Long Time Lurker Introduction, Fianlly pulled the trigger Options

[stinkindiesel]

I've been lurking for a while, but haven't really been able to contribute much. I figure it's time to get busy. I dragged home a 1973 1.7L early last summer, and have been slowly trying to figure out what I have.

Car started life in Hobbs, NM and Odessa,TX, so its been in dry hot climates most of its life. Just a few rusty areas in the hell hole (of course), right front rocker and fender. Still looks presentable. Some time in the mid 80's it got painted a rather interesting blue/green color, and was later repainted white.


I managed to get it started before I bought it, but PO claimed the alternator was bad. It seemed to run OK, but wouldn't idle. Looking at the state of the vacuum lines I'm not surprised. After poking around some last weekend, I suspect the voltage regulator may be an issue rather than the alternator.

Right now I'm torn between just pulling the engine and transmission to start clean vs. just trying to get it running first. Part of me says it might be easier to start clean. I already have the special 914-option jack stands under her, so she would fit in around here (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)







So a couple of questions just to get things started.

1) This is obviously a non-appearance group car, but would the targa top and sail panels originally have had vinyl or not?
2) What kind of options are there for air filters with the stock 1.7L air cleaner housing?
3) If I do need a voltage regulator, should I go with something functionally equivalent or hold out for a stock look?
4) I'll be sticking with the stock D-Jet, but no idea what to do if it needs points/ignition help.

Thanks all for giving me the incentive to move ahead on this project.

Gary