Hats off to all the restoration shops!!!

[Salvatore]

The job is always easier and better with original parts it seems. Even some later NOS stuff is weak at times. To me it does not pay to do a complete frame off on a car unless it really needs it. Neither of my cars especially the nova has any rattles.

[Canuck]

The last time I went to a wrecking yard was spring 2007 and all I bought out of there were nuts and bolts,frame,sheet metal and engine fastners. In all from this and other i had amassed I had about 300 nuts,bolts etc. Had everything cleaned and plated the appropriate finish. They are all sorted and ready for the next restoration of freshen up on an existing one.
I feel your pain on repro parts. I have thrown out my fair share of stuff that just wont fit.
No point returning it,they will just send more stuff that wont fit.

Paul

[Tarrytown SS427s]

I did the same thing over two trips I took out west where the hardware is pit free and comes out easily! I can't understand why people go back to reproduction parts time after time knowing of the insufficient quality they are getting.

There's always the excuse that original stuff, whether it be NOS or used, is too hard to find, but I think anybody that has the guts to take on restoring a car should already understand that they will be facing some challenges in the process.

When you are finally driving your sweet Chevy down the road isn't it so much more satisfying to know that you sourced everything yourself (and it's all GM stuff) rather than taking the easy route of an inch thick catalog? I know it is for me. I'm a full-time college student, so my budget is incredibly tight. I say do it right the first time around
Steve

[ss427copo]

Points well taken! Reminds me of the time I was installing the hardware handle on my beautiful Andersen French Sliding glass door and after tightening the two handle screws nice-n-snug, I slid the gorgeous door open to find out I used the 2 long screws by error...which came thru the outside wood by 1/4"!! Man, was I pissed!

Jeff x 2 1/2

[Salvatore]

Things happen to all of us.