Escort Mk1/2 Grp4 fabrication

[Torren]

Im looking for a little information and possibly contacts as i am considering moving from the UK to somewhere around Victoria.I am currently known around the UK after fabricating some of the nicest Grp4 components, modified and historic spec rally cars in the country.I would like to start a company over there.My plan is to buy a few shells (around one every 6 weeks) fabricate them and probably ship them to Europe where i believe there is most demand.I would concentrate on only the top end cars. Also i would be looking to purchase Capri axles (if they are the same atlas axle casings we get in the UK) and front legs.
My questions are:-

Just how many shells are knocking about without damage or too much rust and at what sort of prices?
Is there any market for me in Australia?
Is there anyone out there doing the same?


Any information you can give would help me greatly.
Thanks

[JamesR]

hey mate,
try these sites;
http://rsmotorsport.com.au/forums/index.php

http://classicford.mine.nu/forum/default.asp

[whooligan]

Sorry mate.....you are about 5 years too late. All the shells went to China as scrap metal.

Granted, what are left are infinately better than what you come across in the UK but the numbers are not what you would image. I know because I had a side business buying and breaking Escorts and Capris for a long time and overnight they just disappeared.

There are still cars about, but good 2dr Escorts and Capris command a pretty penny these days. I've stopped selling parts, as items I sold for $50 a few years ago are fetching $300 these days....You just can't buy them cheap enough to make a profit.

I'm sure your skills will earn you a decent living in this country, but you couldn't specialise in small fords without charging an arm and a leg and putting a certain local specialist's nose out of joint.

If you are keen to know more about the local small ford scene in Victoria, drop me a line at maxrnb70@hotmail.com
I'm a pom who's called Australia home for over 30 years and owned small fords for most of that time.

Cheers Glenn

[Torren]

currently we are paying between £3000-£4000 for a fairly decent shell with fittings imported from the continent. my shells bare are fetching around £11000 in historic spec in primer.I have looked into shipping and as i know i am able to fit 6 into a container which is around £1200 to ship which i was hoping the sale of components would cover.I will look up those sites a little later and after contacting some of my relatives who live there regarding a premiss's I'm sure ill be in touch.