Advice on order of upgrades to 1962 Plymouth Fury?

[lacrebob]

I recently purchased a 1962 Plymouth Fury in very original condition. It's a 2-door with a 318 poly, auto trans, manual steering, and manual brakes. I don't have the money needed to do all my upgrades at one time and I'm looking for advice on the order so that I don't waste money. I'll probably only be able to do one major upgrade per year. At this time, the transmission leaks, the brakes barely work, and the steering is quite a chore at slow speeds.

Over time, I'd like to do the following:

Power upgrade - either build-up the poly or swap-out
Swap auto trans for Tremec manual
4-wheel disc brakes (power?)
Rack & pinion power steering
Coil over strut front suspension
Strengthen existing 8 3/4 rear end or swap to Dana 60

Interior overhaul (better seat belts in front and install seat belts in rear)
Repaint exterior (in good shape now but inconsistent color)

Photos here:http://www.flickr.com/photos/lacrepat/sets/72157625653879207/

I'm new to having a car of this vintage and don't have a clear plan. I think I can wait for the cosmetic mods. Any advice?

 

[Red63440]

I would think that if you are planing on driving the car between upgrades the brakes and steering would be at the top of the list.

 

[gtx69]

I would think that if you are planing on driving the car between upgrades the brakes and steering would be at the top of the list.[/QUOTE
I agree safely first.

 

[72Satellite440]

Sure sounds and looks great at this point-(from video link)
I would upgrade to a disc brake conversion If your going to fix the breaks anyways may as well...doesnt cost too much.

http://cgi.ebay.ca/Mopar-B-E-Body-Front-Disc-Brake-Wheel-Kit-Brakes-/330520549912?pt=Vintage_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Year%3A1962%7CMake%3APlymouth%7CModel%3AFury&hash=item4cf48f5a18

 

[lacrebob]

Thanks. I was leaning towards brakes

If I upgrade either front or back suspension without upgrading the brakes, I would be putting old drum brakes on top of new suspension/axle parts and that seems like I might be asking for trouble.