Engine bay overhaul--what else should I do while Im in there?

So Im in the midst of removing most everything out of the engine bay for clean-up/refurbishment. Whats left in are the motor, trans, suspension and steering components.

Is there anything else I should do (maintenance wise or other) while its relatively easy to work in there? I remember a post long ago saying something about the steering rack, but I can no longer find it.

I've gotten great responses on the board before, especially from Bill Young and company.

I'll soon have a lot more to share/ask, including welding new floor boards and why Im glad on one hand that my car appears to have been in an an accident.

Cheers.

Michael,

You may want to consider rebuilding the carbs and pulling the head off the engine to do a valve job and clean it.

I recently pulled the head on my 72 and found about a 1/4 inch of hard gunk built up on the back/insides of the valves.

The steering racks are pretty durable. Just make sure you have good rubber gaitor boots on it and oil in it.

Bryan

It's not nessicary, but I know when I get to that point on my car, I'm painting everything in there, but might be more work than you're willing to do. Good luck

Brian-

Thanks for the reply. I have already pulled the carbs with the intent to rebuild them, as well as pulling the valve cover just so I could clean it up and repaint it. I'll try to take some pics of the valves and springs so maybe I can get some thoughts on if and how they should be cleaned.

As far as the carb rebuild, I'm pretty new at this stuff altogether, so I am looking forward to the challenge. I found what I think looks like a reasonably priced kit here: http://www.bpnorthwest.com/.sc/ms/dd/Midget--Carburetion%20Fuel%20System/7696/Carburetor%20Rebuild%20Kit%20Midget%2071-74%20HS2

Are there any better places to look for rebuild kits?

In particular, Im looking to rebuild as my #1 cylinder fouls its plug extremely quickly. I think all plugs foul fairly quickly actually, so I wanted to make sure the components are solid before I start messing with mixture settings. (Im hoping its a fuel problem--all my cylinders test extremely well on a compression test)

I'll try to post some pictures of the valves today or tomorrow to see what you all think.

IronHead71 Wrote:

Michael,

Can you give a link to the $50 paint job? I haven't heard of that before.

Thanks,

Bryan

I would inspect the hood/bonnet release cable and replace if shows any wear. This cable can be replaced with the engine in place but it is easier when all the remaining pieces parts are not there.
Check to make sure the brake light switch plunger is working freely and not collecting any rust which will keep it from operating.
Check the gasket seal for the brake pedal box to make certain brake fluid and clutch master fluid don't leak to footwell and on your nice pants( never happens when you are wearing the grease clothes lol).

Bryan-

Please find links to the $50 paint job here: http://www.rickwrench.com/50dollarpaint.html

Here: http://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=0&Number=2331682&page=0&fpart=1&vc=1 (original)

and Here: http://www.hotrod.com/techarticles/body/hrdp_0707_1962_ford_falcon_budget_paint_job/index.html