The Inherited Project Car

By Author: Joel Neuder
Total Articles: 17
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Your teenage son (or daughter) had great ambitions for their classic car project. He found a cool car worthy of his time and loving care. He parked it in your yard or garage, put it on blocks, maybe hoisted the engine or removed body panels - even found a parts car. But now he's off at college, or away at his first real job, or starting a family. And you have to decide what to do with it. Here are some of the things that have to factor into your decision:Does it speak to you? This is purely emotional. Is the make and model of the car something that makes your heart go pitty-pat? Does it bring back memories, or long buried hopes or desires? Can you see yourself proudly driving it work? Or taking it out for a weekend cruise? Or showing it off at classic car events? If the answer to most of these is no, explore getting rid of it to someone who will appreciate it - or at least some other kid needing a project. And the sooner it's gone, the happier you and your spouse will be.What is its real condition? You may need a specialist for this. Carefully inventory the car's condition, what needs to be done mechanically ...
... and cosmetically, what parts it needs, what parts might be transferrable, and what the time element involved is. It's not common for someone's ambitions to outstrip reality, and it's better for you to know now - before you get knee deep in work.Costs. This means both money and time. The amount of money you're willing to put into it is up to you. But often the real cost is in the time commitment. Your kid thought he had nothing but time. You know differently. Are you looking for a project? Do you even like working on cars? Are you factoring in the time it takes to learn things you don't yet know how to do? Like most household do-it-yourself projects, expect it to take longer than you think. And then expect it to take even longer.Is there family buy-in? This means, mostly, your spouse. Is she or he willing to do with your absence? Willing to cede space in the garage or back yard for months - maybe years? Willing to put up with the outflow of money? Many relationships have foundered on less.Factor all of the above together, and then ask the $64,000 question: Is it worth it? If the answer is definitely "no," it's time to cut your losses and find a new home for project. (That's a subject for another time.)If the answer is only equivocal because of the work involved, it may be advisable to call in the professionals.If you've inherited a project car and want to see it what it would take to bring it to a full, glorious restoration, call a professional classic car restorations firm now for a confidential, free estimate. However, ensure your due diligence is done and ensure they have the experience and equipment needed to turn your project into something you would be proud to drive (and will make your son or daughter envious).