[ParkerRS]

As stated above there are many routes to take. They depend on your end goal as well as budget. Most times if you are dealing with reputable sources such as SC&C, DSE, Morrison, Etc you will get what you pay for. The question then is what you desire.

You say that you want the car to be a daily driver somewhat. If your used to driving a '98 bird you will soon find out the serious shortcomings of a stock rebuilt '64 suspension and brakes when compared. As stated above, you don't have to break the bank. On my gray car I simply used some global west control arms coupled with hothkiss springs to both lower and slightly stiffen along with large sway bars also from hothkiss. The difference was amazing, I also installed a quick ratio steering box from Lee manufacturing and it is a wonderful street car. I upgraded the brakes to 13" front disc and 12" rear disc, brakes are some of the best money you will ever spend on one of these cars considering the wieght compared with the 30's street rods. There are many suppliers for big brake set-ups just choose your budget and goals. There are Kore3, touring classics, baer, wilwood, and others also if you prefer power brakes don't forget hydraboost as it is well worth the cash on a daily driver, you can't beat the difference it will make. I will not build another car without it.

Tires and wheels will make the major difference, but don't jump the gun. Bigger brakes will require bigger wheels. Stickier and wider tires will increase the suspension load exponentially and can overwhelm the stock suspension. After all the stock suspension was designed in '64 to run a 6" wheel width with 78 series bias-ply tires, not 8" wheels with 245 sticky radial rubber. As an engineer you should have a greater understanding of this than I do.

Sorry to be long winded. Some of the new products will greatly improve your car without breaking the bank and are a very worthwhile investment. Take your time, do the research, and you can work it out a few parts at a time to ease the blow. Most all of the manufacturers and suppliers will be happy to discuss their products with you at length and answer your questions. Welcome to the site.