How many owners actually built there own car??

[nitrorocket]

I am curious as to how many pro touring car owners actually built there own car. I am talking, actually did ALL the work yourself.

Seems alot of people pay shops to build the whole damn car, would'nt that take away all the fun, satisfaction, and experience?? Anyone can pay somebody to build there car! Right??

I can see having a professional do some little things like spraying the paint on the body, building an auto trans, Diff, chroming bumpers, etc., but it seems every old magazine article I read talks about a guy with a vision and a big pocket book that paid Joe Shmoe Car Crafters to build the whole ride!! Or the others that somehow had 10 highly skilled "friends" that "helped" in building his car... Sure, Right!!

Does anyone do all there own work anymore??:nopity:

[jy211]

My car isn't one of these top bild cars, but between me, my brother and friends, we build our cars...

[TonyL]

This weeks "Guys who paid to have their cars built aren't real car guys" thread brought to you by:


Seriously. Who cares?

[1sick65]

This weeks "Guys who paid to have their cars built aren't real car guys" thread brought to you by:


Seriously. Who cares?


:lol: :lol: :lol: Now that's damn funny, I don't care who you are.

[MarkM66]

See sig.

But my car's far from being a "Top Dog."

[Steve1968LS2]

I am curious as to how many pro touring car owners actually built there own car. I am talking, actually did ALL the work yourself.

Seems alot of people pay shops to build the whole damn car, would'nt that take away all the fun, satisfaction, and experience?? Anyone can pay somebody to build there car! Right??

I can see having a professional do some little things like spraying the paint on the body, building an auto trans, Diff, chroming bumpers, etc., but it seems every old magazine article I read talks about a guy with a vision and a big pocket book that paid Joe Shmoe Car Crafters to build the whole ride!! Or the others that somehow had 10 highly skilled "friends" that "helped" in building his car... Sure, Right!!

Does anyone do all there own work anymore??:nopity:

That depends.. you can tell a shop. "I want a cool Chevelle.. maybe a '67. Oh, and make it blue and fast" .. this person most likely couldn't tell you much tech wise about the finished car.

In this way you haven't put any of your "soul" into the car.. It's much like buying any old doo-dad from a catalog.

Or you can work with a shop (and other skilled craftsmen) to make your vision for your ride. You direct every single detail of what's done down to the minute detail, but you leave it up to others to excute your vision. This person can discuss the cars cam specs and why it was chosen. He could go over just about any technical aspect of the ride even though he didn't turn a wrench on it.

Third group is the guy that does everything himself.. or just about. Like you mentioned. Sometimes thier projects take a LONG time to complete. Sometimes not. Sometimes they are low buck, sometimes not. Sometimes they feel superior to the other "posers" sometimes not.

Then there's the guys in-between (most of us, including myself). We do what we can, when we can. We don't have a machine shop, and our welding is better suited for yard art than for our ride. We know exactly what we want and we have a pretty good idea of how everything works and why. We work full-time gigs and have a family so "wrench time" is short. If we were to build our cars, on our own, it would take a decade or so to get it done. In some cases they have more money than time, so one is traded for another.

Very few people can build an entire car on thier own.. and as that car goes farther from stock the list get WAY shorter. How many here can paint thier own car and then do the custom upholstery? not many.

The main factor here is money. Lets face it, to build a NICE car takes a lot of money. People (in general) with a lot of money work very hard for it. Generally in excess of 40hrs a week. They don't have hours to spend learning to weld. They have the kids soccer practice, deadlines and a furnace that needs replacing. But, they have a love for cars. What do they do? They farm out what they don't know how to do (or arn't that great at) and what they don't have time to do to professionals that do.

Cars in our magazine contain people in all four groups because that's the way life is.. full of variety..

[colt zantop]

I paid to have quite a bit done on my car...paint, motor, etc... but I also have done my share of wrenching on it also. It all comes down to if your happy at the end, if you are...who cares!

[gearbanger]

This weeks "Guys who paid to have their cars built aren't real car guys" thread brought to you by:


Seriously. Who cares?

That is pretty funny:razz:

sounds like maybe one of the guys that placed their order for a cool car and said call me when it's done.

[EFI69Cam]

I am curious as to how many pro touring car owners actually built there own car. I am talking, actually did ALL the work yourself.

Seems alot of people pay shops to build the whole damn car, would'nt that take away all the fun, satisfaction, and experience?? Anyone can pay somebody to build there car! Right??

I can see having a professional do some little things like spraying the paint on the body, building an auto trans, Diff, chroming bumpers, etc., but it seems every old magazine article I read talks about a guy with a vision and a big pocket book that paid Joe Shmoe Car Crafters to build the whole ride!! Or the others that somehow had 10 highly skilled "friends" that "helped" in building his car... Sure, Right!!

Does anyone do all there own work anymore??:nopity:


I got into it pretty bad with the guys over at camaros.net awhile back. Seems some people don't like to be called checkbook warriors.

On the other hand, if you can make $200/hr why not pay someone else $100/hr to build your car? Heck even if you make $50/hr, and you know it would take you 3 hours to do what a shop can do in 1 hour, you are still money ahead.

[4MuscleMachines]

I did as much as I could when I was younger, given my skills. I am too old for that now, well at least I feel that way.

I do it like Steve, I direct, choose the parts, monitor progress, and manage the project as much as I can. I make all the decisions. I would rather do it that way because it will:

1. Leave me more time to enjoy quality time with my family
2. It is not financially beneficial to me to work on my car rather than make money at the office since there are only 24 hrs per day and 7 days a week. It is cheaper for me to farm out the work.

I don't feel that just because you don't always work on your own car you cannot be a car guy.

[TSSPAYNE69RS]

Maybe I am reading this wrong but I kinda take offense to this. Some of us have jobs that requires 80+ hours a week and don't have time to do all of the work ourselves. I am more than capable of building the car my self but I would like to have it done before I reach retirement. I am 36 now. If you think you are any better or even more in touch with your ride than me then KMA. Do you think that those of us that do not have careers in the auto industry in some way are *******izing or infiltrating your hobby or your perception of what you think pro-touring should be? I think there is enough room for all of us to enjoy our cars weather we built the entire thing or not. I know it's more important to me to get the damn thing done so I can abuse it than to say I personally built the engine, trans, etc. etc. but too bad I'm too old to control my bladder long enough to enjoy it by the time I finished it.

[kennyd]

i did not build my house , so i cant take pride in it ? or my 06 f350 so i should not be proud of it ? **** i am going to quit typing because i did no build this comptuer......

[colt zantop]

i did not build my house , so i cant take pride in it ? or my 06 f350 so i should not be proud of it ? **** i am going to quit typing because i did no build this comptuer......



LOL!!!!:lol:

[TSSPAYNE69RS]

i did not build my house , so i cant take pride in it ? or my 06 f350 so i should not be proud of it ? **** i am going to quit typing because i did no build this comptuer......


:lol: :lol: :lol: :lmao: Now that's funny, I don't care who you are!!

[mustanggirl1967]

i have done all the work on my car.. no one helped me beside camaroboy69... i think u love your car more when u do everything yourself and learn how your car really works ...i didnt know anything about car until my 1967 mustang. and my car has came along way ...

[Steve Chryssos]

My car was built by aliens. When they beamed it up, it was a 75 AMC Matador. It mysteriously reappeared as a 1968 Camaro. As expected, there was an anal probe hanging out of the tailpipe.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

shoot.. i didnt do a lick of work on my Camaro at all..

but hell.. ive only had it 2 months.. ahhahahah

[4MuscleMachines]

i think u love your car more when u do everything yourself and learn how your car really works .
It's all relative, sometimes you do, sometimes you don't. Either way, it should be OK with anybody whether you work on it yourself or not. When you are young, it's exciting to do it. After 10yrs or so, it's kind of boring and more fullfilling to have somebody do it for you, the fun part for me is sorting it all out. JMHO.

[Mkelcy]

i did not build my house , so i cant take pride in it ? or my 06 f350 so i should not be proud of it ? **** i am going to quit typing because i did no build this comptuer......
So I can be proud of my car because I've met the test for determining that I did "enough" on it, I can type because I "built" (really assembled) my computer and I can eat because I built my kitchen but I can't shower or anything else because the contractor built the bathroom?

Why do we need to divide the Pro-touring community rather than simply enjoy what we each bring to the table? A bunch of home builders are going to get some great ideas from that high-buck pro-built car to OP is apparently unhappy with.

[ProdigyCustoms]

Our customers are very much car guy's. Just because we build it, and in many cases maintain them, does not mean they are not into it. Just because they make money and write checks does not make them less a fanatic. I don't defend myself in court, or do my own medical repairs on my body, or as Kenny said, build my own home. I do a lot of work for lawyers, doctors and contractors that don't build their own cars. What the heck is wrong with that?

I have a lot of respect for guy's that do their own cars, in their garages, with limited resources or previous knowledge. This forum has some really talented guy's that do not do this for a living and build killer projects. On the other hand I have little respect for those that look down their noses at others that either cannot or do not want to build their own car.

I mean, why buy a ticket to a football game, basketball, drag race, Nascar race, if you can't play or drive? What fun is that?

[gearbanger]

It is fine to have a car built, there is nothing at all wrong with it. It does feel extremely good to know that you did it all yourself though. I taught myself how to mig weld this winter and I have been working on some parts of my car body that I didn't like the way that is got done the first time around. (The paint and body was done by someone else) It is pretty fulfilling to make new floors or to fab up pieces that you can't just buy and weld them in and make them look great. I am sure that is all that is on Nitrorockets mind. It just seems to go hand in hand to be a hotrodder, is to know how to do it yourself. But these days, with people putting everything into their jobs, there just isn't enough time left to do it yourself. Luckily their are guys that make money doing the quality of work that you would do yourself if you had the time and the means.

I plan to fix all the sheetmetal work that needs fixed on my car but will probably still have the paint and body done by someone else. Mainly because I don't have the facilities to handle the mess that it would make. Also, I would have to paint it about 50 times before I learned how to do it good enough to suit me. :crying:

[mustanggirl1967]

i dont think anyone is looking down on anyone.. if u have all the money in the world why not pay for someone to do it for you. but when you have a job that u dont make much money its better just to build your car yourself.. me even if i had all the money in the world i would still work on my own car i might not do everything . but i would do as much of it as i could..then have someone else do the work that i couldnt.

[hdesign]

I really enjoy the "journey" as much as the destination. When I finally finish the Nova, I'll probably drive the hell out of it for a year and sell it so I can start on the next one. I love getting in there, solving a problem, scrapin' knuckles and getting weld splatter burns almost as much as I like drawing and designing cars. I get a better understanding of the vehicle and there's a stronger sense of accomplishment. I've bought cars that needed little or nothing and I don't think I really had the attachment.

I'm trying to do as much as possible on my car including paint and upholstery. Though I may send the seats to get wrapped professionally...my sewing skills SUCK!

