Cost to finish restoration?

[Tegguy]

I was curious if it would be possible to get a rough estimate of what a restoration shop would charge to finish putting this car together(1972 Chevelle)? Minus the seats and door panels. Also can someone please tell me where the first picture goes also what color should it be? Sorry for the horrible pictures and the vague question I will be more specific if needed.

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f250/sticks51412/2012-01-19_19-37-00_648.jpg
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f250/sticks51412/2012-01-19_19-37-10_612.jpg
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f250/sticks51412/2012-01-19_19-37-21_563.jpg
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f250/sticks51412/2012-01-19_19-37-28_187.jpg
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f250/sticks51412/2012-01-19_19-36-55_251.jpg

[coolwelder62]

I would say around 25K in labor plus any needed part's to complete.

[Tegguy]

I would say around 25K in labor plus any needed part's to complete.

25K in labor to just finish the assembly? Ouch! Paint and body is done suspension is done and engine and trans are done. Just needs power windows installed, power door locks installed, front end put together, dash assembled, suspension tightened up.

[camcojb]

It depends on your area. Shop rates can go from $50/hr to $100+/hr, so that's $2K to $4K per week in labor at a 40 hour week. The little odds and ends finishing a car always seem to take longer than you think they will.

[GregWeld]

I figure -- 200K at Steves Auto Restoration in Portland... :willy: :rofl:

Really ---- Those kinds of estimates are almost impossible to come in on... because so much of it "depends" --- depends on how much detail you want to be done... and how much fit and finish you're willing to accept... and whether or not everything fits back together without a bunch of re-work. If you want show car perfection - a guy can spend all day adjusting a door and window so they work and fit the very best they possibly can... So you're really going to need to have a firm understanding of your expectations and communicate that to the shop.

[GregWeld]

By the way -- forgot to answer your other question about the top pic --- looks to me like a headlight bucket....

[Ron in SoCal]

Devil's in the details and it's hard to tell based in your description, but I think the 'food king' might be a little high...price wise :D

(just teasing Scott!)

[tmadden]

Where are you located?

[GregWeld]

25K in labor to just finish the assembly? Ouch! Paint and body is done suspension is done and engine and trans are done. Just needs power windows installed, power door locks installed, front end put together, dash assembled, suspension tightened up.


SO it doesn't need wiring... or rubber weatherstripping... glass front rear - door glass etc... all the plumbing is done... it's ready to fire up...

And if the "suspension is done" -- what needs to be "tightened up"?

See -- what I'm getting at is that you can't ask a question like this and expect an accurate response without really communicating the ENTIRE scope of the project and your expectations.

[Camaro Dave's]

send it to Camaro Dave's in Denver .... he will beat anyones price and they do amazing work there

[ironworks]

How much is a bag of groceries?

[John510]

How much is a bag of groceries?

Depends, Are we shopping at Trader Joes or at Grocery Outlet Bargain market....

[Tegguy]

SO it doesn't need wiring... or rubber weatherstripping... glass front rear - door glass etc... all the plumbing is done... it's ready to fire up...

And if the "suspension is done" -- what needs to be "tightened up"?

See -- what I'm getting at is that you can't ask a question like this and expect an accurate response without really communicating the ENTIRE scope of the project and your expectations.

I know I was pretty vague but I didn't know the best way to say what it needed.

Door glass needs to be done. Wiring is done just needs the rest hooked up with the exception of the power door locks and power window wires. Engine fires but needs broken in (I will do that). Suspension is done but it doesn't look like everything has been torqued.

[Tegguy]

Sorry for being vague. I'm torn on what to do I really want to drive this car and I would love to finish it myself but I'm short on time (Full time college student) and also I have to use all new hardware and I have no idea how to figure out what hardware to use for where.

Here is a list I put together based off what I remember
1) Install pedals (Clutch brake gas ebrake) and hook up cables
2) Install power door locks and wiring
3) Install Power windows and wiring and adjust window
4) Install gauge cluster and dash (Digital)
5) Install headlight buckets (Will need paint too), headlights, bezels
6) Install Grill
7) Install front bumper
8) Tighten up steering column
9) Tightened up suspension
10) Install flywheel inspection cover
11) Install door handles and locks (exterior)
12) Hook up everything for the dash
13) cut and buff paint (not sure if this needs done body shop is looking at it)
14) Install hood pins and latch mechanism
15) Install wiper motor
16) Hook up vintage air (only control panel should go along with dash)
17) Install weather stripping

That's all I can think of off the top of my head.

