Buying a VN calais project car, good idea?

[Pub247]

I'm thinking about a VN calais as a project car, Major downside is it has no running gear (was a facotry v8) has diff though. I've been in 2 minds lately as there is a fair bit of money to spend on replacing missing pieces. The missus isnt too happy about it but for a while i've been wanting a project and buying a whole car is bit more than i can afford atm. This calais came along and it looks really good nothing to spend on the exterior just mechanically which is what i want.
Please some people tell me its a good idea.

Thanks Pub

[Shounak]

To work on a project car you need a few things. Either have a lot of spare time and skills. Or have a lot of cash.

If you're doing all the work yourself, it will take time and not as much money, but a significant outlay nonetheless. If you don't think you're upto it, you'll have to pay a mechanic $70p/h to do your work for you.

To put in running gear, you need a good set of tools, engine hoist, good floor jack and engine stands to say the least. Is it just the running gear that needs replacing?

[Pub247]

Yeah i build motors for aliving so mechanics is easy part which is why i want something that doesnt need paint. Tools and the like i have, biggest outlay i face is the motor and trans which from what i seen is usually around 1500 depending on condition and the like.

Now to see if i can fix the thread title.....

[Shounak]

Yeah i build motors for aliving so mechanics is easy part which is why i want something that doesnt need paint. Tools and the like i have, biggest outlay i face is the motor and trans which from what i seen is usually around 1500 depending on condition and the like.

Now to see if i can fix the thread title.....

Buy a wreck, it's the best way. There'll be rounded off, snapped bolts etc. Plus it's handy to have an extra starter motor, alternator any other bits.

You might also find that the price differential between running gear from a wreckers and a private wreck isn't too great. That's what I found with my XF project anyway.

I had the same idea as you with my panno btw. Body was perfect, all the running gear was rooted. So it's just a matter of changing it all over. Wreckers wanted $250-400 for a motor and $150-300 for the trans. I bought a wreck with awesome interior, rebuilt engine and lots of rust for $250.

I'd guess it'd be pretty similar for your car. The other issue is storage, if you have the space. Go for it. I reckon it's an awesome idea.

[Pub247]

Spoke to him earlier and he wants 1500 for it. Basically it has a new paintjob (black looks good) and he says nolothane bushes throughout diff has been replaced with a vp v6 one he says is written on it. missing motor and box (still has but wont with it as its a stroker motor and tricked out auto), no fuel tank as it was running straight gas, no engine loom or ecu no exhaust. I must say 1500 is a little more than i think its worth. hes going to send me some more pics and i might go check it out on the weekend