Well it's been slow-going, but I'm starting to feel the pressure of my impending deadline. Plus, I'd like to have some time to work the bugs out instead of "hey I just got the car driving the day before we drive 5 hours". Unfortunately poor weather and lack of shelter has kept progress much slower than I'd like.
But here is a most recent update-
I got the car up and removed the rear brake lines and the new pre-bent lines installed (from Inline Tube). The lines fit phenomenally and I would recommend them for anyone doing a complete brake revamp. The kit I got was even set up for a single-to-dual master cylinder conversion.
I had a few issues with stuff being gunked up or siezed, but I managed to work my way through it. Boy, those brake lines look great.
But wait a minute... notice anything missing? Yeah, whoever did te brakes on this car last never installed the self-adjuster cable. Maybe that's part of why the brakes sucked so bad. My dad (the previous owner) denies ever having done the brakes. So progress is halted until I get those cables in (should be Monday).
Also, in case anyone needs a friendly reminder that the driver's side on an old MoPar is left-hand thread, I present exhibit C:
Yes, I BROKE THE BREAKER BAR handle off, no I was not using a cheater pipe. I'm just a large man and apparently the wheel stud was able to handle 700+lb/ft (I'm 350# and I was standing on the end of a 2' bar, so math). They came right off when I stopped trying to tighten them.
So my checklist is growing shorter, not by much, but even a snail gets there eventually:
Idler Arm, Finish the brakes, Oil change, Coolant hoses, Fan belt, Final install on fuel pump/filter, and a few minor wiring things I want to do and she'll be ready. Will it be done in time for June 11th? I guess we'll find out in 32 days...
ETA: A guy was dropping his trailer off and gave me some encouragement. "Places like this are usually where cars come to die, I'm glad to see something making it out."