Wanted Looking for a project car [Archive] - DMCTalk Forum

Roman Legion

03-25-2014, 04:24 AM

Title says it all, I'm looking for a project car, since I paid off my motorcycle loan early back in December of 2013 and I'm starting vocational rehab training soon for auto mechanic, I'm looking into getting a D back on the road myself. It doesn't matter what year, interior or transmission (Although, I'd prefer 82, black with a manual). If anyone knows of one, please let me know. I've been learning so much about cars from a friend (roomate) who restores her own cars all the time, so I'm excited to get to work.

Jonathan

03-25-2014, 08:52 AM

Any particular condition or starting point or price you're looking at ($10k too much/just right)?

Frame needing work/welding versus good to go?

DMCMW Dave

03-25-2014, 10:29 AM

(Although, I'd prefer 82, black with a manual).

Unicorns.

The only combination more rare is an 82 black automatic.

http://dmcnews.com/faq/img/news/n_vinmix.pdf

Roman Legion

03-25-2014, 11:44 AM

Any particular condition or starting point or price you're looking at ($10k too much/just right)?

Frame needing work/welding versus good to go?

I wouldn't say no to a car needing frame work, I'm curious to see what's available and then look at price as a factor in deciding, I'm not picky, above all, I'd just love a manual transmission. Condition, as long as it has the non-running engine there and body panels, I'm not as immediately concerned with interior off the start. I guess $10k wouldn't be bad, it's doable, but like anybody else, we're all looking for the best price.

Unicorns.

The only combination more rare is an 82 black automatic.

http://dmcnews.com/faq/img/news/n_vinmix.pdf

I'm not super familiar with the combinations, but it's interesting to know my most ideal version of a DeLorean isn't likely to be found, but could possibly be put together? :hihi2:

ccurzio

03-28-2014, 11:07 AM

Good luck finding the interior.

You'd be better off buying a grey model and just dyeing the parts.

Roman Legion

03-28-2014, 01:21 PM

I'm also kind of inspired by this video restoration as a longer term project, to spread the cost out over time a bit, but I'm not sure if it'd be more cost effective to get a car with everything just needing work or start from the ground up? Experience here is most welcome as I yield to it. The restoration idea below sounds like an interesting way to go about restoration, not to mention a way to become a DeLorean expert down to every bolt and screw on the car.

Either approach I find interesting, but the ground up approach seems like it'd be much more gratifying once the project is done.

http://www.projectvixen.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-V9b0MrvS_8

Good luck finding the interior.

You'd be better off buying a grey model and just dyeing the parts.

You may be right, but I'm not set on black as a requirement, I am keeping any options on the table, but I really do want a 5-speed version, automatic in my experience is dull, I've always enjoyed manual.

ccurzio

03-28-2014, 01:26 PM

You're better off getting a manual anyway. The transmission in the automatics was pretty shitty.

Farrar

03-28-2014, 01:36 PM

The transmission computer in the automatics was pretty shitty.

Fixed that for ya. ;)

Roman Legion

03-28-2014, 01:37 PM

First part I'd need for my ground-up project would be to find a chassis.. Not sure how to find one of those.. Unless someone has one, which still fits within my initial request on this thread.

You're better off getting a manual anyway. The transmission in the automatics was pretty shitty.

After 6 years driving an automatic mustang, I'm ready to move on to a manual. I have way more fun driving other people's manual cars or my motorcycle than my current car. It's just you feel like part of the process of driving when you have to shift, auto is boring and rather shitty as you say. I'll take your word on that, but my main reason for manual is different than reliability as I mentioned..lol

Kane

03-28-2014, 06:41 PM

It's good to see you taking a level-headed approach this time as opposed to last year when you were trying to get someone to take your Mustang as a trade.

Roman Legion

03-29-2014, 03:48 AM

It's good to see you taking a level-headed approach this time as opposed to last year when you were trying to get someone to take your Mustang as a trade.

