Chili -
Sorry for the delay in responding, but I just returned from a lengthy vacation in Greece, visiting family.
Congrats on your "new" 2+2!
The issue of maintaining originality vs. restoring can be controversial and any answers to your question will vary based on differing opinions - what follows only mine.
I believe in keeping collectible cars correct and in possession of as many original parts as possible. There is, however, a point where the appearance and value of the car suffers if left that way. As an example, my '65 coupe has a completely original interior, EXCEPT for the carpet. I have the car points judged regularly, and the original carpeting - though acceptable on a "driver" - was just not up to judging standards. On cars like yours where there is visible rust (especially if the panels are rusted through), I vote for restoration of the parts in question. The only time I would make an exception is if the car is a
TRUE survivor, and the rust does not significantly detract from its appearance.
Regarding the addition of A/C, it will definitely add to the comfort factor, but take care to avoid chopping holes or permanent modifications which can't be reversed. Same advice regarding the 5-speed conversion. I'm doubtful that you can accomplish that without modifying the flooring to fit the larger trans.
The trans is either a Borg-Warner T10 or Muncie M20 or M21), depending on production date. I refer you to
this link for more details.
Please do post photo's! You can post up to 20, but take note of the space limitations: 20 items totaling 20000 Kbytes - single upload size 1500 Kbytes. Check the "Resizing Digital Photo's" post under the Article / Miscellaneous tab - or
click this link.
Welcome to the Registry!