Ganmain Tony: Thanks for the info on the floor plates! I know what you mean about learning to love the engine covers. Good thing it's still winter here..... Have ordered a roll of double foil backed heat insulation to line the engine covers. Says it reflects 98% of heat up to 1400-degrees F....that sounds to me about right for normal driving conditions in a cab 11/12.
Tony Baker: Thanks! I like the exhaust note of 'no muffler' also as it drowns out the sound of my noisy solid-lifter valve train. Turns out the used motor I bought for the truck wasn't oiling up top properly, and had some significant wear. Will re-adjust valves again before engine covers go on.....
Today I found a long-forgotten photo of the truck the day it was pulled it from the barn in Montana.
Thanks , David