[coolwelder62]

From the photo's it look's like all you have sitting there is a rolling shell.But from the look's of your short list,You should just finish it your self.It might suprize U just how many little things that you will run into that you were not thinking about.And how long it takes to fully built a nice PT car.Fit & finish is everything.GoodLuck

[Tegguy]

Here are a couple more pictures
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f250/sticks51412/134313_469856326055_640211055_6170023_1033583_o.jp g
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f250/sticks51412/165270_470433351055_640211055_6181146_2750161_n.jp g
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f250/sticks51412/163848_470433291055_640211055_6181144_3630419_n.jp g

Here is a link to the place I bought the car off and you can see what they did
http://www.carolinakustoms.com/completed-projects/67-1972-chevelle.html

[MaxHarvard]

Just based on the photos, you've got at least a solid 40-50 hours left in that interior... assuming no major hang ups. Then tack on the suspension stuff.... yea, I would be surprised at a $20k price tag. This isn't like a typical repair shop down the street.



EDIT: Just saw the front sheet metal bit too.... You've got some work ahead of you, but honestly if you have the parts, why not do it yourself? It's really not that hard, it's just labor.

[CornHusker4Life]

I'm not trying to rain on your parade but whatever "cost" you think it will take to finish the restoration, your budget Better be double. Speaking from experience, If you pay someone to do the work, the Labor is the budget killer. If you do not have the skills to finish the project, save your money and pay someone to due it Right, the first time. As everyone knows, these restorations rarely go as "planned." Always have extra in the budget to plan for these things so you don not have to cut corners:D

[jy211]

Speaking from experience, If you pay someone to do the work, the Labor is the budget killer. If you do not have the skills to finish the project, save your money and pay someone to due it Right, the first time.

^^^ true statement :thumbsup:

[ironworks]

Depends, Are we shopping at Trader Joes or at Grocery Outlet Bargain market....

It also depends on what isle you go down, who your buyin for, and how many your buying for. Did you get heathly food or Top Ramen? Steaks or egg mcmuffins?

There is no way to give a solid answer to your question even with the car sitting in front of you. There are way too many variables. If some one gives you a Bid price they are a moron or they like to work for free on other peoples cars and the quality of their work might be in question. Someone could give you a ball park estimate, But people only seem to get mad when its more then the educated guess, not when it's cheaper.

There are 3 things in life, Quality of work, Speed of that work getting done, and Price of that work. Pick 2 because you cannot have all 3.

[Tegguy]

J
EDIT: Just saw the front sheet metal bit too.... You've got some work ahead of you, but honestly if you have the parts, why not do it yourself? It's really not that hard, it's just labor.

Which part are you referring to?

I have the skill to do it but its a lot harder never putting one if these together when you didn't take it apart. I have am lost as to what he to use and what should for on first and where I should start. Time is my biggest factor and garage space. Im a full time college student with a garage way too small.

[MaxHarvard]

Which part are you referring to?

I have the skill to do it but its a lot harder never putting one if these together when you didn't take it apart. I have am lost as to what he to use and what should for on first and where I should start. Time is my biggest factor and garage space. Im a full time college student with a garage way too small.

I feel your pain, I really do. I started off with a single car garage with a basic socket set for tools and a full time student then full time work and grad student at the same time. Hell, some of my student loans went to buy Camaro parts. Don't let that get in your way, it's really not that difficult to find out where things go if you take your time and go slowly.

Do you have a friend/neighbor in the area that know this stuff? The front sheetmetal is fairly straight forward. If you got a front bolt kit for the car from one of the restoration shops like YearOne or whatever, the bolt kits are pretty much a process of elimination.

I too don't have the cash to pay someone to finish my car and I rarely (emphasis on RARELY) truly have a %100 idea of what I'm doing, but it has to get done one way or another. If I mess it up, oh well, try again... It's just a giant jigsaw puzzle. You really can't hurt anything by trying yourself.

