One year later 40'x80'

[zmotorsports]

Damnit Paco. I love getting that notice that you've updated your thread and look forward to seeing what work you've accomplished when I open it. Now I need to wait until your shoulder heals, that's ********.

Just jabbing at ya my friend. Best of luck with the surgery and I wish you a very speedy and smooth recovery.

 

[fnieto]

Very Nice

Thank you, it was a simple upgrade but well worth it.
Thanks for the input.

FJ mods look good.

Thank boost. I love this old rig.
Thanks for stopping by.

Good luck on the surgery!

Thanks amigo, my first round was so painful with no sleep for weeks I hope this time is not so torturous.

Good luck!

Thank you Farmall, I appreciate it.

Took the day off of work to get some household items knocked out, replacing all the water filter cartridges, a little painting mostly boring domestic chores. All our rigs are up to par on maintenance so that one less hassle. I suppose a roof inspection for the upcoming monsoon is in order. The scariest part for me is relying on outside help for any issues. I can't remember the last time I had a professional service/repair company out here. I'v taken care of everything from plumbing to electronics as most companies no longer troubleshoot anything, they simply replace items and charge a crapload for poorly preformed work.

 

[fnieto]

Damnit Paco. I love getting that notice that you've updated your thread and look forward to seeing what work you've accomplished when I open it. Now I need to wait until your shoulder heals, that's ********.

Just jabbing at ya my friend. Best of luck with the surgery and I wish you a very speedy and smooth recovery.

Shoot Mike, I don't even know how to do that hahah, I have to search and read to find updates.
I'm so computer retarded but always willing to learn.

Thanks for the well wishes brother, I always welcome any good mojo.

 

[jbmatth]

Hopefully the surgery went well and I'm glad to read you were eventually able to get it all covered. Here is to enjoying more progress when you get back at it.
JB

 

[fnieto]

Hopefully the surgery went well and I'm glad to read you were eventually able to get it all covered. Here is to enjoying more progress when you get back at it.
JB

Hi JB,

Thanks for asking. I'm told everything went well however the extreme pain is telling be different at the moment. I hope its worth it in the end hahaha. I noticed the doctors are way more conservative with the pain meds then before. It seems too many souls failed to follow direction and now others must suffer as a reaction.

Looking forward brother one day at a time.

peace

 

[Finallygotit]

Good to see you on the road to recovery Paco.


Hang in there!

 

[zmotorsports]

Paco, good to hear that the procedure went well, sorry to hear that you're suffering through some pain. I wish you a speedy recovery my friend.

 

[fnieto]

Good to see you on the road to recovery Paco.


Hang in there!

Thank You Dan, I appreciate it brother.

Paco, good to hear that the procedure went well, sorry to hear that you're suffering through some pain. I wish you a speedy recovery my friend.

Hey Mike,

Thanks man.

So I used the smart TV in the master bedroom for the first time (you tube). You have a new YouTube fan Mike! I watched a marathon of Zmotorsports, very cool indeed. I ready to rebuild an Aqua heat unit when the time comes......Nice job on all your videos brother, I might need to rewatch a few as I'm fairly doped up.
be safe.

 

[LXCam]

I might need to rewatch a few as I'm fairly doped up.

/me sends over an IV bottle and a fifth of jack





I figure if you’re gonna be high, party on bro!


Lol, I’m glad to hear it went well Paco, heal properly brother.

 

[zmotorsports]

Thank You Dan, I appreciate it brother.









Hey Mike,



Thanks man.



So I used the smart TV in the master bedroom for the first time (you tube). You have a new YouTube fan Mike! I watched a marathon of Zmotorsports, very cool indeed. I ready to rebuild an Aqua heat unit when the time comes......Nice job on all your videos brother, I might need to rewatch a few as I'm fairly doped up.

be safe.

Thanks Paco, I’m flattered that you like them.

I appreciate you watching them.

 

[Big A1]

Good morning Paco,

I hope you are recovering well! I've really enjoyed your thread and reading your story. I'm amazed at your work ethic throughout your life as well as your fight and "no quit" attitude pertaining to those lawyers.

I've dealt with lawyers, both in a custody battle with my young babies (which I won by the way when they were both in diapers). It was not fun at all. I've also had to deal with lawyers because of lawsuits and such with work. I'm a mechanical engineer, so it happens from time to time.

