Toppers Tuesday

Someone has got to start talking about how to reduce the high cost of building a street rod, hot rod, or any car. Today, I started on the subject and quickly realized that everyone feels the same way but is afraid to discuss it. Well, I am the one who is going to show people that you can build a car like we used to for a lot less money than you would expect. If you follow this site you know that I am a traditional lover and can relate to hi-tech but prefer to stick with axles and drum brakes. The first mistake people make is that they read too many magazines that feature high end cars. Now we all like these cars, but come on, we all can’t afford them. Here is what you do. Search the net for a deal like the 48 Ford convertible I found for song.  Next scrounge ebay for a really good deal close to home. It can be done and over the next few weeks I will share with you honest expenses incurred in securing parts. No labor charges are included as that is where you need to step up or do a trade out for you expertise. I am a computer Geek so I can help a lot of folks with their ebay sales and purchases.

To refresh your memory here is the Body and frame. Complete car with 2 of everything.

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1948 Ford rust free convertible for a good price after selling off extra parts. No it is not a 32 Ford, but will make a nice driver for the wife who hates 32 roadsters.

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The car needed a new center crossmember or frame. An ad on Fordbarn netted this one for a good price stripped, dipped, primered, and rust free.

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The same day I purchased a nine inch station wagon smooth back for the car. Fair price, complete with everything. Not sure of condition but worth the risk. Note that some huge traction bars must be cut off the housing and the housing trued later on. This may be costly. I can always find another one.

Looking for a motor and transmission that is a take out of an early Chevy with low miles (80,000 or so.) Budget $500. All that is left is the front axle and wishbone set up. Someone will take their old axle out and replace it with a MII. I will look for these on Fordbarn and ebay.

Stay Tooned for the Budget Convert for the wife. She wants it Maroon like our first one. Do they have budget painters? OSH big cans will do just fine.  Is red oxide maroon?

Dreaming

Budget for the car is $11,000 running and driving.

Lynn

Comments 67

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