minus vents
(http://images.gtcarlot.com/customgallery/interior/3238225.jpg)

(http://images.gtcarlot.com/customgallery/interior/3238235.jpg)

No package tray
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a0/AMC_Eagle_sedan_blue_i.jpg)

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U1GLvYS_yec/Uq6CmoGw9GI/AAAAAAAALEI/gYvUPV7jDfI/s1600/1984+AMC+Eagle+Dashboard.jpg)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on March 29, 2017, 01:45:10 PM
Never seen one with half a package tray before!  Must have been a special order lol.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eagleman on March 29, 2017, 05:29:26 PM
First half package tray that I have ever seen too. Didn't know they were available .So now I know. Cool
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 30, 2017, 01:38:33 AM
I'll have to do some more research when I get the car back. See if someone just cut it in half or if it looks factory.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 30, 2017, 02:06:24 PM
I bought some new side louvers from Ronny and so glad I did. Looks awesome! Dustin said they were super easy to install.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/140D7204-0847-4514-9BB1-B72BA9016BBC_zpsktyhydfl.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/140D7204-0847-4514-9BB1-B72BA9016BBC_zpsktyhydfl.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/FEE70E4B-9453-4EF3-B737-27E71E2AF498_zpsnzzv6gdo.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/FEE70E4B-9453-4EF3-B737-27E71E2AF498_zpsnzzv6gdo.jpg.html)

Also Dustin found some massive vacuum leaks for the 4WD system and got them all straightened out. So we have everything working now!
https://youtu.be/mHFASD5d-kw

And Dustin drove it 10 miles to work this morning and said it ran great. He replaced both oil sending sensors/switch  but the oil pressure gauge isn't working still. The choke is shutting off properly now and it's not cutting out at full throttle anymore. Things are looking better and better.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/25A3E691-E821-4016-B010-AD0EAF89E519_zpsa8m1vnjm.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/25A3E691-E821-4016-B010-AD0EAF89E519_zpsa8m1vnjm.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on March 30, 2017, 05:33:14 PM
Louvers look great!  I'm sure she is running a lot better now that the vacuum leak has been fixed. 
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 30, 2017, 06:23:07 PM
The main things now are oil pressure gauge and tachometer not functioning. Temp gauge and fuel gauge are now working though. I'll have a few little things here and there when I get it back. I'll make a big list of attention items once I get it home. Right now my pick up date is April 6th my wife and I's 3rd Wedding Anniversary!  :blob1:
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eagleman on March 30, 2017, 06:38:56 PM
Hey your louvers look really cool! And Oh by the way Happy Anniversary and get to bring the your baby home at the same time. Now how cool is that? Congrats to you and wife.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: dustinlangston on March 31, 2017, 12:07:35 AM
Ya it's getting closer all the time. I wanted to mention that while I was reassembling the dash I noticed it had been cut in half. Most likely a previous owner needed a little more leg room.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on March 31, 2017, 12:15:24 AM
Well I guess that solves it! I was kind of thinking that same thing. The SX/4 is a little cramped. I could see how a bigger guy might need some extra room.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on March 31, 2017, 08:44:05 AM
Congratulations on your upcoming anniversary!  And what a way to celebrate.

An original AMC tach that doesn't work???  That's a first  :rotfl:

You might want to try taking some steel wool to the plug and socket for the console gauges, sometimes they just need to get cleaned up a bit.  But make sure you disconnect the battery first because there is constant power for the clock and if you hit that contact plus the ground at the same time, your steel wool can catch on fire.  Ask me how I know!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 08, 2017, 03:52:06 PM
Well I picked up my Eagle on the 6th. I was hoping to get some more photos and videos of the trip, but we started much later than I was anticipating. Dustin met me at the DMV in Cedar City, UT and I got the car registered and applied for some personal plates. Then he drove me in it back to his place while my wife picked up a prescription at Walgreens and then I took it around the block a couple times and then decided to fuel it up. When I took the cap off a ton of air released from the tank. I could feel it on my face! Fueled up and got about a mile down the road and the car just died. As I was coasting I tried starting it several times and never could get it running. I was able to coast to a spot off the road and checked my fuel lines and pump and everything seemed good. Wiggled some wires and tapped a few times on the pump and tried again. Took two or three tries, but it finally started up again. Ran fine the rest of the trip...though it did stall on stop a couple times...once as I was pulling into our driveway at the end of the trip! Yikes. So I do still have some things to take care of, but it did make the 5 hour trip home.

