I have a 68 Camaro Coupe and I need to know if the order of these things matters. The car came with a straight six and I plan on putting in a V8. I don't plan on entering her into any beauty contests or racing it as I just want it to look nice and have some power when I hit the gas pedal. I don't know if it matters one way or the other so I'd like to hear from the experts out there. Thx.

 

This is like asking if someone likes red over blue. It's all in what YOUR priorities are. Personally I'd go with a new engine first. A good driving car gets you further than a pretty car that doesn't run lol

 

I like to work from the ground up. If you have a budget for one or the other, then go for the engine. And if you choose to, you can still drive the car while you prep it for paint, unless you're looking at a more involved body rehab.

 

I would do the engine first cause the paint can get messed up while swapping and engine if your not careful.

 

I guess it depends on how far of a tear down you plan on doing for painting. If you are going to leave everything in place (doors, fenders, etc, then I would vote for doing the engine first. Having it running makes it MUCH easier to move around. I have mine on a rotisserie, and I am forever pulling it out of the garage to do other projects, clean ups, etc.

Some Pics would be good.

 

Thanks for the advice everyone. I figured I would go with the engine first for those reasons but just wanted a sanity check.

I tried attaching some pics so hopefully they will show up (still getting used to this forum).

Another question... Will my engine choice affect whether or not I can install an AC? I'm just worried if there will be any clearance issues with certain engines. I'm thinking about a 350 SB and keeping the Powerglide transmission.

 

You will have no clearance issue's with a 350 and Vintage air system. Car looks nice and straight. I started with all the mechanical parts and now doing my body work then interior last. Good luck and have fun!!

 

That thing looks good as is paint on that would be my last concern

 

Looks pretty clean! I'd go engine first, paint second. Just watch that hood and if you see any surface rust, go have that taken care of quickly.