I just came into possession of an all original 32 ford that was transformed into a hot rod back in the early 50's and then it sat in a garage from 58 on until recent. I am looking for a directory or resource to if this exists to locate a shop that can give the body a full restoration along with a modern refresh of the original ch***is. Thanks in advance fir any ideas/thoughts.
2nd vote for Austin Speed Shop. I'm not familiar with the other shop, but I would be able to sleep every night just fine, if my old build was at Austin.
I just came into possession of an all original 32 ford that was transformed into a hot rod back in the early 50's and then it sat in a garage from 58 on until recent. I am looking for a directory or resource to if this exists to locate a shop that can give the body a full restoration along with a modern refresh of the original ch***is. Thanks in advance fir any ideas/thoughts. And hopefully if it's a time-warp Rod, they'll talk you into "restoring" it to the early 50's era Hot Rod build rather than "modernizing" the ch***is to the point it's billet Street Rod (hopefully that's not the case). Post some pics!
Pics or it's BS. Welcome to the HAMB. I hope instead of a modern refresh you give it just a refresh. Did I mention pics? Or details!
Since you are in Austin, Austin Speed Shop would be the way to go. Take it by and let them look and give you an idea of time to complete it.
advise; pick a shop by reputation and look at some of the work they have done. do not shop by price alone, quality is worth something! avoid the "gr*** is always greener" effect by using a shop close to home, you can keep an eye on the build, get regular service after the build and if there is a break down [it's old it will happen] you will know who to call. time, budget and quality of the build, and condition of the car will need to be considered.
Thanks for the advice and suggestions. I really want to do the right thing with this car. "modern refresh" was certainly was a poor choice of words and I freely admit I'm a total newbie. I want to keep it as original as possible but just make sure it is safe to drive and have a few things fixed and the flathead "gone through". I'm all ears and just want to learn more about the car.
I used to live in Arlington . For Flathead parts , I still call Stacey Brown at Antique Auto supply in Arlington . If Frank Palmer is still around , call him for tech advice as he's owned several and he was in Arlington as Palmer pinstripng on 303 . scrubba
Don't pick a shop based on location most shop owners will transport you project, and with email and updates it is easy to stay uptodate on your project from across the country or state. Pick a shop that you feel comfortable with one that will treat you project with the respect and attention to detail that it needs. A lot of older hot rods are recomissioned with out destroying the orgional builders intent, just bringing the car back to safe reliable and road worthy.
Where in Texas are you located? I'm in Dallas, and specialize in Early-Ford based hot rods also. There's some good advice in this post, and good suggestions for who to take it to. You mentioned it was a '32 Ford. Which body style is it? Roadster, Coupe, Sedan, Pickup, etc? I'm always interested in hearing more about 'survivor' hot rods from Texas, especially '32 Fords.
Lots of good shops in Texas... just be sure you pick a reputable guy and you don't have pay a lot of $$$ upfront...
Thanks.....actualy I'm a little envious of the money guys sometimes...but I'll keep plugging along, doing my own work.
We would love to talk to you about the paint and body side of things but there are a lot of good shops in Texas. I'm sure Austin Speed will do you right and B***'s work is over the top. Tyler North Texas Customs