i have a 66 chevelle 2dr hardtop, motor runs but not so good, old and tired, it's a 396 with th350 tranny, original 327 car, however it needs lots of bodywork and interior done, i don't have the money to get it sent out and full restoration within the month, i work part time and go to school, what would you do??? focus on the engine and suspension, or fix the cancer in front/rear window channels, and both quarters???

If its not a clean 396 SS model it will only be a good driver when your done .Will never be a money car....Sometimes dreams and budgets in my case are two different things..:thumbsup:

Spend the bulk of your time and money on the mechanical aspects for now. As far as any major rust areas, clean them up and epoxy primer them for now to prevent further deterioration. Once you have everything else good to go then you can apply a new coat of makeup. By doing it this way you won't have to worry about damaging a new paint job when you do all the other stuff. Redo the interior when everything else is done.

Spend the bulk of your time and money on the mechanical aspects for now. As far as any major rust areas, clean them up and epoxy primer them for now to prevent further deterioration. Once you have everything else good to go then you can apply a new coat of makeup. By doing it this way you won't have to worry about damaging a new paint job when you do all the other stuff. Redo the interior when everything else is done.Agree 100%. Get it mechanically safe before pouring money into serious body work or interior. After it's mechanically safe, if you have long range plans for the whole car talk to a body shop and interior shop. I'll bet each would agree with the above - get the body work done then the interior.

I also agree with the advice given. One thing to consider if there's a possibility of putting it up for sale in the near future. Rarely do you get back the money spend in mechanicals. The best engine and suspension will not bring value if the body is in poor condition. I may differ a bit from others, but the condition of the body helps sell a car.