Quote:
Originally Posted by harpo231
I only ask this question because I've read many not so subtle comments in different threads about having a professional or doing yourself.I have done total frame off on a 51 deluxe a 66 chevy panel (except for paint ,i suck at that). I had the good fortune to work for the same company 35 yrs with a wicked good retirement plan.So the brand new 67 c10 I've always wanted is in process , I love working on them but am now unable to because of health . I have seen the comments about replacement body panels . Well after 35 yrs in sheet metal fabrication, metallurgy,and manufacturing engineering.I think I know what to look for in metal parts. The panels that I have had to replace were all thicker gauge than original not much, 18 vs 19/20 (as little as 2/3 yrs ago you could only get in 22 ga) ..The parts do not always fit perfectly, We had laser cnc programmed parts that did not always fit up. I think in a lot of cases new panels and a little fit up outweighs hours of labor at 80$ plus per.. I'm Gonna pay an arm and a leg for my dream truck because of motor,trans, disc brakes ,wiring,new wood bed,bumpers,,etc and leave it for my boys to fight over..  Will my truck be any less a truck if I don't build it ? just something to kick around  You can see the tear down on build thread....... |
1i am quite capable of building and doing my own but I have chosen to let someone else do the metal work on mine and have regretted making that decision ever since... getting the quality that I am demanding of my 67 through a 3rd party is just not happening...So my suggestion to you is be prepared to either let things roll off as the "body Shop" or restoration shop doesn't live up to what your vision is OR prepare to get frustrated and have to keep in their face to make sure it is done to the standard you expect...