15 months after purchase and it is time to share the results. These cars are never done, but I now feel good enough about where mine is to share. Though I have not posted regularly here, it was not because I was not around. Posting was usually not necessary. I learned so much from the archives, in most cases finding the answer without having to ask again.
Since I stayed with body side moldings, which are black, the wife decided the new top should remain black as well. The installer confirmed the top he removed was the car's first and only one in its initial 44 years of existence. The original boot was cleanable and with a new set of clips, was ready to go. The new top and seat covers came from Legendary. We did shift the buckets to leather as a tribute to our original SE. I did the seats and carpet myself, which also replaced the originals, I believe. The door, rear, kick panels and seat backs were redone by Just Dashes. Slow and expensive, but excellent quality work.
I put the original front fenders in storage as they could one day be repaired but went with salvaged ones with new lower patch panels. Also needed patching on lower rear quarters but there was no other significant rust. Found correct Rallye wheels and had them blasted and repainted with the original steel wheels and hubcaps put into storage. For tires, went with 235s in the front and 275s in the rear.
Under the hood, it was primarily normal maintenance, carb rebuild and a whole lot of cleaning. It remains a full numbers-matching, 64,000-mile car. I just wish it was spring! This car will be driven!
