Originally Posted by RobbieRacer (Post 489910)

I had a little extra time today so I made a little headway. Pulled out the heater and all the related pieces, radio, speakers, and all under dash. insulation.
I have 2 questions. Maybe stupid but I must ask.
The fresh air intake vents. Is it ok just to block them off with sheet metal?
The car has a inside hood release. Is it ok to do away with it and make the hood release from the front grill area? My cable is broken and I can fab a handle release that will work fine.

Originally Posted by Mark Yacavone (Post 489915)

Robbie, you have to leave the heater controls in the dash ..That is, whatever parts show from the front ;-)
You have to block the cowl vents on the inside.
I don't see a problem with the hood latch being outside, as long as the safety lock apparatus is retained. I doubt anyone would notice actually.

Originally Posted by Dave Muller (Post 489982)

And here I was just about to head out to Apache Junction Sunday to buy the kick panel vent mechanism that I'm missing for the right-hand side. I have the left one already installed, that came with the car. The '66 Malibu is different from later ones where it's integral with the kick panel itself, this is a separate piece with the flapper valve and cable and knob to control it. But if it's not a tech issue if it's just blocked off under the kick panel I think I'll skip it and make a block-off plate.

Rob, I'm glad to see that progress is being made.

Originally Posted by Sean Marconette (Post 488875)

Remove unneeded wiring, all sound deadener, carpet insulation, and anything not needed. You will be surprised what that adds up to. It's all in the details, and adds up quickly. Get the weight off the front so you can put it where you need it in the back. Find an aluminum front bumper.

There is mastic that glues the door skin to the crash bars, so don't just start prying and pulling on it, otherwise you will do a number on the door skin. My 78 Zephyr, the crash bar had to be cut in half to get it out of the doors A cut-off wheel is best, and whatever you do protect/remove the glass or you will be replacing it. The grinding embers will pit the glass.