|
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) |
|
|
Thread Tools | Display Modes |
01-26-2015, 11:24 PM | #1 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Bellingham, Washington
Posts: 362
|
How to decide when to throw in the towel?
So I've had my project since September 2012 and was absolutely thrilled to have a 30-31 roadster in my garage. I started tearing into it in August 2013 and ended up bending a valve after emergency removal of a stud that snapped while I was putting a freshly machined head on. Well, there it sat with the bent valve and partially disassembled.
I've run into a situation of sorts where I don't have a way to transport parts for the car (can't haul the body to a sandblasting place as I have no trailer/truck), I don't have a welder nor do I know how to weld, I got tired of buying parts for the car and tired of not being able to do anything, and finally I have very little space it seems. I have run out of motivation and now am working quite a bit (50-60HRS per week). Coming up, my schedule will be slightly better as I will have weekdays off on a rotating schedule (six on two off), so the places that actually can do work on my project will in fact be open when I have days off. Seems that companies that can do work that I need done are not open when I have the time to even get parts to them. I feel like I'd rather buy a 46-53 Chevy or GMC pickup and just have something cool to drive around and be able to enjoy, rather than have something cool sitting in my garage that I don't work on, just gets stuff stacked on it and it essentially takes up the space that I could have a table saw or some other cool tool instead. I am sure lots of you have faced this issue and somehow powered through the disappointment, lack of enthusiasm or just plain disinterest in your project. I am at an impasse now that I'd rather free up the funds for potentially branching out to a different hobby (woodworking) and having the space and sell off my car project and associated parts. I'd appreciate any reflections from members who have dealt with the same dilemma and who may have advice on both sides of the coin. One of the only things preventing me from selling it off is that I may never get an opportunity in the future to have a project like this. I bought it with money I saved and I don't want to try to find one like it when I am buying a house or raising kids because I know and have heard how budgets for hobbies get so constricted. For your information, here is a thread I made on the HAMB about the project when I first bought it: My humble start: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/t...and-me.580645/ Where I am now: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/t...-build.734758/ Thanks for looking. |
01-27-2015, 12:06 AM | #2 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2014
Location: Land of Lincoln
Posts: 3,127
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Yes it happens, getting down on project. Take a time out from project. You have help with dad, brother,girl friend( get her more involved ). Join a car club help others they may have
things to offer for your project. Time out, save money, then get back into it! Sometimes a ride along will get you going again I know from past history. Good Luck! |
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) |
|
01-27-2015, 12:10 AM | #3 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Bellingham, Washington
Posts: 362
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
It seems the guys in the car club near me are more interested in the stuff from the mid-fifties to the late 60's or the early stuff. Model As are common, but I am running into roadblocks due to not being able to make progress.
|
01-27-2015, 12:10 AM | #4 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Portland, Oregon
Posts: 5,902
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Going just by your story, I would say sell it, I hope to a rstorer. I can't make your links work, but if you're well into restoration with a solid original car, roadsters are very popular and you should have little trouble getting a good price for it. As for another chance later on, a car will be there when you're ready. There are lots of Model A's. Do what makes you happy.
__________________
Ray Horton, Portland, OR As you go through life, keep your eye on the donut, not the hole. |
01-27-2015, 12:12 AM | #5 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Portland, Oregon
Posts: 5,902
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Your local Model A club is The Evergreen A's, a large and very enthusiastic group. Get in touch with them and they can help you with your decision. A generic "car club" is the wrong place to seek advice.
__________________
Ray Horton, Portland, OR As you go through life, keep your eye on the donut, not the hole. |
01-27-2015, 12:33 AM | #6 |
Senior Member
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)
__________________
What's right about America is that although we have a mess of problems, we have great capacity - intellect and resources - to do some thing about them. - Henry Ford II |
01-27-2015, 12:39 AM | #7 |
BANNED
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Gothenburg Nebraska Just off I-80
Posts: 4,893
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I went through some of what you speak of for the first 8 years my wife and I were married. My 28 rdstr pu was not stored here, so it was not in the way or even close by. When I started working on it again in 2001 all went well for awhile. I was making slow progress as I was working close to 80 hrs a week. Still found afew hours each week to do some. I was restoring this for fine point judging, so my challanges were slightly more of the picky nature. In 2007 when I was diagnosed with colon cancer I ended up parting it out to recoop the money to pay med bills. I had already bought my current project and had it stored away so when I recovered I started on it. In 2009 it was announced the place I was working was going to close. Thankfully it was a long process in closing and it took them until 2011 to get to me. Many more struggles since then, but can not imagine life without being involved in Model A's. Being involved in this hobbie has allowed me to meet incredable people and do things that many people rarely have the opportunity to do. Keep in mind I have been bending wrenches since I was 13 in one way or another. It is all about how you view the hobbie and how active you are in it. Your priotities may vary. Rod
__________________
Do the RIGHT thing - Support the H.A.M.B. Alliance!!!! Last edited by Rowdy; 01-27-2015 at 12:48 AM. |
01-27-2015, 12:42 AM | #8 | |
BANNED
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Michigan / Ontario border, Sarnia, Ontario. 50 miles from Detroit and 150 from Toronto.
