"thanks for the pics. sorry to say but i am not willing to do a simpleThe decision to fully restore the car myself was a tough and intimidating choice to make, especially being totally unskilled in the area of automotive restoration. I am really pleased I stuck with it (I think) and still have my fingers crossed that I can actually pull this off!
weld it up for the mot job due to how bad the whole area around the rot
is. if that was just plated up it would be a night mare to get it back
to being a nice car again due to having to weld he floor and body together."
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Sunday, 18 June 2017
10 years ago
Came across this old email communication recently from exactly 10 years ago (dated 18/06/2007). It is from a local classic car restoration company who I had previously contacted about getting some 'economic' repairs done to the heater channels and body mounts with a view to keep Gretchen on the road. No doubt that this concise reply was a huge contributing factor for me ultimately deciding that I had to tackle this resto myself or part ways with her. The reality was that keeping her running was no longer viable:
I know you will pull this off! Being able to mig weld sheet metal is a skill not everyone can accomplish with proficiency, but you have mastered. I certainly cannot butt weld in a patch and make the seam disappear like you. I follow your blog and celebrate small victories with you on the body and pan repairs. It's only a matter of time - it will get done.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the encouraging words Michael! Your ongoing support for the project and belief in my abilities is heartening. A matter of time is indeed what it all boils down to.
ReplyDeleteRE: invisible butt welds. It is all about the random orbital sander! A truly remarkable tool for finishing and blending metal ;-)
I am currently restoring my 1971 Beetle. My ex-partner was a mechanic and he taught me the basics. I'm now close to completing a course that covers bodywork restoration and welding. There are 3 other girls on my course and I am hoping to open a body shop with one of them. Loved your blog; it has inspired me greatly.
ReplyDeleteMadonna Gentry @ SVS Autocare
Hi Madonna! All the best with your '71! I am sure that your course will equip you with all the skills you need to bring it back to life. Kind of wish I had done something similar back at the beginning of my project. I lost a lot of time faffing around and for years I worked inefficiently due to my lack of experience and knowledge. Glad to hear you have been inspired by the blog - I feel the content is improving as my practical workshop competency grows and I will continue to share all that I know. Good luck with your future business venture.
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