Ep. 09 - Easy Does It | 1950 Dodge Meadowbrook

In Episode 9 of the 1950 Dodge Meadowbrook restoration, we're keeping it simple and making solid progress on this classic Mopar. After some frustrating electrical gremlins, I diagnose and fix a dead short on the distributor wire, gap the points, and get the flathead six running again! We celebrate the small wins, chase down why it won't shut off, deal with overheating, and then dive into the satisfying (but messy) work of packing wheel bearings, adjusting brakes, and getting the wheels mounted. It's all about steady progress on this Texas survivor – learning as we go, fixing only what needs fixing, and enjoying the journey. From shorted wires and hot-running issues to greasy bearings and drum brakes, we're one step closer to a test drive. I am not a mechanic by any means, but I do love learning and enjoy fixing things. Come learn along with me whether you're a novice like me or an experienced professional with tips to share with others who enjoy keeping these classic beauties on the road. 0:00 – Intro & cleaning debris from brakes 0:42 – Today's Mission: Get her running! 1:03 – Diagnosing the ignition issue 2:13 – Installing rubber washers to fix the short 3:11 – Gapping points with Grandpa's feeler gauge 3:55 – Moment of truth 5:00 – Correcting firing order & coil hookup 6:19 – Success! Engine running, fuel pump working, generator charging 7:58 – Quick health check 9:57 – First shutdown 11:10 – Cooldown, radiator fill, accelerator pump improvement noted 13:00 – Testing lights & dimmer switch 15:05 – More blowby & high temps 17:13 – Troubleshooting the "always hot" ignition wire 19:35 – Wiring repairs & fuel bowl inspection 20:42 – Wheel bearing service begins 23:39 – Installing inner bearing, axle grease, and drum 28:51 – Castle nuts & cotter pins 31:08 – Dust cap install 34:04 – Speed-running rear brakes & final wheel mounting 40:21 – Wheels on the ground! 41:44 – Closing thoughts & encouragement for project car builders 42:21 – Outro & thanks to the community