Just got back from tinkering with the Ghia. I forgot to bring my camera, so no pictures. As I expected, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
It runs, though a little rough. I adjusted the valves (with help & explanation), and learned a whole lot. Seems that the rocker arms may need to be replaced. There’s something wrong with the transmission. It may just need a new throwout bearing. The pan seems solid, though there could be rust hiding under the tarpaper (the carpet is long gone). No rust in the rear apron or under the battery.
Interior is rough overall. Both dashpads are pretty badly cracked. Wood dash face seems ok. Seats are ripped, but the springs seem ok, so re-covering them should do it. The original headliner is missing, though there’s a new replacement ready to go in. I don’t know if I’ll put it in now, or wait until I can pull the body off and strip it down.
The body is mostly in good shape. It’s not stock; I hope there isn’t a ton of rust or collision damage hiding underneath the new(-ish) paint. Some paint bubbles along the lower edge of the rear decklid. Looks like the drains got plugged with pine needles. This isn’t a huge deal, since the decklid can be replaced without welding anything into the body. Driver’s-side insignia is missing, and the indentation has been filled in. Side trim is gone, and the holes filled. There’s a small dent in the lower end of the driver’s quarter. Should be able to pound it out.
It’s got a slight vacuum leak, which will necessitate a carburetor rebuild. The brakes are all-new and solid. Has an aftermarket tach, which doesn’t work.
I took it out for a short test-drive. It’s very different than what I’m used to, but it was very good. With a bit of luck, it’ll be running strong and in my driveway by next weekend.