It might be the right Make and Model, it might be your classic car dream but when is a car restoration actually a write off?
In real terms people like us and undoubtedly those reading an article like this would love to save every classic car they could. In real terms though this isn’t possible and will often be prevented by one of a few things:
1.) Time – a car restoration at any level be it a restoring a running driving vehicle with minimal corrosion does take time. The hours run in to dozens if not hundreds even achieving the smallest tasks and when it comes to a body off restoration of an American truck it can be even more. Time and patience run out or run away.
2.) Skills – there are a multitude of skills needed to restore be it mechanical, metal fabrication, upholstery and paint as well as auto electrical. Not everyone has all of these or people around them to do it. You might have one bit sussed but the another may leave you needing help.
3.) Parts – when it comes to most American car parts they aren’t too bad to find if you have a little time and patience and PayPal account or bank card. Some cars though are truly bizarre and there just isn’t an aftermarket supplying those parts. This means lots of custom builds or designs. American cars, Cars like MG and Ford are well serviced but other may have you scratching your head.
4.) Money – Budgets are there to be blown and the smallest nuts and bolts need to be paid for. Whatever you think it will take a least add 50% more and maybe double.
The reality is this is a negative view but it’s realistic and needs to be considered. One of the biggest factors we come accross as to whether to even start a restoration is fabrication and corrosion. Rust is your enemy and sometimes too much of the car is rotten. If your mind set is I own a VIN number and I’ll rebuild around that then you’re some way there but for many this might just mean that treasured classic car is better off going to the scrap yard however sad it might be.
