|
|
 Posted 5/16/2018 9:24:29 PM |
|
|
Junior Member
 
Last Login: 5/10/2020 8:35:22 PM
Posts: 40,
Visits: 473
|
|
Hi all!
So, the time has come that I've been waiting on for a LONG time. I'm officially taking the first step towards building my '89!
Actually, the first step was several months ago when I got my first real part- a set of hood latches. I read every page of every build log and I knew these latches were hard to come by, so I grabbed a set from texasbatman when they became available (thanks again!). But now, I've taken the next step. I have my donor car!
See my bat symbol on the hood? She's already branded! This is a '95 Caprice. The car was involved in an auto accident about a month ago. The owner was VERY motivated to sell. I've read that lots of folks recommend getting the batmobile body first, then going after the donor car. I understand that logic... but this was simply too good of a deal to pass up! The accident damaged the body (not a concern to me since that's all trash anyway) and smashed the front end (not a concern either). The radiator is trashed but otherwise the car runs fine. Still, I'm going to pull the engine out and restore everything to brand new condition.
So, here's where I am:
1) I've decided to build an '89 batmobile (obviously!)
2) I've got my donor car to work on for now
3) I have no idea where I will come up with the cash for an '89 body, but it WILL happen
4) I'm located in Cincinnati, about 45 minutes from Doug Hines. I spoke with Doug on the phone- he's a great guy.
5) I plan to keep my eye out for parts (as I did for the caprice) and snag what I can, when I can
6) Everything will be logged here. I've learned so much from reading all these logs, and I would be honored if i could give back.
Here's hoping I can finish this awesome car within, say, a couple of years!
|
|
|
|
| Posted 5/17/2018 1:42:48 AM |
|
|
Forum Member
Last Login: 10/1/2023 8:00:41 PM
Posts: 113,
Visits: 1,388
|
|
awesome news
I live south of Dayton and Doug's shop is about 8 miles from the house and 1 mile from work.
 
|
|
|
|
| Posted 5/17/2018 12:19:34 PM |
|
|
Supreme Being
Last Login: 4/6/2024 5:28:59 PM
Posts: 1,684,
Visits: 5,334
|
|
Nothing wrong with getting the donor car first imo. You can start the tear down, stretch the frame, and get the motor and trany rebuilt while you wait.
Congratulations, looking forward to watching your build.
|
|
|
|
| Posted 5/17/2018 2:32:57 PM |
|
|
Junior Member
Last Login: 5/10/2020 8:35:22 PM
Posts: 40,
Visits: 473
|
|
| Oh yes that car's going to be torn down in a serious way. I'll probably wait on the frame stretch until I have the body (just want to be sure the measurement is perfect) but yes the engine, transmission, and everything else will be completely rebuilt. I've never worked on a car that had everything exposed. Looking forward to it!
|
|
|
|
| Posted 5/20/2018 6:41:51 PM |
|
|
Junior Member
Last Login: 9/7/2019 12:38:27 PM
Posts: 18,
Visits: 217
|
|
slysnake (5/17/2018)
Nothing wrong with getting the donor car first imo. You can start the tear down, stretch the frame, and get the motor and trany rebuilt while you wait...
I would highly recommend waiting to stretch the frame!!!! Go ahead and cut it if you'd like, but wait to add the extra metal until you actually have the body ON HAND! It can be a tedious waiting period, but you'll have SO much tweaking once the body arrives. Nothing is symmetrical. At first, it seems like it is, but when you start taking measurements, you will be hit with a new challenge. Just keep that in mind. Also, I am so glad that you are starting down this road, its not easy, but it is an amazing experience! Good luck!
|
|
|
|