Wow It's been a while!
I was on hold for a long time searching for a non-existent part, I stripped out the bolts/couplers trying to get them off while replacing the oil pump...
The original tube was 7/16", so the 3/8" outlet from the oil pump had a 3/8"-1/2" coupler to the 7/16" tube to a 1/2"-3/8" coupler to the block intake. I couldn't find the proper couplers to fit the tube & the block, and apparently I couldn't find any 7/16" tubing anywhere. So I had to make my own new tubing so I went with 3/8" outlet, tubing & inlet which should slightly increase the oil pressure due to shrinking the tubing diameter by 1/16".
I also couldn't find a 1/4" tube to go from the block up to the lifters, as these were also stripped out... So I had to buy some straight tubing, cut it to fit, bend it and re-flare it on both ends.
Today I was about to close up the oil pan BUT I couldn't find the oil pick up anywhere! So that'll have to wait. I did get the water pump & thermostat housing mounted on with the new shiny Stainless Steel bolts, however after looking at it I decided to paint them to match the engine... At least they'll never rust.
I managed to get some overtime this paycheck so I ordered some goodies for the '55...
A complete front power disc brake conversion kit!
New MOOG Springs!
Complete front end suspension rebuild kit (tie rod ends, bushings, bumpers, ball joints, with all connectors)
New pair of Monroe Sensa-trac shocks
Complete Suspension fastener kit (since all the original parts were super rusted)
So I basically have the entire front end on order, from the firewall up the entire front end suspension & steering will be brand new!
More updates later!