I just got off the phone with my hot rod mechanic, and the diagnosis ain't too pretty. The frame on my Vicky is pretty much garbage, and the guy who did the 289 swap was a hack. I had a feeling that the car wasn't all that was in the adverti*****t, but I bought it because I felt that the work it needed (that I could see) was within my abilities to handle. Now I feel I'm in over my head. I'm going in later today to look at what needs to be done, and talk it over with the shop guys. I don't really have the time/space/skill to do a frame off restoration, and as a student-then teacher next year, I don't know if I'll have the cash to pay someone to do it either. Tough decisions to be made...
Post some Pix of the bad parts in your album,I am sure we can give you some advice and hopefully keep the budget within reason.You might consider looking into a welding course at a local Community College and instead of buying the equipment renting it.Check out the members map and maybe you can get some folks to lend a hand.
If its not total trash (and I don't think it is, but pictures would prove otherwise), then some time with some plate steel, a grinder, and a welder would make it better than ever. You might also look into finding a hard top or a convertible frame top do a body swap. Not an easy option, but definitely an option. We're gonna be in the same boat! Stay strong in the cl***room, man! Also, I should say that there is no shame on putting something back for a later date. If you really dig the car, you could fix it up later, or maybe sell it and find something that would be better for you now. Just some things to think about, neat looking car (its actually really funny that you own it and are about to become a teacher, the world is quite small.)
I had a 54 Vickey on the road for eleven years, then sold it to a guy who put REALLY a lot more miles on it. There should be a 3/8 by one strap welded to the bottom of the frame from the factory. Factory blue prints are easy to find for the measurments you need. Check the front crossmember, its a known rust area. Otherwise, its easy.
The front crossmember is toast, and there's a lot of soft spots throughout the frame. My buddy's father-in-law does frame work, so I'm going to bring it over by him and see what he thinks, or can do to fix it. If it's reasonable to repair, I'd like to keep the car.
If you need a new front cross member, plus multiple soft spot repairs, you may be further ahead to get a different frame from the south or the west.
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