Thread: What do I do?

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If the value is enough to find a similar car to build, sell it as is. If it costs more to build another one, I like that idea of pulling it off the original chassis, so at least it is still usable for someone.

To me, the idea of driving an underpowered hot rod, that won't deliver some thrills, stop if you have to, and turn heads, is not worth the effort. I used to ride in my buddies pumped up flatheads, and that was pathetic. A four cylinder would probably be even worse. I'd use something with at least 300+ inches.

FWIW, I would Keep it stock if it is in good restored shape then find another A basket case that still has a good body and rod that. You would most likely want a new frame and new running gear in any case so a good body is all you would need. Then you could drive the stock A in parades and drive the other in rod runs or to rod shows. As an added bonus, you can drive the stock A while building the rod. Good luck.

Jack.

Originally Posted by pat mccarthy

donovan make a B alum block

And for about $20-25K, almost anyone can have one; they are a little pricey.

Originally Posted by drec

And for about $20-25K, almost anyone can have one; they are a little pricey.

the blocks are not that much. i have two donovans bbc blocks 10.200 and 11.500.the engine built well maybe.. just say parts are still made for them.

Roper and Hotrod,

From what I have seen a stock 40 year old restored A wouldn't bring enough $$$ to put even a dent in a good rod build. Do what you want but I like my plan above. I realize your financial situation will play a part in your decision.

Jack.

Thanks for all the ideas.

I am leaning on the suggestion that since it is not original, old restore, it needs to be rodded. I have not had the opportunity yet to see what the condition is of the under side. I am just assuming it to be as nice as the rest of the car.

I will let you know what happens.
Steve

This is what I would do to it!

My friends who own "hot rods" seldom drive them. nor does the friend with a stock A. however my wife and I drive our A (see avitar pic) quite often, year around, even if we're just going to the store for a loaf of bread. a Mustang II donor was used for the 2.3 4 cyl engine, trans, front and rear suspensiion etc. It's dependable and inexpensive transportation in our book. I even put late bucket seats and seat/shoulder belts in it for safety sake and comfort.

I have had a simular experience restoring a 51 ford pickup.ended up going with the stock version(kind of glad I did).later bought a 45 ford pickup project that was already hotroded out but needed a fair amount of work.If you look around you can find a low buck project thats missing a motor and tranny that you already have and wont feel bad going wild.just my 2 cents worth.good luck