Flipping a Voxal Corser: From Non-Runner to Profit
In the world of car flipping, few projects spark excitement like transforming a non-runner into a profitable vehicle. Recently, I took on the challenge of a Voxal Corser, purchased for a mere £250 with aspirations of selling it for over £22,000. As daunting as it was, this project promised a substantial return, but the journey was fraught with obstacles, especially since the engine was not running when I bought it.
After a thorough diagnosis, the issue was traced back to a bad head gasket and a warped head. The first step was to remove the head from the engine, which required access to my friend’s machine shop—a significant advantage given the complexity of the repairs needed. With machining costs in mind, I planned to keep track of expenses to show potential profits if I had outsourced the work.
The initial struggle involved cleaning the head and dealing with rusted bolts. To my dismay, extracting the studs became a nightmare when they began rounding off. After several attempts using various techniques, including air-powered tools, the stubborn bolts were finally removed.
Once the head was clean, I needed to check if the valves were leaking. Using a vacuum test, I confirmed that the valves were indeed leaking, necessitating lapping and likely head skimming due to warping. A pressure test assured me that the head wasn't cracked, giving me the green light to proceed with further repairs.
Amidst this extensive work, I partnered with Marketplace Monitor to efficiently find profitable cars and streamline my buying process. This tool was pivotal in ensuring I wasn’t missing out on great deals in the future.
After removing the valves and cleaning them, I inspected for wear. Luckily, the amount of lateral movement indicated the valves were in reasonable condition. A valve grinding paste was used to create a seal, but finding the right fit took time, and I eventually decided to cut new valve seats for efficiency.
Overcoming Challenges with Stubborn Components
Post-machining, removing four broken studs from the exhaust manifold posed yet another challenge, leading to drilling attempts that were ultimately successful. With all machining complete, the head was skimmed down to flatness, and fresh valve seals were prepped for installation.
After cleaning and reassembling the head with new components, the next task was to reattach it to the engine block. This step included replacing additional components like the water pump and crank oil seal, vital for ensuring proper engine function.
First Start: A Blend of Anticipation and Anxiety
Finally, after reassembling the engine, I was ready for the moment of truth—turning the key. The initial sounds were promising, but after a few attempts, I noticed strange noises and improper idling that led to further diagnostics.
Keeping my cool under pressure, I meticulously checked each connection and mechanical component until I discovered a loose intake manifold causing the engine to run roughly. Once tightened, the engine hummed to life.
With the mechanical side finally sorted, I dedicated the final stages of the project to addressing the car’s aesthetics. Replacing a rusted bonnet and adding a new interior door handle were simple yet crucial steps to enhance the overall appeal.
After giving the car a thorough cleaning and capturing appealing photographs, I listed it across various platforms. However, discovering the vehicle was previously an insurance write-off put a dent in my original profit projections.
Despite the insurance setback, I managed to sell the Voxal Corser for £1,900, resulting in a profit of £854 after accounting for machine shop expenses. Even had I paid for the machining work, the profit remained healthy at £454—a testament to the effort invested in restoring the car.
This project proved both challenging and rewarding. It reinforced the importance of perseverance, thoroughness, and the potential profitability of car flipping, even with unexpected hurdles along the way.
Embarking on this Voxal Corser project reminded me that with the right tools, partnerships, and a strategic approach, success in car flipping is well within reach. Each restoration fuels my excitement for future projects, all while contributing valuable lessons in mechanical work and market strategy. So, if you're contemplating your first flip or deep into the game, remember: diligence and resourcefulness can lead to impressive profits.
Part 1/8:
Flipping a Voxal Corser: From Non-Runner to Profit
In the world of car flipping, few projects spark excitement like transforming a non-runner into a profitable vehicle. Recently, I took on the challenge of a Voxal Corser, purchased for a mere £250 with aspirations of selling it for over £22,000. As daunting as it was, this project promised a substantial return, but the journey was fraught with obstacles, especially since the engine was not running when I bought it.
Diagnosing the Problem
Part 2/8:
After a thorough diagnosis, the issue was traced back to a bad head gasket and a warped head. The first step was to remove the head from the engine, which required access to my friend’s machine shop—a significant advantage given the complexity of the repairs needed. With machining costs in mind, I planned to keep track of expenses to show potential profits if I had outsourced the work.
The initial struggle involved cleaning the head and dealing with rusted bolts. To my dismay, extracting the studs became a nightmare when they began rounding off. After several attempts using various techniques, including air-powered tools, the stubborn bolts were finally removed.
Assessing and Repairing the Head
Part 3/8:
Once the head was clean, I needed to check if the valves were leaking. Using a vacuum test, I confirmed that the valves were indeed leaking, necessitating lapping and likely head skimming due to warping. A pressure test assured me that the head wasn't cracked, giving me the green light to proceed with further repairs.
Amidst this extensive work, I partnered with Marketplace Monitor to efficiently find profitable cars and streamline my buying process. This tool was pivotal in ensuring I wasn’t missing out on great deals in the future.
Part 4/8:
After removing the valves and cleaning them, I inspected for wear. Luckily, the amount of lateral movement indicated the valves were in reasonable condition. A valve grinding paste was used to create a seal, but finding the right fit took time, and I eventually decided to cut new valve seats for efficiency.
Overcoming Challenges with Stubborn Components
Post-machining, removing four broken studs from the exhaust manifold posed yet another challenge, leading to drilling attempts that were ultimately successful. With all machining complete, the head was skimmed down to flatness, and fresh valve seals were prepped for installation.
Part 5/8:
After cleaning and reassembling the head with new components, the next task was to reattach it to the engine block. This step included replacing additional components like the water pump and crank oil seal, vital for ensuring proper engine function.
First Start: A Blend of Anticipation and Anxiety
Finally, after reassembling the engine, I was ready for the moment of truth—turning the key. The initial sounds were promising, but after a few attempts, I noticed strange noises and improper idling that led to further diagnostics.
Keeping my cool under pressure, I meticulously checked each connection and mechanical component until I discovered a loose intake manifold causing the engine to run roughly. Once tightened, the engine hummed to life.
Part 6/8:
The Last Leg: Cosmetic Fixes and Final Touches
With the mechanical side finally sorted, I dedicated the final stages of the project to addressing the car’s aesthetics. Replacing a rusted bonnet and adding a new interior door handle were simple yet crucial steps to enhance the overall appeal.
After giving the car a thorough cleaning and capturing appealing photographs, I listed it across various platforms. However, discovering the vehicle was previously an insurance write-off put a dent in my original profit projections.
The Grand Finale: Resale and Profit
Part 7/8:
Despite the insurance setback, I managed to sell the Voxal Corser for £1,900, resulting in a profit of £854 after accounting for machine shop expenses. Even had I paid for the machining work, the profit remained healthy at £454—a testament to the effort invested in restoring the car.
This project proved both challenging and rewarding. It reinforced the importance of perseverance, thoroughness, and the potential profitability of car flipping, even with unexpected hurdles along the way.
Conclusion
Part 8/8:
Embarking on this Voxal Corser project reminded me that with the right tools, partnerships, and a strategic approach, success in car flipping is well within reach. Each restoration fuels my excitement for future projects, all while contributing valuable lessons in mechanical work and market strategy. So, if you're contemplating your first flip or deep into the game, remember: diligence and resourcefulness can lead to impressive profits.