The only problem I see with building your own car is selling it. You obviously think the car is worth a fortune since it was your blood, sweat and tears that got it to that point. However, a buyer most likely doesn't share in your sentimental value. They'll only pay you what it's worth.

[ponchopwr70]

I'd did some work to my car but most of the work was done by my friend Jim's father who does it for a living. Being that I am 20 I don't have a ton of experiance, (I used to work for this guy and learned a lot but not everything) or a decent garage with tools. I paid him to take the frame off, box it, fix the rust, new lines etc. Even though i didn't do the work, i knew what was going on and I knew how i wanted it. The car came out better than it would have with me praticing welds in a single car garge with a leaking roof. Between working 6 days a week and a girl friend i just didn't have the time. The engine I built 3 years ago with Jim just blew so i'm haveing his father build it bigger and better. When the cars is on the road I'll be proud of it, and i'll be happy. Just knowing that i put overtime in to pay for it is o.k by me. I guess i shouldn't have as much pride in my car as the rednecks down the road who built there own car with A/C unit sheet metal and sheet rock screws.

[nitrorocket]

Part of the reason I put this post is because of something that recently happened at a show.

A guy pulls in with a really nice car, I wanted to know more. After all, he did bring it to a show to show it off...right?

I ask him what kind of power it made, he said about 500 hp. I asked what size it was, he did not know! I asked a few other questions about the cam heads trans, etc. He did not know. Finally he said he had the car completely built from a reputable shop. He obviosly had no say in the build whatsoever, except maybe the color!

I work full time, make a good living, but am by no means "rich". How can a guy go drop $100k on a car and not know a damn thing about it!! I mean really! To top it off, he had a big crowd, and could'nt answer one question! He must have really felt like a ding bat.

For some wierd reason this just bugged me. I am a person who will try and learn to do all I can on my ride. Not only for pride, but money. My hobby besides my family is my car, so I work on my car when I have time, that's onme of the things I like to do. It has saved me a good $50k or more in labor over the years.

Just made me feel proud to have a car equal to this guys car, know I did it myself, and could actually answer questions about it! It just completely suprises me that someone would drop HUGE coin on a custom car, try to show it off, and not be able to answer questions bout it!

That is where I am going with this comment.

[mustanggirl1967]

yea i know what u mean.. there is some ppl around here that does the same , dont know anything about there car,, at least they knew how much HP it had!!

[Steve1968LS2]

For some wierd reason this just bugged me. I am a person who will try and learn to do all I can on my ride. Not only for pride, but money. My hobby besides my family is my car, so I work on my car when I have time, that's onme of the things I like to do. It has saved me a good $50k or more in labor over the years.


So, what really bugged you was that he didn't know jack about his own car.. not that he paid someone to build it for him.. right?

[MarkM66]

If I won the lotto, I'd never touch a wrench again, :cheers: .

[ponchopwr70]

There will always be guys at the show like that, same with cruise nights. Then there are the guys who ask questions or critique and know nothing to. One guy told me my car wasn't worth anything because it wasn't a gto and I wasted my time and money on my car. The best part was when i saw him leave in a beat up escort, go figure. Anyways some people just don't know. When people ask me about my engine I'll tell them the cam specs, what heads, bla bla bla i'll even tell them the piston to wall clearence. Fortunatlly I'm not the guy who has 100k and knows nothing.
Another good one is there is a guy that has a nova in the shop my car is being worked on. I meet him once, the nova is a pro-touring theme car he's getting 17's total resto. I said to him "cars coming out nice, not that many pro-touring cars around here." He said " whats pro-touring." After that i told him I had to go. Hes got at least 60k in the car already. Anyways glad thats not me.

[nitrorocket]

Pretty much! I take a huge amount of pride in my car, and even I paid someone to build the trans and paint the body, Some things are better left to a professional if there is obviously now whay you can do it yourself. But to go to a show with you custom show car and not know anything about it is just sick. To each there own I guess.


So, what really bugged you was that he didn't know jack about his own car.. not that he paid someone to build it for him.. right?

[Ralph LoGrasso]

I do all of my own work (or get family or friends to help me) simply because I can't afford to pay someone to work on my car. I do take pride in doing my own work, but only to an extent. If I were in a monetary situation where I could afford to pay a high end shop (i.e. I know the work is being done right and not by a hack shop) to do some of the stuff on my car to get it done quicker, you can bet I would. I wouldn't farm everything out, but I would farm some stuff out.

I'm the complete opposite of most guys on here, for me it's all about the destination, not about getting there. I'm sorry to say, but I hate being the guy who's home on a Saturday night wrenching on his car while all his buddies are out at shows, races, etc. Once in a while (a few days a month, etc) it's fun to wrench on the car, but more often than not, I'd rather be driving it. After all, aren't we all building pro-touring cars? Meaning, cars that are meant to perform? We're all making our cars handle better, stop better, go faster, etc and for what--- for the drive. If I was into strictly wrenching and not driving, I'd build a trailer queen that even when it was completed, wouldn't be driven.

I'd much rather be heading into a turn at 90mph or down a long straight, or even hanging out at the local cruise night with my pride and joy as opposed to being totally confined in a packed one car garage, half lying / half kneeling under my car with my hands all cut up as I install a set of headers on my '01 SS, a job which would be much easier done on a lift. But, unfortuantely I don't have the luxury of farming out stuff yet, so guess what I'll be doing next week. Laying under the car with bloodied knucles, after that however, I'll be driving. Like Mark said about the lotto...

[Damn True]

Ahh the lotto. It's like a special tax on people who are not so great at math.

That said, if you play your odds of winning are really poor but not as poor as your odds of winning if you don't play.

There are far worse ways to spend $5.

[ProdigyCustoms]

I don't want a pissing contest nitro, but it seems your opinion is that it is acceptable for someone to pay for paint and body, or transmission, things you says are better left to professionals, obvioulsy things you cannot do, But it is not OK for them to sub out other parts, or the entire job. My CPA is the smartest guy I know, and he LOVES hot rods, but I can assure you, EVERYTHING car related is best left to professionals with him.

While someone may be able to quote piston to wall specs, I suspect I could make some of those guys look just as ignorant with paint and body questions about various procedures, VOC ratings, activators, mil specs, etc.

Again, I have a nice home that someone else built. I do not have the slightest idea how most of the stuff works. But I know that new toilet I paid someone to install is one bad ass flushing sumbitch!

[Hidro]

I do my own work on my car.

When a hot babe yells out hey!! that car is fkn awesome!! as you drive by, it makes all the difference.

[Mean 69]

If I won the Lotto, I'd never do anything except wrench on (my own) cars again. Of course, I suck at bodywork, three of the motors that I have personally assembled blew up, so there are some things I'd farm out to my trusted car friends, but you can bet booty I'd be all of the decision making process, hopefully learning all of the way.

Like every hobby, you'll find folks that are really 'core, folks that want to be seen, and everything in between. I hate to use the so prominent current So. Cal. surfer phrase, but "it's all good...."

Some folks like to do their own work, others don't, and many aren't capable. Some can afford to buy what they want, others have to do whatever they can to get it.

Mark

Oh, by the way, I played the lottery last weekend, I guess I should check the numbers! 'been too busy working on cars!

[CarlC]

Heh, heh heh. He said anal probe.....

[nitrorocket]

I have rebuilt transmissions, I have painted cars, and I have built custom rear ends, I have turned it into a living. I stated those things because to even the serious backyard mechanic, those are 9 out of 10 times things that are purchased. If I was loaded, I would definetly sub out some of my work, but definetly not all, building the car is part of the hobby!

My comment is more directed to the "look what I financed my house on to be cool" I am not saying that is someone pays to have work done they are an idiot, but that if someone is serious enough to spend tons of money on a car, and call themselves a car buff, takes it to shows to show off,........ they should know all about it.

I wouldn't expect someone to know ring gap or u-joint cap diameter, but at tleast the most commonly asked basics. It just seems that more and more cars are being built by shops and not the owners, and the owners that drive them don't know much about them.

These people are not going to agree with my statement, As big as a car enthusiast as I am, I just think it is too bad the majority of people as of late would rather pay someone to do something that is so rewarding.




I don't want a pissing contest nitro, but it seems your opinion is that it is acceptable for someone to pay for paint and body, or transmission, things you says are better left to professionals, obvioulsy things you cannot do, But it is not OK for them to sub out other parts, or the entire job. My CPA is the smartest guy I know, and he LOVES hot rods, but I can assure you, EVERYTHING car related is best left to professionals with him.

While someone may be able to quote piston to wall specs, I suspect I could make some of those guys look just as ignorant with paint and body questions about various procedures, VOC ratings, activators, mil specs, etc.

Again, I have a nice home that someone else built. I do not have the slightest idea how most of the stuff works. But I know that new toilet I paid someone to install is one bad ass flushing sumbitch!

[woody80z28]

My cars are so ghetto that it's obvious this 20-year-old kid is winging it.

[Steve Chryssos]

Heh, heh heh. He said anal probe.....

For now on, I will try to incorporate the words anal:spank2: probe into every potentially divisive thread. Somehow, those two words-- when juxtaposed--have a calming effect.

[boodlefoof]

For me, personally, building it is more than half of the fun. Literally, I enjoy building and seeing the finished product more than I even enjoy driving the car!

My my Camaro though, I had to pay to have a number of things done. I just didn't (and still don't) know how to do them. At the time, I didn't really have the cash to pay for work either, so I started learning to do it myself. On my new project (Datsun 240-Z) though, I plan to turn every nut and bolt on this thing myself and paint it myself, etc, etc... we'll see if I still enjoy doing the work once it is done. ; )

As long as it is a cool car though, it doesn't matter who built it.

[Steve1968LS2]

For me, personally, building it is more than half of the fun. Literally, I enjoy building and seeing the finished product more than I even enjoy driving the car!



Funny.. for me it's designing it... figuring out what to do to which part.. what parts combo and how to nail the right look and performance. To me the reward is when the final product matches what my vision was. Actually turning the wrench is mearly a means to that end.

Also, I'm disturbed that Steevo finds the phrase "anal probe" to be calming... :doh:

[Bob Johnson]

Moi ....... lol

[derekf]

At my current age and income level, my money is worth more than my time, and I do my own work.

If I suddenly got a huge raise, my time might end up worth more. and then I'd likely farm some of it out.

[chicane67]

How many owners actually built there own car??

Just to stay on topic....... I did....... and still do.

[Dan Sherwood]

I guess I fall into the older grouip of guys here, and one of the guys that pays to have the work done. I admit right up front I know just enough to be dangerous, and when I'm headed down the backstraight at 140 mph I'm GLAD I was'nt the one turning the wrenches. Yeah, I've done some work on the 3 cars I've owned (and had built), but it bothers me-ZERO that someone else did the majority of the work.

While they were doing the work on the car, I was doing what I do (house building) and when I was younger I did alot more of that with my bags on, then I do now pointing fingers.