Posts: 5,800
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
Wayne |
|
01-27-2015, 12:47 AM | #9 |
Member
Join Date: Jan 2014
Location: Somerset pa
Posts: 98
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I would tell ya to sell it off and try to buy a project that is running. But i cant follow my own advice........I too have a stalled model a project i keep kicking around selling, the only reason i cant bring myself to get rid of it is that i saved it from the scrap heap and have all the metalwork done. Plus our 5 year old daughter told me she wants it for herself since she loves our other 30 coupe so much.
|
01-27-2015, 12:51 AM | #10 |
BANNED
Join Date: May 2012
Location: inside your RAM
Posts: 3,134
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
To be blunt, and no offense intended, your story and this phrase
"it essentially takes up the space that I could have a table saw" suggests that you have not much mechanical aptitude or experience. Woodworking is a far cry from car restoration. I also wonder if the car ran before you began to take it apart. I also have to wonder if there is not an element of depression in this story. In any event, despite the desireability of roadsters, you may be better off to sell the car. Very very hopefully to a restorer and not a hot-rodder who will destroy a car no longer made, and in fact not made in the last 85 yrs. Later if your tastes change, get back into cars, and only after having carefully evaluated exactly what your taste in cars is. And consider getting one that is road-ready. The large majority of us with antique cars enjoy the restoration aspect, working on them, tinkering with them, as well as driving them and owning a piece of automotive history. That doesn't seem to fit your story. There is a family around the corner from me. They fancy themselves 'restorers' In their backyard there is a succession of vehicles they have worked on; 6 of them to be exact. Each one has been carefully taken apart. None of them have ever been put back together. Ever. In 20 yrs. And they never will. They lack the skills required. But they keep buying more cars 'to work on'. Taking something apart is easy. Not so putting it back together. Good luck to you whatever you decide.
__________________
'31 180A |
01-27-2015, 02:11 AM | #11 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Posts: 687
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
That quote best describes me. When i finished my Impala I immediately got the itch to get another project to tinker on. Anyhow, I say sell it as well. Some peoples enjoyment is geared more to the actual use and driving of an old car and others is to the pouring of blood sweat and tears into restoring and building a car from the ground up. The pride of knowing you stuck it out thru the ups and downs is just as good of a feeling to some as actually driving the darn thing. It doesn't mean its a bad thing it's just that people are different and it takes both kinds to keep these pieces of history on the roads and not in the scrap yards.
|
01-27-2015, 02:11 AM | #12 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Bellingham, Washington
Posts: 362
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I think what the main problem is for me is that I have grown weary of the roadster just sitting in my garage. I haven't been able to pull the car out of the garage to air it out and clean around it in over a year. I went to a Law Enforcement training facility for most of the summer and got back and was thrown back into work without much pause for respite or relaxation. Another large contributing factor is the weather here. It never fails that when I have a day off, it is raining or just plain nasty and it makes it unpleasant to be outside. I don't have a fully insulated garage, nor do I have a heater in it.
I am alright at working on cars, but most of my experience is pulling them apart and just replacing a part (I did my alternator in the Home Depot parking lot on my TDI wagon), I've done radiators on my Jeep and my Dad's, clutch cable for my girlfriend's car and the list goes on. Nothing complicated, but definitely stuff that requires an aptitude. What the case may be is that I am less than comfortable pulling parts of the engine itself apart and have stalled and put it off from my list of things to do. I have three or four Model A engines in my 1 car garage along with a '36 or '37 flathead. I have so many different directions this project can go, I just need to hone in on it and knock out parts at a time. I guess the phrase, "How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time..." applies here. I got into Model A's to make a jalopy hot rod type car and not to restore it. However, I don't want a rat rod. They are just too tacky and lack the class of an old school banger hot rod. I am more comfortable working with wood than an engine, but my space is limited, so I just decide on doing neither. I would love to have a large shop on a nice piece of land, however, I am sort of in between being able to purchase land and renting. I can afford the rent easily, but making the leap to property/home ownership is a large step, one which for me causes me much reticence. I appreciate everyone's input. I fancied myself being more "restoration inclined" and taking a project from zero to hero and now find myself "restoration disinterested" and would rather have a cool farm truck or putt putt around town car. Financially I could have both now as I can afford a truck, but space-wise and time-wise, it might be impractical. Come this weekend, I may purchase one of those covered car port things from Harbor Freight so I can pull stuff into my driveway while the weather isn't so great. There is a little sadness to the situation as I wanted to be able to prove to myself that something like this was possible and it is depressing to think that I'd rather get rid of the project, face failure, and move on. Anyway, thanks for the words of encouragement. |
01-27-2015, 02:37 AM | #13 |
BANNED
Join Date: May 2012
Location: inside your RAM
Posts: 3,134
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
engine work is very different than what you do with the rest of the car. You need exposure, mentoring, special tools like feeler gauges, taps and dies, vernier calipers, micrometers, snap gauges, torque wrenches, compression testing, trouble shooting experience, failure analysis, how to tell a burned valve or a cracked thrust on a main cap, etc etc. It is way more like being a machinist than doing the stuff you have described. Actually, the whole drivetrain is like this. Engine, tranny, differential.
