Restore or part out?
- Thread starter tbird55
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gbhrps
Well-known member
There are a lot of variables that jump into the equation. I worked for a restoration shop that specialized in small birds (55-57) and even bought a 55 from the shop that was undergoing restoration and helped to complete the car. A lot of TBirds came through those doors over the years and one thing stood out. The cars that were acquired for restoration by the owner of the shop (he also did work on customers' cars as well) were always complete cars. I mean that everything was already there, engine, tranny, seats, top, complete suspension, grill, bumpers, etc. Some of them were pretty rough looking, had been in an old barn for 30 years or more, but all were solid cars. Maybe a rocker panel or a floorboard needed replacing, or maybe some plastic filler needed to be dug out of a door skin, but the cars were 95 percent straight and were not full of tin worm. They were completely stripped, the bodies put on a rotissery and media blasted, and the frame and suspension parts sand blasted and then the work started. Motor, tranny, rear end, seat, heater and window motors, and carbs were all rebuilt. Bumpers, some window trim, steering column and shifter parts were sent to be rechromed and all other bright parts (door handles, emblems, mirrors, etc.) were purchased new as were wheel covers or wire wheels. Entirely new convertible tops and interiors, including seat foam were purchased. And a whole lot more .... new brake lines, wheel cylinders, fuel tank and lines, and on and on. What I getting at is that when the cars were done and the bills all added up .... the total was very large. A restoration is not for the faint of heart unless you have the money, lots of it, or you are on a mission and this car will become your passion and hobby. The experts say "buy the best car you can afford" and "let someone else pay for the cost of restoration. Buy the car when they are done with it and they want to move on to something else. Its price will be more affordable then." You could spend $50 000 to $80 000 or more restoring a small bird, then again you can find one on eBay or at various antique car dealers for $25 000 and up. The answer to your question comes down to what shape your car is in, and what will it take to get it to the level where you'll be happy driving it or taking it to shows. You could sell your car as is or part it out. Check eBay to get an idea of what used parts are selling for. Complete cars needing restoration come up for sale there as well. I don't want to scare you off, but you need to be realistic when you make your decision. Decide with your head, not your heart. Good Luck!
