Series III - Feeling depressed

[Rob]

Hi,
I bought my Series III about 6 months ago.
It was offered to me and a mate of mine as a non-running diesel conversion, for 150 quid.
I bought it and in a moment of madness said to my friend - If you can get it up and running for less than a grand the money is yours.
The challenge was taken up and having handed over a 1000 quid, I think we worked out that he made about 20 pound profit.  That was it running - literally.
It went forward and backwards, and I even drove it, with trade plates, for about 10 miles - blimey that was hard going.
Now the bad news.  My wife decided that for my birthday should would conclude the restoration, which we though was some welding, some work on the brakes and a new tyre.
Found out today it is going to be a whole lot more - possibly a couple of grands worth of work - basically loads of welding and brakes are shot.
I am now wondereing whether to bother or cut my losses and sell on ebay or somewhere. Its a real shame I was looking forward to fun camping and going off cycling with the family, but I really don't have time, or that much cash, for a major restoration project.
Someone make me feel better.
Its behind the boring Volvo in the photo

[Cheggs]

Hi Rob,
           I know how you feel I bought a lemon off of ebay, but I have decided that I'll rebuild it, I have no time scale, but I'll get it done, I buy the bits I need when I can, If your in no rush Its surprising what you can pick up cheap, I'm currently figuring out how to install disc brakes although I may end up using RR axles as I got a rolling chassis for £50, but I can't weld so will have to learn or find a Samaritian who can, nothing is impossible or unattainable just don't set a time scale, look on as a hobby because there is always something else to do even if you get it on the road, thats the charm of them, they have a temperament unlike more modern vechile's.

[CanIBeFrank]

Hi Rob,

I have the same sad story, however once I realised my mistake, I hunted around mates and mates of mates, basically for anyone who could weld etc, managed to get the whole chassis re-welded the body work resprayed etc through the help of others.

I ended doing all the messy prep work etc and now owe a few favours but its MOT'd and thats the main thing.

You'll be supprised once you start asking around who'll be willing to help in exchange for services that you may be able to offer in stead of cash.

Got the whole lot done for about £1000 including new wheels and tyres, then got stung by a garage for work I could of done myself which really [!Expletive Deleted!] me off (Crosses nr Gillingham, give them a wide bearth).

Times always the issue, if you need it doing quick then it costs :(

Try a local LR or classic car club for members who may be willing to help.

Good luck, and keep going you'll get there eventually.