–John Engstrom–
This coming Saturday, November 16th, marks the 90th anniversary of the beginning of Ferrari. You’d think I would have one by now. But as it still sounds like the same old situation to me, I couldn’t afford one even if someone gave one to me. I am however willing to take a chance if someone wants to give me one. But take a minute and toast Ferrari with a beverage of your choice. I know I am going to.
Parts is parts as they say. I sold my MG and am using the money to purchase Mini parts. Since I was laid up all summer and couldn’t do anything but lay in bed watch car shows and order parts for my Mini. Ordering parts is fun to do until you cannot remember if you already have that part or if you don’t and need it. Now, one doesn’t have to be ill to fall into that trap, that can happen to anyone anywhere along the line. You’ve done it, you know you have. Anyway… as I am still in the parts ordering mode I am trying to order stuff that I know I don’t have. As this drags on, my parts ordering is getting more and more extreme and I am probably missing parts that I really do need. If I get one, should I get two?
I need to do what we should all be doing, inventory all the parts and then match what you have to what you REALLY need, not like me who thinks he really needs everything. The idea is to keep everything under control for your parts and your spending.
What you and I need then is a way to keep track of everything. Probably the best way to do it is by using a spreadsheet. Below you will find links a suggested spreadsheet format to use. You can use it, change it or make your own!
SPREADSHEET TIPS!
Use one for each project and track everything needed, bought and sold to your sheet. Used parts bought and your used parts sold can recoup some costs. Edit it often and change it as needed. Each project is new, spend some time to adjust your spreadsheet as you need to.
Start with a list of everything you can think of. Estimate what it is that you can afford or want to spend. The things that you think of are OK, then mark them as complete. This way you will know that you have checked them when the project is done.
Think about how much you have or want to spend. Then remember that it’s probably going to cost more than you think it will. If you can find good used parts, these will save you money. Perhaps your update will result in parts that you can sell to someone else who needs them. Check with local car clubs to find and sell parts as well as the Internet.
Then, you can adjust your budget to match what you have spent. Don’t forget the taxes and shipping as that needs to be factored in also. One more item you may want to consider would be to add dates as to when you think you should have portions of you project done, this can help keep you on track.
Most important of all, don’t show the spreadsheet to your wife!!
As my Mother used to say to me, “Do as I say, not as I do.” and to answer your question, no I did not do a spreadsheet for this project. But I am going to, I just have to get out there and find everything, or maybe order something else first.