I see now, yes. Who hasn't dropped logic when it comes to DeLoreans here? I realise my mustang wasn't worth a running DeLorean in value, but couldn't see it at the time. I'd trade her for a non-running ($10k quality) D, but I use the Mustang to carry stuff around in a capacity my motorcycle can't, so I'm just going to build a DeLorean from the ground up. So first thing I'll need is a chassis and body tub to start (Mainly the chassis).

I emailed a few DMC locations from DeLorean.com about obtaining either a new or a used chassis (Even one that needed some work, so far haven't heard back). Then again, DeLorean.com never seems to return my emails. :disapprove:

What other cars use an identical PRV, was it just a specific Volvo model? That's probably where I'm going to get my PRV from unless I opt for another engine, but I kinda want to keep it as stock as possible with a few upgrades here and there.

Roman Legion

03-29-2014, 01:17 PM

I'd like to add, is there a good source of information, some publication that would greatly help with my project?

DMCMW Dave

03-29-2014, 01:48 PM

I'd like to add, is there a good source of information, some publication that would greatly help with my project?

This forum, and the factory manual set.

BTW - assembling a car by buying the parts one at a time is going to be by far the most expensive way you can buy a DeLorean. At least start with a whole car, even if it's in bad shape and not running it will be much less expensive and much less trouble than starting with a bare frame or tub.

Roman Legion

03-29-2014, 01:58 PM

This forum, and the factory manual set.

BTW - assembling a car by buying the parts one at a time is going to be by far the most expensive way you can buy a DeLorean. At least start with a whole car, even if it's in bad shape and not running it will be much less expensive and much less trouble than starting with a bare frame or tub.

Is the factory manual online or can I purchase it from DMC online store?

You're right about starting with a bad car, I don't mind putting in a ton of work, it's just I haven't found anything like that yet for sale. I don't mind driving out of the way to get my project car, it's just I haven't located anything unless DMCMW has anything like that or can keep yours eyes out for such a project. How much more would a ground up DeLorean cost compared to a regular restoration?

I think I can find a Volvo 760 PRV, which from my reading online will work perfectly.

DMCMW Dave

03-29-2014, 02:57 PM

Is the factory manual online or can I purchase it from DMC online store?

You're right about starting with a bad car, I don't mind putting in a ton of work, it's just I haven't found anything like that yet for sale. I don't mind driving out of the way to get my project car, it's just I haven't located anything unless DMCMW has anything like that or can keep yours eyes out for such a project. How much more would a ground up DeLorean cost compared to a regular restoration?

I think I can find a Volvo 760 PRV, which from my reading online will work perfectly.

The factory parts manual (all the exploded views) is essentially the http://store.delorean.com/ site. All the manuals are available here:

http://store.delorean.com/c-326-9-4-0-publications-manuals.aspx

I believe someone has gone to the trouble of copying the entire service manual online but I don't know where.

There's no way to tell how much it would cost from parts as costs are so variable in the used parts market. I've never added up an entire car built from NOS parts at list price (nobody would do this!) but I'll bet it could hit $100K, probably more. This is true for any car, try building a new Chevy from the parts counter and see what it costs you.

Read through this one if you have some time - this guy bought a car in pieces for $3000, did 100% of his own labor, and still managed to spend $25K (over a 5 year period) to put it together http://projectvixen.com/

We seem to acquire "project" cars from time to time but nothing at the moment. They seem to have gone up a bit as well.

NightFlyer

03-29-2014, 03:46 PM

Roman Legion

03-29-2014, 04:56 PM

Not many cheap cars currently on the market:

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/4384399179.html
http://www.2buycars.net/Listing.asp?Listing=68735
http://www.beverlyhillscarclub.com/1981-dmc-delorean--c-2597.htm

Yeah, I'm aiming for around $10k and a manual transmission. No rush, going to keep looking until one appears.

GS450-Junkie

03-29-2014, 06:26 PM

break your restoration down into sections as I did mine. You can completely cover areas of your car all at once, and do things as you can afford them.

