Bartamos, thanks for responding. My 51 is pretty complete, but there is alot of it that I don't want. For example I want to replace the 216/235 engine and 3-on-the-tree trans with a 4.3 v6 or a 305 or 327 v8 and a TH 350 or TH 400 or maybe 700R4. It has the old enclosed driveshaft rear axle which I want to replace with one of the more modern ones that I have. The body is pretty straight with surface rust but no cancer. it is my understanding that the rear leaf spring suspension is pretty good to use, but i want independent front suspension. The aftermarket kits for $1500 you referred to - are they for adapting a modern IFS and PS/PB/etc? Can you suggest some of the more popular vendors for these? As for the wiring, I expect i will have to completely replace all that, as well as the gages