Ok, so you use the wrong bolt here or there, so what? Grab another one. So, you scratch the paint, big deal, buff it out. The interior doesn't look %110 perfect, try it again. Nothing on a car is permanent and can be fixed or repaired. If you don't start now, you'll never know how to figure it out.

Good example, I just did the mini-tubs on my car by myself. I really can't afford to pay someone to do that, even though it might have been finished better than my quality. But, it had to be done. No questions. That first cut into the car was the worst, the thought, "Oh ****, I just messed this entire car up" went through my mind for a week. But, I went slowly, asked a lot of questions and now it's done and I have the ability to say, "I did that, sure it's not the best quality in the world, but I own that". There's no turning back when you start hacking up a car like I did, hell, I had to cut into the frame! You don't think for a second that that was a little freaky for a guy who has never done body work before?

Throwing a front end on a car is tiddly-winks compared to that. I grew up with just my mother and I'm an only child, so I didn't have anyone to show me the ropes or guide me along. Like you, I didn't know how to install a front end, but I do now. Because I got over the hump and sucked it up and tried. Sure, I messed up along the way, but by god, I know how to do it now.



Sorry, long post.

~Eric

tl;dr - You can do it.

[coolwelder62]

After looking at your project a second time.I think you are right.This is a simple job.I would think about 5K including any part's needed should take care of it.Good luck.:thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

Here's my final thought on your question and your dilemma... You have two main issues:

Lack of knowledge

Lack of money

Time is "free" regardless of everything else going on.... because you can manage your time.

I'd join the local hot rod club -- i.e., -- the local Chevy or Chevelle or Camaro club.... go to some meetings -- plead your case -- see if someone steps up to come over and help get you going -- and then maybe be there for "LOCAL" help. It's always more fun to do these things "together". I even make my brother in law drive up here from Portland -- just so we can do stuff on HIS car together... we always have fun too.

You'll have more pride in the project doing it yourself -- you'll meet some new friends -- and you'll save a BUNCH of dough...

BTW --- NOBODY (and I know all these guys) on here is trying to be a smart ass or squash your dream... we've all been in your shoes and we've walked that mile. But we also all have experience.... and that experience is saying -- no matter the "bid" it WILL BE more... and take longer...

The work appears to only require simple hand tools.... and a bit of 'experience' to perform... There are a ton of books with photos etc on how to restore your car... I'd start by buying one or two - and then join that club as I mentioned earlier. :cheers:

[MaxHarvard]

BTW --- NOBODY (and I know all these guys) on here is trying to be a smart ass or squash your dream... we've all been in your shoes and we've walked that mile. But we also all have experience.... and that experience is saying -- no matter the "bid" it WILL BE more... and take longer...



Yep, actually quite the opposite!

[GregWeld]

Yep, actually quite the opposite!

Sorry -- completely disagree.... what people are trying to do is get a complete accurate view of the project. The OP was a little vague... lacking good photos - and a "it depends" question. It's taken a circuitous route to get some idea of what the project actually is... but the discussion is all good. Sometimes "intentions" doesn't come thru via a typed response...

[MaxHarvard]

Sorry -- completely disagree.... what people are trying to do is get a complete accurate view of the project. The OP was a little vague... lacking good photos - and a "it depends" question. It's taken a circuitous route to get some idea of what the project actually is... but the discussion is all good. Sometimes "intentions" doesn't come thru via a typed response...

Uhh.. Greg, I think we missed each other on that one...

I was implying that were weren't being smart asses and that we were actually trying really hard to encourage him.

Not sure how that got mixed up, but regardless ^^ was what I meant.

[Flash68]

Yep, actually quite the opposite!

Sorry -- completely disagree.... what people are trying to do is get a complete accurate view of the project. The OP was a little vague... lacking good photos - and a "it depends" question. It's taken a circuitous route to get some idea of what the project actually is... but the discussion is all good. Sometimes "intentions" doesn't come thru via a typed response...

Uhh.. Greg, I think we missed each other on that one...

I was implying that were weren't being smart asses and that we were actually trying really hard to encourage him.

Not sure how that got mixed up, but regardless ^^ was what I meant.