1. Get everything running/functioning correctly.
2. Suspension work and brakes/tires/wheels.
3. Exterior work including SS panels, perhaps glass, facias, etc.
4. Interior work
5. Trunk/engine Bay areas.

I'm about 6 years in with only interior left to do. Didn't think it would take this long, but I'm glad I'm being this thorough. Doesn't help that I have OCD with my car either... Also, some parts are not available anymore so you always have to be watching for parts for sale even if you are not working on those sections of the car at the time.

OverlandMan

03-29-2014, 11:25 PM

Not many cheap cars currently on the market:

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/4384399179.html
http://www.2buycars.net/Listing.asp?Listing=68735
http://www.beverlyhillscarclub.com/1981-dmc-delorean--c-2597.htm

Those Beverly Hills Car Club specimens always seem way overpriced to me and usually in rough shape to begin with.

NightFlyer

03-30-2014, 12:01 AM

Those Beverly Hills Car Club specimens always seem way overpriced to me and usually in rough shape to begin with.

Actually, that purple one didn't look too bad to me - price was at least in the ball park anyway...

They've sold quite a few DeLoreans in a variety of conditions:

http://www.beverlyhillscarclub.com/sold-inventory.htm?make=DMC&model=ALL&stock=&bodytype=ALL&searchtype=bymm&Submit=

Roman Legion

03-30-2014, 05:15 AM

Actually, that purple one didn't look too bad to me - price was at least in the ball park anyway...

They've sold quite a few DeLoreans in a variety of conditions:

http://www.beverlyhillscarclub.com/sold-inventory.htm?make=DMC&model=ALL&stock=&bodytype=ALL&searchtype=bymm&Submit=

Yeah but it's an automatic.. Unless it's an easy conversion over to manual? Plus I think it's a sold car.

Ras12

03-30-2014, 09:14 AM

Supposedly a guy from TN sold it to them for $4500. A person from CT looked at it before they bought it and the engine needs to be rebuilt, complete interior, cooling and fuel system. Plus who knows what damage is under the paint. BHCC is a very good company to deal with and their sales guys are very honest. I know a few people who bought cars from them and they were very happy. Good Luck

Roman Legion

04-01-2014, 06:26 PM

GS450-Junkie

04-01-2014, 07:00 PM

I've been giving the BHCC DeLorean a lot of thought, I'm not sure it's the right car for me, since I want a manual and I could convert it more than likely, but that would likely be a real pain and I don't have experience with converting automatic to manual. When they say "Motor turns freely by hand" What exactly do they mean? I emailed them with some questions, awaiting a reply, I just wish their description wasn't so vague and lacking.

Let it go. Don't buy a rat's nest. I think you should up your buying price to 15K. That would completely change the type of project you'd be getting. Plus...even at 15 you are still going to be doing quite a bit of work which is what you want, but a 10K or a sub-10K car may be more than you are wanting to take on. Don't do something you will regret later on....

NightFlyer

04-01-2014, 07:01 PM

I've been giving the BHCC DeLorean a lot of thought, I'm not sure it's the right car for me, since I want a manual and I could convert it more than likely, but that would likely be a real pain and I don't have experience with converting automatic to manual. When they say "Motor turns freely by hand" What exactly do they mean? I emailed them with some questions, awaiting a reply, I just wish their description wasn't so vague and lacking.

IMHO, if your heart is set on a manual, then wait for a manual. A swap is a bigger / more involved / expensive job than many realize.

NightFlyer

04-01-2014, 07:08 PM

The Muskegon, MI DeLorean has just been re-listed on eBay, granted it's an auto trans:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/DeLorean-DMC-12-DMC-12-1981-Delorean-DMC-12-/271440831880?forcerrptr=true&hash=item3f33226588&item=271440831880&pt=US_Cars_Trucks

I personally evaluated this car last November. My complete report/write-up can be found here:

http://www.dmctoday.com/showthread.php?388-My-friend-wants-to-buy-this-D&p=6027&viewfull=1#post6027

And here's a little something that I just posted regarding DeLorean value/prices, if you're interested:

http://www.dmctoday.com/showthread.php?609-Value-Appreciation-or-Dollar-De-Valuing&p=9522#post9522

Roman Legion

04-01-2014, 07:19 PM

Let it go. Don't buy a rat's nest. I think you should up your buying price to 15K. That would completely change the type of project you'd be getting. Plus...even at 15 you are still going to be doing quite a bit of work which is what you want, but a 10K or a sub-10K car may be more than you are wanting to take on. Don't do something you will regret later on....

