I recently acquired a '68 Mustang that's in pretty good shape as a daily driver. However, there are some things I'd like to improve/upgrade on it, and rather than just taking it to a shop I thought it would be nice to find a club where I could meet like minded people and maybe get a little mentorship/advice/assistance on doing things myself. I can turn wrenches, but am not a mechanic and hesitate to start projects in my garage that I might not be able to finish due to lack of experience or proper tools.
Does anybody know of a classic car club or Mustang-specific enthusiast group in the Charlottesville, Ruckersville, Gordonsville area? I've done some online research and the closest I've found is Richmond.
I'd also be interested in hearing about specialty shops within 30 miles of Ruckersville. If there aren't any clubs, I'm wondering if there is a specialty shop that would allow me to participate in the work, so I can pick up a little knowledge and gain experience. (I'm not looking to get off the hook for labor - just want an opportunity to learn a little as the work is done).
Any thoughts from the VA ARFCOM crew would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Shawn
You would be amazed how easy it is to work on older vehicles. Just find a forum and read. I am a self taught mechanic in the sense that I had to learn everything I know about fixing vehicles from researching them.
I recently changed the trans in my Bronco from a AOD to C6 in my driveway. I did the swap in a day by myself. The hardest part was getting the trans to line up. The would have been easy if I didn't have a gravel driveway.... My point in tell you that is that I just read until I figured out how to do it. I wouldn't recommend starting out on a project that size when it is a DD, but most things can easily be done in a weekend. Only thing I don't mess with now is body work. I just pay someone else because I suck at it.
What kinda things did you have in mind for the Stang? Mostly bolt ons, or thinking more major projects?
I was a member of the National Capitol Region Mustang Club until I transferred overseas and have a 68 390 GT convertible which is currently in storage.
According the Mustang Club of America
Mustang Club of America
there is a club in Staunton,
Valley Mustangs Unlimited
and several others throughout Virginia including Richmond.
There is a list of events on the MCA webpage for shows and there are several in Virginia. Would suggest that you go to a show and make some contacts that way.
