Couple of updates:
I haven't finished the stereo install due to the fact I cannot find the issue with the wiring. I have looked for broken fusible links under the advisement of fellow members. The links I've found near the voltage regulator and horn relay all look good. There is 12v power on both sides of the links there. I was told there is one near the starter, but I have not been able to locate any.
Note: When the engine harness was installed, unused plugs near the starter were improperly secured (with white zip ties). The headers heated up the ties, causing them to break, and allowing the wires and plugs to fall onto the header. This obviously caused some melting. I'm beginning to wonder if that event caused something to short out? This was more than 10 years ago.
I also have a brand new Forever Sharp Steering Wheel awaiting install. Can't wait to see what it looks like with the rest of the interior.
I took a break from the wiring debacle and flipped my bench seat over to look at the springs. The seat had been reupholstered many years ago and has done fairly well. The problem is, a couple springs broke shortly thereafter. I've dealt with the unsupportive seat for a long time, but figured since it was out, I should take a look. I figured I could weld the broken sections back together. Come to find out, this has been done before, and on the drivers side, there are pieces missing.
Now, I'm trying to decide what to do next. I really don't want to spend any more money with the holidays right around the corner. Used seats fetch upwards of 200 bones, and they would need to be reupholstered. I think for now, I'll likely have to live with it.
I've linked a video I took when inspecting. I wonder if they sell individual springs that I can replace?
Bench seat inspection
The latest development is one I've been waiting for. The transmission is finished! I picked it up from my buddys place a couple nights ago. Looks good. He hooked me up with grade 8 bolts throughout, massaged a couple of the bearing surfaces to aid in lubrication (something he picked up by watching a veteran builder on youtube). I brought it home, set it on my bench and began to put the shifter back on, installing the mounting plate with grade 8 bolts myself.
I also installed the aftermarket backup light switch I picked up from Holley a few months ago. Hopefully that does the trick as far as getting the backup lights to work.
I plan to continue working on all these items during the Thanksgiving break, in between household projects.
Photo Journey:
Forever Sharp "Wood" style steering wheel.
Trans during final assembly
Back home in my shop.
Looks like I need some new bushings for the shift arms.
Grade 8 bolts for the shifter mounting plate. Previously the plate only had two bolts holding it on. My buddy re-tapped the top right hole. Nice and solid now.
Shifter getting ready for install
New backup light switch from Holley
Backup switch mounted. I don't have a photo of it, but I removed it this morning after installing last night, and tweaked the bracket so that the reverse shift lever collapses the plunger for the switch and doesn't push the entire assembly back. Initially the way the bracket was bent, it would interfere with a full throw of the lever
Also had to tweak it to the side to contact the shift lever