Full Nut and Bolt Restoration

[mprice]

I have had 17 cars over the years that have undergone complete frame off restorations. My advice would be to find someone you trust and like and even then have them put it in writing for the number of hours not to exceed. There also has to be an agreement that if there is major surprises found both parties must agree on any changes. My general budgeting rule is 1000 hours for complete restoration. I have had one that went 2.5 times that but 1000 hours in a good shop should suffice. Parts on the other hand is a different question, my budget if a lot is missing is usually $40,000. To echo others here don't expect to recoup the cost of the restoration when you sell the car. It is sad because there is so many great cars that needs to be saved but todays economics it just isn't feasible to expect to come out on the other end.