__________________
'31 180A Last edited by tbirdtbird; 01-27-2015 at 02:58 AM. |
01-27-2015, 02:56 AM | #14 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Mpls, MN
Posts: 27,582
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I read the two links in the original post, and it looks like you have started and sold a couple projects without finishing them. This one looks like it would be best done as a highboy as you started, because it's so far along in that direction that it would be costly and a lot of work to restore as a stock roadster.
If you enjoy driving them more than working on them, then it might be best to sell this and buy a good drivable car. You'll just have to take some time out and think about it, and see what works best for you. |
01-27-2015, 04:26 AM | #15 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: South California
Posts: 6,188
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Hey Model A Fan,
IMO, you have 'more like' for wood than metal/mechanics, but the two can be blended,eh ! I would move the heck out of that 300 inches of rain a year area...first ! Seriously, I were you , I'd think of protecting the parts by either hanging them from rafters, storing them on walls and / or get a weather tight container to store parts in. Make a plan and write it down. Work ONE part at a time until it is done to YOUR satisfaction, then store it and go down your written list checking off each item until all are done ! Do not look at the overall project as all at once job. Your young and even if it takes years (mine did) you will be surprised when all of the done stuff starts to go together ! Hey, it's a project, a hobby...not a job ! Stay with a part until tired/frustrated, then go do wood work or enjoy family, repair home/whatever ! Get organized. Here in sunny socal,(aka-lalaland) where it never rains , I had parts of my '30 roadster all over the property. NO welder, NO engine lift, NO hoist, NO special tools and NO help ! Other than farming out engine machine work (four banger), I did most stuff myself starting in 2002. I'm a driver, so ended up with a driver to my satisfaction ! Sanded by hand and wire brush and with home made sand blaster. Study each part, read books on subject and ask a lot of questions and ignore any criticism ! Years after start, when putting things together and seeing progress, I just dug in harder when 'free' time came. I was already old when got my pile of parts, you are young and your pile of parts are paid for, so IMO hard part is done and you will not later regret getting rid of some thing that you , at one time , obviously wanted ! I can tell you many (sob) stories about how 'life got in the way' along the thorny path that some have as life. But, the strong willed survive. And, you may never have chance to have a roadster again. Mechanics may not be easiest thing to learn, but mechanics and mechanical aptitude can be learned. Doesn't happen by osmosis. I'm not a 'joiner', but advise to join a club and use accumulated knowledge/resources (tool loans,etc) to learn. You don't have to rat rod or hot rod a Model A roadster to have a great fun driver with four cylinders. I can/will send you pictures, if desired, to show you such a roadster. I started out restoring and just went with what I liked. Good luck to you which ever way you go |
01-27-2015, 06:04 AM | #16 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: NNNNNNNNJJJJJJJJJJ
Posts: 6,781
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
sell or swap with cash-doest hurt to try a trade for a running 50's truck..........
point is-have fun rather then ignore the mess in the garage. lots of good advice here. bring a buddy or two over just one Saturday to help you clean up-buy them lunch and a beer and you will feel much better about your situation. |
01-27-2015, 08:32 AM | #17 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: Richmond Hill, Ontario Canada
Posts: 221
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Just close the garage door and forget about it for a while, situation will change and you will regain the drive to work on the car. I can tell you that you will kick yourself for selling it latter on. Look at it as a pass time and not a challenge.
|
01-27-2015, 08:50 AM | #18 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: pennsylvania
Posts: 156
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Have seen this before a car started never finished sometimes you see them at Hershey at the corral for sale or hear about them from other from club members for sale after putting a early 28 rpu together from parts I know what you are feeling sometimes you have to walk away from the restoration for a while it gets too big for one person to deal with lucky I had a friend who pushed me and helped me finished it in two years but in the back of my mind while working on it I was thinking I'll never get it finished or I should have bought one all ready finished the decision is yours good luck
|
01-27-2015, 08:57 AM | #19 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Fayetteville, Georgia
Posts: 467
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Over the years I've been fortunate to own several antique and mid-sixties cars. The summer that I finished high school I acquired a 1923 Model T touring - a T because I could not find an open Model A at the time. I still have this beast, and over the course of the last forty plus years I've been able to finish the running gear, replace all of the wood, and rebuild and paint the body. One day I hope to finish it, but in the meantime I've also restored several Model A's. The one thing that I have learned over the years is that I could never replace a project for what I had in it - I've tried that a time or two as well. My best advice would be to avoid making any hasty decisions, think about what you like and don't like about the project that you have, and if an immediate cash sale is not essential, decide whether this is a car that you will want several years down the road. Regardless, be certain before you do anything that you are comfortable with your decision, and won't be later haunted by the "I wish I had..." situation about the one that got away. Best of luck to you in whatever you decide.
|
01-27-2015, 09:04 AM | #20 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: NC
Posts: 2,975
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I think you would be better off selling the car. It takes a lot of time to restore one. You really have to want to do it. I can not tell you how many A,s that I purchased that had been apart for 20 years or more. I say sell it.
|
01-27-2015, 09:59 AM | #21 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2014
Location: Cleveland, Ohio
Posts: 2,763
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I think you've already answered you own question, you just need to act on it.
