Unfortunately for the previous owners, the engine had been removed and shipped out by an engine rebuilder who had gone bankrupt before he got the engine back. I've since discovered that the driver's front fender was replaced. Removed exhaust system and transmission. Had flywheel resurfaced, bought clutch, pressure plate and release bearing. Motor arrives damaged.
Motor goes back to factory for inspection and repair.
August 1998 Transmission and adapter plate return from Electro Automotive. Motor finally returns. I hook a 12v battery to the motor and the tailshaft on the transmission spins. Pressure wash the frame and engine compartment. A friend puts me in touch with a welder named Jerry Worthen.