Half or full nose

Hi gents, I have a 68 conv. which has a 76 half nose on it, of course I will replace it with an original. I'm wondering if I replace it with a half nose, as the previous owner did. What are the chances of the seam cracking or splitting, or would I be better off to replace the whole nose? Also I want to pull the body off the chassis, should I do the nose before or after? Thanks for any help in these matters, John Joyal

If you are going to pull the body off, I would go with the full nose at the time you do the body.
Without pulling the body, doing the front half is fine if you use the proper methods for bonding and creating the seam. Done correctly it will last as long as all the associated parts. But on close inspection the bonding will show on the inside. This is minor, but depending on the quality you are shooting for, it could make a difference.

I'm 100% with Ken, put the whole nose on. I've worked on a couple of grafted sections, by the time you get it straight and body work suitable for paint you'll have more time invested in the graft. Then if you decide to work the bottom sude as well, it just adds to the hours involved. The next problem you're likely to encounter would be an ill fitting hood.
Take your time and do it right! You'll be much more satisfied with the results.