__________________
-Mike Late 31' Ford Model A Tudor, Miss Daisy I don't work on cars --I'm learning about my Model A. Cleveland, Ohio |
01-27-2015, 10:00 AM | #22 |
BANNED
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Bucks County, PA
Posts: 11,454
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
if you dont mind me asking
how much of a total investment do you have into it less labor??? Can you get your investment back if you sell Last edited by Mitch//pa; 01-27-2015 at 01:48 PM. |
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) |
|
01-27-2015, 10:21 AM | #23 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: 34.22 N 118.36 W
Posts: 1,052
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I know someone who spent 50 years building his Roadster PU.
He towed it into his garage when he was 14 and just drove it for the first time last year. He can't hear the cell when driving so you have to get lucky that he is stopped at a light to catch him. You are the only one to make the decision, sell or not. In 50 years, you will know if you made the right decision or not. I over the years have bought and sold, no regrets, but, my current car will not be sold if possible. If this is a hobby, let it be a hobby, if you are doing it to turn some cash, better sell now, time is money. Yeah, I miss the Cessna and one racecar that was just right, but I never regret it. J |
01-27-2015, 10:48 AM | #24 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Bucks Co, Pa
Posts: 3,740
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I began my "wreck" of a Town Sedan in 2009. I say "wreck" because of it's deceptively poor condition when I bought it. I misjudged it! Period! I just didn't know how big a project I was getting into. see my photos at "My A" in my profile. Since 2009, I've done the Chassis, engine, fenders, cowl, most of the body work, the wood, and spent a heck ofa lot of money on paint, parts, rebuilt engine, and the wood that I bought, and it's still not done! I'm trying to get it painted now. I think Ive got someone, we'll see. Have I ever felt like you? sure plenty of times! But I kept going by telling myself that If I just get this or that done , I'll get a lot more money for it! That kept me going to the next stumbling block!
Terry |
01-27-2015, 10:49 AM | #25 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Windy City
Posts: 937
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Model A Fan, kind of a tough call that we all go thru. Living in the Pacific NW, well studies show that people there are more prone to suicide because the weather sucks so bad with constant rain and cold. More than anywhere else in the U.S. That may play a part in your losing interest it's all mental actually. That weather pattern would wear me out for sure. Nothing personal you sound like a practical guy that has a good head on his shoulders.
If it was me, I would probably sell off what you have, take my lumps, and go find another Model A already done or that late 40's Chevy pickup you'll be happier. Unless this car had sentimental value i.e., your Dad owned it and it had been in the family, you dated your wife in it, that sort of thing. A car being restored takes up two spaces in the garage not one. Good luck on what you do. it's a tough call buddy. |
01-27-2015, 10:56 AM | #26 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Epping N.H.
Posts: 2,982
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)
|
01-27-2015, 11:04 AM | #27 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Peyton, Co.
Posts: 100
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
If you can afford to keep it then keep it. If you sell it the money seems to disappear and now you don't have either the car or the money. You will get into it again and maybe with more ambition. It will also increase in value just the way it is now.
|
01-27-2015, 11:22 AM | #28 |
Member
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Posts: 96
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Very common scenario-I'm coming to find out. Some of these dudes will blast you for this, some will be supportive, some will try to buy your shit right now! I'm super busy too and keep a lot of irons in the fire. I've been working on one truck for ten years, a buddies roadster for five, and the 36 that's in my driveway for three. I just like the work. If you really want to drive something, though, go ahead, no shame in letting go of this project. Seems to me you should trade the whole shooting match for a running vehicle and move on. The only thing you can really do "wrong", is "nothing". Better to let it all change hands. Ther's more out there if you want to try again someday. You gave it a shot, a lot of time, and a bunch of money, and it fizzled out. Not a life problem and not a failure, and as long as the parts were treated well, you provided a good temporary home for them where similar stuff got conglomerated. That's a public service right there! Also on a side note, (minor hijack in defense) not all early cars made into hot rods are "destroyed", many are just finished differently than restored cars and could always be returned to and finished original. Roadster bods are always in demand, very rarely ruined by hotrodders, and usually get driven. Unlike hundred year restorations that might see a hundred miles a year if ever finished. Don't feel bad about not getting to it. You should see how many one year old snowmobiles are on craigslist around here for half the sticker price. E' thing you collected is important to someone and will find its way to the right place. The embarrassment of asking about it would paralyze tons of dudes, so kudos for coming across to this pack of wolves about it! Only negative thing I can think to say is that those Chevy truck are f#@#in' expensive as hell to finish up, oh, and the "Chevy" part... My experiences also tell me that resto guys will not pay as much for cool bodies as hot rodders ( no offense ) 'cause the big picture for them is so much more work and money to "finish". As a next generation builder on here I'm issuing 4 cents of in put on this one because I don't know anyonone my age or younger that would restore a roadster to original over at least a mild, '40's-'50's style hop-up anyway. Good luck either way, we'd love to have you but don't worry we won't miss ya! Just kidding. Really though, A Chevy pickup? Come on man...
|
01-27-2015, 12:15 PM | #29 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Portland, Oregon
Posts: 5,902
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
"I got into Model A's to make a jalopy hot rod type car"
Fifty or sixty years ago, when Model A's were plentiful and people were practically giving them away, that was a fun and cheap way to enjoy the cars. But that ship sailed a long time ago. Good unrestored cars are much harder to find and cost too much to not take seriously. Your dilemma brings to mind that great Eastwood quote: "A man has to recognize his limitations."
