Documenting a build

My neighbor sometimes works on some interesting hot rods/customs. including a 47 Lincoln Continental powered with a '97 Cougar SBF and a '39 Ford with a SBF marine engine. Both of these cars were purchased as finished rides.

Seems as problems pop up, it takes a fair amount of time to run down a correct part number, etc.

After seeing the time and money spent just trying to get information on how the original builder did a certain thing, I decided to put together a couple of loose leaf binders with progress photos, receipts and notes so that the next owner will have some idea of how or why I did a certain thing on my cars. Includes wiring diagrams and instruction sheets too.

Wondered if any other HAMB'ers have done something along these lines.

 

I keep all my receits plus the ends of parts boxes with the numbers on them or cut out the appropriate info from the larger containers. Another thing I've done because of my own carelessness is to photo copy all instructions when I get the part and keep the originals in a binder. That makes sure I can always find at least one set.
I do not under any circumstances keep a running total of $ spent. Made that mistake with my first project. lol

 

It takes a little time to do this but It's time well spent. Not only for a future owner but yourself. Who can remember everything about a build when it's over a 1-2 (or longer) year span. I also make notes on the back of the box end flaps if there is anything special about the part, like where I got it if not local. Pictures of unusual aspects of the build are also helpful.

Frank

 

"I do not under any circumstances keep a running total of $ spent. Made that mistake with my first project. lol"
_
You are a wise man! I'm a slow learner and kept running totals on boats and horses, along with cars. For my peace of mind as well as my wife's, I no longer keep running totals of hobby expenses.

 

I keep every note, receipt, part number etc.
helps on the back end, or the next owner

 

Luckily the expenses never cease, so you can stop counting whenever. Did I say luckily? hmmm.... lol

 

I also put notes on wiring diagrams and that sort of thing if I tap into some power source or existing line along with the color and gauge of wire used, fuse rating etc. And you can never take enough pix during the deconstruction phase. Must have taken 200 on last project and still missed some details that I needed 3 years later when I was putting it back together. No running cost total. The better half would go on a shopping spree to end all sprees if she knew what is invested in "that thing in the garage".

 

I like so many other guys document parts numbers and special pieces,,,I keep track of them in my log book that stays in the truck.



I bought and extra log book and now that I am starting on the coupe I will be able to document this car also.HRP