Pertaining to your shoulder... I feel your pain. I destroyed mine in the Army. I had 2 full reconstructions complete with pins and tendon grafting one year apart and a subsequent tendon surgery ('01, '02 & '03). No fun at all. Also, I'm allergic to all the good pain meds, so it was doubly no fun. But, I recovered very well! I was able to finish my enlistment, but chose not to re-up as I didn't want to re-class and had no interest in MI.

I have no real problems with my right shoulder. I have adjusted how I do things though. I don't load my shoulders with my arms extended, but rather keep my elbows in. This helps tons! I have a shop in my back yard with a 2 post lift and get to play out there often! One day I'll post up some stuff, but between remodeling a house, a job, swapping a diesel, and teenagers, there just doesn't seem to be any time left, LOL!!!

Man, I hope you recover fully and quickly!

Have a good one!

-Andy

 

[fnieto]

/me sends over an IV bottle and a fifth of jack





I figure if you’re gonna be high, party on bro!


Lol, I’m glad to hear it went well Paco, heal properly brother.

Hi Cam,
Thanks brother, I made the turn as my last required mark was 02:00 Wednesday morning. I have been controlling the pain with ice and ibuprofen. This is a real improvement compared to the first time around. Got some quality sleep last night so that's helpful.

Thanks Paco, I’m flattered that you like them.

I appreciate you watching them.

Are you kidding! I'm sure others as well as myself appreciate your efforts in educating and sharing your shop experiences. Watching the videos adds another dimension brother. Your humility is another quality to admire my friend. Thank you for everything you do Mike.

 

[fnieto]

Good morning Paco,

I hope you are recovering well! I've really enjoyed your thread and reading your story. I'm amazed at your work ethic throughout your life as well as your fight and "no quit" attitude pertaining to those lawyers.

I've dealt with lawyers, both in a custody battle with my young babies (which I won by the way when they were both in diapers). It was not fun at all. I've also had to deal with lawyers because of lawsuits and such with work. I'm a mechanical engineer, so it happens from time to time.

Pertaining to your shoulder... I feel your pain. I destroyed mine in the Army. I had 2 full reconstructions complete with pins and tendon grafting one year apart and a subsequent tendon surgery ('01, '02 & '03). No fun at all. Also, I'm allergic to all the good pain meds, so it was doubly no fun. But, I recovered very well! I was able to finish my enlistment, but chose not to re-up as I didn't want to re-class and had no interest in MI.

I have no real problems with my right shoulder. I have adjusted how I do things though. I don't load my shoulders with my arms extended, but rather keep my elbows in. This helps tons! I have a shop in my back yard with a 2 post lift and get to play out there often! One day I'll post up some stuff, but between remodeling a house, a job, swapping a diesel, and teenagers, there just doesn't seem to be any time left, LOL!!!

Man, I hope you recover fully and quickly!

Have a good one!

-Andy

Hi Andy,

my story is not much different from many others but thank you non the less. The main factor that drives me is pride. It's something I saw in my grandfather and my step father. I learned at a young age that my name is all I have and a mans word should be golden. As time went on It became apparent that many don't share the same pride and wrong others. I gave my name to my son 30 years ago and he's on track to maintain the unblemished name to pass on some day.

As far as lawyers go, your situation was much more ambitious than my dealings. Your children are your pride and responsibility so my hats off to you and Mac for takin on lawyers in a domestic setting. Workman's Compensation cases are a game in comparison to what effects the raising of children and god know the courts don't always side with common sense or what's best for the kiddos.

Only half of my story has been shared in regards to the left shoulder. One thing I can say is never ignor your gut feeling. You went through much worse and I glad you've had success with the repairs. I agree, unnecessary loading while fully extended is foolish. I always use common sense when working and have never seriously hurt myself off duty, unfortunately many firefighting tasks don't lend themselves to safe/proper functional movement and at soon to be 56, I'm not as strong (joints, tendons and ligaments) as I once was.

Thanks again for the well wishes Andy, stay safe and let's see some pictures brother!

Paco Nieto

 

[zmotorsports]

Well said Paco. I couldn’t agree more about pride and one’s name.

My dad’s word and his handshake was rock solid and as I got older I admired and respected that more and more.

I hope to be half the man he was and I think my son is twice the man I am.