Here are some pics Dustin took before I came to get it.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/633A82C3-9642-4D9F-9125-0A33F851BD0D_zpsi8fkerdt.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/633A82C3-9642-4D9F-9125-0A33F851BD0D_zpsi8fkerdt.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/253AE751-490E-4C9E-A8A8-B3B766BC92F5_zps4pf7fok3.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/253AE751-490E-4C9E-A8A8-B3B766BC92F5_zps4pf7fok3.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/04A6685A-507C-4421-908F-4EA870778567_zpskqcmxkzv.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/04A6685A-507C-4421-908F-4EA870778567_zpskqcmxkzv.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/4B2BFAB4-8EFA-4597-96BB-B6263B2C428D_zpsnehkxwvp.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/4B2BFAB4-8EFA-4597-96BB-B6263B2C428D_zpsnehkxwvp.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/DDADE112-1963-4272-8FA4-3CE58BAE7966_zpswjn5pbr0.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/DDADE112-1963-4272-8FA4-3CE58BAE7966_zpswjn5pbr0.jpg.html)

And here was a quick video I made right as I was starting the journey. Sorry, didn't realize how loud my music was!
https://youtu.be/7o3SomYSSl0
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 08, 2017, 05:32:33 PM
Off the top of my head here are some things that need attention. Gotta love old cars. It's always something.

Oil leak from pan gasket
Oil leak from dip stick tube
Drivers door rattling
Right hand turn over bumps left suspension rattle
Headlight short also low beams worthless!
Wipers don't work on low
Package tray rattles
Clutch Hydraulic oil leaking? Bubble?
Hard to shift into gear sometimes
Some fender rubbing
Mirrors are loose
Needs new headliner fabric
Shift knob won't stay right
Tach and oil pressure not working
Temp only goes just into the green
Vacuum runs at around 20 when no gas is applied. Under load it drops to zero.
Inside window sweeps need installed
Front and rear bumper trim needs installed
Wiper knob pops off when releasing Ebrake
Flasher knob broke in half
Needs radio and speakers
Passenger top corner of dash broken and popped up
Passenger mirror need manual adjust bezel mounted and cables routed from door
Rear louvers need some repair work and paint
Needs a bath and wax
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglefreek on April 08, 2017, 07:20:28 PM
Congrats, hopefully the fuel and stalling issue is an easy fix. I would check the vent line and make sure it's not plugged. Install relays for your headlights. Your vacuum condition is normal. 20 at idle is fantastic and 0 at WOT is what it should be.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 08, 2017, 07:40:41 PM
Your vacuum condition is normal. 20 at idle is fantastic and 0 at WOT is what it should be.

Good to know. I can cross that one off my list then! Yeah I'm more worried about the dip stick tube and pan gasket. The dip stick tube was broken at the block and Dustin could not pull it out so he tried welding around the connection point, but it appears to have not held. I'm thinking I might try that puddy seal stuff. Also I need to check the bolts on the pan gasket. I'm hoping they are just a little loose. But I know I shouldn't over tighten them either. Gonna be bummed if after all this I'm still gonna have to drop the pan from below or remove the engine.

I've also been thinking about doing the relay for the headlights as well as maybe the LED lights. I live in Open Ranch so it's pretty important to see clearly at night when there could be a black cow standing in the middle of the road!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on April 08, 2017, 08:15:33 PM
Glad to hear Penny made it home and hope any fuel issue is "no big deal"  Like you said, gotta love old cars, I think all of us have a list like that of things that need attention, some sooner than later.

I would not be too concerned about the temp indicator just getting into the green, that seems pretty normal for these cars, I put that aluminum radiator in Pepe and the needle barely makes it past the beginning of the normal range, not even up to the green.  But haven't had any problems because of it.  One more thing you can cross off your list!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: amcfool1 on April 09, 2017, 01:02:57 PM
hi, nice car! there is a thread in here about adding relays to your headlights. If you want a custom harness ready made, call Daniel Stern at www.danielsternlighting.com, and he will set you up with one, about $165. I have one on my 84 and it is top quality.  Also, get the Ford F150 tach , also on this site. good luck, gz
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 15, 2017, 12:59:08 PM
Been driving it off and on for a a bit no and have not had it shut off during driving. I think there might be an issue with the choke though as it doesn't wanna start on the first try sometimes. I gotta give it a little gas and then if I just start it and leave it idles poorly and starts to act like it wants to die until I can goose the gas pedal a few times. Then it will get stuck idling high sometimes again til I goose the gas pedal a few times and it will settle back down. Other than that it has been getting me back and forth to work just fine. Wife even drove it a few days while I took our Grand Cherokee up to Salt Lake City. It does have some issues I'll try to address separately at another time but they aren't in relation to how the engine is running.

