Restoration Re-assembly, Questions and possibly pleading for help from SoCal teeners Options

[ehokana]

Hey guys, I have found myself considering a few options and was hoping for some advice. About a year ago I started the tear-down on my '73 for a complete rebuild restoration. Long story short, I am about to get the car back from paint and, while my original intent was to have the shop that did the motor rebuild put the car back together, I am questioning that now. I have no issues with the shop and would trust them with anything (especially since the mechanic working on my car is a 914 guy himself), however the sheer number of hours that I would be paying for is making me wonder if it would be better to just do the re-assembly myself. I know that re-assembly would likely run near 150 hours (I'm sure you can figure the amount, even with the reduced rate that the shop owner has promised me).

Anyway, can anyone offer some insight? Any important tricks or tips? I know these cars were basically built with hand tools and are not terribly complicated- especially since mine is carb'd and the motor is already reinstalled. I also know the heater controls will be a b***h and the headlight assembly will likely be the same. How long should I expect the re-assembly to take being done after work and on weekends, and is it a task that is relatively doable for someone who has wrenched a bit before? I'm a bit worried about this becoming a never ending project- I mean, more than 914's tend to be by nature. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/av-943.gif) Though, getting to know the car inside and out would certainly be beneficial.

Is there anyone in the SoCal area that would be willing to lend a desperately needed hand if I decide to do the re-assembly myself? Any assistance would certainly help, and I would be more than willing to repay with bbq and an open beer fridge (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)

Thanks in advance