Author Archives: RussD

Electrical 22: Retain that Switch!

Posted on April 28, 2025 by RussD

The power window switches on old Chryslers have a fatal weakness – the spring clips that hold them in place break easily. The window switches are inserted into the door cards. Every time the door card is removed the switch … Continue reading →

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Electrical 21: New HVAC Dimmer

Posted on April 21, 2025 by RussD

I’m moderately proud of figuring out a way to use modern LED technology to replace the 60 year old electroluminescent technology in the HVAC (Heater Ventilation and Air Conditioning) controls. On the other hand, the mounting for the dimmer control … Continue reading →

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Trim Trauma 2

Posted on April 14, 2025 by RussD

With the existing trim around the column between and back doors upgraded and looking good my attention turned to the rear trim pieces. Despite years of searching, I haven’t been able to find any more of the U-shaped spring trim. … Continue reading →

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Trim Trauma

Posted on April 9, 2025 by RussD

A set of fabric covered U-shaped trim pieces hold trim panels to the center pillars of the car. These are in absolutely horrible shape. I’ve been looking for replacements for the last four years with no success. And I’ve been … Continue reading →

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Rear Door Card Redux

Posted on April 3, 2025 by RussD

As I’ve mentioned once or twice, I seem to be a glutton for punishment. With the front doors done the difference between the front and rear doors was obvious. I actually had all of the trim pieces for the rear … Continue reading →

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Front Door Cards

Posted on March 27, 2025 by RussD

In yet another demonstration of a lack of common sense I decided it was time to tackle the front door cards. Unlike the replacement hardboard panels on the rear doors, the front doors still had the factory door cards. These … Continue reading →

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Wizard 4: Holding an Orb

Posted on March 10, 2025 by RussD

With a conceptual design for a Wizard Staff in hand the next step was to prepare a budget proposal for a 3D printer and submit it to my CFO. Or, to put it differently, tell She Who Must Be Obeyed … Continue reading →

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Wizard 3: Conceptual Design

Posted on March 3, 2025 by RussD

My old engineering manager from the days when I was designing jet fighters had a standard response to any idea or suggestion: “show me the drawing”. His position was that you did not actually have anything worth discussing until you … Continue reading →

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Wizard 2: Staffing Up

Posted on February 24, 2025 by RussD

Conceptualizing a Wizard’s Staff, the first element is an orb – a ball or crystal, probably 4″-6″ across. These commonly glow when getting ready to cast a spell and then go dark again after the spell has been cast. This … Continue reading →

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Wizard 1: New Project Introduction

Posted on February 17, 2025 by RussD

My newest project really needs an introduction and some background. You have been warned! As the MegaTree neared completion I was thinking about other things that could be be done with this computer controlled lighting technology. Leading to a conversation … Continue reading →

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