__________________
Ray Horton, Portland, OR As you go through life, keep your eye on the donut, not the hole. |
01-27-2015, 01:39 PM | #30 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Alabama
Posts: 8,099
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
From what I see, I suggest sell it . Buy something that you like and can drive and just forget it . There are lots of guys that would have no problems with such a project and would gladly take it off your hands. There have been far too many nice projects took apart, scattered and never put back together !!!
|
01-27-2015, 03:01 PM | #31 | |
BANNED
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: austin, tx
Posts: 195
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
Regardless of what these men are telling you on this message board including myself, only you know what's best for you. However, from what I've read you've pretty much had enough at this point in time and want to get rid of your A. If so, then do it! ... and don't worry about it. There should always be Model A's for sale. You may have to pay more money but they will be available. And next time, if the desire comes back to you, consider the following; especially if you lack the skills needed for a do-it-yourself restoration or think (or know) that you may not have the ability to learn them. I can't tell you how many times I've heard do-it-yourself restorers say, "If I had it to do all over I'd buy an already done, older restoration Model A ready to drive ...." Now to throw you a curve ball .... I've also heard this many times: "I could kick myself in the ass for selling that car ..." But like I said, only you know what's best for you. |
|
01-27-2015, 04:15 PM | #32 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Redding Cal
Posts: 1,388
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Is this your first all inclusive project? Some people bite off more than they can chew. I always recommend to people that they start with a running car. Its much easier to "fix up" a driver than do an all out restoration. Only you will know whats best for you, and remember its not like Model A's are rare. You'll be able to get another in the future if you want one.
__________________
Blackwall Panthers Nor Cal chapter |
01-27-2015, 04:26 PM | #33 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: South Coast NSW Australia
Posts: 2,596
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
He is never going to do a resto anyway.
Lots of pics of a flatty there. |
01-27-2015, 04:46 PM | #34 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Claremont, CA 91711
Posts: 244
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Model A Fan "There is a little sadness to the situation as I wanted to be able to prove to myself that something like this was possible and it is depressing to think that I'd rather get rid of the project, face failure, and move on."
It's not a failure to decide that you no longer want to do something. That's a positive decision. A project or hobby should give you enjoyment. If you are not happy - It's OK to move on. You may or may not revisit the hobby of restoring an old car sometime in the future. In the mean time do what makes you happy. Good luck, Bill |
01-27-2015, 06:46 PM | #35 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: beautiful down town Passaic NJ
Posts: 293
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
The reason I ended up with my model A was due to selling a antique motorcycle project that was beyond my means machine work wise ,the sale gave me the fire power to get what I always wanted an original paint /interior late 30 standard Tudor and enough money to fix it right and make it more than road worthy. Never ever thought it was a mistake.
|
01-27-2015, 06:55 PM | #36 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Yep
Posts: 202
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Not to be rude but…………….
Willys, teaching, roadster pick up, roadster, law enforcement, 49-53 Chevy Gmc, table saw,insulation, heat. In a two year period. None of these things finish themselves. I think you just lack commitment, and maybe expect a little instant gratification. One thing I have learned about any endeavor I have ever taken on is quitting is the easy part. I have no weldler, or welding skills, or any other fabrication tools for that matter,I have very little insulation, no heat or electricity in my shop. Skills can be acquired and honed. I also have no time or money. On top of that most times after work, my body just can't take anymore. But my Model A brings me a great amount of joy and happiness. I just painted (rattle can) two wheels today, not much, but it is something. Sometimes just cleaning out the mess in the shop can be a great inspiration. You seem to have some very neat stuff that a lot of people would love to have and would literally take me years to afford, yet you want something else. Again, no offense, but maybe you should just get a vehicle that is a good driver, find someone to maintain it for you and be happy. Good luck! |
01-27-2015, 07:06 PM | #37 | |
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2014
Location: Sunbury, OH
Posts: 295
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
Chris |
|
01-28-2015, 03:03 AM | #38 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Bellingham, Washington
Posts: 362
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
When I get a good down payment saved, I will probably opt to buy some land a put a shop on it so I have a nice place to work. Something that is about 40'x30' or so. Then I can have a wood shop and a car shop. But I have to wait for my yearly pay increases to happen before I'll have an opportunity to invest in that. Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
I am not going full out boxed frame, channeled body and V8 (not yet on the V8), I just want a banger in a highboy for putt putting around town when it is nice out. Something I can drive around and maybe take on reliability runs. Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
I think I need to inventory my parts to see what I may have two or three of (I know I have three Model A engines), and perhaps start divesting myself of these extra pieces. I have the desire to learn to weld along with sandblast. I even have a sandblaster and a compressor. I just need to work on figuring it out. Quote:
I guess I will keep it for the time being and see if I can will myself some motivation. Tonight was good in that I cleared up some space, consolidated parts, set up my new tool chest, detached my cowl and gas tank and started planning out the order of attack. Start at the cowl and work my way back on the body. Then engine I guess. Thanks for the advice, I am not fully set on either decision yet, but it was nice to work on it again after so long just sitting there. Thank you for the different perspectives and kind words. I appreciate it. |
|||||||||||||||||||||
01-28-2015, 03:24 AM | #39 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Mpls, MN
Posts: 27,582
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
My friend just recently sold the pickup truck you'd have liked. It was a 1949 Chevy corner window cab half ton in very nice original condition. I really enjoyed driving that ruck and told him that was the best original vehical he owned, but he sold it anyway. It sure had a nice soft clutch pedal and just purred along so nice, but was really geard low. The engine sounded nice at about 25 to 30 MPH and really screamed at 45. I told Mike he should put an overdrive in it and keep it, but it didn't happen.