Yeah, I'm not sold on that car anyway, I really don't trust how vague they're being in the description and my correspondence with them on email, they continue the same level of vagueness and it's setting off my red alert klaxon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gy-90IFwppM

Yeah, might have to up my search to 15k as 10k is getting me nowhere fast.

IMHO, if your heart is set on a manual, then wait for a manual. A swap is a bigger / more involved / expensive job than many realize.

Yeah, I hate automatic so much, it's boring and takes the fun out of driving. I'm not as eager to jump into things as I used to be, I'm sure the right car will eventually come along. My only real search criteria is the car must be a manual.. No shame in admitting, that I seriously have no idea how to do a conversion, I have an idea, but I'd rather not waste time with that and put time and money into other, more important areas on the car.

Nicholas R

04-01-2014, 10:02 PM

IMHO, if your heart is set on a manual, then wait for a manual. A swap is a bigger / more involved / expensive job than many realize.

Agreed. Doing a transmission conversion is possible, but only worth the effort if you already have a strong attachment or investment in that particular car. Otherwise, start off with the kind of transmission you want. You'll be glad you did.

Roman Legion

04-01-2014, 10:08 PM

Agreed. Doing a transmission conversion is possible, but only worth the effort if you already have a strong attachment or investment in that particular car. Otherwise, start off with the kind of transmission you want. You'll be glad you did.

Yeah, I'm in no hurry to find the car, I'm going to wait for the perfect one before I make a move, even if it means turning down some, I know what I want and I'm hoping to find a great deal too. Manual is a requirement, black interior isn't required, but highly preferable. Even though the '82 with black interior is a 'unicorn', wouldn't it be sweet to come across one?

I've learned from my past mistakes about trying to be in so much of a hurry, these cars aren't going anywhere, I'll always find one, but as I said, waiting for the one that really catches my attention before dropping any cash on anything.

OverlandMan

04-01-2014, 10:11 PM

I've owned more manual shift vehicles than autos and while I do prefer manual over auto for weekend cars like my D, my love for the D trumped that preference and I jumped on the best deal I could find without factoring in the transmission.

That said, for my daily driver I prefer auto these days. I live in Dallas and the stop and go traffic is horrendous. I drove a manual shift Audi A4 into downtown for 5 years and I don't miss that drive one bit.

Roman Legion

04-01-2014, 10:20 PM

Kukem

04-03-2014, 11:28 AM

I think you and I have been looking for a car for about the same amount of time. You're better off paying more up front. Trust me on this as I have now looked at and emailed about over 20 DeLoreans. Dave S. was a great resource, but I stopped bothering him after a few because a lot of the issues became the same. The forum and the Buyer's Guide are right on the money and you just have to pay the $$ and take the plunge. Trust me. Car after car and issue after issue just drives you nuts as you look for these stinking things. If you have you're mind set on one thing that is MOST important (like Trans) then stick with that and wait it out. BEST. ADVICE. EVER. Again, trust me, I have been looking actively since 2009. Life happens, but the wait will be worth it... I hope. Good luck, Roman. Hope one of I lives the dream soon.

yellowmxwheels23

04-03-2014, 01:03 PM

Too bad you weren't looking a month ago when I had 712 as a whole for sale.

Kane

04-03-2014, 04:22 PM

Too bad you weren't looking a month ago when I had 712 as a whole for sale.

If only there was some sort of time machine we could use...

Roman Legion

04-03-2014, 04:36 PM

If only there was some sort of time machine we could use...

