Conclusion
When labor amounts are clear-cut, we have provided the figures. In many cases, however, the amount of labor required is not clear-cut. Each segment of the project presents unique and sometimes unforeseen challenges. With an elaborate project such as this, there are countless details, each requiring exacting care. Hence, to have a car professionally prepared in the manner described would cost far more than the $74,167.09 at which we arrived.
The fastback rear window is...
The fastback rear window is the most expensive glass component for the project. It wasn't too long ago that these backlights were almost impossible to find and unbelievably expensive. The glass kit comes from overseas, and the shipping costs for that huge wooden crate can be considerable. Note also the replacement piece doesn't have the raised centerline as the original factory glass had.
Door-glass prep begins with...
Door-glass prep begins with the installation of the stainless edge molding. It's carefully seated to the glass with a bead of thin rubber around the edge.
The same procedure is used...
The same procedure is used on the window vent frames. First the rubber bedding is shaped into a "U" and laid into the channel. Next, the glass is gently seated, and the excess rubber is trimmed away with a razor. You must be careful when seating both the window and vent glass because any hard contact with on the edge could cause it to shatter. Here, the technician has a rubber mallet on hand to persuade things to go together.
Installation of the vent wings...
Installation of the vent wings is another procedure that requires the utmost care. Even with tape over the paint, it's still possible to slip and cause damage. Once the A-pillar and door weatherstrip is in place, some adjustment of the vent assembly installation is necessary.
Ready for final assembly,...
Ready for final assembly, the front fenders are brought in from the paint shop, where the final lettering has been accomplished. In this photo, it's easy to see that the paint finish has been cut and buffed to a show-ready shine. For those just tuning in to this series, the paint materials for this project cost more than $4,000.
The trunk lid awaits installation...
The trunk lid awaits installation after being custom finished with the Phantom project name. The block lettering appears to jump out at you, but the characters are actually painted on, which is exactly as intended.
At last, the project finally...
At last, the project finally sees the light of day. She's a beauty in every way and only mildly customized. The '67 Shelby-style hood looks good, as do the body-colored bumpers. The lowered stance and short sidewalls give this car a real down-on-the-ground appeal. Autoworks did an awesome job, and we know that the folks at Dynacorn couldn't be happier.
It's hard to beat the factory...
It's hard to beat the factory fuel-tank arrangement for cost and a sanitary-looking installation. The replica nature of the project called for an original-style tank as opposed to a fuel cell or aftermarket tank. Autoworks opted for a later-vintage, Mustang-style tank with a larger 20-gallon capacity for extended driving range.
Although careful design went...
Although careful design went into the project, a thorough wheel-fitment check takes place at each corner before anything rolls. On the rear axle, we find that all the careful measuring paid off, and that the wheel and tire assemblies fill out the fenderwells perfectly.