Good post.

Many parts were natural bare metal. You have 3 choices when doing a resto, strip and leave bare, strip and clear, or strip and try to use a paint that matches the original metal color. Although I did a few small items, clear just doesn't look right IMO.

I tried to stay away from clear on large parts, but am not doing an OE resto, so many of my parts I primed and used metal simulated paints, for example springs, spring hangers, front suspension, driveshaft, brake and pedal assemblies. Very happy with some of the Eastwood metal paint products.

On the springs, I have heard both ways were found, so I went with painted black with natural bands.

Rick.