After sitting for 7 years presumably without having the engine turned at all, I'd be a little concerned about one or more valve springs being fully compressed, or close to it, for all that time. Once the engine fires, wouldn't it be possible to float a valve? Anyone share that concern, or is it not valid for one reason or another?
Very cool car. Thanks for posting the picture. What's you friends goal for the restoration? Does he want to build a nice driver, or? You should check out Pete's website
www.thecoralsnake.com . It's dedicated to '68 Shelby's and he has a tremendous amount of information available on there.
Good luck,
Josh