I have decided to make this car a tribute to my Dad. He passed away recently and very unexpectedly. Dad loved big, old cars. He loved this car. As a tribute to him, I have given this Merc the nickname of "Big John". My Dad had played a huge part in my love of cars, especially big ol' land yachts like this one. As a youngster, my Dad taught me a lot about cars with regards to maintenance and care among other things. I eventually went to school to learn about auto repair, got a job repairing cars at different levels and opened my own independent repair shop, which I did for several years until a divorce and 9/11 forced me to close up shop. I am a proud father of a twelve year old son. He too loves cars, though our tastes differ. Cars can and do have a bonding effect on fathers and their sons. Giving them a chance to spend time together, sharing and learning about each other and cars. I will always remember when Dad would call me and ask me to help him with a problem with a car and depending on my work schedule, I would go over and help him out. Likewise, when I had a problem he was always willing to lend a helping hand. Before my divorce to my sons mother, I would go out to the garage every Saturday morning with a coffee pot in hand and my son tagging along. We would spend hours in the garage, just him and I, and I would be working on my project of the time, while my son rested against the fender and watched and conversed with me intently. These are the times we should treasure with our children, because one day they'll realize how much they treasured it too. I'll miss being able to call on my Dad for a helping hand, But I'll definitely, without a doubt, be ready when my son needs help.
As for the Merc and my tribute to my Father, I have decided to go with a ratrod theme with an airbrushed picture of Dad on the hood and the words "in loving memory of my father BIG JOHN" 1945-2008 across the rear deck lid.

The following pictures of the Merc were taken before any work was done. This car is a work in progress. I have posted more pics of my progress on the second page.

This is a 1972 Mercury Monterey 2 door hardtop. This is my toy.

106k original miles on the 351 Cleveland engine, FMX transmission.

The interior of this 36 year old beast is almost perfect.

At 18 1/2 feet long, there are no complaints of having no leg room.

And the trunk, well let's just say we can get about 6 people in the drive-in theatre for free. But don't let that get around, shh.

This car at 36 years and 106k miles is in my opinion to be the most original car I have ever seen. I recently found out a couple weeks ago that the rear brake drums are the original according to the date stamped on them and when compared to the build sheet that also came with the car along with receipts, original owner's manual and then the few things I have acquired since purchasing this car. Such as a reproduction window sticker, sales brochure, FACTORY repair manuals and more.

Don't forget to check page 2 to view pics of my progress.