Scooty puff jr?

http://img3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20090401213403/en.futurama/images/4/42/Scooty_puff_jr.jpg

http://img1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20111221031424/en.futurama/images/3/37/Images-1.jpeg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaTqceNeq5U

http://futurama.wikia.com/wiki/Scooty-Puff,_Jr.

NightFlyer

04-07-2014, 03:46 PM

http://charlotte.craigslist.org/cto/4411415859.html

Roman Legion

04-07-2014, 06:24 PM

http://charlotte.craigslist.org/cto/4411415859.html

Thanks, I shot him an email, lets hope I get a positie answer as it meets my ideal factors and isn't too far. Black and 5-speed.. :thumbup:

Michael

04-07-2014, 08:46 PM

On the surface that looks like a very good deal.

eagle-co94

04-08-2014, 06:31 PM

Let me know if you find something as I'm starting to part out 1045 which is a black interior 5 speed car. It was locally owned until someone ran a stop sign and hit the owner.

Roman Legion

04-08-2014, 06:57 PM

Let me know if you find something as I'm starting to part out 1045 which is a black interior 5 speed car. It was locally owned until someone ran a stop sign and hit the owner.

Will do, thanks!

NightFlyer

04-08-2014, 09:37 PM

Thanks, I shot him an email, lets hope I get a positie answer as it meets my ideal factors and isn't too far. Black and 5-speed.. :thumbup:

Phone number included with a Craigslist ad usually means that the seller prefers contact via phone... If you're serious, I'd call the seller. If this one is as good of a deal as it appears to be, it won't last very long...

Rich_NYS

04-08-2014, 10:02 PM

If I hadn't already bought one, I'd be looking at this one for sure.....

Roman Legion

04-09-2014, 11:29 AM

Phone number included with a Craigslist ad usually means that the seller prefers contact via phone... If you're serious, I'd call the seller. If this one is as good of a deal as it appears to be, it won't last very long...

Oh, I contacted the number as well, via text since I have no idea if it's a cell or landline number. I can't just call up and talk to people since I really can't hear on phones anymore, so I rely on TTY or IP Relay, which some businesses hang up on and lots of individuals hang up.

But trust me, I didn't ignore the posted phone number.

NightFlyer

04-09-2014, 04:15 PM

Oh, I contacted the number as well, via text since I have no idea if it's a cell or landline number. I can't just call up and talk to people since I really can't hear on phones anymore, so I rely on TTY or IP Relay, which some businesses hang up on and lots of individuals hang up.

But trust me, I didn't ignore the posted phone number.

Sorry - forgot about that limitation. Hopefully the owner gets back to you soon if they haven't already.

Rich_NYS

04-11-2014, 08:56 AM

Any update on this one?

Roman Legion

04-11-2014, 08:29 PM

Any update on this one?

Nope, still haven't heard back from that listing.

NightFlyer

04-19-2014, 05:36 PM

http://columbus.craigslist.org/cto/4428606177.html

Roman Legion

04-20-2014, 02:56 AM

http://columbus.craigslist.org/cto/4428606177.html

Sent him a message, let's hope he isn't trying to sell a Fiero..lol

Roman Legion

04-23-2014, 12:26 PM

So I wrote to him, he replied with his phone number to text me pictures of the car. I haven't heard from him via email or text since I shot him a text as he requested. Guess another guy who doesn't want to sell? The hunt goes on.

Dangermouse

04-23-2014, 01:13 PM

fwiw, you don't want texted pics of the car - too small. Get him to email you large ones.

Roman Legion

04-23-2014, 01:41 PM

fwiw, you don't want texted pics of the car - too small. Get him to email you large ones.

I tried to, but the guy insisted on texting them for some reason, sounds sketchy, but didn't hurt to go along with texting the pictures, even though the guy won't reply now.

Michael

04-23-2014, 08:41 PM

I tried to, but the guy insisted on texting them for some reason, sounds sketchy, but didn't hurt to go along with texting the pictures, even though the guy won't reply now.

Just steer clear. He is probably a scammer or just not serious about selling. Either way its a waste of your time and/or a risk to your finances