Another new guy from the Chicago 'burbs

[Pontiac Ed]

Hi. I've been in the car hobby for a long time, but mostly with the factory stock restoration of Pontiacs. I'm building a second version of my first car, this time on an adult's budget instead of a 16 year old's. I'm trying to create a 1969 season vintage Trans Am feel with nearly completely stock appearance and interior with plenty of engine, tire and suspension.

I am starting with a clean very low mile 1969 low option base Cougar that spent its entire life in the Chicago area, but is essentially rust free. We drove it for a year stone stock so my son could know what one drove like, just like I got to back in 1975. We took the engine out last spring expecting the engine any day now, you all know how that works.

As of yesterday, I have the brand new 408W for it to go along with the TKO600 5 speed. The body should be off to a body shop to shoot the engine compartment in the next few weeks. I hope to get it on the road this year and my next big decision is front suspension. I want to keep the shock towers and rear leafs, but I want to get the most handling out of it without making race car rough or spend crazy money. I came here looking for suggestions and ideas.