I made less breaking my back than I do now using my head, but there was some satisfaction to it...but I've gotten over it...the deposits at the bank help me alot with that loss of satisfaction from pounding my thumb, running slivers up under my fingernails and shooting myself in various places with a nail gun. Ah, the good old days, I really miss all that!

[BuddyP]

My car is far from being done but I have so far done, and plan to do, the majority of the work. I know for sure that I will have someone else do the paint.

If I had money up the wazoo I would probably have someone else do a lot of the work, however I would have every say on what goes on with it... I would only do this so that I would be able to drive it that much sooner!!!

[BonzoHansen]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/06/worthless_post_2-1.gif...without a good anal probe??

[rocketrod]

Currently I am doing all of the work on my current project, BUT if I ever get another car I will look for something finished. Yes I love turning wrenches on my ride and the great feeling that comes with it, but I enjoy driving it even more. I probably have spent more hours working on my car than I will ever have driving it, SINCE THEY ARE NEVER DONE!!!

[Steve1968LS2]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/06/worthless_post_2-1.gif...without a good anal probe??

I didn't paint my car, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night..

[67LS1T56]

I build my own car, including the body work and paint. It took me long time and because of it it does not look clean and prestine around the frame and what nut but I'm proud of it that I did everything.

[gEtyOpAPiOn]

me and my friends work on our cars ...it takes forever but we get it done!! lol of course after breaking things here and there but its fun but it could also feel like a never ending story and you end up spending about the same money if you think about all your labor ...im sure with the time you spend in your car if you worked those hours at another job and paying someone the cash you would end up with a 100k tag lol

[Madspeed]

Wow some of yas get down right HOSTILE .

I build everything myself unless I feel somone is capable of doing a quality job for a fair price that saves me lots of time and aggravation. IE I bought my front frame from wayne due because of This website and all your fellow car guys input.
I had found this site because I was searching for corvette front suspension dimensions, and I was going to actually build my own sub
but for the 2300 I spent on the bare sub and some searching for adeal on vette susp parts I got a killer deal and saved TONS of time and aggravation.
as far as letting somone build a rear end for me NO I only trust myself ( I have quite a few diff setups under my belt professionally)
as far as a transmission HELL no I wouldnt let any monky build an auto for me (nobody has ever done it right and Ive used a lot of so called experts) Ill build my own (once again i have quite a few under my belt professionally)
I dont let anyone do anything for the most part because I allways get screwed and end up diong it myself anyways (the right way)
I will build 90% of my ride and be damed proud of it =)
when will it be done? Sheeat ill be in depends probebly
Whew that was a lot

Ken F

[J-Rod]

I didn't paint my car, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night..

Neither did I, but I did save a buncha money by switching to Geico!

[Dan Sherwood]

Truth be told....Nobody does ALL the work on any of their cars, unless of course you don't count any parts you purchase (not made by you), any ideas gleaned from someone else, or for goodness sakes, the basic shell you started with.

Now what was the original question again?

When it's all said and done............does it really matter? (well I guess it does to some).

[USAZR1]

I didn't build all of my house but I designed & supervised its construction.
My car is pretty much the same. And yes,I can tell you about just every part used in its construction.

FWIW,some people spend too much time patting themselves on the back. Not everyone is a Chip Foose.

[Roadrage David]

i have my car completly build bij exsperds who race there cars including a 68 transam camaro on the euro citquits. altho the intyer tought out car combo comes from myself . i got alot of stick saying this on a dutch forum!!!. seems that you are a lesser man if you dont do everyting yourself.. and altho i can do a thing ore two myself . i do feel mutch more comferteble if i drive 160/170 miles per hour on the euro highways knowing the stuff hase been build by exsperds ..ps altho anal probe is a nice one i thingk Anal Intruder sounds more muscle:woot: :hammer: ..........

[vanzuuk1]

GM built my car, I just made it cooler.

[trapin]

I'm building my own car. I enjoy working on hot rods. I would love to build another after this one....but it'll be a long time before I do. Nothing wrong with paying a shop to build your car. People have their reasons for doing it. Reasons that are pretty much none of anyone's business.

[gearbanger]

So here is the deal then, It's cool to have a car, it's cooler to have a car and know everything about it, it's even cooler to have a car, and know everything about it because you built most of it yourself, and it is the miggity mac cool to have a car and know everything about it cause you built the entire car yourself bumper to bumper.

The moral of the story is "Everybody just be cool...."

[BonzoHansen]

GM built my car, I just made it cooler.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/06/310814-1.png

[nitrorocket]

Does'nt that make you proud, at least you can answer questions!

I have to admit, I give alot of credit to those who put al the blood sweat and tears into there ride to make it the best it can be. Sure does take determination!

I did about 90% of my car. I bought the trans for a half price special(Guy paid to have it built and did'nt come through with the rest, I paid the balance.) I Paid to have the body paint done. I though paying a pro would be the way to go, I got screwed! It was overpriced, and I did not get the 100% quality I expect.

Oh well, live and learn I guess.:jump:


I didn't build all of my house but I designed & supervised its construction.
My car is pretty much the same. And yes,I can tell you about just every part used in its construction.

FWIW,some people spend too much time patting themselves on the back. Not everyone is a Chip Foose.

[USAZR1]

Just keep patting yourself on the back,Rocket,and posting updates on your car. You'll be fine. I've scratch-built a bunch of serious cars,bikes,and planes in the last 35 years. Just don't think I need to brag about all of them,though.
Have a nice day.

[steemin]

I had someone build my car for me...
I was very involved in the process from a part selection perspective.
It would be nice to have the time/experience/equipment/space to build my own car.
However I have many interests in my life
(kids,coaching,golf,watersports,snowmobiles,travel ,WORK! etc..).
so I have to compromise.
The world has so much to offer that I couldn't see myself committed to one primary interest..
That being said my passion for cars runs deep...

Now lets talk about those guys that don't really drive their cars hard:poke:
Scott

[Jagarang]

For now on, I will try to incorporate the words anal:spank2: probe into every potentially divisive thread. Somehow, those two words-- when juxtaposed--have a calming effect.

ANAL PROBE doesn't calm me one bit!!

[BonzoHansen]

ANAL PROBE doesn't calm me one bit!!Perhaps it matters who is the prober & who is the probee?

[hdesign]

Did I miss something? I really don't understand why it makes a difference whether or not you built it or bought it or if you can stump an owner who had someone else build their car. That's not what this great hobby is about. Everyone has different skill levels, different financial situations or willingness to turn wrenches. What does it matter? As long as you're proud of it and enjoy driving it, who freakin cares?

As long as you hire me to make it look cool, that's what counts! HA HA:headbang:

[nitrorocket]

Just keep patting yourself on the back,Rocket,and posting updates on your car. You'll be fine. I've scratch-built a bunch of serious cars,bikes,and planes in the last 35 years. Just don't think I need to brag about all of them,though.
Have a nice day.

What's that supposed to mean?? You have never posted any updates on you ride on Chevelle tech??:confused: I have not seen any posts where I am bragging about every single thing I did on my car?? I post updates and new things I have done just like EVERY other person on the boards.:squint:

I just posted my opinion on how I was dumbfounded that someone with a high dollar car can show it off, and no NOTHING about it. Maybe I come from a different school, but I find that quite amazing.:barf:

[indyjps]

im building my own car, thats why its not done.

[nitrorocket]

Ya, Mine has been an ongoing 13 year project too. I just try to make sure it at least runs every spring!!

[Charley Lillard]

What's that supposed to mean?? You have never posted any updates on you ride on Chevelle tech??:confused: I have not seen any posts where I am bragging about every single thing I did on my car?? I post updates and new things I have done just like EVERY other person on the boards.:squint:

I just posted my opinion on how I was dumbfounded that someone with a high dollar car can show it off, and no NOTHING about it. Maybe I come from a different school, but I find that quite amazing.:barf:


That is easy...When I hired Wheel 2Wheel to do the twin turbo setup on the Mule I left it up to Mark and Wheel2 Wheel to decide what went in it. I trust their decisions. You can tell me it has a Callies crank and two weeks later I won't remember. I have multiple cars and there is no way I can remember this stuff. I can build cars and can do just about everything but body and paint but most of my car stuff has been stock type stuff. Three weeks before Power Tour I was pulling the cam, lifters and valve springs off the Mule. If I had had more time I would have let Wheel2Wheel do it and saved my lower back.The last Z28 I restored I pretty much did myself including painting all the jambs but I have no patience for body and paint. I suppose I could build the twin turbo engine myself but I wouldn't have the same faith in it because I don't do it for a living. Having a vision of fabbing a part from scratch is a nightmare for me. I think that ability is called spatial relations. Some have it and some don't. Did you build your own Camaro if you bought a 6 speed wiper kit from Detroit Speed and bolted it in ? I can do that no problem. On the other hand, Stielow went walking thru junkyards and figured out the system, fabbed it and put it on the Mule. Now everyone can buy it from Detroit speed. I could build a cheaper version of the Mule myself by buying off the shelf headers etc but that is not what I wanted. I know I will never be able to weld like the welding done on the Mules headers so why not get it done the best I can if I can afford it ? I still have the same pride in the car and I am the first to tell someone at a car show that I didn't build it. We probably all have different interpretations of "I built it myself". I'm 53 years old and for you younger cocky boys out there, wait till you get my age and try bending your neck sideways under a dash for a hour and see how it feels the next day.That is just part of what makes this world interesting. Rants over ..continue

[rocketrod]

That is easy...When I hired Wheel 2Wheel to do the twin turbo setup on the Mule I left it up to Mark and Wheel2 Wheel to decide what went in it. I trust their decisions. You can tell me it has a Callies crank and two weeks later I won't remember. I have multiple cars and there is no way I can remember this stuff. I can build cars and can do just about everything but body and paint but most of my car stuff has been stock type stuff. Three weeks before Power Tour I was pulling the cam, lifters and valve springs off the Mule. If I had had more time I would have let Wheel2Wheel do it and saved my lower back.The last Z28 I restored I pretty much did myself including painting all the jambs but I have no patience for body and paint. I suppose I could build the twin turbo engine myself but I wouldn't have the same faith in it because I don't do it for a living. Having a vision of fabbing a part from scratch is a nightmare for me. I think that ability is called spatial relations. Some have it and some don't. Did you build your own Camaro if you bought a 6 speed wiper kit from Detroit Speed and bolted it in ? I can do that no problem. On the other hand, Stielow went walking thru junkyards and figured out the system, fabbed it and put it on the Mule. Now everyone can buy it from Detroit speed. I could build a cheaper version of the Mule myself by buying off the shelf headers etc but that is not what I wanted. I know I will never be able to weld like the welding done on the Mules headers so why not get it done the best I can if I can afford it ? I still have the same pride in the car and I am the first to tell someone at a car show that I didn't build it. We probably all have different interpretations of "I built it myself". I'm 53 years old and for you younger cocky boys out there, wait till you get my age and try bending your neck sideways under a dash for a hour and see how it feels the next day.That is just part of what makes this world interesting. Rants over ..continue
As always well stated.

