I went to Sparks Auto Wrecking earlier today, and managed to get a nice deal on the rear seat (both sections), belts, and mounting hardware.

It’s getting a bit of sunlight here after being sprayed so I can clean it. The color doesn’t quite match- light grey vs tan, but it’s better to have a comfortable seat- than no seat at all!

I’m going to need the lock assemblies for the rear doors, and then one will be ready to go get smogged!

In case you missed it, there was just a 50% off weekend at Pick-n-Pull. I managed to get a few spare SAAB parts and a spare tire for an Impala. Sadly, no seats for those, but it was a nice outing.

I managed to get my fuel pump replaced, and the car put back together within about two hours. The biggest issue (other than getting the retaining ring off) was to get the hard plastic hose gently heated to remove it from the pump, then to reassemble the whole thing carefully- I used a sharp to cut the hose from the pump, then just trimmed it back, placed it upon the new pump outlet, then applied pressure while heating the assembly. Still, fairly E-Z P-Z.

Pictured is my SAAB fuel pump ring removal tool, and the entire assembly before I replaced the pump. Always take pictures before you start to remove parts!

I’ve been working on a few new tools/ports. Most recently, I’ve been able to obtain Atheros MIPS based routers for a decent price. What’s this mean? It means I’ve got OpenWRT/LEDE working properly and I can get some development done for both Void, and LEDE!

gcc version 5.4.0 (OpenWrt GCC 5.4.0)

Also, in case you missed this 25 years ago, Trixter (Jim Leonard) has encoded the original “Cyberpunk” documentary about the whole phenomenon, and it’s inventor, William Gibson.

Much of the content is cringeworthy (especially the CGI) in 2017, but there are some great insights into things which have actually taken place, and how everyone has become essentially a billboard for what they personally endorse. Don’t miss Timothy Leary about 15 minutes in.

Finding myself working on automobiles nearly as often as I do computers- I know that the proper tools are always the best to have- but sometimes you just need to improvise, often with something you’ve made yourself.

On the left is a SAAB style fuel pump retaining screw removal device, which is over $30 (excluding shipping):

To the right, a plumber would consider this a 4” drain trap (minus plug), which is common to virtually all drain lines. To “computer” people, it’s probably just a pipe, or, for the creative, a wire caddy to keep things nice and neat.

For myself, it’s also a fuel pump screw removal tool. I then ran a long screwdriver through two portholes I made in the top, and use my weight for leverage. I didn’t bother drawing up a schematic- I just eyeballed it.

Net cost? $7, including the electricity.

Only 50 some years too late, our Vietnam Veterans are finally recognized. What a better day to hang the flag I’ve intended to for the last two years?

Your sacrifices for your country will NEVER be forgotten. Thank you.