ramsesosirus

I've been working on my own car(s) for about 10 years now.  Accumulated a good amount of tools, which is crucial.  I studied engineering in college, and graduated.  It was tough.  Lots of math and stuff, not so much real "mechanics" type stuff.  Cost me a lot of money...  Not sure it was worth it, but hey, there's a lot of engineers who don't really "get" stuff like cars.  

Started (trying) to do my own work because I couldn't afford or trust most local mechanics...

Bought an 87 Monte Carlo SS after high school, with a loan.  Did a LOT of work to that, and learned a very great deal about cars in general, forums, tips and tricks, mods, swaps, body work, tools, etc...

Bought a 76 280z from my friend, not running.  Got it running.  Threw a rod.  It sat for 4 years.

Wrecked my 87 SS after 12 years.  Very sad time, lots of bad things came from this.  But the sturdiness of the car saved my life.

Got back to working on the Z in 2016.  Had a used engine to install.  Got it installed on running.  Working on tuning, getting it running right, brakes, leaks, etc... Having a lot of fun doing this!  First engine swap I've done.

While I'm no pro and have no "real" training, I've gotten pretty good with cars.  There are only a few things I can't or won't attempt.  Haven't done much body work, haven't welded.  Did repair and paint my rear Monte Carlo bumper after an accident, paint looked great!  Removed the computer system from the Monte.  Took apart a TH350.. it never got back together...

Now I'm on to getting this Z going and customized to my liking... Not as "perfect" as the Monte was, but just as cool in it's own way.  Definitely faster, and definitely more unique.  Also fun and easy to work on.  Less stressful to work on, not worrying about perfection anymore.

I tried for perfection with the Monte, and it was all gone it the blink of an eye.  Gotta have fun with it, enjoy it while we can.  Life is short, unpredictable, and be really tough and dark at times.  Find things you like to do and do them.  Time passes quickly...