Here are a few tips. (This means my way of doing it. Which you may not want to use, do what works for you)
Pick up the Fisher Body, Chassis, and Shop manuals. I do not think the 1973 year had an assembly manual made yet. Look for one, if you can not find it you may want to consider a 1972. Some sections would still apply.
Next pick up a supply of Clear Hinged Lid tote boxes. I would recommend 16 to start with. They are about $5 each at Lowes or Home Depot type stores.
It costs, but believe me it makes a huge difference over cardboard boxes.
- You can also stack them quite high without worrying about them crushing. This takes up only 4 x 3 feet (if stacked 8 high) of floor space for 80% - 90% of the non body parts.
- They also do not deteriorate over time or get greasy.
- You can also see what is in them. I label the outside by the UPC numbers used in assembly manual. This way you do not have to hunt for them.
Pick up a ton of Zip type freezer bags and sharpie markers. Write the UPC code and pages (if you follow the Assembly manual) otherwise try to group them by major component system. Let me know and I can give you the outline. Always write down all of the components and the quantities in the bag. This will help if something drops out of the bag or you loose it while cleaning. Put the cleaned parts in a new bag and stuff the old one in with the parts.
It is VERY important to also write the finish on the parts (we can talk about how to identify them later). The cleaning process destroys the original finish. Most hardware is either Cad, Black or Gray Phosphate, Gold Iriadite (sp?), or painted. There are several levels of Gloss of most black parts.
Organization is everything in making the restoration easier. Label everything and take pictures of before, during, and assembly. It will come in handy later. Pay special attention to labels, painted inspection marks, and codes.
Before you dive into cleaning up parts, you should list what you need to send out or replace with new parts. Prioritize needs by dollars and lead time to get back. You should buy the parts in the order that you plan to assemble them. I.e. do not buy the interior door panels until after the body and mechanical parts are completed. This does two things. One allows you to buy in order you need them. Two saves tons of space by not having to store it all at one time. The exception of this rule is if you get bulk discounts by purchasing it all at one time.
By scheduling the things you need to send out or buy you keep the restoration moving. Consider starting at the bottom and working up. It also lets you plan your budget. Once the first orders are placed them you can clean while you wait for them to arrive or the next batch of cash to arrive.
Make lists for EVERYTHING on pads of paper by UPC or group. Neatly cross off each item as it is completed. This way you can still read what was done and what needs to be done. Never throw pages away. Multiple pads allow you to add more as you discover it without making a jumble of it.
Let me know if this is helpful and it you want me to continue.
Greg R.
