The step-by-step restoration of a vintage car that’s cost little in dollars is giving a Dubbo father and son a priceless experience.
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David Camp and son Thomas are returning a 1934 Ford Coupe to its former glory.
Bought as a rusted-out wreck for $800 five years ago, the duo set about rebuilding the car.
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There’s still some more work to do, but the Ford now boasts a Chevy engine, classic lines and a shiny grille.
On Sunday it was on display at the monthly Dubbo Cars and Coffee, a far cry from the body and chassis they first saw in a paddock.
While working on cars has been Mr Camp’s hobby for three decades, the Ford Coupe is a first for Thomas.
The 17-year-old told of how the pair had set about the ambitious task with a “laid-back” approach, taking their time.
“We pretty much built, handmade the whole back end of it, the quarter panels, the boot, and smoothed out some of the roof there with a home-made dolly…,” he said
“We put the floor in it, did a bit on the gearbox and put that in, and that’s about it.
“Got the dash going and the four-bar suspension there.”
We pretty much built, handmade the whole back end of it, the quarter panels, the boot, and smoothed out some of the roof there with a home-made dolly…
- Thomas Camp
Still to come is more bodywork and the interior will get some attention.
Friends who’ve had help with their cars from Mr Camp in the past have also returned the favour during the process.
Thomas said they had been given the engine and speedo.
Their biggest outlay so far had been on the suspension, which had cost about $2000, he said.
“It’s been a cheap car so far,” he said.
A Year 12 student at Dubbo College Senior Campus, Thomas is doing a vehicle body spray paint course at TAFE as one of his subjects.
The P-plater plans to continue the hobby in the future.
His father is pleased for Thomas to see the results of his five years of efforts.
“It was getting him involve so he can work through things and work as a team,” Mr Camp said.
“Hopefully he’s got something to look forward to and to use down the track.
“He’s starting to see all the time is paying off.”
He’s starting to see all the time is paying off.
- Dad David Camp
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