 

[fnieto]

Well said Paco. I couldn’t agree more about pride and one’s name.

My dad’s word and his handshake was rock solid and as I got older I admired and respected that more and more.

I hope to be half the man he was and I think my son is twice the man I am.

Thanks Mike,

Its apparent from your contributions to this forum and your videos you overflow with pride.
The attention to detail and the condition of your work space is indicative of this. Your time spent with your son and the effort you put into your home also speaks volumes Mike.

Some of us may never measure up to our grandfathers fathers or other mentor that impacted our lives, but if we always keep our pride in check, we can come close and if we can maintain humility as well we come even closer.

It's awesome to raise a productive child into adulthood but I guarantee your son is striving to be like you. Having skills is a blessing and can be learned but being a solid human begins with good parenting and personal integrity taught by those who love them more than life itself.

Not sure why I decided to go down this path, perhaps its sentimental, or I miss my own son or the fact that I'm laid up unable to be productive myself at the moment.

Keep on Keeping on brother.

 

[zmotorsports]

Thanks Mike,

Its apparent from your contributions to this forum and your videos you overflow with pride.
The attention to detail and the condition of your work space is indicative of this. Your time spent with your son and the effort you put into your home also speaks volumes Mike.

Some of us may never measure up to our grandfathers fathers or other mentor that impacted our lives, but if we always keep our pride in check, we can come close and if we can maintain humility as well we come even closer.

It's awesome to raise a productive child into adulthood but I guarantee your son is striving to be like you. Having skills is a blessing and can be learned but being a solid human begins with good parenting and personal integrity taught by those who love them more than life itself.

Not sure why I decided to go down this path, perhaps its sentimental, or I miss my own son or the fact that I'm laid up unable to be productive myself at the moment.

Keep on Keeping on brother.

Thank you for those thoughts Paco.

I hope you get to be able to spend some time with your son soon. I feel my shop time with my son is slowing greatly and that saddens me.

 

[Big A1]

I guess I'm just right behind you guys. My son is 14 and we're getting lots of opportunities to spend time together. With respect to work ethic and personal pride in work I had a conversation with my son the other day. I was lecturing him pretty hard, and I asked if he knew why I have him working out in the yard so much. He completely surprised me when he said, "to teach me work ethic and pride in my work." Huh... I know he didn't say it to shut me up, but truthfully it did. I had nothing left and a smile came to my face. Maybe, just maybe, I'm getting through to him.

I really appreciate reading about you guys and your families, because it's a good example to me and a constant reminder of the brevity of life and the fleeting time we have with our children.

I've enjoyed your thread Paco, and yours Mike to incl your Jeep build.

I hope you're starting to feel better!

I don't want clutter up your awesome thread, but here are a few pics of my shop...

I'm putting a 4bt in my JKU:

I also sleeved and trussed the front axle:

 

[Big A1]

One of these days I'll get around to starting my own thread.

I'm sure you can't wait to get back to work

Get well soon!

-Andy

 

[zmotorsports]

I guess I'm just right behind you guys. My son is 14 and we're getting lots of opportunities to spend time together. With respect to work ethic and personal pride in work I had a conversation with my son the other day. I was lecturing him pretty hard, and I asked if he knew why I have him working out in the yard so much. He completely surprised me when he said, "to teach me work ethic and pride in my work." Huh... I know he didn't say it to shut me up, but truthfully it did. I had nothing left and a smile came to my face. Maybe, just maybe, I'm getting through to him.

I really appreciate reading about you guys and your families, because it's a good example to me and a constant reminder of the brevity of life and the fleeting time we have with our children.

I've enjoyed your thread Paco, and yours Mike to incl your Jeep build.

I hope you're starting to feel better!

I don't want clutter up your awesome thread, but here are a few pics of my shop...

I'm putting a 4bt in my JKU:

I'm flattered by the comments but more importantly, I would love to see more of your 4BT swap. Do you have a build thread on it anywhere.

Also, nice welds on the axle.

 

[fnieto]

Thank you for those thoughts Paco.

I hope you get to be able to spend some time with your son soon. I feel my shop time with my son is slowing greatly and that saddens me.

