Engine compartment reassembly newbie questions

[msg]

I have reached the point of finally putting things back together but I want to be sure I get it right. This is all new to me so I am pretty intimidated and overwhelmed. I had originally planned to reuse it all and just spruce it up but the 350 after looking into it had more wear than I knew so I ordered an L31 and now have it installed with the 700r4 and thats about all I have done. The body panels have been taking me alot of time and Im almost done with the wetsanding and polish and wanted to start reassembling the body, but I think it might be best to get more installed on the engine first.

The big question I have really is there a best reassembly order to consider as I go?

Engine first and panels after? I mean side panels, the front panels will have to be installed for the radiator and AC condenser and all. I'll just list what Ive got and see if anyone can offer guidance on this.



A list of what I have and condition

Carb (old, was using it before I tore things down) - Quadrajet

Air cleaner- I still need to order a replacement to what I had. I wanted a sharp looking one that Ive seen some use that has 2 intake snorkles but for now Ill go cheap and get a newer open type like I had before.

Intake manilfold (new) - Edelbrock Performer Vortec Intake Manifolds 2116

Exhaust manifolds (new, wanted to switch from headers I had so I went ram horn style)-
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/SUM-G9200S

Distributor (old, my delco remy HEI I had before) - I am adding the melonized gear that will be needed for the L31

Starter (new/old) - I was using this mini torque starter I had replaced the original with since the starter kept having heat sync issues due to the headers

Radiator (old/new) - I am resuing my radiator that I just picked up from the shop. Had it reconditioned/rodded and all. The fella told me the core was replaced not too long ago it looked like. He said it was in real good shape

Fanshroud (new) - my original wasnt correct and wouldnt help cool well since I will be adding Vintage Airs Sure Fit kit that will add a condenser to the front of the radiator. The goal is to seal it all up well and pull as much air with the fan as possible to keep things running right

Power steering (old) -had a conversion done by a garage that no longer exists. They replaced the water pump I had with a used long style and put a new fan blade on. I think the fan I had wouldnt bolt to the replaced pump or something so they put on a newer one.

Wiring harness (New) - American Autowire Classic Update Series Wiring Harness Kits 500560

Alternator (new) - Remy 91751 100% New Alternator.
Im replacing the wiring harness in my 66 as part of the rebuild and also swapping my 350 out for an L31 vortec. The guy at American Auto wire mentioned that I will need to replace my alternator with an Internally Regulated Alternator for the harness setup.

AC - I will soon be ordering the Vintage Air Gen-IV SureFit Systems Complete Kits 941164

Fuel pump (new) - Holley Mighty Mite Electric Fuel Pumps 12-427
The fuel will now need an electric pump for the L31 so I still have to figure out how to run the fuel lines from the tank that is in the cab to the engine around the exhaust and trans cooler lines.

I will post some pics next to show where things are currently. I know Im missing some things like hoses and clamps and such. So much to figure out and do my head is spinning.