The NOT-SO-FINAL Update
So, it's been a couple of years and it's great to see that a few of you have continued to find my blog and learn about this restoration. I thought I'd send you some updates as time goes by...
WHEELS AND TIRES
In the late summer of 2017 I hooked up with Nick and his guys at GARDNER TIRE CENTER in Dighton, Massachusetts (Gardnertire.com) for some badly needed rubber. Seeing that I don't really four-wheel anymore (and frankly have few options for doing so here in the Northeast), picking a tire took some careful forethought. After considering the vast majority of on-road driving I do, we selected BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 in the 33x10.5-15 LT size. They fit nicely on my freshly powder-coated stock rims and give me the look I wanted, while giving an absolute fantastic ride. Not too aggressive, but fully off-road capable.
From the beginning of the restoration, I intended to model my truck after the COOL CRUISERS OF TEXAS example shown in their advertising and on these two posters I received as gifts. They've been hanging from the back of my toolbox as inspiration the entire time. The BFG Mud-Terrain tires in the 33x9.5-15 size (affectionately called "pizza cutters") were deemed a hazard and were recalled by BFG long before I was ready to buy. Probably a good thing that I procrastinated!
THE NEXT STEPS?
I'm giving some thought to going up onto the summit of Mount Washington this summer, though the long drive has me thinking... Check back later!
