Well, ok here comes the shocker. Ive been restoring a 1948-49 suburban for about 3 years now and it's finally coming to a close. As we sit now we are at about 35K plus 2k for upholstery and 1k for electrical installation. Now this is total cost with my labor included. Parts total he's at about 20k.
Hind site on the whole project in my eyes is that it should have been a frame off but unfortunately wasn't because we never intended it to be such an in depth build. It slowly evolved into one. If I had made it a frame off I probably could have had a nicer out come over all and maybe saved money for him too. You'd be surprised how much running back and forth to ACE Hardware can cost. Especially since there bolts are priced like they are gold plated. If you want to convert to SS hardware id recommend you find a bolt whole-seller who sells to the public. You will save big time by buying from them. 1/4-20 bolt from ace= 45 cents same thing from bolt supply= 5 cents.
Bottom line is do your homework before you attempt anything because there is ALWAYS someone who has done it, learn from their mistakes first. This was my first full build and I must say I learned a lot of do's and donts with it. Probably more dont's. I will agree that it's not always best to buy reproduction stuff as I am facing several dilemmas because of this.
