My Mini has been off the road for several years - firstly because I was let down by somebody sorting out the bodywork and spraying it (which took well over a year... in fact the bulk of two) and then trying to get it ready for MOT. I took it in today, and got the call about an hour ago to say how badly it has failed. In his word "a major restoration job."
This is a car I have spent a lot on, and not driven properly for ages, and I can't afford to keep ploughing money into it. But I have had it for 10 years, and it seems such a waste to give up now...
I appreciate this is rather self-indulgent, especially as I haven't been on the forum for quite a while (to be honest, I have avoided it - it has been too difficult even seeing other Minis on the road when mine has been off for so long, let alone seeing people doing wonderful things with theirs!) but already family and friends are giving me the "maybe it is time to say a fond farewell..." "can you really keep going with this?..." and I figured if anywhere would have the 'Mini spirit' of battling on through problems, it would be here!
I find out exactly what's wrong when I pick it up later, but I know both subframes need doing, and there is a lot of welding/structural work. I know to a lot of people that would be a walk in the park, but unfortunately I have literally no welding experience, and I know a garage is going to charge a fair amount for doing it, which I just don't have. 'A major restoration job' is not what I need after I have spent so much trying to do just that!
So, anyone got any spare positivity they can throw my way? How about stories of getting back on the road against the odds or against advice? Anyone worked wonders on a tiny budget? Thanks!!!