10/27/09
Wow, not a word in here since March 09. Well, nothing has really happened save for something today: I got Dave Akard’s notarized declaration of the work he did and what he found. I still need his invoice for $1983. I’ll do some searching here, and if not existing, will have him print a new one.

Dave was VERY reluctant to issue the declaration, citing his fear of a bad rep in the industry over bad-mouthing a fellow engine shop. QMP has proved to be inattentive and no-accountability on TWO motors, and Dave relented and printed his statement.

I have another statement on the Ford motor due from Kenny Duttweiler, then I will file both cases in small claims. John Beck will give me his preferred date to come down and testify.

I do not yet have the Impala back in my possession. About 7 weeks ago (9/8/09) the Dodge Hemi was stolen off the street. I am waiting on the payoff on that car from Grundy to pay reliable their $4700 due and reclaim the Impala. The fresh 348 motor is sitting under plastic in the garage. I need to do a little further verification on the flex plate. But I think the flex plate and converter on the 700-R4 now bolted up to the 305 TPI motor should work. If not, I will certainly find out quickly.

There will be some changing to do to convert to the 348:
Eliminate the TPI motor computer, of course
Throttle linkage
Throttle pressure linkage
Radiator hoses
Ignition electrical
Fuel line (and eliminate the electric pump)
Fan shroud
AC compressor mounting and pressure lines
Heater hoses
Vacuum lines for the brake and wipers
Finishing the AC install wiring

I have guys at Bob’s Toluca Lake who claim interest in the TPI motor. That would be good.

11/11/09
I spoke with Steve at Reliable and told him I was just waiting on some money to come get the car. He understood and said there would be no problem.

3/6/10
Short story: I will pick up the Impala on March 10th. John and I went over and pulled the battery, and have it on trickle charge here.

I’ll probably have Roy help with the install of the 348. Roy is wonderful. However, I really need to be working with him to maximize his productivity. I have to make a couple of calls to confirm the compatibility of the 700 R-4 trans to the 348. I think it is a matter of the flywheel and starter being co-ordinated. There is the linkage for the kick down and the throttle to be changed, and some exhaust mods.

I’ll get AirMec to finish the AC once the motor is in.

3/12/10
She is back, and we have cleaned it inside and out.