Thanks for the info & positive comments everyone! Internet searches have come a LONG way since 2004! I'll use the dark Ford blue on the engine, and procure a few ounces of the 52 Chevy "regal maroon", that's gotta be the color!
I dropped this thing down quite a bit in the rear, but I think it's gotta go more & some in the front also to match the old pics...I believe both of these pics were taken the same day back then, looks like regular whitewalls on the driver's side, and the "portawalls" on the passenger side, I remember him telling me he had those on it, must have lost two at high speed or couldn't afford four!
Anyone recognize those front hubcaps?