Actually, my birthdate is correct. I am only 31. I started this hobby working on my dad's first A with him. Most of the restorations required minor engine and interior work, but all required significant body work to complete. They are extremely easy to work on. My knowledge from working at Autolite and Fram helped me more than ever, but I had no formal training in engine, drivetrains, etc. My only training is as an AWS certified welder and my PPG Paint school certification. I do the paint, body, welding, and basic engine and dad did the interiors and stuff like the luggage racks/trunks. Tons of sources for new parts for them too.
As for time, we can restore a Model A in about 60 to 90 work days or 6-7 months total start to finish. I store them in a garage at my fathers house (which is right next door to my house) It houses the 5 Model A's and the Model T. I have videos of each of the restorations for documentation. It makes it easier to remember how things go back together with a video. Just the coupe had over 9 hrs of video associated with it!
I also have my current restoration project (see my avatar) that is my first solo project. It is alot tougher, but it is coming along well. The engine is alot tougher to work on and is more advanced, but still way behind todays vehicles. The interior is completed on that vehicle, the chrome is now getting redone, and it is primed and ready to shoot base coats this weekend!!!
This one is going to take alot more time than the Fords. I have been working on it since last spring, and hope to complete it by may 04. Me and my wife had twin boys which take my playtime away, but I'm not complaining.
Here is another picture of a 1912 Caddy that our neighbor (3 houses away) has had in his family since it was new!! (5 generations) He has done nothing except rebuilding the engine to it. He claims he's been offered well over $150,000 for it. It is unbelievable.
<img src=http://www.hpphoto.com/servlet/LinkPhoto?GUID=31f56735-3465-74d2-79e2-6b94586e36a0&size=>
