Vaipulu

The dreaded “while I’m here” list.

Engine and trans is out, suspension has already been built and powder coated. What else should I take care of while all this is out, besides engine and transmission maintenance?

HeadsU.P.

Heater core come out the front on yours?

Add: How about the brakeline across the front?

Lagonia

It's good that you are thinking ahead and replacing things "while you are in there". That is exactly how I do things.

Just to give you an example that irks the s**t out of me: My Vette had a recently rebuilt engine and rebuilt manual transmission when I purchased it - but guess what - the fuel pump to frame fuel hose was not the correct S-shaped hose but rather a straight piece of 3/8" ID generic hose that was pinched right where it was connected to the fuel pump. Really? What was worse, the fuel return line had a date code of 1979!! Why would you ever take the time and expense to rebuild the motor and overlook such inexpensive but critical items? Beyond me....

sullyman56

It’s the perfect time to clean up the engine bay.

Vaipulu

Think that’s bad, the deeper I go the more I see bubba has had his way. The engine harness was repaired with duct tape. All the replaced wires are white... like it was the only color they had and did everything from engine harness to stereo install. My bell housing is cracked and a large piece missing. Know how I know it wasn’t me? THE CRACK AND MISSING CHUNCK HAVE BEEN PAINTED OVER. Apparently Krylon can also fix cracked castings.

Vaipulu

NeverTooOld

I highly recommend replacing every switch and relay because they WILL fail if they're the originals.

Alan 71

Hi,
"I highly recommend replacing every switch and relay because they WILL fail if they're the originals."

This is quite simply not true.
In fact many of the original switches and relays will still be superior to what can be purchased now because many reproduction vacuum and electrical parts are of such poor quality.
It's wise to be SELECTIVE about what you replace AND what you replace it with.
Regards,
Alan

drwet

I can't count the number of times I've replaced a 20-year-old part that was working fine just because it was old and ended up with a part that failed in a year.

lvmyvt76

Brake lines??? all seals, power steering, tranny lines(if auto). all vacuum lines, wiring harness, front vacuum parts, horns, radiator to alum., water splash shields on upper a-arms, the list goes on.

george2066

look for the posts on the a/c - heater blower motor upgrade

ddawson

Spending time to de-grease and repaint goes a long way to looking new again. Don't forget the radiator.

bluegtp

Power cable to the starter is a bit easier with everything removed. Fill in any holes in the firewall or fender surrounds before you paint. Previous owner did a number on mine.

Cool bean

Great responses listed! Here's my list for my 74 coupe:
Remove, clean, paint or replace everything. check frame welds. More specificly:
Steering: upgrade to borgeson box with ridetech brace.
suspension: rebuild control arms, replace springs. replace/paint all steering components. New bushings everywhere. new shocks.
Tunnel: replace shifter boot. apply DEI heat shield/sound deadener to tunnel and bulk head.
Replace/upgrade battery cable
Wiring: replace engine harness, a/c harness, alt harness. add wiring/power sources for radiator fans or other accessories. (lights, vac pump, etc.) I added main power distrinution stud in my engine compartment so I could use jumper cables in engine bay if needed.
Trans cooler (if applicable to you)
Fuel lines, brake lines
The suggestion for the new fan upgrade is a good one!
Do the aluminum radiator conversion if not already done. be done with that awful fan shroud.
Add spreader bar.
Convert to serpentine kit.
Add a return style regulator up by the carb. (see posts from Lars)
High torque mini starter (i added starter relay.)

Take your pick. The process is fun and rewarding as heck.

Vaipulu

What a great check list, also replacing the battery cables and installing a stud to jump the car is a great idea! Thank you everyone for the response!