With a piece of paper and tape measure in hand, measure the distance between all the bolts. Start from the center of the bolt, and measure across to the center of the opposite one. Keep a diagram on your paper and put down the measurements on the lines. Next, measure the distance to the bolt directly next to it. If you do the diagram to scale, you can punch the holes out and lay the diagram over the spare tires you’re shopping for.
The TV program “Overhaulin” became extremely popular with Chip Foose as the main player. In this series, the aim is to change eastern auto parts into dream machines. Chip works with a team of mechanics and designers. In addition to attracting a large TV audience, the show also has a number of followers who take part in an active forum discussing ways to turn old wrecks into valuable vehicles. Chip is currently involved in a new program called Ultimate Car Build Off on the Discovery channel. Entrants have the chance to win $100,000 so it is likely to prove popular.
Step Two: Selecting an engine. A fast rat rod needs a strong engine. It’s always a good idea to get the largest engine that can fit in your engine bay. Some races make the frame a bit bigger to accommodate the huge engine. Any engine will suffice. It doesn’t have to be a new one as long as it is a working one. Look for great deals at the junkyard. Sometimes the dealer would be willing to sell it off for a low rate. If you want to race your rat rod, remember that raw engine power is the key.
What counted most of all to me, when shopping at a salvage grocery store, was when we checked out. We were always surprised out how little we had spent on our cart full of groceries.
Things you might need: a car and perhaps it inner working parts. Please note that it can have many parts from different cars. You should also have an engine, a chassis, exhaust manifolds, pistons, and other parts that make the engine work and the car to move. Although you can swap parts, its best to get the parts that are already working to save you time.
Decide what you want to spend for the part before you go. This can keep you from overspending on your budget. Sometimes these junkyards have staff who will pull the part or get it off a shelf. If you know what you want to spend it will help you determine if you want it from this place at all. Also, find out what they will charge you for it if you find it and pull it yourself. You don’t want to go through the hassle only to leave it behind because their prices are out of reach.