[maddog784]

Well, I started this project with the intentions of assembling everything and making sure there were no leaks and fix any problems, then I would continue with the restoration. Step one is complete. Everything fits together very nicely and I got all of the leaks stopped up - even the rear end. I didn't think it was possible to get one of them to quit leaking, but was pretty proud of myself! I have some pictures of the tractor on the way down - tonight I took the side panels, hood, fenders, battery box, and dash tower off of the machine. Hopefully my buddy will stop by tomorrow night and help me lift out the 18 mag - doing it by yourself is a backbreaker. I do have a couple of questions regarding the paint scheme. What parts were painted black on the IH 982s? I know the axles were all red on the IH 82 series, but I am sure the steering column was black. What about the fuel tank frame, battery box, brake calipers, hydraulic levers, hydraulic valve backing plate, etc.? I would like it to be as original as possible (I know, the 18 Mag). Any help would be much appreciated. Now for some pictures.

Nate