I have to agree with OldSub. If it were me, I'd recharge the battery, or use a jumper cable, pour a little raw gas in the carb and crank her up. I bet you she'll start and run. My experience (albeit limited) is that most of today's younger mechanics are clueless about these old stovebolts. Having bought a new engine for a Mustang years ago when it was not necessary, I now am very wary when a "mechanic" comes up with such a diagnosis. I just got burned by a "professional mechanic" who assured me that the SBC I put in my 56 was a "great engine that just needed a cam". I'm now in the process of removing and replacing with another engine, because the first had REALLY LOW compression. Point is, take a little time and really check it all out. I would wager that you are probably as smart or smarter than most of today's "pro's" where these old trucks are concerned.