[rocketman]

I do everything I feel comfortable doing.On my new car I am going to be doing I am going to have somebody chop top and maybe section it.but I will finish the bodywork,I build my chassis,engines,etc.Hell alot of the time I go to car show's and leave the car at home.

If I wasn't so cheap,I have a list of builders I would love too have build me a ride.

Roger Burman,Kenny Davis,just to name a few.But if people didn't pay to have car's built,we would have nobody to get new idea's from.

To me the fun is driving them,the building part is a pain in the ass.

[Ralph LoGrasso]

To me the fun is driving them,the building part is a pain in the ass.

:cheers:

[BonzoHansen]

As long as they are driven and the owner knows the pertinent facts (like engine size), I could care less, as long as they are driven! Preferably hard.

[Steve Chryssos]

.......I think that ability is called spatial relations.......

"Spacial Relations" That's what I was trying to say!

[Damn True]

"Spacial Relations" That's what I was trying to say!

...as opposed to "special" relations which describes that one uncle.....who may or may not actually be related, who may or may not have graduated, who may or may not have a measureable IQ and who is nearly assured of drinking too much and falling into the buffet and punching your sister-in-laws husband because he wouldn't come bail him out of jail.

[Neil B]

Well, here's my story:

Car #1: Road Race Mustang. I had a race car fab shop build the cage and misc other items. No way I could have done that myself - my skills and facilities don't allow. I raced a bunch of guys who bolted in an Autopower cage themselves. My car was safer and faster because I let someone else do the work. I also let this shop maintain the car while I was working out of town 5 days per week. Letting someone else do the work was the only way I made it to the track.

Car #2: Frame-off resto '69 Z28. I bought it fully restored. It would have cost me twice as much to build myself. I did my first heads/cam swap on this car with the supervision of a shop. I had a blast doing the work myself, but I had to take a week off work and it would have been more cost effective to let the shop do the work for me. Firing the motor for the first time was a great experience and was better for me because I was hands-on.

Car #3: 3rd Gen Camaro. Bought the car as a driving project. I'm building a new motor and drivetrain for it myself. I have purchased several thousand dollars in specialized tools to do the job right. It would have been cheaper to let someone else do it. I'm enjoying the learning process on this one.

So, I've bought, had built for me, and built myself. At points in my life when I had no time, I had no qualms about letting someone do it for me. Now, I'm enjoying the journey a little bit more. It's all good.

[CarlC]

Spacial relations and anal probing, all in one thread. :scared:

[BRIAN]

Not really sure what all the bashing is about? I can see how somebody who does everything they possibly can themselves being proud of their accomplishment. I do not think money is really the factor of building yourself or farming out. I do believe it is the key to one car being better than another. I do everything myself except actually stitch the interior. When the interior guy is with me at a show and somebody complements the interior he is ear to ear smiling. Just as I am when somebody complements my work. To me it does make a difference but I can also understand others positions.

I have been piss poor and beat to hell and still would work on my ride at 2 in the moring after a full days work and family time. Am I better than soimeone else? NO but I love WORKING on cars. I have had the cash to buy a very nice ride but I would still rather work on my own car. If you do the same I guess you understand. If you love driving or coordinating the work that is your deal. Enjoy it but you have to also appreciate the guy who nearly kills himself to finish his own.

[Bob Johnson]

What's that supposed to mean?? You have never posted any updates on you ride on Chevelle tech??:confused: I have not seen any posts where I am bragging about every single thing I did on my car?? I post updates and new things I have done just like EVERY other person on the boards.:squint:

I just posted my opinion on how I was dumbfounded that someone with a high dollar car can show it off, and no NOTHING about it. Maybe I come from a different school, but I find that quite amazing.:barf:
no nothing? what school might that be?

[nitrorocket]

Sorry.... (Know).

I was in a hurry!

[nitrorocket]

Some people here seem to be taking offense. Unless you are the guy who blew all your money on a car and only know the color, you should not be offended in any way. I am not talking to you.
If you did, it is a shame you did not spend more time to learn about your "pride and joy".


Back to my original question! Who built there own car? So far quite a few people have posted that they have and are proud of it. That is completely awesome with these level of cars! That is all I want to know. This is way off track.

This turned into a stupid pissing match.

[Steve Chryssos]

Some people agree, some people disagree, and some, like myself, just think it's a stupid question. And you know what happens when we ask a stupid question: Ya get a stupid answer.

Now, I know what you're thinkin'. Why is it a stupid question? Because there is no one standard for DIY. I did EVERYTHING but body, paint and fab work. Is that enough to be considered DIY? What if my buddy screwed my engine together? What if I was walkin down the street and fell in love with a car for sale. Someone else built it, but I want it.

[Bill Howell]

I have driven mine 4000 miles in the last two weeks, does that count for anything? NO, wait, Bob Griggers drove about a third of those miles.:rolleyes:

I think Lillard pretty much summed it up. I am not 53 (yet) but my fat ass has trouble climbing under the dash too. I did save a lot on my insurance by shopping at Geico though.:look:

[nitrorocket]

Does GEICO insure our cars???? I had to go through State Farm.

[Bill Howell]

LOL, no, that was just me being a smartass. Haverty's is the one I use, however, I am almost at my yearly mileage limit and have several months to go, so I will be changing companies at renewal, probably Grundle(sp?).

[NovaPwr]

I built my car, a decent driver with lots of kewl ideas from here at the PT site. And it is done and I get to drive it all summer. These forums are an awesome place to gather info to use on your own projects. Putting kids through college and paying for weddings puts a strain on the pocketbook so I try to do most things myself. It has been fun building what I have so far but my future plans for the car will require some real professional help.
Dave

[nitrorocket]

Did you mean, Hagerty's??


LOL, no, that was just me being a smartass. Haverty's is the one I use, however, I am almost at my yearly mileage limit and have several months to go, so I will be changing companies at renewal, probably Grundle(sp?).

[Bill Howell]

Si Senor!

[nitrorocket]

Try STATE FARM. They have really lose limits and are really reasonable for cost. None of the others could beat them when I called. As long as you have an appraisel done, they will insure it for that $$,$$$.

[69rs]

LOL, no, that was just me being a smartass. Haverty's is the one I use, however, I am almost at my yearly mileage limit and have several months to go, so I will be changing companies at renewal, probably Grundle(sp?).
Bill, you get your insurance at a furniture store? I presume you meant Hagerty's?

[camcojb]

Does GEICO insure our cars???? I had to go through State Farm.

Hope you're kidding. You should have an agreed value policy.

Back on track, I have done everything on a car, including body, paint, assembly, tuning, etc. On some I've let others do some of the work, depending on how busy I was on other projects, and my timeline for the build.

I think it's fine if you do all the work, some of the work, or none of the work. It would be nice to know about the build but is definitely not a pre-requisite in my opinion to be a car guy.

I used to love the build, and when they were done I was looking towards the next project. The older I get the more I like to find something done like I would do and get to the fun of enjoying it immediately.

Jody

[69rs]

I do all the work I can on mine. If I can't Road Killer Kustoms can! I don't have the money to pay someone else to do everything, but I don't have all the skills and tools not to hire some things out. I don't know if I qualify as building it or not.

[Dayton]

I'll be 54 in a few days. In my twenties, I had no money and PLENTY of idle time. Now, I have plenty of money and no idle time. Building a PT Camaro from a 69 Camaro shell is beyond my skill level. Fortunately for me, the aftermarket parts suppliers love to accept my money.

[Bob Johnson]

Bill, you get your insurance at a furniture store? I presume you meant Hagerty's?
and Grundy..fricken Hilly billy

[Bob Johnson]

one problem I have with a car totally built by the owner..99% of them look like it..I've seen very few guys that can do everything proficiently..

[rocketman]

At this point I am giving serious thought to having my new street rod built.For me to build it I am looking at a year to a year 1/2 to build it.I think my stuff looks good it sits right,looks right.

I just don't have the time to do it.

[yellowrallys]

yep,I build mine when I'm not working on someone's that pays others to work on theirs. :ssst:

[Dan Sherwood]

Sir Charles has 3 years on me, but the comment about twisting an old back under a dash reminded me of my quest to replace a bad bilge pump in the ole bass boat recently, using a contortionist routine I had seen done at the circus as a young man. You know, knees wrapped twice up around your head, while your body is half in/half out of the bilge area that drops off 3 ft. I thought I'd save a few bucks and do it myself.

bilge pump-------------$49
new ss hose clamps----$8
savings from boat shop-$125
chiropractic bill---------not priceless. So far $280 and we ain't done yet, or got more than 4 hours sleep on any given night in 2 weeks.

By the time I get done working on any of the toys, I'm usually so screwed up I can't go enjoy em. Wisdom learned from experience, (old chinese proverb) man who watch from afar, live to goof off comfortably another day.

[Ron S]

I did all the work on my car myself,took a year of nights and weekends doing nothing else. I'm paying for 4 kids in college.When that is over i can guarantee mine will be sent out to the body shop.To all you guys that pay to have cars built,all I can say is I'M JEALOUS

[BonzoHansen]

one problem I have with a car totally built by the owner..99% of them look like it..I've seen very few guys that can do everything proficiently..https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/06/225-1.png

[syborg tt]

not sure if this really apply's but it at least funny
i do some of my work on my project - not all

Oil Change instructions for Women

1) Pull up to Jiffy Lube when the mileage reaches 3000 miles since the last oil change.
2) Drink a cup of coffee.
3) 15 minutes later, write a check and leave with a properly maintained vehicle.

