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I rebuilt the engine, did most of the body work, sprayed the paint for my first paint job, and helped stitched the interior. Total cost to build the car was $3,050.
In 1973, the sedan was finished on a Tuesday, and I was convinced to drive from New Jersey to the Connecticut Swap Meet on Friday. With no problems, I then drove the car as much as I could; including almost every local rod run fom Massachusetts to South Carolina as well as trips to the Western Nationals in Merced and Pleasanton, California, and Andy Briizio’s Picnic. My longest trip in the United States was 13,000 miles in one tour.
I drove a total of 97,000 miles on that first build with no more repairs than an axle bearing and and an “O”-ring in the hydraulic clutch.
In 1996, I decided it was time to redo the sedan so a complete dissassembly was in order. I completely stripped the body and proceeded to chop the top and add a filled steel roof panel with an electric sun roof. I installed a completely new frame with a Heidt’s Super Ride front end, a new GM crate ZZ-3 engine to which I added GM tuned-port fuel injection, 700R transmission, and a 9-inch Ford rear. I selected Billet Specialties wheels to brighten my new look.
This time, the sedan received unique body modifications, steel fenders, power windows, Vintage Air AC heat and defrost. I did most of the body work before having the paint professionally applied by J&R Auto Body in Morristown, New Jersey. The full leather interior was designed and installed by Master Upholstery in Newton, New Jersey.
I have a little more than 8000 miles on the car now and hope for many more…….
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