That copper color was called Sierra Gold.It was also used on '66- 67 Chevelle's under a different color code, but same formula. I mixed a lot of that color back then.
These old Vic's make wicked gassers. I built one when the kit first came out, with a thunderbolt style scoop.I wish i still had it. yours looks good with the '55 Merc tail lights.
Since you have another windshield coming, try throwing the old one into the purple pond, or some dawn disolver. It might take the dull finish off without harm.You've got nothing to lose at this point.
Actually, the Ardun heads were originally built for Ford commercial trucks as the stock motors were under powered for commercial use.The inclusion in a pick up seems correct to me.
If only you could do this in 1/1. I tried about 35 yrs ago and the cowls are radically different. '55 and '56 are the same and look really cool switched around.