Re: "This whole project started out like this:"
I spend way too much time on 'projects'.
1980 International Scout II, before:
After:
Click for build thread Basically, I cut out the rust in the tub, welded in replacement panels and herculined the tub. Then I did a spring over, reverse shackle, hi steer, replaced everything from the knuckles out on the front with a combination of Chevy and Ford parts, and converted the rear brakes to disks. No kit was used, it's mostly all fabricated. It looks like it's about to go on the chopping block again for a cage, one ton axles, and big fender trimming. I hate to mess it up, but I'm not using it much as it is.
My first house I bought, with half an acre of land, for $25K. It had been moved from down the street, so the brick exterior was gone, the plumbing underneath was ripped out, the garage including the panel box was gone, and the end of the house where the fireplace had been just had plywood nailed over it. I completely redid that house inside and out, put a 10x10 addition on for a washroom, and lived in it a couple of years. I don't have any pics online, I need to scan them in, the difference is pretty impressive. Now I'm renting it out.
My current house has a 24x48 shop out back, the roof was in bad shape when I bought it. A year and a half ago I tore the roof off, raised the block walls to 10 feet, and put a 10' door in the side so I can get vehicles in to work on them. I built new steel joists, and erected them and a steel decking roof over the Independence Day weekend. I still have a lot of work to do, painting, rewiring, insulating, and replacing doors, but it's coming along nicely.
Now, I'm looking for a mill and lathe, then I'll truly be dangerous.