Sharing shop time with my son is non existent and I don't see that changing anytime soon. He simply lives too far. I have another plan that will allow me to spend time with him though. We both like to spend time outdoors so once I retire, I would like to drive up north in an RV exploring as I go. Hopefully we can hike areas in the PNW or even plan a more serious excursion.
As for your son, his life is changing but I see how close you and your wife are with both your son and soon to be daughter. Then with some patience (on your part) you might be blessed with little ones and the cycle can start over. You have forged some damn good memories Mike so keep enjoying what you have amigo.

The trick to this game is to stay healthy the best we can.

 

[fnieto]

I guess I'm just right behind you guys. My son is 14 and we're getting lots of opportunities to spend time together. With respect to work ethic and personal pride in work I had a conversation with my son the other day. I was lecturing him pretty hard, and I asked if he knew why I have him working out in the yard so much. He completely surprised me when he said, "to teach me work ethic and pride in my work." Huh... I know he didn't say it to shut me up, but truthfully it did. I had nothing left and a smile came to my face. Maybe, just maybe, I'm getting through to him.

I really appreciate reading about you guys and your families, because it's a good example to me and a constant reminder of the brevity of life and the fleeting time we have with our children.

I've enjoyed your thread Paco, and yours Mike to incl your Jeep build.

I hope you're starting to feel better!

I don't want clutter up your awesome thread, but here are a few pics of my shop...

I'm putting a 4bt in my JKU:

I also sleeved and trussed the front axle:

Hi Andy,

Wow! nice shop and project. You're always welcome to post photos here brother, I see it like a conversation man. Conversations are two way my friend. Sounds like your son is on the right track Andy, I was moved by the response you shared with us. My son learned the phrase "do everything with a purpose" from a young age and now manages his life using this principal.

What little I know about you Andy, one thing shines clearly, your kids are paramount and you fought for them. It's hard to go wrong when you love your children so keep on doing what you're doing. Love and common sense is the recipe for raising children, not all these touchy feely books.

On your Jeep project.
Very impressive modifications. I'm really liking the diesel conversion, in fact, I'm eyeballing the Cummings R2.8 for my land Cruiser. I luv small block Chevys but the milage is hard to beat on a diesel. Nice welding too BTW.

On your shop.
Looks like a very nice workspace, well organized and more importantly put to use.
Thanks for posting/sharing and keep us posted on your wonderful son.

As far as the shoulder, I had my first post op follow up. The doc said my tear was impressive and coolant believe I had been living with it for as long as I did. I have been sleeping in bed since the fourth day providing me with the rest for healing. It took nine weeks for me to lay flat the first time so this is huge. I'm no longer on ibuprofen as the discomfort is minimal. I start PT in four weeks but have already began simple movements like wall crawls etc. The doc said go for it jus be carful. This has been 180º experience compared to my first. Open surgery is the only way to go at least for me.

Thanks for stopping by Andy, it's good to stay in touch and lets see more photos brother!

 

[Big A1]

I'm flattered by the comments but more importantly, I would love to see more of your 4BT swap. Do you have a build thread on it anywhere.

Also, nice welds on the axle.

HA! Truth be told, I picked the pics with the best welds

I don't have a build thread anywhere. I probably need to start one, but it'll be later in the summer before I get a chance to get back to it. I'm neck deep in remodeling our home. I ripped out ceilings, moved drains and water lines, master bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, dining and living rooms all new. I'm at the finish work stage now, and it's a beating. I'll probably just start a shop thread and just add all this in it

-Andy

 

[Big A1]

Thx Paco! I couldn't agree more. The conversations are fun! Well, he's still a teenager, but I realize he's as confused as I am trying to navigate these tough yrs.

Brother, it's been a dream in the making! Funny thing is, I'm not even finished with the house remodel and I'm already thinking of our next house and a bigger shop Hope to buy some land by the end of this yr!

We got a crazy good deal on this house because the tenants for the 5 yrs prior to us were literally possums and raccoons. It was a foreclosure, so the bank just put lipstick on a pig. We gutted it, but it enabled me to build a small shop, and the 2 post lift was the best thing I've ever bought!

"Love and common sense is the recipe for raising children, not all these touchy feely books." That's great advice!

Oh man, I'm with ya on that new R2.8! I got the meet those Cummins's guys and gals at Con Expo a few yrs ago in Vegas. They were still in the development and feasibility stage at the time. On this project, I wanted to build something that was completely mechanical and somewhat bulletproof. I did stay with the rubicon axles for now, but may upgrade to super duty later. Some day, I'd love to build an FJ40 with that R2.8 and an NV4500!

