My early research into the restoration of Emma indicated the sky's-the-limit in terms of what could be done and what it would cost. I established guidelines to keep the project focused and not go crazy on all the possibilities. The basic framework is:
1. Keep Emma as close to original specifications as possible.
2. Improve on the overall build and engineering quality - specifically a more powerful motor, better suspension, improved sound deadening & heat retention characteristics, more comfortable interior, and a few accessories that would get Emma anywhere I wanted to go.
With the general direction set, I planned on a 4-6 month time to completion. I would need to coordinate a team of vendors around ordering parts, scheduling work, ferrying Emma between workshops and minimizing dead time in between vendors. I've budgeted the whole project at $25,000 but expect this could be a low figure depending upon how much fabrication work might be needed. Many parts can be ordered from Atlantic British or Rovers North, others can be purchased in the UK, but the British Pound exchange rate to the US Dollar may make it cheaper to fabricate.
Here is the laundry list of work that will take place from mid-April into August or October:
1. Replace motor with factory 4.6 liter V8 and Crower Cam.
2. Reseal transfer case, replace all necessary seals, hoses, and miscellaneous components as needed.
3. Upgrade all suspension components to Old Man Emu.
4. Fabricate 5 bar diamond plate pieces for fender wing tops, hood center, rocker panels, lower quarter panels, ladder rungs, rock sliders, and rear step bumper.
5. Add Mantec spare tire carrier to alleviate rear door loading.
6. Refinish ARB bull bar and add mounting lugs for limb risers and Hi-Lift Jack.
7. Line-X body tub interior, passenger compartment, fire wall, roof line, and all door interiors.
8. Repair/Replace all corroded body panels, doors, and repaint in Zambezi Silver.
9. Reupholster all seats with contrasting perforated leather, upgrade carpet pads and carpet, Dynamat interior of doors and roof line.
10. Install Alpine Satellite Radio with iPod interface, new sub woofer, new speakers, and new amp.
Stay tuned for photos as Emma begins her overhaul. Next up the project teams.
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