Greg --- so much for "knowing everyone around here" !!! :rofl:

[GregWeld]

Uhh.. Greg, I think we missed each other on that one...

I was implying that were weren't being smart asses and that we were actually trying really hard to encourage him.

Not sure how that got mixed up, but regardless ^^ was what I meant.



Okay -- but even after re-reading your post -- I still get the same takeaway from it. But as long as we're in agreement -- it's OKAY!

When I read these posts -- First thing that comes to me is -- I wish he lived closer - I'd be there in a heartbeat to help get him going. :woot:

To the OP -- Here's how I look at these projects --- DON'T try to wrap your head around EVERYTHING that needs to be done... just pick up one section -- do some research or ask questions about THAT PARTICULAR PART of the project - pick up a tool and START.... then move to another "job". It's not as hard as it looks -- but is overwhelming in it's entirety.

[GregWeld]

Greg --- so much for "knowing everyone around here" !!! :rofl:



Careful! I know where you live!

:rofl:

BTW -- Can't remember when I dropped off the '32... but it's finally moving along.

[MaxHarvard]

Okay -- but even after re-reading your post -- I still get the same takeaway from it. But as long as we're in agreement -- it's OKAY!

When I read these posts -- First thing that comes to me is -- I wish he lived closer - I'd be there in a heartbeat to help get him going. :woot:

To the OP -- Here's how I look at these projects --- DON'T try to wrap your head around EVERYTHING that needs to be done... just pick up one section -- do some research or ask questions about THAT PARTICULAR PART of the project - pick up a tool and START.... then move to another "job". It's not as hard as it looks -- but is overwhelming in it's entirety.

Fair enough, I've heard it said that way many times. But if you look at my previous post in conjunction with the recent ones that my intention was there.

So, anywhoozle...

Good luck,

~Eric

[Tegguy]

By no means was I under the impression people were being "smart asses" I know I was being vague when I posted this and I knew it would be hard to estimate. I would really love to have the feeling of doing it myself and have the tools (have a really good Mac Tools connection) and the ability. As mentioned before it was the knowledge (can be learned) and the time that was the biggest factor.

What would everyone recommend as a starting point? I was thinking dash and power windows would be a good start. Dash so I could get the engine broken in so if I run into an issue it can be addressed without having the whole car together.

Open to ideas/suggestions/comments as always. Part of me wishes I lived with my parents in Portland Oregon right now (where the car came from) cause it sounds like I could get some great help.

[GregWeld]

I'd complete ALL the wiring and then move to plumbing.... need both of those to fire up the car.

Remember - wiring is ONE wire at a time. Get it right - there's no guessing. Use zip ties and leave the loose -- you can go back and tighten and straighten and clip the ends....

Plumbing is one connection at a time - when I say plumbing I mean EVERYTHING that has fluids. Brakes - cooling - heat/ac.

Then you can close up the dash.


Save some money for heat/sound deadening material -- that will make more of a difference in how your car drives than you can imagine. Theres a bunch of brands -- and even the cheapest of them will make a huge difference.

[Tegguy]

Good thing is I love electrical and circuits. Wiring is 90% done I just need to hook up the stuff for the digital dash and a few other small things.

Plumbing is 90% the only thing not done is a couple brake lines need hooked up. The whole inside floor of the car is dynamited with the good stuff.

[Tegguy]

I'm gathering a list of parts to order and I have a quick question. I need a flywheel inspection cover but they have one for a 10.5 and 11 inch clutch. Is there an easy way to sell which I need? It's a 396(402) with a 4 speed transmission. I didn't assemble it no do I have a receipt for the clutch that was put in. So far here's my list

1968-1972 Chevelle Front End Fastener Kit
1970-1972 Chevelle Interior Hardware Screw Kit
1968-1972 Chevelle Grille And Head Light Attaching Kit
1964-1972 Chevelle Flywheel Inspection Cover Bolt Kit
1964-1972 Chevelle Bumper Bracket Bolt x4
1964-1972 Chevelle Seat Mouning Bolt x2
1964-1972 Chevelle Fesler Stainless Hood Adjustor 5/16 X 18 x2
Chevelle Hood Catch
Chevelle Hood Pin Kit