I've had this 79 L-48 auto for nearly 20 years. Arguably my first car, although it was parked due to a dead water pump before I got my licence. At this point, I have and 04 Z06 and was going to clean it up for my parents to enjoy on weekends.
Interior is 99%. Lots of new trim pieces, the rest were refinished. I'm a gas gauge, lenses, and a clock away from a functional newish interior.
Mechanically, the car is an abortion. Suspension is assuredly done by now. Carb/intake was pulled long ago. Not even sure if it will turn over at this point (figuring this out in the next week or so). Engine was supposedly rebuilt by the PO, but I have no idea.
Ideally, I'd like to pull all emissions systems. Most of it was already gone. Have a few L-82 intakes and two rebuilt L-82 QJets. Was thinking of simplifying everything vacuum-wise, even converting to miata-based electric headlight actuators.
A/C is stripped sans heater box (rotted hoses were clipped), where I cannot get to one bolt. Was debating deleting the A/C or keeping it. Looks like I need to pull the dash regardless, because I'd like to do the heater core and need to fix a crack in the heater box. Was thinking it might be easier (cheaper) at this point to just run without A/C.
Have a new alt, radiator, water pump, VCs, hoses (rad and PS), oil pan, and a few other ancillary items.
When deciding to replace the body mounts, I was mulling over separating the body from the frame entirely. Found the plans for a wood dolly and an old article on stitch-welding the chassis (which has surface rust, at a minimum).
Other main issue is a rusted core support, which I should be able to replace without pulling the body off. However, pretty much every bushing is shot, body included. It might allow me greater access to things if it were to be separated.
I'm mainly concerned with "scope creep" as the water pump job turned into its current, dilapidated state.
Any ideas? I could alternatively reseal the engine, try to plumb the vacuum system, and see if I can get it running and deal with things from there. I'm worried about things like valve seals having dried out by now from lack of use, as well as fatigued valve springs. Was also thinking of throwing in a better cam and new lifters because at this point, it's almost trivial.
Or, I could descend further into project car hell, separate the body/frame, and confirm that the birdcage isn't rusted. This would also facilitate pulling the engine/trans if needed, and easier access to the suspension.
My main sticking point with doing things "right" is the whole proposition of spending $20k (after paint) on a $12k car.