Hi Tony, there are two schools of thought involving old bikes & cars. The first is to enjoy the heck out of it by getting it running and in good shape. The second is to make a "Garage Queen" out of the old thing, and worry someone will steal it, or put a scratch on it. Basically, I believe somewhere in the middle is where I want to be. I have had my M20 since 1970. I drive it a lot, fix what needs to be fixed, and enjoy it. Along the way I have prettied it up, found how to do this or that, and in general made my bike what it is supposed to be, fun to own. If your bike is a wreck, go ahead and strip & repaint anything you want. However, if it is in good used shape, keep original. Check your numbers. If it is a WD bike, there is no such thing as an all original one! They all went through depot at one time or another. Cheers, Robb