Don't waste time and money...
Don't waste time and money on a bucket of bolts, Arnold Marks suggests. Spend your money wisely and buy a solid original car, which means less time and money performing a restoration. Buy a rust bucket to save money and you will wind up spending more than if you had just bought a solid original.
If You Become Obsessed With Saving Money, You Will Wind Up Spending More
Arnold and Garrett Marks
Mustangs Etc.
Van Nuys, CA
Arnold Marks was born in Detroit and raised in Los Angeles. This by itself makes him an authority about car culture in America. His father was a car guy by nature and by trade. Arnold learned a lot about cars from his father, then practiced what he learned as an automotive shop instructor before opening Mustangs Etc. in the '70s.
Arnold tells us he's never been fiercely loyal to any particular nameplate. He just loves fine automobiles from our uniquely American past. His personal collection includes everything from old customs to classic Mustangs to a pre-war Lincoln with V-12 flathead power. Something struck a chord with Arnold more than 30 years ago when he took a liking to classic Mustangs and made them his occupation.
Arnold's son, Garrett, also turned his hobby into a profession. His specialty is new-old-stock Ford parts. Like his father, Garrett is also quick to suggest spending more on a good car to begin with and saving the most important element of all-time. He also says to use original Ford parts where you can to both preserve authenticity and enjoy ease of installation.
Don't waste time and money on a bad car. Pay more for something solid to begin with that will take less time and money to build. Good cars are a better investment in the long run.
Garrett Marks has two schools...
Garrett Marks has two schools of thought on replacement parts for classic Mustangs. If you are building a daily driver or a restomod, go with reconditioned used or reproduction parts. If you are doing a showroom original, opt for N.O.S. Ford parts where possible. Concours restorations deserve Ford parts. Just be prepared to pay for them.
Never buy a Mustang based on "gotta have it!" emotion. Always be prepared to walk away.
Never view, much less buy, a Mustang at night. What you can't see can hurt you.
When you start a Mustang project, stay focused and get it done. When you bury it under a car cover, chances are you will never touch it again.
When in doubt about a part, check it out with someone more experienced. Never be afraid to ask for help. Always get a second opinion.
Always opt for the best parts and don't do it on the cheap. When you become obsessed with saving money on a restoration, you will wind up spending more.
Whenever you need a professional, such as a body shop or engine builder, interview several shops and get references. Keep in mind you could lose your Mustang and/or its parts to a shop that goes out of business overnight. Know who you are doing business with.
Don't be afraid to walk away from a frustrating problem. Get back to it tomorrow when you are fresh.