I'm with ya on the open surgery thing! Glad to hear things are progressing well!!! I was lucky because when I had both reconstructions, I was still in the Army. I did not want to medical out because I was trying to prove everyone wrong that I could rebound! I had full access to PT daily. It was my life's mission to regain all my range of motion. I can say I did attain my goal, but wasn't allowed to continue the path I wanted to. I didn't want to reclass either, so I just completed my enlistment and the rest is history! I was in '99-'03. Seems like an eternity ago!

Alright, you talked me into it, but I won't add too many pics and I'll create a thread soon! I'm looking forward to you getting back to form and posting your work again!

 

[fnieto]

Hi Andy,
I hear you on the mechanical aspect of a diesel. My first choice would be a Toyota 1HD-T but they cost too much used (import) for my blood. The only thing that bothers me about the R2.8 is where they're made. I know the plant is controlled by Cummings but I have that uneasy gut feeling I'v learned not to ignore. I'll keep driving my stock 2F and wait out further reviews.

You're certainly burning the candle at both ends with the many projects but do it while you're still young and able. Your property looks inviting with the green grass and lush trees.
I'm sure you'll make the next move when the time is right, meanwhile enjoy what you've built.
Again your shop is well organized and functional. I admire that and try to strive for the same.

I recently reorganized my shop, a buddy gifted me some shelves. I almost said no, I was looking for more heavy duty units. In the end these worked out great and I can still sweep and mop under them hehehe.

 

[Big A1]

Oh man Paco, you win! That's super nice!!!! Brother, I'm organized because I HATE looking for stuff. There's few things as frustrating as needing a tool, having to stop because you can't find it and then, looking everywhere....

The property was a huge mess when we moved in. It was overgrown, poison ivy everywhere, little gardens of **** and birdhouses galore. We live right in the middle of city, but are lucky because our little neighborhood is still unincorporated! Sad thing about all that pretty grass is it's rye, so once it gets hot, bye bye pretty grass

-Andy

 

[fnieto]

Andy,

With five rigs to maintain and living aways from the city I found it useful to stock up a bit for those last minute maintenance services.

Sound like you have your fair share of blood sweat and tears as they say into your property.
Thats what makes it yours brother. FWIW, my winter rye is my favorite, my summer bob sod is nice but nothing like the greener lush winter stuff. My four Germans luv thire grass. Too bad they can't mow it hahah. I have a buddy coming over for lunch later this week, I'm hoping to talk him into mowing it for me as my wing is not up to it.

 

[Big A1]

That makes sense. I've gotten so used to having part stores, Walmart, Home Depot and Lowe's being so close, that I've forgotten what it's like to have to stock up and plan ahead. This will change in the next few yrs as I'm planning on moving farther out, but I still won't be more than 15-20 minutes away from these stores.

I've gotten soft Paco

The grass looks great and I love the Adobe!!! I have family all over New Mexico and your home reminds me of that. Also reminds me of simpler times...

Mowing, ha! I have a 14 year old son for that

How's the shoulder coming along?

-Andy

 

[rixtrix1]

As far as the shoulder, I had my first post op follow up. The doc said my tear was impressive and coolant believe I had been living with it for as long as I did. I have been sleeping in bed since the fourth day providing me with the rest for healing. It took nine weeks for me to lay flat the first time so this is huge. I'm no longer on ibuprofen as the discomfort is minimal. I start PT in four weeks but have already began simple movements like wall crawls etc. The doc said go for it jus be carful. This has been 180º experience compared to my first. Open surgery is the only way to go at least for me.

Fnieto, I haven't posted much here, but have followed along forever and enjoying your shop and work. Been through similar battles with WC, and won using a great attorney in PHX.

As an aside, with my hand and arm surgeries, as well as our 2 sons' spinal fusions, we've all taken a supplement called JUVEN, basically some amino acids that help promote tissue healing and growth. Mixes with water, kind of like Tang, if you're old enough to remember it. Took it again last spring and summer after getting rear ended and having a ton of soft tissue injuries and about 6 months of PT. You're probably in much better shape than me due to your job, but sometimes it's the little thing that help the most. Best wishes for a fast recovery so you can get back to posting neat stuff for everyone to share!

