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Posted by KenaiGary [65.74.48.112] on Saturday, September 03, 2011 at 23:20:32 :
I've been a PW owner now for about two months with a restored 1961 WM300 and a project 1950 B-2 I bought for my grandson (many of you have read that story in my past posts). That $1,000 investment has now turned into having a gravel driveway and pad put into on the lot I own across the street from where I live. Total cost is going to be about $20,000 by the time it is all done.
Could have done things cheaper, but my wife is supportive because she will be able to see her
grandson, Brycen, more once we begin working on the 1950. He is 13 months old. Special thanks to the Dodge Boys for sending him his first part, a fuel pump. And, also to Dan Minenger for the discounted zinc oxide coated running board brackets.
Here is where I need some advice. Today a buddy and I did a junkyard and backwoods tour looking for old PWs on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. In just six hours I "found" at least 10 M37s that are just sitting in fields and are in at least as good condition as most that are listed on the PW Photo classifieds. Also found a 1942 Dodge flatbed dually that is in great shape. Also found a PW ambulance that could probably be had at a great price--there is presently one for sale on the photo classifieds that could be a twin.
Based upon what I've found and considering I haven't even scratched the surface of what is available--we only drove the main highway, I am thinking there is an untapped business opportunity for M37 FFPW parts.
I'm thinking I could buy a 5 acre lot up here for about $5,000, buy a decent trailer to haul these out and sell parts. In looking at parts' costs, I am thinking I may have a reasonable business model, so I'm looking to the experts on this forum to tell me if I'm just dreaming or whether this might make sense. I plan to retire in about 10 years and this could be something I could pursue if I start collecting the vehicles now.
Yes, I would have to hire a kid to help pull the parts and there would be other costs, but before I start writing a business plan, I'd appreciate any advice.
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