New to the forums, and new to 5.0

[Ironteenrich]

:SNSign:

I have just bought a 88 5.0 about a week or so ago. I need some advice on general things (I am also new to working on cars). The body has 93k on it, and the engine and trans were recently rebuilt.

The body needs a paint job, and some minor work. It has a 8 point roll cage though, I do somewhat like this, but am considering taking it out. I was woundering how complicated it would be to take out a 8 point roll cage that is welded in...?

Also, it needs a new speedo cable ran (when he replaced the clutch it touched exhuast and melted) anybody have any links to how to do this? And also how to install a new heater core?

I've been readin around for the past week or soo but haven't really seen anything on any of these subjects.

Also, I duno how long I will have this car. (I am considering just fixing it and getting paint job and what not then selling it at the end of the summer to get a new toy or something cause id on't really want to be driving the car during the winter) I bought the car for 2500 from my friends cousin, and if i put 2k~ into it to get new paint job, new brakes, front end aligned, speedo cable, heater core and new interior maybe do you think i would be able to turn around and sell it for more then i would put into it (starting at 5k i would like to go no lower).

I love the car so far, but duno if i'll be able to keep up with gas cost and what not. Oh, and one last question... does anybody know how much a rough estimate for a front end alignment and new brakes would cost? He has the rear brakes removed and the ligns clamped cause he use to race the car, hence the roll cage, and there is also a battery case in the bakc with master shut off.

This is more of a learner car and what not then anything else, as much as i would love to keep it around i don't have the finiancial income to keep it and have another car. (I am 17)

 

[Bolt on 5.0]

You ask alot of questions but front brakes maybe prob $200 if the rotors can be cut and alignment about $100-150. A paint job is expensive, expecially if you need body work. If you arent going to keep the car bring it to a maaco and get a midrange paint job, itll look alot better but not if you are keeping the car. The heater core is a pain and if you never worked on cars pay somone to do it. That will prob run you about $800 maybe a little less. The speedo cable can be done at the same time as ther heater core being it has to be disconnected. The car seems to need alot of work for a guy that does not know mechanics. If you are not willing to spend money and or time on the car sell it and buy somthing that is all done. Good luck

 

[TheUser]

using the car as a learning tool is cool, but expecting to profit off of it is not very realistic unless you find the right buyer at the right time.

I agree; maybe sell the car and buy a stang w/ less modifcations and problems. I'm definately not saying that you can't learn because you can. What I'm trying to say is that you really have to want to learn, have the time, tools, and a place to work on it (not necessarily a garage, but they are nice).

Sounds like the car is a hardcore drag car (because of the 8 pt cage), which often times sacrifices streetability and doesn't make for a nice daily driver, especially being young and hauling friends and stuff around.

Good luck and welcome to stangnet

 

[Ironteenrich]

I have plenty of time to work on the car, and i would really enjoy learning how to do stuff myself. It will not only be me though, my brother-in-law will be helping me with alot of stuff that i need help with.

Also, i only asked about profit for how rare the cars are around here, and after i invest money into it i would like it to be good. It may sound like alot but besides what i have listed the car runs really good, sounds great, ect.

I priced the stuff today...
Speedo cable~ 6.99
Heater core~ 26.99 (? or 30 i forget)
Brakes/front alignment~ everything for 550, this is being installed by a friends work. Shoes, rotars, pads, hardware ect

I was considering maaco if i planned on selling the car off.

So all in all 2500 into... 3500 depending on maaco prices. There is only some minor rust and it is practically ready for a paint job besides the one rust spot. There aren't really any dents or dings in it to be honest besides maybe a usual graval ding or something.

I really wanna learn.

 

[Roland69]

People on here have had thier stangs painted by Maaco and they turned out really good. Some maaco's will be better than others just depends on the painter himself and how it was prep'd.

and welcome to stangnet.

 

[srothfuss]

I have just bought a 88 5.0 about a week or so ago. I need some advice on general things (I am also new to working on cars). The body has 93k on it, and the engine and trans were recently rebuilt.

Welcome... and ask as many questions as you can

The body needs a paint job, and some minor work.

You get what you pay for with paint and body work.

It has a 8 point roll cage though, I do somewhat like this, but am considering taking it out. I was woundering how complicated it would be to take out a 8 point roll cage that is welded in...?

You need a cold rolled chisel and a BMFH or a grinder to eat through the beads of weld... That will not be fun.

And also how to install a new heater core?

The whole dash has to come out to gain access to the HVAC system. It's not a fun process. Plan for a weekend to get this done.

Also, I duno how long I will have this car. (I am considering just fixing it and getting paint job and what not then selling it at the end of the summer to get a new toy or something cause id on't really want to be driving the car during the winter)

These cars are "one way piggy banks" you put lots of money in and get nothing in return. If you sell, do not plan on making any profit

(starting at 5k i would like to go no lower).

Search on autotrader to get an idea of pricing. Similar mods, miles and condition of the car. That will tell you how much you can sell it for. Chances are that you will loss money on the deal. Not trying to be mean, I am trying to be honest so you can prepare for it.

does anybody know how much a rough estimate for a front end alignment

Maybe $100.00... someone will know the answer to this

This is more of a learner car and what not then anything else, as much as i would love to keep it around i don't have the finiancial income to keep it and have another car. (I am 17)

That will never change. You just learn to save up and wait for parts. It's part of the process. Welcome to the club.