Money spent:
Oil Change $20.00
Coffee Free
Total $20.00


Oil Change instructions for Men

01) Wait until Saturday, drive to auto parts store and buy a case of oil, filter, kitty litter, hand cleaner and a scented tree, write a check for $50.00.
02) Stop by 7-11 and buy a case of beer, write a check for 20.00, drive home.
03) Open a beer and drink it.
04) Jack car up. Spend 30 minutes looking for jack stands.
05) Find jack stands under kid's pedal car.
06) In frustration, open another beer and drink it.
07) Place drain pan under engine.
08) Look for 9/16 box end wrench.
09) Give up and use crescent wrench.
10) Unscrew drain plug.
11) Drop drain plug in pan of hot oil: splash hot oil on you in process. Cuss.
12) Crawl out from under car to wipe hot oil off of face and arms. Throw kitty litter on spilled oil.
13) Have another beer while watching oil drain.
14) Spend 30 minutes looking for oil filter wrench.
15) Give up; crawl under car and hammer a screwdriver through oil filter and twist off.
16) Crawl out from under car with dripping oil filter splashing, oil everywhere from holes. Cleverly hide old oil filter among trash in trash can to avoid environmental penalties. Drink a beer.
17) Buddy shows up; finish case of beer with him. Decide to finish oil change tomorrow so you can go see his new garage door opener.
18) Sunday: Skip church because "I gotta finish the oil change." Drag pan full of old oil out from underneath car. Cleverly dump oil in hole in backyard instead of taking it back to Kragen to recycle.
19) Throw kitty litter on oil spilled during step 18.
20) Beer? No, drank it all yesterday.
21) Walk to 7-11; buy beer.
22) Install new oil filter making sure to apply a thin coat of oil to gasket surface.
23) Dump first quart of fresh oil into engine.
24) Remember drain plug from step 11.
25) Hurry to find drain plug in drain pan.
26) Remember that the used oil is buried in a hole in the back yard, along with drain plug.
27) Drink beer.
28) Shovel out hole and sift oily mud for drain plug. Re-shovel oily dirt into hole. Steal sand from kids sandbox to cleverly cover oily patch of ground and avoid environmental penalties. Wash drain plug in lawnmower gas.
29) Discover that first quart of fresh oil is now on the floor. Throw kitty litter on oil spill.
30) Drink beer.
31) Crawl under car getting kitty litter into eyes. Wipe eyes with oily rag used to clean drain plug. Slip with stupid crescent wrench tightening drain plug and bang knuckles on frame.
32) Bang head on floorboards in reaction to step 31.
33) Begin cussing fit.
34) Throw stupid crescent wrench.
35) Cuss for additional 10 minutes because wrench hit Miss December (1992) in the left boob.
36) Beer.
37) Clean up hands and forehead and bandage as required to stop blood flow.
38) Beer.
39) Beer.
40) Dump in five fresh quarts of oil.
41) Beer.
42) Lower car from jack stands.
43) Accidentally crush remaining case of new motor oil.
44) Move car back to apply more kitty litter to fresh oil spilled during steps 23 - 43.
45) Beer.
46) Test drive car.
47) Get pulled over: arrested for driving under the influence.
48) Car gets impounded.
49) Call loving wife, make bail.
50) 12 hours later, get car from impound yard.

Money spent:
Parts $50.00
DUI $2500.00
Impound fee $75.00
Bail $1500.00
Beer $40.00
Total-- $4165.00

[Blaster11]

:hammer: I thought it was about cars and not bank statements, next thing we will be comparing degrees and who went to a better college. I really don't care!

Hi, my name is Bruce and I am a car guy! (built by me or not)

Back on topic now, for the most part I work and build my own cars. I can do most anything mechanical but I sent my paint and body to Frank at Prodigy. Will my cars have flaws... ummm.....yes.

Bruce

[nitrorocket]

A car will never be flawless, especially if it is driven. I have plenty of wear and tear, but I drive it hard. That's what I built it for. I have realized I can spend more time cleaning the car and trying to keep it looking nice then it took to build!!!

[Streetking]

I did everything on my Camaro except paint and body. A friend of mine helped with the wiring and after everthing was finished, I sent it to DSE to make sure everthing was done right. For the most part, everything was right, but they cleaned up alot of small stuff and made it look nice..

Since then, it's been back twice for more upgrades.:)

SW

[ProdigyCustoms]

I did everything on my Camaro except paint and body. A friend of mine helped with the wiring and after everthing was finished, I sent it to DSE to make sure everthing was done right. For the most part, everything was right, but they cleaned up alot of small stuff and made it look nice..

Since then, it's been back twice for more upgrades.:)

SW

Oh, but you bought some of your other cars done, so your out of the club house. Sorry! LOL!

[Nine Ball]

Back on track, I have done everything on a car, including body, paint, assembly, tuning, etc. On some I've let others do some of the work, depending on how busy I was on other projects, and my timeline for the build.

I think it's fine if you do all the work, some of the work, or none of the work. It would be nice to know about the build but is definitely not a pre-requisite in my opinion to be a car guy.

I used to love the build, and when they were done I was looking towards the next project. The older I get the more I like to find something done like I would do and get to the fun of enjoying it immediately.

Jody

That response is so damn good I'll just use it. I'm only 33, but my financials have changed quite a bit since I was 16 and was the local bondo artiste' in town.

I still enjoy building my own projects, but I also can't wait to sell them when I'm done to start the next one. On the red '69 I did everything but paint/body. That included rebuilding the LS1 engine, rebuilding the T56, rebuilding the 12-bolt, installing the blower, all the suspension, brake system, wiring, interior, fuel system, etc...

I still farm some stuff out, mostly because I have too many cars to work on at the same time, and not enough time to do the work myself. So, I tend to work on the installs that interest me the most, and farm out the boring stuff, haha.

I don't have a problem with guys not knowing anything about their cars, or a problem with check writers. Hell, someone has to buy my projects when they are completed! I also think ALL cars are built for my personal enjoyment, the owner/driver doesn't have to know squat for me to look at their ride and enjoy it :)

Tony

[derekf]

I whittled the body of my Chevelle out of petrified dryer lint using only an overcooked Waffle House bacon, egg, and cheese wrap, but I didn't make the wrap or dryer.

Can I still be in the club?



Seriously. Where's the cutoff? I do my own bodywork, but I don't stamp my own panels. I built my own engine, but I didn't do the machine work on the block or make the pistons.

[EFI69Cam]

I whittled the body of my Chevelle out of petrified dryer lint using only an overcooked Waffle House bacon, egg, and cheese wrap, but I didn't make the wrap or dryer.



:headbang:

[nitrorocket]

If you use dryer lint from black jeans, the car will hold together better.:)


I whittled the body of my Chevelle out of petrified dryer lint using only an overcooked Waffle House bacon, egg, and cheese wrap, but I didn't make the wrap or dryer.

Can I still be in the club?



Seriously. Where's the cutoff? I do my own bodywork, but I don't stamp my own panels. I built my own engine, but I didn't do the machine work on the block or make the pistons.

[rmbrady]

I think building your own car does add something. Of course you can enjoy and have pride in something that you paid for, but it isn't the same. If you went out and bought a painting, you could have pride in it and know everything about it, but it would not be the same as if you painted it yourself.

I have no problem with people paying for their cars, but I don't like it when they take credit for the car. If you sent out checks, you didn't do anything, sorry. I don't care if you know about every bolt in the car, the credit is NOT yours. The credit belongs to the guy who built the car.

If I meet someone who built their own car, I am far more impressed than if I meet someone who just paid someone to build it. I would be shocked to hear anyone say otherwise. If you don't have the time, patience, or body for building a car anymore that's OK but you must realize that it's not the same.

My problem is with proper credit, and it belongs with the builder, not the buyer.

[4MuscleMachines]

I believe the credit is to both buyer and builder, they are a team in some respects. The credit can offset much more to the builder when it is a Foose, Alan, Troy, ect. On the other hand, if there were no checkwriters, there would be a helluva lot less respectable builders.

[mikey]

I'm building my car myself with the exception of engine and trans. I've been at it since I bought it in oct. 88. It really just sat in the garage until a couple of years ago when I met Kyle Tucker at a goodguys show. After talking with him I decided to go from full resto to pro tour. I enjoy and take pride that I can do it myself. The only problem is finding the time and motivation to work on my own toys. I tend to get burn't out after doing customer cars all week but they do provide the funds for my toys. I could build my own drivetrains if I had to but I really don't want to practice when I can swap labor and get it done right the first time. Besides being a painter/body tech/fabricater by trade I'm to particular to let someone else do my cars. I've built other cars for myself just none of this magnatude.

[Pro-touring towncar]

I do over 95% of my own work on all my vehicles. If I can do I will. Be it engine, suspension, paint, body work, electrical Ect.

Tim

[Bob Johnson]

I think building your own car does add something. Of course you can enjoy and have pride in something that you paid for, but it isn't the same. If you went out and bought a painting, you could have pride in it and know everything about it, but it would not be the same as if you painted it yourself.

I have no problem with people paying for their cars, but I don't like it when they take credit for the car. If you sent out checks, you didn't do anything, sorry. I don't care if you know about every bolt in the car, the credit is NOT yours. The credit belongs to the guy who built the car.

If I meet someone who built their own car, I am far more impressed than if I meet someone who just paid someone to build it. I would be shocked to hear anyone say otherwise. If you don't have the time, patience, or body for building a car anymore that's OK but you must realize that it's not the same.

My problem is with proper credit, and it belongs with the builder, not the buyer.
Does your wife have any of your paintings on the wall of your home?
Do you think if I looked at your car I could find some things that I had not seen before and get some new ideas and learn something from you?

[shmoov69]

Goodness!! Some of you guys sure got your panties in a wad!!:moon:
I just read thru this thread for the first time and did not take his first question threatening in the least bit! Seemed like his meaning was that he was amused (at someone elses expense) that the guy had a killer car and knew nothing about it. Yeah, I would prolly say to myself "what a shmuck", but still a cool car and commend him for owning it. Checkbook cars don't bother me a bit. Sure, maybe not as close to your heart as your own knuckles bloody and wrenches thrown (and lost) under the bench, but cool nontheless!
My car was hacked together by friends and myself over the past 16 years (since it was my first car and always drove it), with the exception of paint and body, which actually was a friend also. But if you count friends out, then I guess that I just did the engine, trans, brakes, suspension rebuild and some other misc crap myself ONLY.
But as said earlier, it looks like I did it myself!
My dad has told me for along time to just pay people to fix big stuff around my house and me concentrate on work and making $, since it will take me 10 times longer to do it myself. Do I do it? No, because I am too darn cheap!! Is he right? Yes, and the older I get, the more I realize that grey hair usualy prevails over young idiocy!:slap:
Just my .02

[ProdigyCustoms]

Is he right? Yes, and the older I get, the more I realize that grey hair usualy prevails over young idiocy!:slap:
Just my .02

Maybe the smartest comment in this thread yet

[OHCbird]

Not to sound like a group hug, but I'm just glad we live in a country that:

1. We can build cars / boats / houses / planes / whatever. when we want, and how we want.

2. We have the opportunity to take whatever route we want on a build, even if there are ten forums that hate what we do.

3. We have the opportunity to express our opinions, even if most of them are full of shiite (I most certainly include myself in that group).

OK- group hug :grouphug: over. Back to the wit and wisdom we love so much...

[rmbrady]

Does your wife have any of your paintings on the wall of your home?
Do you think if I looked at your car I could find some things that I had not seen before and get some new ideas and learn something from you?

I suppose you are trying to be funny, but to answer the question; I don't paint. That is not what I was saying, what I meant is that I would never take credit for the paintings that are on my wall just because I paid for them and know everything about them.

I will say it again, I don't care if you buy a car fully built by someone else. I understand that there are people who don't have the space/skill/time/tools to do it themselves. That's fine, I can't paint pictures, or write music, or a million other things, so I buy others work. The big difference is that I don't act like the stuff I buy is my work.

My father and I do all the work on my car. Even painted the the thing in our standard two car garage. You're not going to find anything special about it, no super ground breaking ideas. A two man team with limited resources can only do so much. I'm never going to say it's as nice as the Mule, or half the other cars on here, but I don't care either.

If you are getting bent out of shape because someone on the internet said you shouldn't take full credit for a car you just paid for, then maybe you are feeling guilty. I'm glad someone out there pays professionals big bucks, that way I have something to drool over in magazines and at shows. I just thing the credit belongs with the builder.