BTW, I know well what you mean about bad weather preventing work on cars in an unheated garage. We have 6 to 7 months of winter, so we can't drive on the salty roads and can't do work without a heated insulated garage. It would be nice to be in the country with a nice garage with a wood stove. I sure could get a lot more done. Last edited by Tom Wesenberg; 01-28-2015 at 03:52 AM. |
01-28-2015, 05:16 AM | #40 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Australa Melbourne
Posts: 878
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I know you have 3 pages of guys over on the hamb saying stick with it
it sounds to me this may not be the right time in your life for a major project you want to save for a better house and land work on your career and lots of other things to be happy with this type of major project you must enjoy the grind of long hours in garage that said you have 3 engines if a bent valve is a problem swap it out for another engine a few things to consider are the time it takes most guys working mostly alone well over a 1000 to 2000 + hours to build any sort of car restored or rod money what ever you think it might cost double it at least trip to parts store to buy the odd bolt and nut or wd40 or degreaser all cost more than you think and are never in the budget and never seen in the sale price sometimes it is much cheaper and faster to send stuff out to the professionals once then trying to do it yourself 3 times the cost of building a car would make a nice down payment on a block of land |
01-28-2015, 08:24 AM | #41 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Lee County Alabama
Posts: 828
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
In my 51 years of Model A'ing, I have seen or heard of you situation many times. 1 - as advised above, timetout then decide, "What do I really want to do." Seems as tho, you really want a driver NOW. Maybe your answer will be - SELL the project, and buy a turn-key driver of some sort. Heh ! I like Chevy p/u's too. OR trade for a drivable Model A, OR sell and sit out for awhile until your situation changes. IF you are a true CAR BUFF - Model A, Restro Rod, Pick Up or what ever, THE BUG will never leave you. AGAIN. now is Time Out for reflection and deciding what you really want. GOOD LUCK with your decision. Jim Langley...
|
01-28-2015, 06:44 PM | #42 |
BANNED
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: austin, tx
Posts: 195
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Originally Posted by edmondclinton
Regardless of what these men are telling you on this message board including myself, only you know what's best for you. However, from what I've read you've pretty much had enough at this point in time and want to get rid of your A. If so, then do it! ... and don't worry about it. There should always be Model A's for sale. You may have to pay more money but they will be available. And next time, if the desire comes back to you, consider the following; especially if you lack the skills needed for a do-it-yourself restoration or think (or know) that you may not have the ability to learn them. I can't tell you how many times I've heard do-it-yourself restorers say, "If I had it to do all over I'd buy an already done, older restoration Model A ready to drive ...." Now to throw you a curve ball .... I've also heard this many times: "I could kick myself in the ass for selling that car ..." But like I said, only you know what's best for you [QUOTE=Model A Fan;1023420Yeah, and if I sell it, have a mortgage, kids etc...when would I be able to buy one again? Probably a long time off. Hence, that is part of my thought process. [/QUOTE] You act as though you're just barely going to make enough money to get by and that's all. What a shame for a young man to have such a negative outlook. Who knows what opportunities may come your way? |
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) |
|
01-28-2015, 08:15 PM | #43 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Sedro-Woolley, WA
Posts: 1,023
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
The car in my avatar is our 1930 Standard Phaeton. Five years ago, I bought literally "a pile of parts" from a neighbor (John McNab) up the road. He was dying from asbestoses and wasn't expected to live very long. I told him that I would put the restoration on the fast track so that he could ride in it with me. In the parts pile I got extra engines and etc. I traded the extra parts off to a friend (Eric Thompson) in exchange for him rebuilding the phaeton's running gear. I handled the engine, body work, and upholstery work. We started work in October and the phaeton was turn key the second week of January. John died 10 days earlier. So... It goes to show that a restoration can be done in record time. Weather is a factor too, as I also belong to the AARC club of Bellingham and I know what you are talking about. Sure, you see the members of our club with their drivers. But behind every driver you see, there are at least two car projects that you haven't seen yet being worked on at their homes. I hope that you finish your project. The last roadster that I did from scratch, took me about three months to do and I didn't have over $2,000 in it when I was finished with it. To start with, I bought the roadster body for $125 and it had lots of problems. Pat Farrell of Sedro-Woolley
|
01-29-2015, 07:35 AM | #44 | |
Member
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Galesburg, KS
Posts: 87
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
There are 3 of these for every 1 that gets it on the road. Sad waste. My advice: Step back and take a breath, don't dwell on it. You sound young. Set your priorities: Family, Career, Hobby(one hobby). Stick to it and don't get sidetracked. This is a long term process but in the future you will be in a better financial position to address your car's needs and your desires. jmho
__________________
1929 A Special Coupe 1926 T Speedster |
|
01-29-2015, 12:22 PM | #45 | |||
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Bellingham, Washington
Posts: 362
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
