Resto Advice

[upscope757]

I have touched on this before, but as I am at the point of pulling the trigger so to speak and start shelling the cash...

In chatting with you all over the past months,

I have chosen to keep the car to exactly match the trim tag.  I do have a correctly coded SS350 with the car (six weeks after car was built). First engine was blown in the 70s.  I have the original 12-bolt and a '70 powerglide.

I was going to:
1) Upgrade suspension to Hotchkis Total Vehicle System
2) Upgrade to new four-wheel power disc brakes
3) Upgrade to new rack and pinion steering
4) Upgrade to tach and gage package from standard console car.

I plan to keep all original parts.

Thoughts about this strategy?

Due to non-matching numbers, intend to enjoy the car, local shows, etc...

[mickeystoys69RSSS]

Build it the way you want to and enjoy it.

[IZRSSS]

I would like nothing more than to be in your shoes; working on a First Gen, knowing that the end result would be something I can climb into and drive the crap out of! Hats off to ya, and for petes sake, keep it that original color…a color combo that’s sure to turn heads!

X2 what Mickey said!

[upscope757]

All, Thanks very much.  Really appreciate it.  It is a tough line knowing what is 'right' in what situations regarding these cars, keeping in mind that fun is key yet wanting to do nothing to devalue them.  Again, really appreciate it.

[lakeholme]

Yes, your key statements are in keeping your original parts and in facing the fact that you will never have a matching numbers car.  So, the value in your strategy now comes from 1. upgrading it into the way you want it and 2. upgrades that are appealing to a future buyer. Beyond authenticity the other value marker is quality of workmanship.

[upscope757]

Thanks very much.  I broke up the Hotchkis system, keeping front and rear drop springs, but swapped the sway bars for Helwig sway bars and saved around $600, then ordered the front disk brake system only, matching the '69 disk brake system.  That should do it for upgrades.  Chose to stick with the original Power Steering that came with the car instead of going with any new rack and pinion setup.

[KevinW]

Ditch the PG and get a 200r4 from a late 80s monte SS or Grand national, then put 3.73 gears in the 12 bolt.  The PG will be a dog right out of the gate.  personal experience!

[upscope757]

Hey, something to think about as I already installed the new 3:73 posi in the 12 bolt. I might run with the powerglide for a while though as I had it rebuilt with a 2,500 stall converter already.