Oil Pan Gasket
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/C6582C67-613F-4A29-A955-D41A83C85756_zpsbc9gbawo.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/C6582C67-613F-4A29-A955-D41A83C85756_zpsbc9gbawo.jpg.html)

Where it seemed to soak everything from the 5 hour drive home.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/ABDE9C47-51D0-42E7-9F0E-F40A30593FE0_zpscnfb3hic.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/ABDE9C47-51D0-42E7-9F0E-F40A30593FE0_zpscnfb3hic.jpg.html)

I think this is the front of the trans and the flywheel cover
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/6B494BBA-3D92-4744-899D-DE28E8C3EDA4_zps2kpcdijm.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/6B494BBA-3D92-4744-899D-DE28E8C3EDA4_zps2kpcdijm.jpg.html)

Clutch boot that was coming off. I have it back on and good now.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/45773240-DA05-47A8-959D-F7AE26D5799D_zpsgyozvqi0.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/45773240-DA05-47A8-959D-F7AE26D5799D_zpsgyozvqi0.jpg.html)

And the clutch master cylinder that seems to be leaking. I've already purchased a new one.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/0F9FE938-AE10-4E07-B143-52A0B72FB32A_zpsrj4xea5e.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/0F9FE938-AE10-4E07-B143-52A0B72FB32A_zpsrj4xea5e.jpg.html)

A day or so later too I noticed my coolant reservoir was low. Popped the cap for the radiator and it was plenty full at least. Saw this underneath though.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/F8885961-A8B0-49B1-9515-CC9244131D47_zpsrlcx7pgi.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/F8885961-A8B0-49B1-9515-CC9244131D47_zpsrlcx7pgi.jpg.html)

Then I did feel bad for Penny and gave her a nice bath. Waxed her up real good and sprayed the engine bay down with degreaser. She's looking much better!

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/CB173BC1-40AB-4488-9EF1-C02C7269E280_zpsfifrijil.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/CB173BC1-40AB-4488-9EF1-C02C7269E280_zpsfifrijil.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/EAB1B627-E8F3-4B6F-A599-5E2248B42B5E_zpshwkwdm8g.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/EAB1B627-E8F3-4B6F-A599-5E2248B42B5E_zpshwkwdm8g.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/3AB5CE50-FD00-435B-897C-9C81351126CA_zpsdvz45f2h.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/3AB5CE50-FD00-435B-897C-9C81351126CA_zpsdvz45f2h.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/4155A2B3-0B73-4C3D-AE0B-5162CB26D51B_zpsotjng6v9.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/4155A2B3-0B73-4C3D-AE0B-5162CB26D51B_zpsotjng6v9.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/455024CF-7BAB-4DD9-85A2-22472700DB01_zps0tuum3wi.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/455024CF-7BAB-4DD9-85A2-22472700DB01_zps0tuum3wi.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on April 15, 2017, 01:34:01 PM
Glad to hear she's running pretty good and is being a reliable source of transportation.  While the leaks are aggravating none of them probably needs immediate attention, just keep an eye on the coolant level and you should be good!  It cleaned up real nice!!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: amarshall on April 16, 2017, 11:44:48 PM
Looking good!  Sorry to hear about the rough idle, I know little stuff like that can ruin your day.  I agree with vangremlin, don't chase the leaks if you don't have to!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: mo.eagles on April 18, 2017, 07:46:02 PM
Sometimes leaks are good. My under side is oily but it has NO rust.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on April 20, 2017, 10:12:58 PM
Just been trying to ignore the problems with the Eagle and have some fun lately.

https://youtu.be/WwRgQuJ4OLk

https://youtu.be/3QssVeagoA0
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: amarshall on April 20, 2017, 10:43:12 PM
Fantastic!  Nice to see you enjoying it, very pretty car!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: vangremlin on April 21, 2017, 11:22:22 AM
Nice videos!  I'd blame the "fail" on the wind!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on May 21, 2017, 05:23:48 PM
Here are some pics for you guys to enjoy before I come back and pick your brains about some issues I'm having.