|
|||
01-29-2015, 01:29 PM | #46 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Windy City
Posts: 937
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)
I had an antique visible gas pump sandblasted years ago, and the guy that did it wasn't very experienced. He ruined the sheet metal 'skins' and they WERE mint originals. They curled up real badly, ruined them I never forgot that. Good luck on what you do keep us posted. |
01-29-2015, 04:44 PM | #47 | |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Mpls, MN
Posts: 27,582
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
|
|
01-29-2015, 05:07 PM | #48 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Manawatu, New Zealand
Posts: 1,416
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
There are many ways to restore a vehicle. You don't have to do it yourself
You can do a restoration where your sole input is signing the checks. That can work out to be expensive but it works! I can't weld either so Body work gets sent out -one day I will learn -however at this point in time I work 70 hour weeks. I have the cash to pay for someone else to do the work and no time to learn. Karl |
01-29-2015, 05:31 PM | #49 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Manawatu, New Zealand
Posts: 1,416
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
"I try to live below my means and I don't want to be finically overstretched because I was trying to buy land, build a car and raise a family."
Be patient it all comes with time. -Karl |
01-30-2015, 11:11 AM | #50 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: Jupiter, FL
Posts: 536
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
As hobbies go, when it stops being fun it's time to move on. Making space in the head is just a important as making space in the garage
|
01-30-2015, 01:13 PM | #51 | |
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Windy City
Posts: 937
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
A tool and die maker at work put me onto another guy that he had used, and he did a fantastic job with a two or three day turnaround! Found out we played basketball against each other back in high school. (Thought he looked familiar) He was a short guy, played guard I was a center so I never got the chance to guard him much but his speed and moves made up for his height! Life is all about lessons learned! |
|
01-30-2015, 04:18 PM | #52 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Danbury Ct
Posts: 1,254
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
The problem with that is there are many times when the current process you are involved in is not fun at all! It is only when you persevere and finish, that you come away with the warm glow and satisfaction of a job well done that fuels you to attack the next job. The above attitude would result in very few restorations ever getting finished.
|
01-30-2015, 05:18 PM | #53 | |
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Meridian, ID
Posts: 568
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
__________________
Aaron in Tacoma (although still a Montana hillbilly at heart ) |
|
01-30-2015, 09:29 PM | #54 | |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Northern New Jersey
Posts: 1,262
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
|
|
01-30-2015, 10:50 PM | #55 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Bucks Co, Pa
Posts: 3,740
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Restoration of anything is a series of small (Sometimes big) challenges. Taking them on is easy in the beginning when it's fresh and new. After 3 or 4 years, it becomes "O M G another one?" when unexpected glitches arise. You're sick of it, you just want it to be done and it doesn't look like it will be anytime soon. But this is the time to think about how far you've come. Not what still has to be done, but how much has been accomplished. Maybe only the chassis has been done. Maybe all the bodywork is finished and all it needs is painting. Maybe you got the engine running and it sounds good and you'd really like to try it out. maybe....... who knows! In construction, we hgad what is known as the "Critical Path" for scheduling of tasks. Basically, you start with the foundation, not the the roof or framing. It was pointed out to me that the "quitters" start with a lot of useless parts that shouldn't even even have shelf room untill much later in the job. It's one thing to take advantage of a deal on someting you know you'll use later, it's another to be buying racing manifolds, special tires, or god knows what, when you're years away from their use. This is getting far ahead of the critical path. But this is the"fun"! Yeah it may be, but if you find yourself doing this, better get back on track or take a break and come back a little later. It's going anywhere. Another "Cure" for these blahs is to buy a running car so you can take it out and see what life will be like when you're finished.
Terry Last edited by Terry, NJ; 01-30-2015 at 10:58 PM. |
01-30-2015, 11:03 PM | #56 |
Senior Member
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I agree
__________________
What's right about America is that although we have a mess of problems, we have great capacity - intellect and resources - to do some thing about them. - Henry Ford II Last edited by Mike V. Florida; 01-30-2015 at 11:33 PM. Reason: spelling |
01-31-2015, 12:21 AM | #57 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Alabama
Posts: 8,099
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I believe that it is time to throw in the towel and move on . I've seen plenty of times when it wasn't fun working on model A's or in my career in the collision business . Still I pressed on. As said before, a person has to know their limitations .
|
01-31-2015, 12:55 AM | #58 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: At my kitchen table in Santa Rosa, Ca
Posts: 2,903
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Dude! don't sell it! a little AV8 is Kool, you should see what my friend starting with, its not much. so keep it and do a little work on it as you can.
