Why Restore A Classic Car?
People restore classic cars for a variety of reasons. For some, it is a hobby that centers around the appreciation of classic vehicles, their aesthetics, and their function. For others, it is an attempt to revitalize a family heirloom or a car that played an important part in their life. No matter what your reason for choosing to restore a classic car, be sure to run through a restoration checklist before you begin so that you do not damage the vehicle.
Classic Car Restoration Checklist
As you get started restoring your classic car, take a few minutes to sit down and consider all the facets that go into the process. From concepts like objectives to more concrete decisions such as where to buy parts, you have many considerations to weigh.
Set Clear Objectives
The first step when determining how to restore a classic car is to figure out what you want to achieve from the process. What objectives are you seeking to meet? For some people, tuning a classic car and updating it with new features to make it function as their primary, day to day vehicle is the end goal. For others, the objective is to restore the car to its original factory assembly. How you would like the project to end determines where and how it begins.
Source Quality Parts
Needing to source new parts for a classic car is almost a guarantee during restoration. Because these cars are typically 40 years old or more, you are unlikely to find the parts you need in a typical auto shop. Instead, you will need to locate reliable aftermarket parts, and the supplier of these parts can make a significant difference. Some sources refurbish parts carefully, and these should be the suppliers you rely on. Selecting a damaged, low-quality, or worn part can further damage your classic car, and it could even pose a safety hazard.
Cover All Your Bases
Even if you have worked with classic cars in the past, you likely do not possess every skill needed to complete the entire project. Be sure that you have your bases covered when it comes to the expertise required. Reach out to shops or experts who can fill in during repairs you have less experience in so that the entire project produces a quality result.
Pay Attention To The Details
The smallest details can make the biggest difference in a classic car restoration and may determine whether your hard work results in a mediocre outcome or a stellar example of an old vehicle. While it is important to focus on critical players such as the transmission and body panels, do not forget small features like etching, undercoating, and the quality of the interior materials such as seats.
Know When To Outsource To An Expert
Perhaps you have already begun a classic car restoration and have reached a task that you do not have experience in, or perhaps you are not sure where to begin. Understanding the limits of your own knowledge and choosing to outsource the work to an expert is not a failure; rather, it is a wise decision on your journey to revitalize a classic car. Be sure to comprehensively review and ask questions to any shop you are considering partnering with for your classic car restoration. The right shop will protect your hard work and ensure that the vehicle performs safely and looks as good as it did when it was sold for the very first time.
Work With The Classic Car Restoration Pros
Whether you are looking for an experienced shop to handle the entire classic car restoration process or you simply need assistance with one aspect of the journey, make sure to partner with a shop that has years of experience specifically in working with classic cars. Robs Customs & Restorations would be happy to sit down and go over the classic car restoration process with you, offering personalized guidance based on the needs of your specific vehicle. From handling the process from start to finish to working alongside you during a particularly challenging task, we will make sure that your classic car maintains its unique appearance while functioning safely and effectively.
