Never really liked "Rat" rods in the past....guess I was turned off by the unsafe, shoddy workmanship and general lack of concern for the lives of others on the highways that is so often seen among the "Rat" folk.
You and Donny though, have shown that a high quality, safe rod can be built and for very little money. While you haven't given us the final cost figures it looks like you brought it in very close to your budget. You have stayed true to your stated goals and not been tempted to turn it into a show rod. (Unlike some others here who threw the budget out the window once they got started.)
Congratulations on a fine job and thanks so much for sharing it with us.