1962 Mercury Monterey Project

When we started this project we thought there would be rust to deal with. I assumed I would use my wit and skill and strength to remove it or convert it from the parts. I understood the concept of using a wire brush and a wire wheel to scrub the rust away. We really have no idea what we have gotten into. My engine is still not turning with a wrench, but I don't care because when I hoist it out I will drop the oil pan, remove the crank, and tap-a-tap the pistons out the bottom. One way or another, those guys are coming out of there. My problem is actually that the transmission bolts are stuck to the mount. And the mount bolts are stuck to the cross member. And the cross member bolts are stuck to the frame. So - while I wait for the miracle of penetrating oil and seismic activity to do its job - or until I break down and buy an impact wrench - there is LOTS of stuff to clean. I went after my grease covered valve covers. I used my homemade 3D printed scrapers on them. Grease is amazin...

  I pulled the fan so I would have some more between the front of the engine and the hood support. Now I can come straight out to get the bell housing to clear the tunnel before I life the engine up I looked at the air runners and the water jacket tunnels -- YUCK I half halfheartedly tried to remove the bolts connecting the exhaust pipe to the manifold - no surprise those are stuck. So I just hack sawed the exhaust off. It was smashed and holey anyway, so I decided I would deal with those bolts after the fact. I pulled the valve covers to look Geasey evidence of gasket failure, and the valves needed to be lashed (the push rods are wiggly) - but otherwise everything looks to be decent shape. If it takes me too much longer to get the u-bolts off the drive shaft rear u-joint, I will buy an angle grinder and show them who is boss.