[Bob Johnson]

Do you think that I have taken credit for building the Cuda? Do you think any of the top cars built in the last few years have owners trying to take credit for the build? Oh contraire.. Most of the guys I know are very quick to stress the point of who their builder was and give him full credit. With all due respect, you and your father are probably bonding and you a learning a lot from him... but if I was at a car show, I would more than likely never even stop to look at your car. It's the professionals that are the driving force behind innovation and new trends. Crawl over, under, and around the Cuda. Ask Alan or myself a question or two..You will learn something...The Cuda wouldn't have been possible without Alan and the Johnson Hot Rod crew..not without Chris Itoh..not without checkwriter Bob either..anyone involved will give you the same answer.

[EFI69Cam]

Do you think that I have taken credit for building the Cuda? Do you think any of the top cars built in the last few years have owners trying to take credit for the build? Oh contraire.. Most of the guys I know are very quick to stress the point of who their builder was and give him full credit. With all due respect, you and your father are probably bonding and you a learning a lot from him... but if I was at a car show, I would more than likely never even stop to look at your car. It's the professionals that are the driving force behind innovation and new trends. Crawl over, under, and around the Cuda. Ask Alan or myself a question or two..You will learn something...The Cuda wouldn't have been possible without Alan and the Johnson Hot Rod crew..not without Chris Itoh..not without checkwriter Bob either..anyone involved will give you the same answer.

If you or Alan are willing to talk to people that makes you different from most of the car show types.
Many of them look down their noses at the home builders and don't want to answer questions.
I agree though, the real pros set the standards and give us home builders something to strive for.

Then again many times I have seen work that people have paid to have done and known I can do better.

[Bob Johnson]

That surprises me..maybe you're talking about the indoor show circuit guys..They are a different breed of cat..I've watched lots of owners in the Goodguys shows and they are very friendly and are eager to share their experience. If you ask me a bunch of stupid questions I might get annoyed after several are asked, but I love to talk with guys that are interested and want to learn about my cars. Stuff like is that a Viper motor? Is it on a Viper Chassis? How did youy paint that stuff on the front end? That kind of stuff gets old after 3 or more days. I watched the owner of The Grand Master at Columbus when he(Wes Rydell) won the Street Rod of the year Award (over my woodie to my chagrin) He was the most gracious, friendly guy I had ever seen..He was so energetic and happy to talk to everyone it was unreal. He was the nicest guy there, had the best car there, and rightfully so, won the Award. I'd love to know who cold shoulders you the next time..when people first meet him, some people take Alan as being stuck up..nothing is further from the truth..he's just a little bashful and quiet until you get to know him..He's got a lot on his mind

[EFI69Cam]

That surprises me..maybe you're talking about the indoor show circuit guys..They are a different breed of cat..I've watched lots of owners in the Goodguys shows and they are very friendly and are eager to share their experience. If you ask me a bunch of stupid questions I might get annoyed after several are asked, but I love to talk with guys that are interested and want to learn about my cars. Stuff like is that a Viper motor? Is it on a Viper Chassis? How did youy paint that stuff on the front end? That kind of stuff gets old after 3 or more days. I watched the owner of The Grand Master at Columbus when he(Wes Rydell) won the Street Rod of the year Award (over my woodie to my chagrin) He was the most gracious, friendly guy I had ever seen..He was so energetic and happy to talk to everyone it was unreal. He was the nicest guy there, had the best car there, and rightfully so, won the Award. I'd love to know who cold shoulders you the next time..when people first meet him, some people take Alan as being stuck up..nothing is further from the truth..he's just a little bashful and quiet until you get to know him..He's got a lot on his mind

Admittedly, I don't go to a whole lot of car shows, mostly because I got turned off by the number matching spark plug wire guys, but when I did there seemed to be cliques and folks really did not want to talk to people.

I was just giving you props for being cool, I've never met you, but you seem to be a really cool guy.

[BADVELLE]

Do you think that I have taken credit for building the Cuda? Do you think any of the top cars built in the last few years have owners trying to take credit for the build? Oh contraire.. Most of the guys I know are very quick to stress the point of who their builder was and give him full credit. With all due respect, you and your father are probably bonding and you a learning a lot from him... but if I was at a car show, I would more than likely never even stop to look at your car. It's the professionals that are the driving force behind innovation and new trends. Crawl over, under, and around the Cuda. Ask Alan or myself a question or two..You will learn something...The Cuda wouldn't have been possible without Alan and the Johnson Hot Rod crew..not without Chris Itoh..not without checkwriter Bob either..anyone involved will give you the same answer.

I just got into this thread, wanted to stay out of it for obvious reasons (I knew it would be taken the wrong way), however, I just need to comment real quick. What we are talking about primarily revolves around the mighty dollar and there is nothing wrong with that, it makes the world go 'round. I have all kinds of ideas, unfortunately at this time in my life it is not practical for me to dump the kind of coin I would like into my car or another for that matter. Now, I hope to enjoy the fruits of my labor working for the "man" or from my own business one of these days, much like Bob and several of the other members on this board that have worked their butts off to enjoy their toys later in life. Lastly, I don't think it takes a shop like Johnson's or any other to create a show stopper, just time, talent and money, which most of us may only have one of these attributes (talent)!

Now, I am going to go off any play my :nopity: ! Feel free to :box: , now!

[Bob Johnson]

Admittedly, I don't go to a whole lot of car shows, mostly because I got turned off by the number matching spark plug wire guys, but when I did there seemed to be cliques and folks really did not want to talk to people.

I was just giving you props for being cool, I've never met you, but you seem to be a really cool guy.
proof positive, you can't judge a book by looking at the cover..thanks anyway..

[Bob Johnson]

I just got into this thread, wanted to stay out of it for obvious reasons (I knew it would be taken the wrong way), however, I just need to comment real quick. What we are talking about primarily revolves around the mighty dollar and there is nothing wrong with that, it makes the world go 'round. I have all kinds of ideas, unfortunately at this time in my life it is not practical for me to dump the kind of coin I would like into my car or another for that matter. Now, I hope to enjoy the fruits of my labor working for the "man" or from my own business one of these days, much like Bob and several of the other members on this board that have worked their butts off to enjoy their toys later in life. Lastly, I don't think it takes a shop like Johnson's or any other to create a show stopper, just time, talent and money, which most of us may only have one of these attributes (talent)!

Now, I am going to go off any play my :nopity: ! Feel free to :box: , now!
Hey I didn't race or build cars until I took care of my obligations of being a husband and father. Family comes first. I've raised and educated my kids. I've given my wife about everything she has wanted, and now it's my turn. I plan to go out of here broke. It is my master plan that the last check I write will bounce..lol.... if you've got talent, the rest will happen if you work hard..

[Neil B]

I think I'm going to go out for lunch today and have a pro build my sandwich.

[BADVELLE]

Hey I didn't race or build cars until I took care of my obligations of being a husband and father. Family comes first. I've raised and educated my kids. I've given my wife about everything she has wanted, and now it's my turn. I plan to go out of here broke. It is my master plan that the last check I write will bounce..lol.... if you've got talent, the rest will happen if you work hard..

We are definitely on the same page and I could not have said it better myself! I can tell from your post that you are a well educated hick, ha, ha! (Just a joke!) I really got to meet you, the moonshine here in Missouri if really good, you coming to Kansas for the Goodguys show with the Cuda? See ya!

[Bob Johnson]

I think I'm going to go out for lunch today and have a pro build my sandwich.
did you have to take a second out on your house? .lol .... hope you only do it every now and then..I need to try that..maybe I'll lose weight that way

[Bob Johnson]

We are definitely on the same page and I could not have said it better myself! I can tell from your post that you are a well educated hick, ha, ha! (Just a joke!) I really got to meet you, the moonshine here in Missouri if really good, you coming to Kansas for the Goodguys show with the Cuda? See ya!
I doubt I'll make the Missouri Show..Nashville, then Columbus..

[novanutcase]

I built my house and my computer.........That's why I'm NOT building everything on my Nova!!!:slap:

[steemin]

One of the underlying issues at hand here is that there are "some" people out there that want to bang on their chest and have the world bow down to them because they built their car...
They look down their noses at anyone that does not build their own car. By the way these individuals also take the liberty of defining
what actually constitutes "building my own car".
Perhaps this is driven by jealousy for the guy with the money to plunk down for a completed ride.:dunno:
On the other hand I realize that there are also "some" guys out there that
really do not care about cars they just want to have the attention that is given towards a really nice car. I believe that this behavior is generally the result of over compensating for some physical shortcoming:bsjerk:

In both cases I believe that these types of individuals are the exception rather than the rule in the car hobby world.
98% of the people I run into on the street or at car events are great people. The other 2% :slap:
Let us focus on the 98%'ers not the 2%'ers
Scott

[nitrorocket]

Questions really get out of hand at the shows. I have to actually leave the car. I tell you, something different really brings people out of the woodwork. My #1 question is who built it? Following with, the motor to? Who built the headers? Etc.

I love the questions, makes me feel damn proud to put my name all over the car, If I wanted I could have built about 5 more turbo cars for people!

The thing I dislike is all the dis believers that question whether I built it, the power it makes, mileage, streetability, Etc. They are just nieve.

The funniest question I have had was, a guy pointed to my wastegates and asked if they were the distributers!! At first I thought he was joking. He was'nt.

I love car shows and the people and all there questions, As long as they are tastefull.

[ProdigyCustoms]

To be honest, what bothers me most at a show is not a guy that knows nothing, weather he be a owner of a ride or spectator. It is the guy that built one car, or part of a car, or read a book, and now he knows everything that annoys me. I would MUCH rather have a check writer at a show then a know it all that knows very little. I have just a bit of a pet peeve about virgins teaching sex ed.

[BADVELLE]

I have just a bit of a pet peeve about virgins teaching sex ed.

She told me she was not a virgin!!!!

[rob07002]

I plan to go out of here broke. It is my master plan that the last check I write will bounce..lol.... if you've got talent, the rest will happen if you work hard..

Bob, you stole my idea! or maybe I stole yours since your older:dunno: Idunno? The credit police can have all the fun they want trying to sqeeze the cash from my corpse....

He who dies with the most (and best) toys...

[rob07002]

To be honest, what bothers me most at a show is not a guy that knows nothing, weather he be a owner of a ride or spectator. It is the guy that built one car, or part of a car, or read a book, and now he knows everything that annoys me. I would MUCH rather have a check writer at a show then a know it all that knows very little. I have just a bit of a pet peeve about virgins teaching sex ed.

Since we're talking car show pet peeves: How about the guy who has owned every car you talk about. Not only has he owned your car (make/model) but he's owned all your buddies cars....

And then theres the guy (sometimes the same ahole as above) that had a Camaro, Chevelle, whatever with a Hemi, or that ultra-rare 426 big block chevy that pulled the front wheels every stop light when he shifted into 10th gear back in 1973...

