You really need to ask yourself what your expectations are in the long run. Are you looking for a show stopper or a nice driver?

If you decide to tackle the metal work yourself are you tig welding or mig welding? Are you familiar with the effects of heat on metal? Do you plan on handling the body work and paint yourself? If not, have you located a shop that is willing to pick up where you left off?

There are many questions to be answered.

If you are considering a professional shop, most good shops are going to charge on a time and materials basis, in reality this means the cost is open. Whatever it takes it takes.

As far as billing, different shops have different policies. My shop bills on a weekly basis.

If you decide to have the work done professionally, just do your homework, get references, talk to past customers etc. There are many crooks in this business that will mislead you just to take your money. Even if you get estimates, beware of the "t&m" clause. I've heard of other shops quoting 15K for metal work and then finals bills in the 50K range because the car was so bad when they stripped it.

Back to my original question, if you are going to be happy with whatever the outcome is if you try your hand in metal work, then go for it. But remember, there will be obstacles and there will be frustrations. Are you willing to deal with that. Only you can answer that.

Experience does come from practice but at what risk? If you tackle the job yourself, the best advice I can offer is plan your work and work your plan.

I guess I am done rambling now.

Mike