Restoration Advice Request
Hi All,
This is my first automotive post.
I have been holding on to my Red 1972 Mustang coupe for 20 years now. Back in 98 my 302 died (broken connecting rod) and was fortunate to find a local professional gear head (he owns his own machine shop) who just happened to have a (67) 289 2V that he had rebuilt for himself, but was too busy to deal with the rest of the restoration project (works for me). It purrs like a kitten (well it did until I messed up. I'll get to that in a moment). I also have 71 (302) and 73 (351W) Mustang coupes that I use for parts (hey, no red-neck jokes. It's lawn art.) I've painted it 3 times in the past 20 years. Each time I get better at it. I did almost blow up the garage the last time (mental note: don't put air compressor in the same room you're painting in, even if it does reduce condensation in the air lines.)
I've been real busy the past few years working on houses (real-estate equity rocks!). This means I've been totally neglecting my Mustang. It's gotten to the point where I either have to sell it or restore it (and I'm not selling!). Unfortunately, I have earned myself a big dope slap for not storing it properly. I left it outside here in Connecticut with half a tank of gas in it for at least 8 months. Now the fuel filter clogs with tank rust almost immediately. I have never removed a fuel tank and I know this tank is the original. Should I buy a new (reproduction) tank or have the old one cleaned? Are there any reliable options that don't require tank removal?
I also need to replace the leaf springs and have the rear end rebuilt. I intend on doing the leaf springs myself, though I've never done this before (any advice or warnings of permanent dismemberment would be greatly appreciated here). I will remove the rear end and bring it to my gear head friend to rebuild (I believe in the pride of accomplishment, but some things are best left to the pro's).
I've also noted exhaust leaks at both manifold to "Y" pipe connections. This is another area I've never had to deal with. The studs coming out of the ends of the manifolds look real rusty. I suspect the studs will break if I try to loosen or tighten them. Is there a secret to dealing with this? I assume that I must replace the gasket, though I'd prefer to just tighten the nuts (nothing is that easy). I'd obviously rather not have to remove the manifolds because of broken studs if I can avoid it.
Sorry about the novel and thanks in advance for any words of wisdom.
Yours,
Svend
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