 

[fnieto]

That makes sense. I've gotten so used to having part stores, Walmart, Home Depot and Lowe's being so close, that I've forgotten what it's like to have to stock up and plan ahead. This will change in the next few yrs as I'm planning on moving farther out, but I still won't be more than 15-20 minutes away from these stores.

I've gotten soft Paco

The grass looks great and I love the Adobe!!! I have family all over New Mexico and your home reminds me of that. Also reminds me of simpler times...

Mowing, ha! I have a 14 year old son for that

How's the shoulder coming along?

-Andy

Hi Andy,

Shopping on line and at Costco help with stocking up on the auto maintenance supply. I'm with you on living out of town. I'm about 20 min from SE Tucson and like it that way.

No adobe on the house, It's built with 2x6 and three coat stucco. You're correct in the NM style called Pueblo. If I ever built another home it would be a ranch style with a metal roof.

The shoulder is really coming along. I'm able to be pretty independent and have to remember its only been a bit over two weeks. Been working on ROM while resting on the sofa and doing the old wall crawls. Night and day from the first experience. I also set up some pulleys and use the fork lift to get full extension.

I wish I had a 14 year old around to mow hehehe.

Stay safe amigo.

Fnieto, I haven't posted much here, but have followed along forever and enjoying your shop and work. Been through similar battles with WC, and won using a great attorney in PHX.

As an aside, with my hand and arm surgeries, as well as our 2 sons' spinal fusions, we've all taken a supplement called JUVEN, basically some amino acids that help promote tissue healing and growth. Mixes with water, kind of like Tang, if you're old enough to remember it. Took it again last spring and summer after getting rear ended and having a ton of soft tissue injuries and about 6 months of PT. You're probably in much better shape than me due to your job, but sometimes it's the little thing that help the most. Best wishes for a fast recovery so you can get back to posting neat stuff for everyone to share!

I do remember Tang and drank my fair share if it too. Thanks for the info on JUVEN, looks like Walgreen's sell it. I'll defiantly give it a shot. Perhaps it can help with other age related pains.
Thanks for the heads up and for stopping by.

Glad things worked out for you as well with WC. Just shameful one has to spend money to get what's right. Stay cool and hydrated as those triple digits are here to stay for a while.

Thanks again Ric.

 

[LXCam]

Glad to hear your healing up so quickly bud. Now just don’t forget you’re still healing

 

[zmotorsports]

Glad to hear your healing up so quickly bud. Now just don’t forget you’re still healing

X2. Don't push it too much and have a setback.

We're getting anxious to see more of your awesome work but we can wait a bit longer if it will mean you're healing.

 

[fnieto]

Glad to hear your healing up so quickly bud. Now just don’t forget you’re still healing

X2. Don't push it too much and have a setback.

We're getting anxious to see more of your awesome work but we can wait a bit longer if it will mean you're healing.

Thanks Cam, thanks Mike,

You guys are 100% spot on man. I have been known to move prematurely in my younger years. I'm so grateful in how I'm feeling but also remember it take a bit longer to heal now. I'll do my part for sure.

Turns out the H2o pump took a S**t on the Silverado. That old ***** just wants attention at this point hahah. Its funny how much you can plan and prepare for things and then BAM! life throws you a screwball. Oh well, at least we have other rigs to drive. FWIW, I replaced the H2o pump/thermostat back in 2013 and flushed the cooling system since then. Used quality parts so I'm disappointed it only lasted 56K miles. This time around I'll be replacing all hoses, idlers, and belts. Ill order everything from Rockauto so when the time comes (2-3 months) I can get after it.

Be well fellas.
Turn and Burn!

 

[zmotorsports]

Turns out the H2o pump took a S**t on the Silverado. That old ***** just wants attention at this point hahah. Its funny how much you can plan and prepare for things and then BAM! life throws you a screwball. Oh well, at least we have other rigs to drive. FWIW, I replaced the H2o pump/thermostat back in 2013 and flushed the cooling system since then. Used quality parts so I'm disappointed it only lasted 56K miles. This time around I'll be replacing all hoses, idlers, and belts. Ill order everything from Rockauto so when the time comes (2-3 months) I can get after it.

Be well fellas.
Turn and Burn!

That ***** Paco. If we were closer I would definitely be willing to get it back on the road for ya while you recover, providing you'd let me of course. I completely understand about other people touching one's stuff.

