Michael;
I am just in the process of finishing up what you have just begun!!! In all,
I can say that it has been a trying and at the same time rewarding
undertaking. Like you, my last Brit car was a '69 AH Sprite. That was
11years and one wife ago (she demanded it's sale) It was my daily driver,
and I missed it for a long time. Passion and pride seem to go along with
British sports cars, and I have never owned a car that could give me as much.
As for advice, check out the web sites, subscribe to nass@yahoogroups.com and
spitfire-enthusiast@yahoogroups.com if you are not already (Many voices are
always helpful). USE EBAY! My '72(? it started out a '72 at least) was
rough when I bought it, but the price was RIGHT! A body rusted beyond repair
soon became apparent, as well as a badly patched frame (probably still
servicable though.) Almost brought me to the edge of despair over the whole
project. Well as luck would have it, after a month of soul searching over
the whole thing, there on ebay was a ''76 body, frame, and suspension (frt
and rear-no diff.). I was in Atchinson, KS (not close, but not too far). I
bid and bought it for $55. Yes Fifty five dollars. Paint was chalky, but
factory and good base for repaint. Oh, when I called the seller, he asked if
I also wanted the 1500 very short block (crank, cam, pistons and con rods,
head and rocker assembly, no tranny), and would I like the mag wheels and new
tires? OH YEAH. I am sold on ebay for restoring cars!!!!!! (even got an
orginal tool kit and bag out of the deal- Oh yeah and a sledge hammer, and
screwdriver, Cresent wrench, and Haynes manual that were left in the car.
Deals are out there so just be patient.
Very good luck with your project, I hope to hear about your progress with
Nigel, soon. By the way, you are welcome to the '72 frame, but I think that
you can find better closer to you.
Joseph Garrison
Edmond, OK
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