Gotta add my 2 centavos here:

The most common mistake made in the hot rodding hobby (or in any hobby for that matter) is jumping in without first being realistic. I've done it, we've all done it.....we let our dreams comingle with reality and we start a project with no chance for completion. Swap meets and Auto Trader ads are full of good intended projects that are only partially done.

Be realistic: It will take at least $20,000 cash to get this car running. Twenty grand IF you and your relatives work for free. I'm guessing that the windows are broken, the tires/wheels are gone, the gas tank is rusted out, the chrome is shot, the trim missing or unuseable, the interior is probably a pack rat hotel, and the cloth-covered wiring is frayed.....and the engine/tranny is gone. That's why it was drug to the ditch in the first place...it was shot. Twenty grand. Minimum. Dont spout the B.S. about scrounging parts, etc. We've all used that line too. You might scrounge some stuff but the rest will cost.

Be realistic: This wasnt your grandfather's car. It was dumped on his property before he bought it. What is your connection to the car? If you got your first sex in the front seat, it might have sentimental value. If you married her, it will not. Spending all the time plus the $20 grand isnt a good deal, not matter what you learn from the experience. Take part of the money and buy a 1948 Chev from someone who already hiked this trail and is ready to dump his dream.....nightmares are dreams, too.

Be realistic: Are you a body man? A painter? An engine builder? A chassis man? Learning is good but it takes time. Dont try to build the Empire State building on your first try.....and dont think you are going to learn the right way and do it with Harbor Freight crappy tools. Look at real pros...their tools are not el cheapo Chinese junk. OOPS, add $20 grand for tools.

Be realistic: get a car that is running. Fix the brakes first. Tinker with the motor. Do some work on the shocks, suspension, etc. Learn about the wiring, especially the wiring. Try some body work if you feel brave. If you start with a shell of a car on your first try, you'll be overwhelmed and will never have it completed.

Be realistic.

We have all done it.....dont toss good money into a hopeless cause.

mike in tucson