Project Frog Princess

Who knew a frog could sleep for almost 5 yrs. Good to see a lot of familiar names still around.

I wasn't sure where to start again after such a long hiatus, and decided to tackle something that had bugged me for a long time, the one significant dent in the L quarter just behind the door. It was pushed in right on the body line making a dent about 10" diameter. I had thought of letting a bodyman friend tackle it, but after some youtubing, I decided to use a slapper spoon and dolly method together with some gentle tapping with a hammer and flat punch from behind right along the body line. I'm quite happy with the result, might not even need filler.

What's next I'm not sure. I've thought of getting the powertrain together, getting it driveable as is, then disassembling for paint. I'm not even sure why, maybe to ensure all major problem solving is done and I like the results before getting into the work of body prep.

I had planned to assemble the engine with stock pistons. Now I'm reconsidering and will likely take Brian at IMM's advice to replace the pistons with a set that brings them up .050" level with the bores and with valve relief so cam choice is not a concern. It means a shortblock disassembly but I can see crosshatch marks in the bores, and max bore wear is OK at .004" so I think just a ball hone treatment will suffice. I'd rather not have to send it to a shop.