Re: When deciding what to buy....

Posted by fred kanter On 2011/5/22 13:18:49

I own and operate a restoration shop in addition to my parts business, we charge $85/hr as we are in a high cost area of the country. Recently we got in a 35 Buick coupe completely disassembled. A year later it was restored to #1- conditiohn as the owner did not want wool upholstery, but modern synthtetic as he is going to drive it with his kids in it. The bill was just over $100,000. The Packard would probably be more as the body is larger and the upholstery more extensive. If the motor is not worked on , just made cosmetically acceptable, deduct $8,000.

If you just want a #3, then the body surfacing would be less, deduct $7000.

There have been some very nice cars in the #2-3 condition in the $50-$60 range, a better buy. But you have to see, oinspect, drive and have a mechanic dn body man go over the car or you could be in for a $5-$20 surprise.

YOu're starting with a Packard, you can;t go wrong if your mind rules your emotions.