Hi,
This is my first post as I'm new to the group. I'm looking for some guidance. I have 1979 Pontiac Firebird that my mom and dad gave me as as high school graduation gift in 1984. Approximately 18 months after they bought me the car my dad passed away at the tender age of 47. He made great sacrifices to buy me that vehcile.

I want to begin the proceess of restoration. However, the vehcile does have some major problems and I'm looking for some guidance. I was told the chasis is rusted out in the right rear. Also a small portion of the trunk floor and passenger side front floor is rusted through. Before I begin any resotation to the engine or interior I want to make sure that the vehicle can be returned to a structurally safe condition. However, I don't know who to trust or where to begin? Does anyone have any thoughts on how to go about this? I live in central New Jersey and I would appreciate any ideas or suggestions on this matter.

I need to do this for my dad because before he died he said to my mother "I'm so glad we bought him that car, I hope he never gets rid of it". My dad was a really good person, who worked to hard and died to young.

I'm looking forward to any thoughts or suggestions.

Best regards,
J.B.

Wow,
don't know what to say.First off, welcome to the forum. I'm sorry to hear about your loss.But congratulations on your car. The areas of rust on this car are in the common areas. Especially the trunk. Not knowing the overall condition of the car, it is still my believe you can save any car, it just all depends how much money you want and can invest.The car sits on a subframe connected to the rest of the body by large bolts (6). Your rusted panels need to be cut out and new ones need to be welded in place. You can check places like Year One for replacement panels or check the monthly and bi monthly issues of Pontiac Enthusiast and High Performance Pontiac were you find some companies in specializing in Pontiacs. Trying to find somebody you can trust to weld good is another thing. Maybe there are some clubs or so in your area, an somebody can recommend somebody to you. Let us see a pic of your car and do not hesitate to get second opinions here.Good Luck!

I'm not really of any help to you, as I'm not very knowledgable when it comes to restoration. But your story is very touching. I'm sorry to hear about your father passing away, my sympathy goes out to you and your family. Also I would like to wish you good luck on fixing the old bird up. Sounds like quite a project.