Since were talking paint job estimates, How much should I budget for metal work only on a 55 chevy? I have purchased most panels just need them welded in, inner/outer rockers, tailpan, and a 10 inch trunk section, and some wheel well work. What am I looking at to get it to primer?
This is gonna get ugly quick. To repair everything that is truely wrong and to get it lined up and dressed out so that it looks like nothing was ever repaired....takes time and skill. Somebody might do it for a case of beer. Chances are it will come out looking like a drunk did it for a case of beer. Getting quotes, sight unseen. people are going to assume the worst and guestimate 10 times the time, to cover their ass if you car is worse than you described.
#1 You get what you pay for (99% of the time) #2 You need to "visit"a shop to see how much time goes into metal work #3 Then talk to the guy at the shop about prices - it will make you appreciate what you will be paying for....
The fastest way to get in trouble is to bid a job like that even after you look at it. I've finished jobs that other guys started because they would bid it and then realize there was way more to the job. The owner doesn't want to pay more and the shop doesn't want to do it and lose $$$ so there's a problem. My suggestion is ask around for references and find a shop or individual with a good rep. Be willing to pay anywhere from $40 to $75/hour (depending on what the going rate is in your area). When the job is done, you should both be happy. haha...I like that..."How deep do you want your Bondo?"
It's going to be expensive if you are unable to do any of the work yourself. Why not check out one of the many community colleges or tec schools that offer night classes and learn as you go,,,it will pay off in the long run and some of the schools let you work on your car as you go. Good luck in whatever you decide. HRP
$50.00 an hour till it's done the way you like it. Parts and material are extra. You can sit and watch,if you like. Restoration and Custom work are not bid. It's strictly Time and Material. Expect to wait a year or two on a good shop's list and be ready when he is or go back to the bottom of the list. You will also pay up front for parts and material, depending on what's needed. I've stayed booked a year and a half to two years ahead for about 15 years now.
55's are tough to put panels in. The sides are straight and they take an enormus amout of skill and time to do it even fairly well. It is not the car to learn on. The rear wheel wells do not attach to the quarters. That stuff must be worked around or replaced. All welds must be hammered to reverse shrinkage. The trunk,doors may not line up without constant attention and hammering. I have never charged for my work. Just did my own stuff and stuff for frends. I would not think of doing that for less than $10,000 for the difficulty and time. Your results my vary!
yup what he said.....on that note- I can tell you our shop does TIG weld most stuff and not MIG. Better welds IMO
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