 

[fnieto]

That ***** Paco. If we were closer I would definitely be willing to get it back on the road for ya while you recover, providing you'd let me of course. I completely understand about other people touching one's stuff.

Thanks Mike,
You're generous and kind. The positive thing is we have a few other choices to drive but the wife really likes her truck as she always worries about parking lot knuckleheads "chingering" her car. She'll have to wait if she want to take any of the dogs on a road trip.

I would never have any reservations with you working on our rigs brother.

 

[rmack898]

Paco,
When you're ordering parts, get an extra serp belt and and an idler. There are two idlers and they are both the same so one sure will cover both. Make sure yo have a 1/2 drive something in the truck so you can take the tension off the belt. I've been stuck on the road twice and now carry all the things needed not to get stuck again.

Glad to hear you wing is healing well. I would tell you not to push it but you already know that.

My wife showed me a tee shirt the other day that said " I'm not 60, I'm 18 with 42 years experience", with that 42 years experience comes the wisdom that we sometimes do not follow. I sometimes have to remind myself that the issues of the day are not urgent enough for me to hurt myself getting them done

 

[fnieto]

Hi Mac,

I have always carried extra belts in all the rigs but never gave the idlers any thought until you mentioned them previously. Good call on ordering an extra. I also have a small cash of tools I keep in a old olive drab canvas bag from my military days. I simply transfer the bag from one truck to the other for road trips. The 40 has a dedicated set of tools that stay with her.
The wing is healing remarkably well compared to the first round. Every day there's a marked improvement. I now can reach the top of my head to shampoo the three hairs!
I like the quote on that T-shirt. I used to tell my wife "I'm like an 18 year old with money", but my body has proven me wrong the last couple of years. It time to rely on the wisdom brother.
Thanks for the idler tip Mac and thanks for dropping by.
Be well.

 

[rmack898]

Thanks for the idler tip Mac .

I can't take credit for the idler tip. JB of Warthog Hidey Hole fame is responsible. He was towing a DMax truck on a trailer with his DMax truck when his idler went south. He grabbed an idler off the truck he was towing and was on his way. The day after he posted that story the idler in my truck left me stranded. The only idler I could get at the time was an import POS. I went to my friend who is a dealer parts guy and he is the one that told me that there are 2 idlers and they are both the same.

 

[fnieto]

I can't take credit for the idler tip. JB of Warthog Hidey Hole fame is responsible. He was towing a DMax truck on a trailer with his DMax truck when his idler went south. He grabbed an idler off the truck he was towing and was on his way. The day after he posted that story the idler in my truck left me stranded. The only idler I could get at the time was an import POS. I went to my friend who is a dealer parts guy and he is the one that told me that there are 2 idlers and they are both the same.

Well I suppose that's what this whole forum is really about, sharing past experiences both positive as well as negative. The fact you continued to share this recommendation is certainly helpful. If I should end up inconvenienced by a failure, It wont be due to a failed idler and if so, I'll have a backup

 

[jbmatth]

Cool to see my name mentioned in another thread and some of my advise/experience used by others. I should have taken my own advise as I destroyed another pulley and belt on the same truck a couple of weeks ago, luckily I was 1/4 mile from by friends shop. I have spares in it now.

JB

 

[fnieto]

JB,
I found a Drive belt component kit on rockauto for the wife 2000 1500 5.3, Its made by Dayco and includes both belts, A/C tensioner, main drive tensioner and idler pulley P/N KIT79BCK for $118. Considering the A/C tensioner at a local warehouse runs $90 alone , I'd say it's a good buy. This kit is for a 105A alternator. On the 05 Duramax they don't sell them as a kit but are as follows:
Tensioner: Gates p/n 38172 $40.79 ea.
Idler Pulley: Gates p/n 36310 $15.61 ea.
They also offer the grooved pulleys for the tensioners.
They offer less expensive ones but I'm partial to Dayco and Gates.
I pulled the trigger on a complete coolant system rehab for the wife's rig. Every hose, belt, idlers, tensioners, H2o / thermostat and housing will be replaced. I also purchased a new surge tank cap. Also got the replacements mentioned for the Dmax.
At least the parts will be here awaiting my recovery.

Thanks JB, I've never been stranded due to a bad idler/tensioner and always carry spare belts but this was worth your sharing and Mac's reiterating.