The first steps toward any budget restomod build
Forgive the Thanksgiving break—family first, wrenches second. Now that we’re back, let’s talk budget restomod starting points.
A reader on Facebook asked where to begin when the car already has a big-block 454—great problem to have. Most of us aren’t that lucky, so let’s lay down ground rules before we open the tool box:
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Define the goal.
Sunday cruiser? Street/strip weekend toy? Drag-and-drive warrior? Each path dictates where you spend the first dollar. -
Set a hard budget.
I like name-brand cereal for the kids more than I like billet valve covers—draw the line and stick to it. -
Buy once, cry once.
Example: you own a small-block Camaro but dream of a 396. Don’t dump cash on long-tube headers for the 350; bank that money toward the big-block swap or you’ll be re-buying parts you can’t return.
Let’s say the 350 stays (for now). You want muscle-car tone without breaking the bank. Options, ranked by wallet pain:
- DIY dual exhaust with generic turbo mufflers – $250-$400, sounds 10x better than single stock pipe.
- Headers + full 2.5” aluminized system – $600-$900, pick your muffler, gain a few ponies.
- Stainless mandrel kit – $1,200+, last forever, shiny under the car.
Same thought process applies to every subsystem: suspension, brakes, wheels. Decide the mission, set the budget, then buy parts that survive the next upgrade phase.
Next post we’ll open the toolbox and start turning wrenches—cheap headers, junk-yard 3.73 rear, and a Saturday-morning cam swap that won’t void the grocery fund.
Got a better plan or think I’m off base? Drop your two cents below—free advice is always welcome.