[Bob Johnson]

I know a lot of guys on here that have been around a long time know lots of cars are referred to as say Alloways Challenger..when you ask about the Challenger..how many people say Ken's car..almost everyone refers to it as Alloways..Ken paid for it, but Alloway built it. The T Bird that George Lange owned but was built by Alloway..nearly everyone referred to it as Alloways T Bird. Fooses builds are referred to as his unless people know the owner..It happens all the time..I don't see the owners getting out of shape wanting credit for the build..

[nitrorocket]

To be honest, what bothers me most at a show is not a guy that knows nothing, weather he be a owner of a ride or spectator. It is the guy that built one car, or part of a car, or read a book, and now he knows everything that annoys me. I would MUCH rather have a check writer at a show then a know it all that knows very little. I have just a bit of a pet peeve about virgins teaching sex ed.

I have'nt run into anyone that acts like they know all, just a few that try to tell me what I "should" have done. I just get people, usually that are spectators, drilling questions about anything that might pop into there heads.:jump:

[Steve1968LS2]

I know a lot of guys on here that have been around a long time know lots of cars are referred to as say Alloways Challenger..when you ask about the Challenger..how many people say Ken's car..almost everyone refers to it as Alloways..Ken paid for it, but Alloway built it. The T Bird that George Lange owned but was built by Alloway..nearly everyone referred to it as Alloways T Bird. Fooses builds are referred to as his unless people know the owner..It happens all the time..I don't see the owners getting out of shape wanting credit for the build..

See.. that's where you're a GENIOUS! you hired a guy with the same last name to build your car.. that way when they say "Johnson's 'Cuda" you're a winner either way.. lol

The way I look at it is that Penny would not exist as she is without my vision behind in and my sweating over every detail. I wish I had all day to spin wrenches on her, but I have a job and a family. Nowadays, even when it's time to do work I am busy weilding the camera instead of a tool. I know that I COULD do almost anything on my car short of welding (well, good at least) and paint. Also, Im fairly sure I know know more about my car than any other person.

At least this weekend I will get to work on her since I am putting in a major part that isn't going to be a story.. woot!

[kennyd]

this is gettin off the topic BUT ...
the thing i hate at shows is the guy who likes to pick apart every car . i take pride in building cars , i am not the best or do i claim to be anyway near the best , then you have some jerkoff who makes the comment , look at that ,then goes over and drives away in his crapy t'bucket . we all strive to be the best we can be at anything we do , from cars to underwater basket weaving .
i guess what i am trying to say is " if you cant say something nice ,shut the f&*kup"

[enzo]

I have worked on my cars in the past and have built them myself. Nowadays I pay someone to do it so I can still spend time with my family, which to some including me, takes prescedence. I too, have worried about every detail and have personally put every thought and idea behind the car's final image and if you tell me I am not a car guy I will step on your head. There are, however lots of people who always wanted a "cool car". I can think of 20 guys in high school that begged their dads for an old hot rod but couldn't tell you the difference between a carburator and a muffler. Many of these guys probably grew up, made some bucks, and are now trying to live out their fantasy. I say GOD bless 'em!! I think everyone is capable of loving their hobby to its fullest due to whatever reason inspires them. Build it, Buy it, Borrow it, who cares - if they have a cool ride give them a thumbs up and make their day. No need to slander or talk smack because he doesn't have the latest set of Snap On tools in his garage. At least it's not a pretentious European car with the latest lease offer from the local dealer. my 2 cents

[Dan Sherwood]

Bobby J-I love the plan. Love it!!! I may not quite have all 6 kids educated and married off yet, but you put in writing what I've been thinking. Wean the kids, convince the wife she's got everything she needs (and I think she does) and make sure there ain't nothin left when it's all over for anyone to fight over. Brilliant!!!!!!!!!!!:postpics: of every poster!! hee hee

[mustanggirl1967]

i agree with rmbrady ...

[Bob Johnson]

She told me she was not a virgin!!!!
that's an about face..when I came along they were all virgins..so they said..now it's hip to be pregnant at 15..damn if I could change the time clock

[BADVELLE]

that's an about face..when I came along they were all virgins..so they said..now it's hip to be pregnant at 15..damn if I could change the time clock

Yea well, the times they have changed!

[Bob Johnson]

See.. that's where you're a GENIOUS! you hired a guy with the same last name to build your car.. that way when they say "Johnson's 'Cuda" you're a winner either way.. lol

The way I look at it is that Penny would not exist as she is without my vision behind in and my sweating over every detail. I wish I had all day to spin wrenches on her, but I have a job and a family. Nowadays, even when it's time to do work I am busy weilding the camera instead of a tool. I know that I COULD do almost anything on my car short of welding (well, good at least) and paint. Also, Im fairly sure I know know more about my car than any other person.

At least this weekend I will get to work on her since I am putting in a major part that isn't going to be a story.. woot!
You can see the owners influence on a builder. Take Steve Moal..if he builds a car for Eric Zausner, you can see the difference in the direction of a build by Steve for say Tim Allen. That last Zausner car that was on the cover of Street Rodder a few months ago is bitchin. He told Moal..I want you to build a car for me, and when you're done, I want you to immediately start another one until you or I die, or I go broke. He's done real well for himself, so we can rule out that last option. He and Moal are going in different directions with each car. The Cuda that Trepanier is building for Poteet is way deep in unchartered waters. Alan Johnson is doing several 32's that are going to be earth shattering. He's in discussions with Doug Cooper on a 69 Camaro that is going to be unbelievable. These guys keep one upping each other and this hobby is going to enjoy some very exciting stuff.. . .not to mention numerous other top builders and the next level of guys that are honing their skills every day. The bar keeps getting raised, and everybody is stepping up and getting over it somehow..

[BADVELLE]

You can see the owners influence on a builder. Take Steve Moal..if he builds a car for Eric Zausner, you can see the difference in the direction of a build by Steve for say Tim Allen. That last Zausner car that was on the cover of Street Rodder a few months ago is bitchin. He told Moal..I want you to build a car for me, and when you're done, I want you to immediately start another one until you or I die, or I go broke. He's done real well for himself, so we can rule out that last option. He and Moal are going in different directions with each car. The Cuda that Trepanier is building for Poteet is way deep in unchartered waters. Alan Johnson is doing several 32's that are going to be earth shattering. He's in discussions with Doug Cooper on a 69 Camaro that is going to be unbelievable. These guys keep one upping each other and this hobby is going to enjoy some very exciting stuff.

Excellent points and that is also what makes this industry/hobby so powerful and enjoyable! This hobby is not effective by any outside issues, ie, the war or interest rates. Whether you build them or not, our cars are investments, that will only continue to escalate in price, similar to that good piece of dirt/land! I have to admit that in one of your earlier post probably not noticing a car that was home built, generally due to the innovations it may or may not contain, I took some offense. :idea: I do the same thing at shows, so I have nothing to be put off about, I migrate directly to cars from Troy, Alan, Foose, The Greenings, Bobby Alloway, Brizio, Dave Lane and even Kenny's Willy's a couple years back. I guess what I am saying is that regardless of the person building, we are looking at craftmanship in these cars and innovation. Heck, I followed Roy Pigford into the Kansas show the year before last and he talked to me for at least 30 minutes about his car, the mishaps with the hood flying up and all, heck of a guy.

[Bob Johnson]

Excellent points and that is also what makes this industry/hobby so powerful and enjoyable! This hobby is not effective by any outside issues, ie, the war or interest rates. Whether you build them or not, our cars are investments, that will only continue to escalate in price, similar to that good piece of dirt/land! I have to admit that in one of your earlier post probably not noticing a car that was home built, generally due to the innovations it may or may not contain, I took some offense. :idea: I do the same thing at shows, so I have nothing to be put off about, I migrate directly to cars from Troy, Alan, Foose, The Greenings, Bobby Alloway, Brizio, Dave Lane and even Kenny's Willy's a couple years back. I guess what I am saying is that regardless of the person building, we are looking at craftmanship in these cars and innovation. Heck, I followed Roy Pigford into the Kansas show the year before last and he talked to me for at least 30 minutes about his car, the mishaps with the hood flying up and all, heck of a guy.
I will notice a car that is cool even if it isn't expensive. But 90% of the time, they aren't cool. Some of these rat rod guys rummage around and come up with some of the neatest stuff I have ever seen. i love it and if you're creative and have a lot of imagination and vision you can do it on the cheap. One of my favorite cars I own is a 66 Rambler Wagon. It has a Warren Johnson built .030 over 390 AMC motor with a super T10 and a 9" narrowed rear 4 wheel discs sub frames tied together..mini tubbed..a homebuilt car. super tidy and neat. Built by Warren's nephew Danny Lappy out of Buford Ga. It goes like hell. It had a blurb about it in Hot Rod Magazine 7 months or so ago when I ran it at Maxton. Freiburger said it was one of his favorite cars there. Only car I ever got in Hot Rod. Dennis Fringe in Concord N. C. is another guy that homebuilds some cool stuff. I don't call him a homebuilder since he fabricated race cars for years but now just tinkers on his own stuff. I didn't mean to say I would never look at a homebuilt car, it's just for everyone that impresses me I see 100+ or more that just aren't cool. The guy I bought the Rambler from bought it from Lappy. His name is Don Doster..he does some real neat stuff and he's a homebuilt kinda guy. He has a 33 Buick he is working on and it is somekinda cool. It was at the Braselton Bash. Blue..with unfinished interior that had Indian blankets for covers. Would you call Pigford a professional? I would

[MarkM66]

this is gettin off the topic BUT ...
the thing i hate at shows is the guy who likes to pick apart every car . i take pride in building cars , i am not the best or do i claim to be anyway near the best , then you have some jerkoff who makes the comment , look at that ,then goes over and drives away in his crapy t'bucket . we all strive to be the best we can be at anything we do , from cars to underwater basket weaving .
i guess what i am trying to say is " if you cant say something nice ,shut the f&*kup"

Sounds exactly like someone you and I both know, ;-) . Almost to a "T" .

[rmbrady]

... but if I was at a car show, I would more than likely never even stop to look at your car. It's the professionals that are the driving force behind innovation and new trends.

You would not stop to look at my car because I would never take my car to a show. I don't work on cars for others, I do it for myself. I also think I said I was glad that there were people who built big dollar cars becuase they are fun to look at. The same way a Bugatti is fun to look at. That being said I would much rather build a a car with a thousand HP than buy a Bugatti even if it never turned out as nice in the end. It is just different strokes for different folks.

I'm glad that you are up front about your car. You have every right to take credit for the idea of the car if it was yours, etc. In my experience I have run into people who cliam the car is the result of their work only to find out later that the only wrote a check. I never meant to incite a riot or anything. I'm just throwing my view into the mix, as many people think like me that I encounter on a day to day basis.

