Chris Bamford

Bob, I find really old restorations very charming — I have an early restoration that is 15 years older than the car was at the time. You’ve mentioned that T a number of times, but I’ve never seen it — could you post a couple photos?

This. Also, no reason we can't press the oldies into service for essential errands:

If only someone had suggested that earlier...

I too am having some trouble following the plot here, but something Jeff said in the original post makes me wonder... ”Push button” starter. Everyone assumes it’s a foot button with mechanical linkage. Could also be a push button on the dash like my ‘47 Dodge. Mine actuates a firewall solenoid; this squares with “no solinoid on the starter”.

Those original tanks have asbestos within and cannot be legally refilled (here in Alberta for over 20 years and presumably elsewhere). Filling it yourself from another tank is theoretically possible but dangerous and should not be attempted. Most users keep the original tank as display only and hide a smaller, modern tank to supply the lights. You will definitely want a regulator.

The ‘working garage’ is a little different...

No loud music, no hot sun, endless coffee...

Thanks Oregon. Much appreciated!

Son of a long-time friend has acquired these remains of a Chevy pickup, believes it is /was a 1932 +/-. No running gear, axles etc. came with the remains. What you see is what he got. He is not sure, nor am I, if it was originally built as a passenger car and later cut down for farm use. Photos attached — we would appreciate confirmation of the year and as-built model. Thanks in advance.

The market's recent troubles are of concern to many folks here. Having said that, it appears your decision to skip the drywall was made when the market was hitting regular highs. It's often accurately said here "It's your car, you can do whatever you like with it". Same applies to garages. All this is only my opinion and everyone's situation is different. Still, it seems a big fat shame to me, to get that nice new building 95% done and then leave it unfinished. Reminds me of the guys who get a quality restoration almost done then choose vinyl upholstery to save a few bucks. Or do their own paint prep to save a few bucks. Or plan to sort out the mechanicals later "to save time". I'm recently done building a new garage on our rental property next door. It took longer than expected, cost more than expected, and turned out nicer than expected. No regrets.

No money for drywall? Really? After however long you've been at this project, after tens of thousands of dollars invested, there isn't a few hundred bucks for drywall?? It's not too late Nick. Open that wallet just a little further, now, and forever enjoy a brighter, more pleasant workspace, one that helps any cars inside look their best, and most important... when you open the garage door every morning you get the gentle tingle of "yeah, that's what I like!"

I’ve been in many workshops and read a lot of old car publications and forums — this Is the first time I recall somebody using their late Mom’s tools! Very cool. My late mom, the sweetest most peaceful gal you could meet, got teased about working in the munitions industry (machine lathe operator, anti-aircraft gun parts) in Montreal during the war years. She was later transferred to anti-submarine cable testing... press the button, read the meter, reset, repeat.

Sorting out steering, shifting and seating for this 1916 American LaFrance speedster.

Saved, printed and already in the workshop. Great post! Thank you Jon, a good education for me and will be useful ongoing.