I will be pulling the engine in my '63 roadster to install a 383 stroker. While its out I was thinking it would be nice to trick it out and make it look nice. Any ideas or suggestions of what to do or where to go to get ideas. My creative side is lacking and would appreciate any thoughts. I don't want to spend a lot $'s like under $1k so that kinda restricts what can and can't be done.

Thanks for your thoughts!

 

I would highly recommend repainting and cleaning the wheel wells, radiator area and firewall. I have used SEM Semi-Gloss or Satin Paint with great success, but the key is to clean and yes sand or feather it and then just paint sections at a time. I really think, especially in your case using the BLACK Semi-Gloss will highlight the motor and not take away from the look of the engine. Even using a flat black would look good, but stay away from Gloss, too much reflection and it would take away from the motor. Post some photos on your progress.

Don't forget to polish (using 000 or 0000 steel wool with Mothers or another polish) the break lines, overflow tank especially, and other aluminum parts, as with a little work these parts will give you a bright shine. Retape your electrical lines using a glossing black electrical tape, clean all your hold down brackets and polish or paint. The fire wall especially looks really nice when you remove what is attached and clean and pain and retape and clean the washer motor, repain the heater covers, and since you are making it more of hot rod consider using the braded steel hoses and clamps. You can do alot under the hood that does not cost a lot of money, but it takes work.

I am a great beleiver in KISS (Keep it Simple Stupid) and it usually works out.

 

Use aluminum foil for those hard to get pesky areas that can't be taped off. Works like a charm.
See if all the visible frame seams are in good shape. I MIG welded some for better strength.
Might as well make sure your gas pedal linkage through the firewall is in good shape while everything is out. It's easier access.
Be every careful with the heater core when taking the hoses off. Since you'll be using new hose (right?), just cut the old ones off. A mere slight pressure will cause those nibs to leak. Ask me how I know!

 

Good time to send out your steering box, and rag joint out for a rebuild. I had both done and they came back looking like new. Cost was about 350 dollars, but made a huge difference in my steering.

 

if you really want to trick it up, smooth the seams and give it a nice glossy paint job.....as long as you didnt want to go to NCRS correct in the future...beyond that there is rack and pinion steering or 4 wheels disc brakes or a suspension upgrade or an offset rear trailing arm set up to run bigger tires/wheels......how much more money do you have?

 

Great input. I appreciate the advice and will heed as I go. Thanks. Not sure how to post pics but would be glad to if you can explain in 10 simple words.