Okay Dude..here's the scoop. I grew up in Buffalo, moved to SoCal at 18, stayed for 20 yrs, and just moved to Mpls last year. I will share pros and cons of the winter dealio. There's no question you'll have some time every year to work on your car. On the west coast, its easy to "get in the habit" of driving your hot rod or custom every day. This is cool, but it makes it tougher to be able to take the car off the road "for awhile" to get some things done. "Awhile" can become way too long sometimes. With winter, you have a definite time to work and a time to drive. Financially, you can get much more footage anywhere else but SoCal (NYC or any other metro being similar). I promise you, midwest rental rates are MUCH kinder than those in SoCal. Be thankful you're not working in a carport or a driveway, which would be the norm in SoCal or in many other SouthWest locales on rental units. Yes, cold ****s, but there are many good ways to counteract it. ***us knows what's up (I've seen his work, he insualtes better than the Pink Panther). As he said, the ceiling is key. I also am a beleiver in finding carpet remnants for the floor space. It's much nicer working on berber than on concrete, and you can roll it up and take your "garage floor" with you when you leave. A tight cut carpet will still allow jacks to roll. I'm working on "winterizing" my own garage, but since its a house deal there's not much to share. As a former apartment dweller, I can relate, but you know there's more garage space in your future as you gain income and step up your living situation. Sharing space in a rented "shop" garage was also suggested - maybe this could be a good option too. When you make the time to "go to the shop" and work on your stuff, you'll be really focused on it. Take the winter as an opportunity to get some stuff done, and winterizing your garage sure counts! Keep kicking *** on the job, and your income gains will soon deliver the home shop you're dreaming of now. Keep the dream in your head to motivate you when work ****s. It works....even if it takes time. ~Scotch~
The Jalopy Journal