A friend of mine and I out at the Shooting Range
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/3C664E42-80F2-4BD3-AD50-7E750ACFD7B8_zpsgi8uxq4m.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/3C664E42-80F2-4BD3-AD50-7E750ACFD7B8_zpsgi8uxq4m.jpg.html)

Parked on the Hill on top of Hobie Cat Beach
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/4F05EA26-DCF6-4D67-863B-1E0FA497848C_zpsj0p0yc3m.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/4F05EA26-DCF6-4D67-863B-1E0FA497848C_zpsj0p0yc3m.jpg.html)

Driving out on the Burr Trail looking for wild flowers with my wife
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/F4FC8B7D-B2A6-4BED-96EA-3E03076E559B_zpsni2rgvoi.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/F4FC8B7D-B2A6-4BED-96EA-3E03076E559B_zpsni2rgvoi.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on May 21, 2017, 05:27:27 PM
Took a cruise out at Stanton Creek. The primitive camping area you can drive to inside the park. (Glen Canyon National Recreation Area)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/7EF8D34A-90CD-4817-8523-7EDA69B64240_zpsnsyqq1aw.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/7EF8D34A-90CD-4817-8523-7EDA69B64240_zpsnsyqq1aw.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/00EFA421-7B6E-422B-90CD-0DBA82AC1171_zpsyw2ixwhn.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/00EFA421-7B6E-422B-90CD-0DBA82AC1171_zpsyw2ixwhn.jpg.html)

And debuting new plates! :) I was worried about this but some people have been calling in SOAR EX 4 rather than the SOAR BY 4 I was intending. Oh well.
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/5A7B3BE5-65ED-46CC-8F1B-D13D49D68E21_zpsf8egtnqj.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/5A7B3BE5-65ED-46CC-8F1B-D13D49D68E21_zpsf8egtnqj.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/DD952691-4AEA-41C6-B90A-CF5D4402E2BC_zpscj2guwdv.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/DD952691-4AEA-41C6-B90A-CF5D4402E2BC_zpscj2guwdv.jpg.html)

On the beach
(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/28C9548E-FD6A-44F1-9179-40BA642B6368_zpslvk0gabh.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/28C9548E-FD6A-44F1-9179-40BA642B6368_zpslvk0gabh.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/45BB41D8-BF45-45DD-A068-BC3541DA065C_zpsi2bpznsv.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/45BB41D8-BF45-45DD-A068-BC3541DA065C_zpsi2bpznsv.jpg.html)

(http://i776.photobucket.com/albums/yy46/Prafeston/SX4/1C217B66-B878-4065-831C-BB0C83CE6DE1_zpsjvpykhzf.jpg) (http://s776.photobucket.com/user/Prafeston/media/SX4/1C217B66-B878-4065-831C-BB0C83CE6DE1_zpsjvpykhzf.jpg.html)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: amarshall on May 22, 2017, 12:33:50 PM
I love that last shot, on top of the rise looking down on the hood.  That rack looks like rocket launchers!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on May 22, 2017, 03:42:51 PM
Haha Pew Pew!
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: rollguy on June 23, 2017, 11:39:24 PM
I have not been around here much, but came back today to see how things were going. It is nice to see your SX4 on the road again! I have been crazy busy working on these Mercedes-Benz Diesels, and have been on those forums. I don't have an Eagle anymore, and I sure do miss having one. One day maybe I will get another one.....Rich
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: eaglefreek on June 24, 2017, 01:02:40 PM
I have not been around here much, but came back today to see how things were going. It is nice to see your it SX4 on the road again! I have been crazy busy working on these Mercedes-Benz Diesels, and have been on those forums. I don't have an Eagle anymore, and I sure do miss having one. One day maybe I will get another one.....Rich
We're all waiting for you to build a Mercedes diesel powered Eagle.
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: Prafeston on June 24, 2017, 02:15:44 PM
I have not been around here much, but came back today to see how things were going. It is nice to see your it SX4 on the road again! I have been crazy busy working on these Mercedes-Benz Diesels, and have been on those forums. I don't have an Eagle anymore, and I sure do miss having one. One day maybe I will get another one.....Rich
We're all waiting for you to build a Mercedes diesel powered Eagle.

Right...surely you can fit a Mercedes Diesel in an Eagle! And yes, I'm very happy to have it on the road. It still needs some things, but for the time being I'm just ignoring them! :)
Title: Re: 1983 SX/4 Dull "Penny"
Post by: rollguy on June 24, 2017, 03:31:44 PM
I have not been around here much, but came back today to see how things were going. It is nice to see your it SX4 on the road again! I have been crazy busy working on these Mercedes-Benz Diesels, and have been on those forums. I don't have an Eagle anymore, and I sure do miss having one. One day maybe I will get another one.....Rich
We're all waiting for you to build a Mercedes diesel powered Eagle.
Well my plan was to take the frame from my old SX4 and stretch it 14" so it fits under a 300D body. I know it will have nothing Eagle on it, but the frame did spend it's entire former life under an Eagle. ;D