POLL: Pretty vs Functional

Thank you everyone for replying to the poll! The vast majority that took time to post replies look to be in agreement with me ... get it running like a top and then worry about how it looks. I couldn't agree more!

There were a few posts asking for a picture and I did update my post to show you how it looks now while waiting for the South Dakota winter to surrender (I also updated my avatar to show the 72 Duster I ran around in while in high school from 1984 - 1986).

It has the typical Duster quarter panel rust (if your Duster came from the Northern climes) but otherwise it is rust free. No rust-through in the floor boards or trunk like most South Dakota Dusters I'm used to.

I first plan on getting a new front disc brake conversion kit, replacing all the front end bushings, tie rods, etc, that are not covered in the disc brake conversion kit and then replacing the 7 1/4 rear end and leaf springs with Mopar SuperStock springs. I'm not sure on the rear end yet. I have tried some local Mopar buddies I know to see if they have any leads on A-body sized 8 3/4 rear ends but no go so far.

Next on the agenda once I have a solid suspension is a fully blueprinted .030 383 my little brother is giving me with a 727 trans. That is up in the air - I'm still weighing whether I want to do that whole k-member conversion and fight with the exhaust (fenderwell or tucked in) or go just with a small block .... but that is a long-term vision for now.

I don't have a garage to do any of the work in so it'll take a lot of blood (damn mosquitos), sweat and battling the South Dakota weather but I hope one day I can show you all one sweet South Dakota Duster. Thanks!

- SOCKEM