Quote Originally Posted by stovens View Post
I'd ask him what he wants for it, then go on craigslist, ebay google, etc.. and search for similar vehicles, that alone will educate you to what components and powertrains, old, new, highend, basic, versions of what you are interested in are going for. The best deals these days seem to be from computer illiterates, who are lazy or inherited a rod they don't have a place to keep. Craigslist sometimes can generate great deals.
The one over whelming word of advice is, if it is a project, or work in progress, be very carefull, and triple the finishing costs of your wildest imagination, as these add up fast, labor for things your not willing to do adds up very fast, and stupid little stuff like windshield wiper motors, and gauges, trim, etc, even just bolts, add up very fast. If I had to do it again, I'd look for a well built finished project(if your not sure, take it to a hot rod shop for an inspection...well worth the money) I'd drive it (like Techinspector says above) in lots of different conditions, i.e. highway speeds, twisty turny roads, speed bump parking lots, and even slow traffic) and see how it behaves, especially does it heat up when idling in traffic, does it cause noise fatigue on the hiway....
Ultimately I personaly believe you can buy a finished rod for less than what it will cost to assemble and build a project, so depending if you like tinkering and aren't in a hurry, or if you have money to burn, you can pick what level of hot rod to purchase. I think the best advice for projects, is estimate a budget and triple the time and cost and you'll be about right. Get a daily driver, that runs well, and you'll be in front of the game at the very get go.
Yup the little $hit adds up fast. Hell I have over $800 in stainless bolts alone on my tudor.