Hi:
Yes, I agree wholeheartedly with what you are saying. We're being careful to keep the integrity of the suspension/steering systems intact. Mostly, the components I referred to are bushings, spacers, etc. Those pesky rubber pieces that deteriorate and fail over time. All of the other 'hard' components seem sound. Actually, it looked pretty damned ok when I examined her up on the hoist. A couple of small non-structural rust spots that I'll address soon, but no glaring issues evident. No leaks, no burning ducks. It does seem to be sitting a bit low, so I was considering adding an extra leaf spring on both sides in the back, but I was concerned that the shift in vehicle center of mass would shift more stress to the front end. I think a good HD set of shocks and some leaf clips will suffice without changing the specs too much. The front end is actually in much better shape than I anticipated. I ordered a few parts online and am currently waiting for them to make their way to Nova Scotia. I think the mechanical fitness will be far less painful than I anticipated (fingers crossed).
However...that damned roof. I always cringe when I see them on these old vehicles. I've never seen one that came off and didn't show a LOT of water/rust damage. I'll have to wait until I pull it off to see if lead-work is required, or if the damage repair will be relatively straightforward. I feel that any competent bodyshop should be able to handle welding patches, then completing bodywork as necessary. If it looks 'wavy' after it's been worked on, I may have to come up with a Plan B. As you guys can understand, the current budget only goes so far...
I agree that the stock drum brakes are insufficient for today's traffic. Unfortunately, I don't have the scratch right now to swap the system out with a better disc-based one (something like $2K). However, I have a line on a power-assist idea that will at least make them a better setup. For now, swapping out the damaged drums and replacing cylinders, pads, lines and accessories seems to be the best idea.
As far as the engine is concerned, I believe I'm going to run with the current powerplant (1975 Slant Six) for now. I will store the original engine (matching numbers) and maybe do a build over the winter. I sure would like to clean up that engine compartment, though! Going to see what I can do to degrease it, clean it and reduce the clutter. Since the engine that's in the car seems solid and reliable, I feel that my priority after the mechanical issues should be the bodywork and paint, then interior. I have a feeling that the bodywork may end up kicking me in the teeth, price-wise due to that %$*#&^% vinyl roof.
I will be replacing the muffler soon also and am wondering if there is there a recommendation on a unit that will make the stock engine sound a bit more...'throaty', shall we say? I don't have the budget for the Dutra Duels at this time, so I'll have to make due with mostly stock options. There must be an aftermarket muffler that will give her more voice. My local Canadian Tire has the Thrush Turbo available that I may jump on.
I would also like to change the 'attitude' of the car, by swapping out those hateful whitewalls, lol. I'll be sniffing around for a set of tires and rims soon. Any suggestions? I'll keep all the original kit, of course, in case I want it later on.
I will start a build-thread in a week or so when the car is certified. I would like to thank you guys for all the help and advice. It's been invaluable. I'll keep you updated!
Cheers,
Shawn
Not as bad as I thought. We peeled the vinyl back this morning to assess and to get started. After some thought (and with some prodding from my wife who likes the look of the vinyl top), I think I may replace it after all.