Jack,

Yeah, I know. This car would have been a premo for restoration. Body is in outstanding condition. too bad that the wood is so bad. She is still going to look pretty much stock other than the radial tires and 16" chrome spoke wheels.
I just got a notification of an ebay auction of a 383 stroker kit with pretty much the "best" for $725 and $55 shipping. Makes my decision even tougher. Like I said, money is tight.
I am a journeyman machinist and certified welder by trade. I have the capabilities of replacing the bad wood in the car with steel, I just have never got that deep in putting the steel in place of the wood before and have to figure my steps as I go. I really need to get on the stick though, my health is getting worse. If I don't get this car finished, it will wind up being practically "given away", because my wife doesn't have a clue to what everything is. I would like to have it so that my son would be interested in it after I die. He likes the more modern cars with all the technology that will turn heads. I keep telling him that this car will turn a whole lot more heads than his car EVER will and be worth a whole lot more. I wish that some of the guys that I am helping to build cars would help me. Although, doing it by myself ensures that it is done my way. It makes things go better if you have someone to help hold something or throw ideas to, or even just to talk to.
It has been a pleasure throwing comments back and forth with you and quite enjoyable. I appreciate that.

Ed