I've had my truck for 4 years. I haven't gone without driving it for more than a few days between most projects. So far, here's what I've done, pretty much one subproject at a time in order. Rebuilt brakes/lines, tune-up, new belts/hoses, fuel lines, new tubes and tires(2004), and since then, radiator recored/restored, added dual exhaust and fentons and added water heat to original intake. Then came the addition of the Overdrive and restoration/rebuild of original sm420 transmission. Should have switched to radials 1st, but did that next. This involved having new wheels made from original style centers to fit 16 inch modern radial tires and still clear my stock suspension. That wheel project alone took over 4 months just waiting for the wheels when they were supposed to be ready in 6 weeks. Anyway, then came the HEI ignition w/7mm wires. The latest sin was replacing original dummy light instrument panel for an aftermarket full gauge panel including tachometer. Over the last 2 years, I've been building a warmed up 261. Currently, I'm researching disc brake upgrades and collecting parts for a stock suspension restoration w/poly bushings and anti-swaybars. I am hoping to have all this done and then the motor swapped by spring. Maybe next fall I'll begin restoration of body and frame, but definately not until the mechanical stuff is finished and working the way it should.
Personally with 2 jobs and kids, it amazes me that people can do all this in less than a year. Maybe when I'm retired with time and more experience, or rich, whichever comes 1st, I'll be able to do it in a year with proper planning.
