Before and After Photos

[DonFromTexas]

I am just so darned proud of my new chrome plated hood ornament and fresh painted hood, I just had to share. Restoration can be so rewarding sometimes.

[ImperialAtom]

That looks really nice! That will be one good looking car when you are done. Are you painting it yourself or having it done elsewhere?

[DetMatt1]

That is gorgeous!

[DonFromTexas]

Thanks guys, not painting it myself, at 83 I can hardly keep my balance anymore.

[ImperialAtom]

You'll be missing that original "organic" paint soon enough. You should have clear coated all that moss in place.

[DonFromTexas]

Very tempting to make a rat rod out of Ruby. Right now it has a total rebuild on the engine, transmission overhauled, new brakes, new fuel system, new exhausts and new tires. The ultimate sleeper I think.

[ImperialAtom]

Make whatever makes you happy. I personally go for 95% original. As original as I can make it with maybe a few minor improvements. Might consider disc brakes, maybe a better carb or intake manifold, but always retain the option and parts to go back to stock at a moments notice.

You just have to go with what makes you happy though - what will bring a smile to your face when you look at her?

[DonFromTexas]

Yeah I am a "purist" in the total sense of the word I guess. An Edelbrock carb and disc brakes are the epitome of "non stock" to me! It bothers me to have Coker tires on it even!. I have sourced parts from all over the world and if it is not original, it is only because it no longer exists. Heck, I am even thinking of having the original keys made in China!

[ImperialAtom]

I'm with you... like my Imps have the original drum brakes and they work well enough. My 60 tbird has such tiny drum bakes it is just dangerous, so I replaced the fronts with disc for safety reasons. My wife mostly drives that tbird, and I didn't feel safe letting her drive around with such lousy brakes.

[DonFromTexas]

I put a LOT of miles on my original back in 59-60 and NEVER can I remember feeling there was anything in the brakes that could be improved on. Never!