Preparing (mentally and physically) preparing to do my 68, but trying to 'draw the line' on how far/how detailed/how correct to go. So, as part of trying to determine this, perhaps a value assesment would help.

68 RS/SS 375/396 M22 car:

The good- Numbers matching M22 (without a doubt it is the original trans), RS/SS, off the road since 1982, British Green/Black Deluxe Interior/Black vinyl top, Power Disc Brake car, PS, Solid car overall but needs full resto. Has correct radiator and engine brackets/pulleys/etc. Solid quarters and doors, original interior complete except for radio.

The bad- NOM (currently has a non VIN 70 325/402 shortblock but with the original 375hp heads/intake), 12 bolt MIA, no documentation, original carb MIA, headers, poorly repaired trunk pan, drivers floorpan soft, hoodpin holes in hood..

The concern is the missing 375/396 engine block, 12 bolt and carb: is it worth it to spend the $$ and locate the correct items? Or just use the block in the car, make it look correct and just get whatever 12 bolt I can find? Since the original parts are MIA, is it worth the effort to get 'close to original' parts (date coded/correct suffix block, date coded rear), or just restore it correctly 'in appearance' and not loose any sleep?

Thanks for you input in advance.

IMHO it depends on your intended use. If you are going to drive the p**s out of it and just have fun, use what you have and save the money. If you want to sell it at Barrett-Jackson, find all the original stuff and hope to recover your money. I know those are the extremes, but I would vote for the "drive it like you stole it" option!! Whatever you decide, it is your car, do what you are comfotable with. :cool:

As you probably already know, docs on a 68 go along way since the trim tag tells very little. Ive chased L-78 parts for a couple years and its TOUGH! I would probably get the body in good condition, and mechanically sound and enjoy the car. In the coming months or years, keep an eye out for the parts you need to be correct until you have what you need. Evenutally it would pay off imo. Kevin

As you probably already know, docs on a 68 go along way since the trim tag tells very little. Ive chased L-78 parts for a couple years and its TOUGH! I would probably get the body in good condition, and mechanically sound and enjoy the car. In the coming months or years, keep an eye out for the parts you need to be correct until you have what you need. Evenutally it would pay off imo. Kevin
Good advice :thumbsup:

Good advice :thumbsup:
Thanks.. I was expecting it to be tough. I want to enjoy the car, but not disregard what it is. It makes sense to get the body/interior done right and then relpace the other components as they are located (time and $$$ permitting..)

Thanks for the replies!

I'm with Kevin. You have a GREAT car. Enjoy it, yet respect what it is. If you keep your eyes open you may stumble upon some of the equipment that you want/need as time goes on.
Keep in mind that the giver of this advice (me) is driving a "frankenstein" 68 camaro with zero original parts......and loving every second of it!