Re: How much of your current ride, did you build?
Over the years I have built some and bought some, but always ended up doing most of the work myself. Earlier in life I could not afford to pay someone to do it, now I enjoy it. While it took longer then, it was my only option. Now it is option of choice... Did have some good friends help and teach me early in car life, which I greatly appreciated. I have done some of about everything, including transmissions which I have sworn off of for now!
Current 67 Firebird Convt. stocker has been done all in house so far. I have had this car over 20 years... bought in highschool and restored. Showed it, drove on street a while, and sat in the garage much more than anything. Wanted to enjoy it and know I will take better care of it on the track than on the street, and get in a lot less trouble.
I have converted the car from 4 wheel drum to 4 wheel disc, including all lines, master cylinder, prop valve, etc. All new fuel system, all new wiring, stripped front end down to sub frame with new bushing, joints, body mounts etc. I welded in the roll bar, installed the new Moser rear, Cal-trac's and springs, doing the carpet now(pain!). I have assembled most of my motors over the years (have machine work done) and have bought a couple also when deal was too good to pass up (thanks Billy). Have done most of the body work, but had paint sprayed. I have kept all of the origional parts, motor and trans, etc. just in case I ever want to go back to the street with it.
As several have said, I know my car inside and out.
I do enjoy the building, and love the driving! My sons (9 & 3) have been in the garage some with me on this build, and while still too young to fully understand, hopefully they will appreciate it somewhere down the road. I have built, bought and sold a lot of cars over the years, but this one I do not ever plan to part with.
It just all depends on what is important to you.
Good luck all!
Ken
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