The engine turns out to be functional (we actually had it idling for a while), and there seems to be very little rust (it was garaged for 27 of those years, in the San Bernardino sun for the last four), the deal includes all kinds of parts, including an extra engine! The fellow who was selling has back problems, says he's just going to have to give up his restoration activities, and was anxious to be rid of the car. His wife seemed ESPECIALLY grateful.:) I may have a real find!
The paint and upholstery are in terrible shape, but the body seems to be quite unmarked, and I'm pretty excited about the whole thing!
Since I am rather new to the restoration process, you can be sure I'll be asking LOT'S of questions. The plan, for now, is to make it into a car that actually runs, though I have no intention of using it for quite a while. It just seems like the logical place to start, especially since I don't want my wife asking me how I can spend so much money on a car that can't even get to the grocery store! I would be grateful for suggestions on the best procedure to follow. I must confess I don't quite know where to begin.
Thanks,
Irv