51 Chevy Help

Just purchased a what I believe to be a 51 chevy fastback deluxe with heavy modifications. The top has been chopped and converted into a convertible. It has ground effects and lots of fiberglass. Most of which was done somewhat poorly. I have no engine and am debated on where to get started. This is a new thing for me but I have built bikes before. First of all I have pulled the numbers on the car and was hoping someone out there may have the book to confirm the year, body and style for me.

Style - 501008
Body - M11929
Trim 171
Paint - 425

I have been told that I can use a Caprice Classic Police package becuase the wheelbase is te same and it comes with a 350, better suspension, power brakes and steering. I would like to just put this body on top of a Caprice. How hard is this going to be to do and what are the major hurdles that I should expect to have to over come?

Should that be too difficult, option # 2 is to upgrade as much as possible, engine, trans, rear end, etc.....Any one have any good ideas to get me started there?

Need lots of help,

Thanks kindly,

Jeff
:confused:

My first car was a 50 Chevy and I can tell you that caprice chassis is wider than that body, ya'd be better off to subframe it with a camaro stub........

Hey Jeff, IFS on the front and a 9" Ford in the rear with a SBC is pretty much the normal deal. Lots of companies making parts for the suspension. A company I do quite a bit of business with makes a front suspension kit for the Chevy, and a Ford rear with coil overs and a 4 link isn't too tough of a job to install.

WHat year? and body style. This is a first for me. Was your a 4 door?

Mine was a 2 door but not the slant back.
my uncle gave it to me when I was 15.
Always thought about getting another one but jeez got enough projects to do.