Keith-M's "my job is so much better than yours" thread

[djjerme]

That Speed Six is sexy. Looks like an Auburn styling.. Keith, the amount of time and effort that you and other restoration experts of the same field always amaze me. It's the attention to detail that really sets it apart, and after seeing some of what you have to go through on some of those projects, makes me appreciate the final project more.

Course, like you said, they do pay you top dollar for your workmanship, and I can see why you are somewhat guarded about what you do out there.

[Mlarsen]

I dont even know where you'd begin to source parts for cars that are that rare and old. How much do you have to make from scratch?

[Keith M]

Thanks for the kind words Jeremy.

Matt- parts are available, however there isn't a single source like Guten to buy them from. The vintage parts business is more of a cottage industry with many small shop specializing in specific parts. Having items rebuilt is same although there are several in the local area for instrument, starter/generator, and engine rebuilding. Body panels and many parts are nla or never were produced in large numbers so they have to be individually made. About the only off the shelf items are spark plugs and oil.

Typical parts costs for a Phantom II:
Replacement wiring $1600
Water pump $4-5k
Radiator re-core $25-40k
Replacement bulbs $10-300 each.

[bmwm42]

a r3ver just passed out from seeing those prices lol

[Giersdorf]

Jelly.

[DÌEGØ]

That is an awesome job keith. I would love to learn more about cars like these

[Ryann]

Tell us what 7hp on the dyno costs, Keith. ;)

[Keith M]

Over $100k. Correct finish and plating not included. True story.

[OldDrunkenSailor]

Do you run the shop or are you working with a team of guys?

[Keith M]

My brother and I own it.

[2mAn]

My brother and I own it.

thats so awesome, how did you two get all this wealth of knowledge?

[Keith M]

My brother had been working in a independent shop restoring Jaguar, MG's and the like for 15 years before we ventured forth to our own business. For me, other than startup money, I had basically zero automotive knowledge. There are classes you can take for metal fabrication, bodywork, etc, but the greatest teacher is just doing it. Since each car we see is unique, I am always learning something new.
As for our clients, it was taking in jobs for that others didn't want and getting paid almost nothing for it. Hard work and perseverance paid off in the end.

[2mAn]

Hard work and perseverance paid off in the end.

:up:

[iansane]

My brother had been working in a independent shop restoring Jaguar, MG's and the like for 15 years before we ventured forth to our own business. For me, other than startup money, I had basically zero automotive knowledge. There are classes you can take for metal fabrication, bodywork, etc, but the greatest teacher is just doing it. Since each car we see is unique, I am always learning something new.
As for our clients, it was taking in jobs for that others didn't want and getting paid almost nothing for it. Hard work and perseverance paid off in the end.

That's awesome. Doing something I presume you enjoy, that changes every day and you get paid to do it. Sounds like you won at life.

[EN318isPDX]

Hard work and perseverance paid off in the end.

Keith you are living every wrenchers dream! Keep up the awesome work and pics bud. I have had the pleasure of wrenching on a couple E-types. The craftsmanship back then is unmatched today. We are soo lazy