Where to start!?!?!?!?

[saderbaseball1145]

I bought a 1973 challenger that at first inspection seemed like a solid starting point. When I stripped down the car and really looked at it I found out I just took on a massive project. I beleive that these cars need to be saved in any shape so I'm going to restore it. I need new front frame rails, crossmember, inner/outer rockers, inner cowl, door hinge panel, front cowl, radiator support floor and much more. Basically most of the car only good parts are the roof, rear deck area, window areas firewall and some of the inner panels. Massive project and me and my dad are going to do all this in our garage and build a frame jig. My questions is in what order do I start replacing these panels and sheet metal???? Thoughts were start with inner rockers then crossmember then frame rails then the inner outer cowl panels!?!? Any help is appreciated. My first mopar at 24

 

[challenger6pak]

Sad to say but, if the car is a 318 car, it may be better to find another car. Post some pics of the car including all the damage. You may be able to fix it without restoring it.

 

[saderbaseball1145]

I just posted it in restorations. I am up for the challenge. I plan on making it a restomod with all new metal, modern suspension, 340, rallye fenders and hood.

 

[moparleo]

If you don't know where to start, you just answered your own question. Nowhere, try them.... http://www.amdinstallation.com/chrysler_price.html

 

[DetMatt1]

I have some of the parts you guys will require. I'll check out the resto thread.
Leo, I didn't know where to start on my first resto either but I did all my own metalwork anyway and it came out fantastic. It included a custom frame jig and replacement of literally everything behind the rear seat on a B-body.

 

[js29]

Thar is a first time for every thing. when i was looking for blueprints to build a rotisserie i saw plans for a jig. you will need a good welder be it a mig or tig. a grinder, practice on some scrap metal. use weldable primer to coat in between the panels and keep in mind you can warp metal from the heat doing ether or both good luck and we are hear to try to help

 

[moparleo]

True. Just saying that a project this deep in metal replacement takes more then welding skills. Replacing a fender or quarter panel is one thing, starting out with only a good roof and firewall is more than a resto. Not going to say it is without problems. Be prepared to spend a lot of time and a lot of money on this one. Have a dedicated work space that is large enough to store parts and to work in for the long haul. Very easy to lose motivation when going this far in your first Mopar resto. Before you order any parts, get all of your research materials in line. Body, chassis manuals, frame specs etc..... But most importantly, find some one with the right type of experience to help you.

 

[saderbaseball1145]

I have chassis books and measurements and that sorts I just was curious where the best place to start is. Gots good welder and air compressor decent amount of space and the money's not an issue I want to save this car.

 

[js29]

Agreed i just saw his restoration page. he has his work cut out for his self, all i can say is measure, fit, measure again and nave spec's on hand. and it never hurts to ask questions and don't give up ! what does not defeat you only makes you stonger

 

[saderbaseball1145]

I also feel like I will learn a lot from this project. I'm just concerned on where to start so I can keep the integrity of the car and Nope let any metal sag or bend. I'm guessing start with inner rockers. Then crossember

 

[js29]

i think i would get a set of door bars put them in place, put the car on a jig and start from the middle and work my way out.

 

[saderbaseball1145]

Thanks for the input. I agree that's a good game plan. If I can get the inner rockers taken care of i can be in good shape.

 

[MOPARMITCH]

Great to see that a young man want's to dive in like that and get some experience on a first resto. My, advise is to try to be patient as you go. It will be a great project. Make sure you keep us all posted with pics as you go.

 

[saderbaseball1145]

I plan on a two year project and I will most likely post more pics than yall want.

 

[js29]

Ya i agree it is good too see young blood interested and getting there hands dirty on these cars. plus he stated his father was working with him on it. not just building a classic but experence and memories. not too mention a bond with both like 68chicken said keep us posted and questions asked are better than mistakes maid