__________________
If it would have been a snake it would have bit ya! i can't spell my way out of a paper bag! |
01-31-2015, 01:48 AM | #59 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2014
Location: Shawnee, Ok
Posts: 3,471
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
When our 57 Chevy got totaled I felt as you do, and it sat for a long time, then one day I grabbed a wrench and started in, it took years, but today I have no regrets, look at it, it was worth every bloody knuckle, every week-end, every late night and every dollar.
You must have the desire, the drive. It's not the time involved or the amount of work or even the money, it's the desire. From your own words I would advise to sell. Starting on a 31 town sedan now, the drive has not ended, I feed upon it. If you do not love it...set it free.
__________________
Keith Shawnee OK '31 SW 160-B |
01-31-2015, 07:13 AM | #60 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2010
Posts: 112
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I sent you a private message.
Andy |
02-02-2015, 08:02 PM | #61 |
Member
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Costa Mesa, CA
Posts: 73
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
I'm 30 and just bought my first model A last week. I've built a 55 Mercury Monterey, 1951 Ford F1 pickup, helped my dad get his 46 Willys CJ2A running, and built a BSA A65 chopper. There was too many times I wanted to give up because I didn't have cash to get the stuff I wanted or the help I needed. If you get rid of it, you'll be really bummed. My suggestion is to read, read, read, and read some more. Guys in the 1930's built cars with barely any tools and still got their cars to putt along. If I lived close to you I would love to come over and help!!! There is a wealth of knowledge on here and the hamb as well. Good luck and never give up.
|
02-02-2015, 11:00 PM | #62 | |
Senior Member
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
__________________
What's right about America is that although we have a mess of problems, we have great capacity - intellect and resources - to do some thing about them. - Henry Ford II |
|
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) |
|
02-03-2015, 12:13 AM | #63 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: FRESNO, CA
Posts: 12,560
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
EASY DECISION ! You like wood better, get rid of all the metal stuff & DO WOOD!
Bill W.
__________________
"THE ASSISTANT GURU OF STUFF" |
02-03-2015, 02:00 AM | #64 |
BANNED
Join Date: May 2012
Location: inside your RAM
Posts: 3,134
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Bill, is that you?
welcome back!!!
__________________
'31 180A |
02-03-2015, 02:19 AM | #65 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Anchorage, Alaska
Posts: 9,115
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
This last summer I had catastrophic engine failure. After towing my pickup 600 miles home, I made plans on getting the engine "fixed". First thing was a trip to the car wash to get all the mud and grime off the truck. On the way home from the car wash, the tow bar came loose and my driver less truck headed straight for a fence. A couple of good Samaritans helped get me home, but that was the "straw that broke the camel's back". It has taken me a good 6 months to even work up an interest in doing anything toward getting not only the engine fixed, but the resulting sheet metal damage as well.
Good news is that with renewed interest and a little pushing from a friend, I should have my engine back from the machine shop later this week or next. Some of the body work has been started as well. It's been slow going, but at least I can see progress being made. It does take determination! Oh, and BTW Welcome back Bill!
__________________
Alaskan A's Antique Auto Mushers of Alaska Model A Ford Club of America Model A Restorers Club Antique Automobile Club of America Mullins Owner's Club |
02-03-2015, 08:46 AM | #66 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Bucks Co, Pa
Posts: 3,740
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)
|
02-03-2015, 09:39 AM | #67 | |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: NC
Posts: 2,975
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Quote:
Look at the good side. It could have happened, that it went in to traffic, and hurt some one. Good luck with your engine and body work. |
|
02-03-2015, 02:35 PM | #68 |
Senior Member
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: FRESNO, CA
Posts: 12,560
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
[QUOTE=tbirdtbird;1027035]Bill, is that you?
welcome back!!![/QUOTE Well, T-Bird, I think it's me, after 3 months of bone knitting & cleaning out my innards 4 times & misc things that shouldn't be mentioned, it seems like a dream world, just to be home. The Dog wuz alone fur about 83 days & still recognizes me & sed I smell kinda' funny. Just learning to put weight on my restored leg again. Gotta' go make coffee & fry some eggs & bologna, I think I can stand up from the wheelie chair, to reach the big back burner, on which resides my BIG iron skillet that can cook a whole meal at one time. Some time, I'll get Vermin finished & drivin' & soon I'll git me another NEW scooter, the old one is for sure TOTALED & will become a speedster or a DONOR of misc parts Bill W. & Buster T.
__________________
"THE ASSISTANT GURU OF STUFF" |
02-03-2015, 03:02 PM | #69 |
BANNED
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Michigan / Ontario border, Sarnia, Ontario. 50 miles from Detroit and 150 from Toronto.
Posts: 5,800
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
|
02-03-2015, 03:30 PM | #70 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Alabama
Posts: 8,099
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
Welcome back brother Bill !!!!!!!
|
02-03-2015, 07:11 PM | #71 |
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Stayton, Oregon
Posts: 3,806
|
Re: How to decide when to throw in the towel?
When to throw in the towel? When it stops being "fun".
Welcome back Bill.
__________________
Fred Kroon 1929 Std Coupe 1929 Huckster |
Thread Tools | |
Display Modes | |
|
|
Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) |
|