Not 490 but my 2 cents re woodwork. Im currently in the process of making new wood frames for my 1925 roadster and tourer, am making two of everything as I go and plan to make drawings of each piece. This because for many years this has been an obstacle to mine and others restoration projects here. I have finally accumulated patterns for both albeit borer ridden and dry rot damaged.
The most important parts to have for patterns are the main chassis runners from which everything else attaches. without these it is most difficult to reconstruct. Unfortunatley these are the parts that rot away first. Most verticle timbers are relatively simple to replicate. Take measurements off restored cars esp distance between A,B & C posts top and bottom.
Im no cabinet maker but with a few esential tools its not that difficult to replicate most pieces. Roadster is simple, not too many multiple curves, tourer corners of front and back seat are more difficult but it is possible to take short cuts e.g laminting. A good bandsaw, table saw and edge sander are must haves.
re wood types - I have accumulated many patterns both imported and local. Many USA wood species evident and late local assembled 26 used local kauri timber which I have used in the form of demolition timber from a 120 year old building. This way I know it is stable and dry. Our national VVC provides guidlines re what timbers are suitable for frame construction , screws, joints, adhesives etc.
If restoration was simple everyone would be doing it, I love the challenge. Learn some new skills and give it a go.
