New Project! 65 289 vert

holy crap, for sitting for the last 30 some years that thing needs some work, especially in the engine bay.

Actually, it looks pretty good for sitting for over 30 years! Tons of original parts. Heck, the seats, steering wheel, dash pad, doors, seat belts, glass, and convertible top all look pretty good. Take those crazy floor mats out, spot treat the carpets and clean everything really well and see what has to be redone. As far as the engine bay goes, some degreaser, a wire brush, and some paint will go a long way. If you plan on rebuilding or modifying the engine for high performance, wait until the engine is pulled to paint.
If you want to see what the current engine will do, don't try to start it until you change all fluids and filters and "prime" the system with oil up top and hand turn it. The radiator is probably filled with rust and silt, but can be "rodded and repaired" by any radiator shop. I upgraded to a larger 3-core repro. Someone here has the proper and complete procedure for starting a car that has been sitting forever.
Keep every part that you take off or replace. I sold all my old stuff on eBay and paid for most of the new stuff I wanted. Those crazy thoroughbred show car guys will buy almost any original part and fix it up.
Super cool car and a great family history. Think of what you want to do and talk to good old Dad and see what he thinks about your plans. You know, if he kept it all these years, in the back of his mind it is may still be "his car." Good luck with the project!

Congratulations on your car. It looks like it is a very straight and solid project. If it were mine I'd keep it close to stock and keep all parts that I exchanged. It's not everyday that you find a car that original. Good luck and somebody here should be able to answer any questions that you may have with the restoration.

Nice, straight, manual trans, vert. 3 or 4 speed?

how much was she?

02MGGT said:

she was free! it's a family car...

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best price ever!