[Bob Johnson]

You have a right to your opinion..I have a right to mine..no one is right or wrong..is this a great country or what..but I'll bet you one thing..you're young and when you get older and are successful, your views on many things will change..then you'll be arguing with some young whippersnapper..lol

[rob07002]

Bob, one thing I've been meening to ask you, what is the color called on the Cuda? Is it HOk or something custom? I never knew it had "HEMI" down the side till I saw the pic Bill posted with Chip kneeling next to it... Couldn't even tell in the PHR spread...

[Bob Johnson]

Bob, one thing I've been meening to ask you, what is the color called on the Cuda? Is it HOk or something custom? I never knew it had "HEMI" down the side till I saw the pic Bill posted with Chip kneeling next to it... Couldn't even tell in the PHR spread...
Greg that paints for Alan posts on here as customcar painter or something. It's a PPG color that he has modified some. I started out to ghost the billboards, but I liked the look of them so well, we darkened them some..Alan and Itoh fought me on them but both loved them once we got them on the car..Couldn't have a 71 Cuda without them...

[formula]

Alan and Itoh fought me on them but both loved them once we got them on the car..Couldn't have a 71 Cuda without them...

Damn skippy, and they look friggin awesome. One of my favorite parts of the car.

On topic: I may be a minority here, but I do the work on my car primarily because it's much less expensive to do on my own than it is to pay someone to do it. Don't get me wrong, I like working on my car a lot-- but I LOVE driving my car. If I had the money, I would farm out a lot of the work on my car purely to speed up the assembly process. I think that a lot of the "check rodders" these days, especially the ones into muscle cars are genuine car guys that have just gotten to a place in their life where they have the money to delegate the dirty work to others and can just actually play with their toys.

At the same time, I have a lot of respect for the homebuilt cars too--provided they are approached with the same design ethic as the big-money cars. If you build something that's classy, tasteful, well-engineered, and innovative, I don't care if it's made of cold rolled or inconel. To this day, I see a lot of part-shelf specials (and I'm guilty of it myself, to an extent, back before I knew what I wanted from my car and was relying on what my idiot friends told me would be cool) that have no real thought put into them. The owner just threw resources--be they money or time-- at the car until it was really shiny just like all the other cars, then trailered it to the show. These are the cars I skip over. I've seen big-money cars guilty of this, too. It's the guys that have taken the time to plan out their car from top to bottom, then plan out a few tricks to try, that get my attention. Bob and alan and itoh obviously all sat down and planned out what they wanted for every part of the car from top to bottom before they ever turned a wrench, and it shows. I'm sure they also sat down and each said, "hey, I've been thinkin, and I just can't help but wonder if this wouldn't be cool" or "this wouldn't make us faster". You can do that on any build, regardless of who turns the wrenches or what the budget is.

[nitrorocket]

Just a question, who do you get to insure your cars? I have a couple appraisers look at my car and did not REALLY see the value of it. Because I built it myself and di not really have any reciepts, they would not value it as high as I would have liked. I would like it insured for an actual replacement value as if I would just go to a shop and pay for the whole build. Do you know what it would cost to have a custom "best of the best" twin turbo setup and motor built into a '71 Chevelle??? Well it is NOT cheap! Well, they didn't think much of it. They were more concerned that the motor actually hurts the value! and the car is not stock...... What the heck!!! What do people with a car thet they actually paid $100k for??? Boy, that orange Cuda must only be worth scrap because it is not original!

What did you guys do??? Any recommendations?

[kennyd]

Sounds exactly like someone you and I both know, ;-) . Almost to a "T" .

exactally

[vanzuuk1]

I get the same dumb questions all the time.

"Are you gonna get rims for that car?" ( it has rims, they just arnt shiny enough for you)

"Are you gonna bring it to that burnett johnson auction I seen on the tv?" (no, are you gonna put that kid on a diet?)

Sorry, off topic a little.

[Neil B]

What did you guys do??? Any recommendations?

Collector car policies with Grundy, Hagerty, etc. are agreed value. You tell them what it's worth and, as long as it's reasonable for the type of car, they charge you based on the amount of the agreed value. A current appraisal is not required. However, my cars are fairly stock - it may work differently for heavily modified cars. Receipts are always a good idea.

[BADVELLE]

Would you call Pigford a professional? I would[/quote]

Yes and one hell of a nice guy!

[rob07002]

Just a question, who do you get to insure your cars? I have a couple appraisers look at my car and did not REALLY see the value of it. Because I built it myself and di not really have any reciepts, they would not value it as high as I would have liked. I would like it insured for an actual replacement value as if I would just go to a shop and pay for the whole build. Do you know what it would cost to have a custom "best of the best" twin turbo setup and motor built into a '71 Chevelle??? Well it is NOT cheap! Well, they didn't think much of it. They were more concerned that the motor actually hurts the value! and the car is not stock...... What the heck!!! What do people with a car thet they actually paid $100k for??? Boy, that orange Cuda must only be worth scrap because it is not original!

What did you guys do??? Any recommendations?

I have Grudy and so far so good. No claims, which is a good thing and like stated above its agreed value. no appraisal necessary. As long as your not trying to insure a 77 pinto for 900k I don't see them questioning it. Give them a call. There in PA

[ironworks]

It is all about the cars and seeing new and fresh ideas. More horsepower and better handling. All this stuff costs time and money. Sure you could do it your self on your off time but by the time you finish it some one else has done it. The pro builder brings more resources and capabilities that the home builder could ever dream of. Plus the pro builders skills multiply on lot bigger rate due to full time work.

I don't care how the great cars end up getting done as long as they do. Because it is all about the cars, I like the journey more than the destination , which is why I like going to shops more than shows.

[2lofosho]

even if i had all the money i could ever want i think i would still build all of my cars. im personaly believe REAL RIDE ARE BUILT NOT BOUGHT but i also believe if your time is more valuable than your money then have some of the work contracted out but not more than machine work and a good body shop for the body and paint. that's it. and i hate it when people buy cars already built. im not here to argue or piss anyone off just stating my opinion and out look and if you dont like it....... sorry about your luck. not going to argue about it with anyone. thanks

[USAZR1]

Just a question, who do you get to insure your cars? I have a couple appraisers look at my car and did not REALLY see the value of it. Because I built it myself and di not really have any reciepts, they would not value it as high as I would have liked. I would like it insured for an actual replacement value as if I would just go to a shop and pay for the whole build. Do you know what it would cost to have a custom "best of the best" twin turbo setup and motor built into a '71 Chevelle??? Well it is NOT cheap! Well, they didn't think much of it. They were more concerned that the motor actually hurts the value! and the car is not stock...... What the heck!!! What do people with a car thet they actually paid $100k for??? Boy, that orange Cuda must only be worth scrap because it is not original!
What did you guys do??? Any recommendations?

LaRue Insurance in KY insures my car. Alex is a supporting vendor of ACES and really knows Chevelles & El Caminos. (800) 303-3518
Great guy to work with.

[1sick65]

even if i had all the money i could ever want i think i would still build all of my cars. im personaly believe REAL RIDE ARE BUILT NOT BOUGHT but i also believe if your time is more valuable than your money then have some of the work contracted out but not more than machine work and a good body shop for the body and paint. that's it. and i hate it when people buy cars already built. im not here to argue or piss anyone off just stating my opinion and out look and if you dont like it....... sorry about your luck. not going to argue about it with anyone. thanks


I know that you are not here is argue or piss anyone off, but all I have to say is :bsjerk:

[zero g]

If I won the lotto, I'd never touch a wrench again, :cheers: .

If I won the lotto...................that is all I would do........Well, maybe not all, but alot.:smoke:

[vanzuuk1]

So what do you do with a car thats "already built" , junk it?

[enzo]

im personaly believe REAL RIDE ARE BUILT NOT BOUGHT
How is that not meant to piss anyone off???

I think that everyone has an individual right to be proud of their cars. You don't see the guys who have their cars built on this thread saying negative things about those who build their own cars.

[kennyd]

even if i had all the money i could ever want i think i would still build all of my cars. im personaly believe REAL RIDE ARE BUILT NOT BOUGHT but i also believe if your time is more valuable than your money then have some of the work contracted out but not more than machine work and a good body shop for the body and paint. that's it. and i hate it when people buy cars already built. im not here to argue or piss anyone off just stating my opinion and out look and if you dont like it....... sorry about your luck. not going to argue about it with anyone. thanks

no ment to to piss anyone off ? i am thinking what a jackoff .

[MarkM66]

Lock this SOB!!!!

How's that saying go? Opinions are like A-....

[ramz69ss]

this whole thing sounds like the old harley guys versus the yuppy riders.......
personally,i want to do as much as i can on a car,,,but i would pay for it too,if i wanted done quicker or didn't have the means to build what i needed(tooling,machines,etc.)........
i'm not into this lets one-up the badazz car out the year before thing,but it is cool to see the lengths these guys will go to,i just can't wait til the "j2000 from the 80's" comes out!!!!
i do think you guys are a little harsh towards him BUT he should have thought about saying that on a site that everyone but a few build their own stuff.....again,,i idolize big red and it wasn't owner built.....

[syborg tt]

"j2000 from the 80's" comes out!!!!

My God i was at the Street Machines Nationals when they pulled that beast out of the trailer

[bret loibl]

I have turn-keyed a few drag cars for some guys and always did as much of the work that i was comfortable with myself...Now it is starting to pay off as iam getting some customers that want me to build them some cars...I understand that a lot of guys don't have the time or skills to do their cars themself...Thanks to my dad i was given the skills to do quite a lot of work my self...The car i just built i did everything but the exterior paint ( i did trust myself enough to shoot the engine bay and the interior color)...The more you can do yourself the more you learn and yhe more you save!!!

[vanzuuk1]

WAAAAA, no one builds their own cars but me, waaaa.

[Neil B]

Just to stir the kettle, I think the Dobbertin J2000 was owner-built. Of course, then there's the surface orbiter....

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/06/3cars-1.gif

[zero g]

That surprises me..maybe you're talking about the indoor show circuit guys..They are a different breed of cat..I've watched lots of owners in the Goodguys shows and they are very friendly and are eager to share their experience. If you ask me a bunch of stupid questions I might get annoyed after several are asked, but I love to talk with guys that are interested and want to learn about my cars. Stuff like is that a Viper motor? Is it on a Viper Chassis? How did youy paint that stuff on the front end? That kind of stuff gets old after 3 or more days. I watched the owner of The Grand Master at Columbus when he(Wes Rydell) won the Street Rod of the year Award (over my woodie to my chagrin) He was the most gracious, friendly guy I had ever seen..He was so energetic and happy to talk to everyone it was unreal. He was the nicest guy there, had the best car there, and rightfully so, won the Award. I'd love to know who cold shoulders you the next time..when people first meet him, some people take Alan as being stuck up..nothing is further from the truth..he's just a little bashful and quiet until you get to know him..He's got a lot on his mind

Comparing the world class builders and the owners of those world class cars to the rich local yokel who bought his car or had it built is comparing apples to oranges. Some of the rich locals are the masters of their domain and don't have time for us heathen DIYers and our home built hot rods.:wedgie:

[zbugger]

Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!!!! I think this is done. To those who think they lost, :nopity: