I've only been doing a minimum of research on Cushman's and parts for them this week, and I have found a wealth of parts and information. There are a number of "rallys" this year, although none close. And as to money, I think that a person shouldn't even get interested in restoring an old machine if he isn't willing to part with some bucks. Like the engine I found and put a down payment on. $800 is a lot of money to me. But when you consider that this is an antique engine (1958), it is in good running condition and is both a fairly complicated and bullet proof engine, I don't think the price is unreasonable. I've restored my share of old machines before, and I never sympathised with those who complain about the prices of NOS parts or quality reproductions. It brings me to mind of my favorite "old car sale" story.
I was selling a 1964 Chevelle convertible in running condition, this in 1980. The car was not in great condition, but very restorable. Two guys showed up at the same time to look at it. The price was $200. One of the guys looked it over, and then proceeded to talk the other out of buying it, while I looked on. His final comment to the other potential buyer was, "you know, they're making convertibles again". I turned to him and said, "Really, you mean to tell me they're making 1964 Chevelle convertibles again!?" Neither bought the car, but I sold it to a young guy the next week, who seemed to have a better attitude and the moxy to make it happen.
