Clean Up & Take a Look

So here we are, day 1! Car was all hosed off and wiped down by my 6 year old godson. He's a huge gear head. From what I thought was rust and grossness from the previous pictures, just happened to be caked on WD-40 that my dad has soaked the car in to prevent rusting. Genius! But after the bath, the paint still shines pretty well, thought it will be stripped and redone. 

We did notice some rotting areas in the lower side panels and fender that will be patched later. Also, small areas of the trunk and hood have small rusted holes. It has been noted. 

After taking a look inside, everything seems to be in good shape to keep. So fingers crossed that the interior will not see much work. 

For safety sake, I'll be replacing the entire set of brake lines and hoses. Though it looks like creatures are living in the calipers, my cousin says they are in decent shape and the rotors are also very good. I will be ordering tie rods, brake lines, brake pads, and brake shoes. (This car came standard with front disc brakes and rear drums)

So, brakes is what we will tackle first. This also means replacing the master cylinder. My dad had purchased a new one, so this old one will be replaced. A good thing too, since you can definitely see the goo left behind when we removed it, and some is even in the brake booster connection. 

I learned a lot today about what everything is in the engine bay. Engine, where the oil goes, the transmission fluid, what's a brake booster?, the radiator...so many things. 

I know today was only assessment day, but to feel a little more accomplished, I had to remove the master cylinder, and head to Advanced Auto. Advanced Auto comes highly recommended from dad for service and quality, and their discount program. The only thing in stock at the store today was a new engine filter, and some Mechanix Gloves. I felt much better with progress after I installed the new filter. Doesn't it look great?! 

Also, the Mechanix Gloves were a must have! A lot of close spaces in there,  and I was already getting scrapes and cuts on my hands. (My hands are my money makers!) I did avoid the bright pink ones at Advanced Auto, so as to be taken seriously. Even though, as I ordered parts, I was asked twice, "are you sure?". 

Overall, an exciting day, and looking forward to getting started!

Out of Storage

My dad and I have talked about me taking over this project for a few years, and finally we pulled it out to assess. My cousin came by to take a look as well and help me to figure out generally what it would take to get this car back on the road. My dad hooked up the battery, and she pretty much started right up. Sounded great, and the interior looks awesome! No cracking at all on the seats, and no visible signs of floor rot underneath. All of the gears work. Small rot inside the trunk. All parts and trim pieces seem to accounted for. The AC has been taken out, and hideaway lamps need fixing. She definitely needs new brakes and tires, and to check out any leaks. Overall she's a beaut. Let's do it!