I thought it would be nice to provide an update to my original post regarding my 67 400 Convertible 'survivor' question.
Many of you gave me some solid advice (and concerns) about timing gears, freeze plugs, etc. Since the engine has low mileage but was never removed, I decided to pull the motor and make one;y the necessary improvement without major overhaul. Someone said it best....if it ain't broke, don't fix it! In my case, I did have many oil leaks and a somewhat blown out exhaust gasket (it leaked on passenger side). SO, we pulled the motor and began addressing only the important items.
Here's a short list of what was done:
Engine:
- New Timing gears and chain
- New Freeze plugs (block and heads)
- New intake, exhaust and valve cover gaskets
- New rear main seal
- New Oil pan and Timing cover gasket
- New (GM repro correct) heater and radiator hoses
- New Fan belts (GM repro correct)
- New Wires (GM repro correct)
- Flushed engine and radiator (several times), new coolant
- New motor mounts
- I did NOT touch rings, bearings, etc. The main bearings and cylinder walls look excellent
Tranny & Differential:
- New gaskets/seals
- New Tranny filter
- New tranny mounts
- New Diff gaskets and lube
As you can see from the pictures, I decided to paint the engine. It would have looked pretty odd with new gaskets and freeze plugs without proper paint. I used Bill Hirsch paint for the engine. I waited over two weeks before starting engine (to avoid any curdling).
Notice that I DID NOT paint the firewall, etc. I did not intend to start a concours restoration. Instead, I wanted the car to be as original as possible (even considering the engine paint).
She's now running and back on the road. I can't wait for the snow to meal here in New England so I can take her for a long trip.
In the end, I think I did the right things and tastefully protected the original drivetrain without changing the character of the car's originality. Some may agree or disagree with my decisions, but that's okay. I did what I thought would help protect the longevity of this wonderful car.
Thanks again for all of your input and suggestions.
PS: I should also mention that I went with the two piece rear main seal. I considered the rope seal, but in the end decided to go with the two piece. Time will tell whether it was the right decision
