2003 · Purchased
Purchased in 2003, with initial refurbishment beginning during this period. The exterior was repainted in its factory color in 2004.
2004 · Initial Refurbishment
The gas tank, straps, fuel sending unit, and fuel pump were replaced. The original carburetor and alternator were rebuilt. A radiator, water pump, oil pump, and rear main seal were installed.
Ignition work included an upgraded coil, a points-conversion kit in the original distributor, and replacement plugs and wires. Inside, carpeting, seat foam, seat covers, and weatherstripping were renewed, with an Alpine stereo and Rockford Fosgate dash speakers added.
Brake calipers were rebuilt with stainless sleeves and new piston seals. Shocks and suspension rubber bushings were replaced, and Rally wheels, stainless trim rings, and tires were fitted during this early refurbishment.
Chassis detailing included a comprehensive cleanup of the frame rails, floor pans, and localized structural points. The lower radiator support frame—a notorious collection point for road debris—was thoroughly cleaned, verified solid, and protected. Additionally, the #2 internal birdcage mounts were treated to address minor surface rust, and wheel wells were treated with undercoating.
2017 · Brake Hydraulics
The brakes were rebuilt again, with lines replaced where needed, new caliper O-ring piston seals, and a change to silicone brake fluid. The owner reports no pressure loss since that work.
2024 · Top & Exterior
Transmission fluid and filter, engine oil with zinc additives, and rear differential fluid were changed.
A replacement urethane front bumper was installed. In 2024, the convertible top frame was completely stripped, restored, and fitted with a premium black replacement soft top and fresh weatherstripping. To ensure weather sealing and a factory-correct profile, the door panels were removed to facilitate a multi-axis tracking adjustment of the side window glass. The glass now seats firmly and flush within the sealing tracks.
2025 · Detailing & Steering
The carburetor and surrounding components were removed for engine detailing and fresh engine paint. The undercarriage was detailed, and the exhaust was removed and repainted.
The power-steering system was rebuilt with new hoses, cylinder work, and a replacement control valve. An older Chevrolet Rally wheel was painted black for the spare; the spare tire holds air but has worn tread.
A transmission speedometer-cable seal replacement initially reduced, but did not fully eliminate, seepage. An air-intake seal was also installed. See the current condition account for the latest leak observation.
2026 · Ignition & Tuning
Carburetor and air-intake vacuum hoses were renewed with original-type hoses. The steering rag joint, jack, and lug wrench were replaced.
A VC-181/B26 vacuum-advance unit was installed, followed by adjustments to base timing, idle, and carburetor settings. The owner reports smoother idle and low-speed operation.
