Quote:
Originally Posted by bryankloos
Hi all,
Happy new year. I hope 2020 is off to a good start for everyone.
I'm hoping to get some advice on a widebody project that I've had on my mind. I really like the look of the 73RS type, ducktail, restomods, and of course the singer 964 projects.
I currently own a 83 ROW Cab, my first 911, which is entirely too original to wrench on with just 42K miles. While I love this car, and enjoy weekend drives on sunny days, I'm timid to beat on it and wouldn't think of wrenching on it...
I've been working on cars on and off as a DIY garage mechanic all my life and am familiar with mechanical work and maintenance. I can weld a bit, though my experience with body work is minimal though I"d like to learn more. I've rebuilt a few VW engines in my day, and have pulled the wifes Subaru engine a couple times. Im familiar with Ford V8s. I'm not afraid to learn and I enjoy the process of building, learning and acquiring skills and tools through projects.
My son was diagnosed with cancer last year, and the past 7 months have been entirely focused on helping him win his battle. He's doing well, though not out of the woods entirely, but well enough that the family is starting to look forward again and resume life.
I would like to start this project as a means to build a dream car, but to also include my son (and daughter if she likes) in the process and to teach them some of what I know, and to learn/experience new things together. It would be a long term project as we are in no rush as we want to enjoy life and start being a family again. I'm willing to outsource aspects that I"m not comfortable with.
I've been reading and researching and see people using MY 911s, SCs, and 964s as starting blocks for their projects.
Some questions:
1. What are the pros/cons of the above models as a start?
2. What would be a the "ideal" starter car (age, miles, engine etc) other than one with little rust and clean title?
3. Where is the best place to find a good starting car? Most of what I see online is either flipped or extremely rough. I'm assuming a well maintained but higher mileage donor is preferred.
4. What years have the best product support for widebody conversion?
5. What do I need to research and where would you point me?
I'm aware this project will not be cheap. I have a couple jobs and fortunately make a good wage. Given the timeframe, putting money in over several years, I'm semi-comfortable with potential costs. That said, I'm not looking to spend 100K...
All this said, what do you suggest? Am I crazy? Should I run the other direction or jump in?
Any and ll help and guidance is much appreciated.
Thanks,
Bryan
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If you want to do a "start again" build then a well used, car is obviously preferable.The 911 range (pre watercooled) is largely interchangeable.So any car from 65 to early 90s will work.
This forum will provide everything you need to know.Just search some build threads.
Regarding cost.Obviously this will vary depending on your skill levels.If you farm out 90% of the work,it will eat up 100k in a heartbeat if you specify a top spec build.
Whatever, your budget is, double it.They rarely come in close.Ive completed many over the years.Never on budget.
If you decide to continue, you will find the guys on this forum wonderful, knowledgeable company.It might be a good way to work with your son following his difficult times too.
If you procrastinate for too long, you likely will not do it.Fight the urge NOT to.The rewards are many.Good luck.