There is one item that has to happen before I pull the transmission, to repair the shifter. This truck has set out exposed, and rust has begun to get a foot hold. 

I started on the hood and front fenders, and moved to the top; behind the windshield. Sanding down to the metal, and using a Krylon rust binding (in case some slipped by me) sandable primer; protect the newly exposed metal.

Here is what the rear fender tops looked like:
![IMG_20211025_135038421_HDR.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmeNnnCYsRN5xdWr475SUXYbQJScB8L64gZLPxgcUFqiXN/IMG_20211025_135038421_HDR.jpg)

After sanding, they begin to look better:
![IMG_20211025_175417259.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmbPRXyNwcpKom28yWaBzjH7bpKavZubDghNPai3odfWyF/IMG_20211025_175417259.jpg)

Of course the driver's side needs the same help:
![IMG_20211025_135029597_HDR.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmTycZLZruzVBZzrcuyuVy1Butv35cUnisRnRmK7dfyprv/IMG_20211025_135029597_HDR.jpg)
It cleaned up well, and I got down to the metal under the rust!

Then it got a coat of primer:
![IMG_20211025_135258137_HDR.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmTxQ3PaDg8G6xuwiPW9kxPoWp2QYfy5KsSwnExuJtU9zz/IMG_20211025_135258137_HDR.jpg)
Reflecting the sky through the trees, because it is wet. Good thick layer of primer, with no runs.

After it had time to dry:
![IMG_20211025_174206853.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmYep7kGuUfQs9fa51hvhk4K2ZBq5M8RNJMr7GU4GYXsiR/IMG_20211025_174206853.jpg)
This stabilized the body panels, stopping the rust before it was deep enough to cause pitting. I still need to address the doors, and the rear on the top of the cab; as well as the tailgate. Then I will begin pulling the transmission, so I can open it up and repair the shifter pivot pin! 

Nothing but fun, right? Only then can I begin body work in preparation for painting. But that will build on top of this primer layer! 

It'll be good to have her back in service again!