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  1. CottonTexas

    1990 ambulance

    The 7.3 IDI (pre-PowerStroke) is prone to cavitation (air bubbles form in the cylinder cooling walls creating hot-spots that eventually give way) - this is how my 7.3 died. The '85.5 - '87 6.9 IDI is a drop-in engine that doesn't have such issues, but that's a bit more effort than I would put...
  2. CottonTexas

    Spacers on dually tires?

    Hmm, didn't know about the duallies being hub-centric, so maybe not the right way to go, but I figured it would suck to spend a bunch of money on a temporary fix.  Even the best brands have been known to fail as the manufacturers never intended for that kind of leverage on the axles, bearings, &...
  3. CottonTexas

    Spacers on dually tires?

    My knee-jerk reaction is to say, "No, spacers don't belong on wheels & typically do damage," but after reading further I realize you're in a bit of a spot having just bough new tires & all, so my suggestion is a bit contrary to my instincts in this particular case. If you have enough of the...
  4. CottonTexas

    Anyone on SSI/SSD and full time vandwelling?

    It is totally feasible to live mobile on the budget you are talking about. Most times, the hardest part is saving money before-hand since bricks & sticks can consume a good portion of the finances, but I've lived in a long-bed truck w/ a camper-top, and even a little Ford Ranger with a...
  5. CottonTexas

    Thank You to Service Members

    My family's history is also long-steeped in military service, so we know that it's not just a single person's decision to serve, but it's a decision that affects the entire family; considered a gift from my family to all of America. A great appreciation and respect goes out to all of those that...
  6. CottonTexas

    Is doing your own research getting to be a lost art?

    I personally enjoy research, but I understand that some people don't. Some folks just want to "post & get answers," but even though I'm sure it takes up a lot of cyber-space, as times, people, and events keep changing, I think it keeps things fresh, and along with being kind to each other...
  7. CottonTexas

    Spark Plug Brand

    After I thought about it for a minute I figured I should probably elaborate on my previous post, so lemme take just a second here to explain: HDR is right.  AC Delco is a GM company that makes replacement parts for GM vehicles (as well as other makes), and is geared towards common replacement...
  8. CottonTexas

    Spark Plug Brand

    AC Delco = GM replacement parts Denso = GM factory OEM Cotton
  9. CottonTexas

    Spark Plug Brand

    Agreed, go with OE when possible for best fit.  GM's (typically) got Denso from the factory, AutoLite makes Ford's Motorcraft, Champions for Dodge/Chrysler, and a lot of imports use NGK's with the exception of the Euros which mostly used Bosch.  I'm with Wake on the iridium plugs, but they...
  10. CottonTexas

    Fantasy Van Solar Rig- Over 1kw of panels, 600lbs of batts, and of course, SOLAR A/C

    I've always wondered the same thing for myself.  Texas has a LOT of sunshine, and earlier research only provided information along the lines of "get a generator," or there's a guy I found way-back that had a 5th-wheel with solar panels that fold out as well as the entire roof covered with them...
  11. CottonTexas

    Suggestions on how to secure this...

    Nevermind, I just realized what I wanted to do wouldn't work for you. Disregard, Cotton
  12. CottonTexas

    1988 Chevy G20. Any advice? worth checking out?

    A 307 engine may have replaced the original which means you'ld be fixing stuff that's been "fixed" already - not that I think so poorly of the 307, I just have a hard time trusting amateur mechanics.  If you're handy with a toolbox, then that '88 may suit you just fine, but I'd investigate as to...
  13. CottonTexas

    Why a Prius Dweller in the Van Forum? (long)

    Not that I mean to beat a dead horse, but I just thought I'd reiterate the aforementioned Hybrid AWD SUV option. If you're interested in shopping used, the mid-2000's Ford Escape/Mazda Tribute /Mercury Mariner (all re-skins of the same vehicle) are remarkably affordable (~ <$10K for <100K...
  14. CottonTexas

    Need help choosing a fan speed controller please.

    I appreciate your insight here.  I was thinking that they're gonna be pretty noisy, but I'm trying not to cut any holes in my roof, so a 3" hole-saw will be used to run these things connected to pvc pipe through the floor.  It's been recommended to mount them below the deck, and I still might do...
  15. CottonTexas

    Trikes

    I have a personal friend, an older guy, that has owned a GoldWing trike in one form or another for a lot of years. Until a couple of years ago he owned an '08 Motor Trike that he rode to California where he got ran over by a jack-wagon armed with a texting device, and he turned around and...
  16. CottonTexas

    Fiberglass high top renovation DIY

    Nice score!  Cool that it's already cut for a fan or A/C.  I think HighDesertRanger pretty much said it.  Feel free to make yourself welcome in the Newcomer's Corner and introduce yourself.  I think you'll find that there is a wealth of helpful advice and knowledge here that will help you along...
  17. CottonTexas

    Building Carmon

    I'd be worried that those crossbars are for structural integrity.  Might want to check into that before you do anything irreversible.  Cotton[/img]
  18. CottonTexas

    Fiberglass shell Van conversion

    It would make for a very cool looking rig with plenty of room. I can only imagine that FedEx puts a ton of tough miles on their trucks before letting them go though. Cotton
  19. CottonTexas

    Which one would you pick out of these two? Need experienced input on pros and cons.

    At first, I automatically thought the GM because in '96 it would most likely have the Vortec V-8, but upon further analysis they both have their issues, and I'd have to say go with the Ford, and here's why: I am of the opinion that the best way for 6-cylinder engines to move a truck-sized load...
  20. CottonTexas

    Government Surveillance van

    Wow, just sold for $13,877.  I quickly grew fond of this unit since it's an example of what (I would assume) the gov't would consider the ultimate capable stealth van.  The equipment inside is undoubtedly out-dated & useless, but it's rare to see a 4x4 van that hasn't been lifted & wheels/tires...
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