According to research, 62% of businesses who deal in classic cars have seen an increase in restoration projects, with 38% of owners aged under 45 trying their hand at revamping an older car. Around 44% of classic car owners love their vehicle so much they want to “keep it forever”, with 80% saying they’re comfortable doing some restoration work themselves.
The intricate process of classic car restoration blends artistry with engineering to create an automotive masterpiece. Successfully restoring a classic car not only produces a feeling of satisfaction as an owner, but it also contributes to preserving a piece of motoring history.
For someone who’s never tackled a classic car project before, it can seem daunting, but with careful planning, it’s something most motor enthusiasts can achieve.
Do your research
Restoring classic cars requires some basic skills, so before you start, do your research to find out what new skills you may need to learn.
From making sure the engine is running well to restoring the bodywork and interior, there are many processes involved. Aside from ensuring the vehicle is mechanically sound, you will also need basic skills in repairing bodywork, welding, painting, upholstery and electrical repairs. It all depends how much you’re prepared to take on yourself and how long you have to complete the project.
It’s vital to do your research, as you don’t want to start the restoration and then realise you’ve taken on too much. If you have family members or friends who have any of these skills, learn from them, as restoring a car yourself will cost significantly less than having it done at a garage.
Many colleges run courses on vehicle repairs and restoration to teach you the basic skills to start your project. Try joining a classic car club and learn from other members. Go to meetings and chat with fellow enthusiasts about their experiences.
Most classic car clubs run online forums where hundreds of owners have a wealth of combined experience. Many will have restored cars themselves and can offer sound advice.
Once you’ve decided on the jobs within your capabilities, consider options for those you may not be able to complete, such as the electrical work, and budget it into your plan. Learning how to do the restoration properly means you stand a better chance of getting it right first time.
Stick to a budget
Set a budget and stick to it. Be realistic: whatever type of car you’re restoring, it isn’t a cheap hobby.
Doing the work yourself will save money, but the cost of parts can soon add up. If you’re doing the job in stages over a long period, this may not be too much of an issue. However, there will always be some surprises, some of which may be costlier than others. If this happens, will you be able to afford to carry on?
According to the experts, when you’ve priced up the parts and work to be carried out by professionals, add around 30% on top to allow for those nasty surprises.
Sourcing parts
There’s no point in choosing a project car that’s obsolete, with hardly any chance of sourcing the parts. It’s important to stay true to the original design and specifications of the car, as this is the mark of a good restoration.
Without being able to find parts, it’s a waste of time starting, as you won’t achieve a good result. There are many online stores specialising in selling classic car parts, including sellers dealing in specific models and marques.
Online auction sites such as eBay, second-hand sites such as Gumtree, breakers’ yards and specialist motor spares sellers will all come in useful during your search. Do this before you start - otherwise, your project may run out of steam half way through if you can’t find the parts.
Look out for classic car auctions that include accessories and parts and check out their catalogue in advance. Contact local repair shops, mechanics and classic car groups to ask for advice on the availability of specific parts and how to find them. If you’re finding it a struggle to source them, this will become more difficult over time as the model becomes rarer, so it’s probably time for a rethink if you can’t find what you need now.
Practical tips for completing a car restoration
Always have the right tools for the job. This will help ensure the restoration goes smoothly and you don’t damage the vehicle, parts and components while trying to fit them. While the major tools and facilities are important, such as a garage or workshop with a ramp where you can access the underneath of the car, don’t neglect the smaller tools too.
When working, car restorers must take care not to damage valuable or irreplaceable components. For example, you’re dealing with fluids such as oil and other contaminants, including dirt, so transferring them onto either sensitive engine components, shiny bodywork or a leather interior can set your project back. Professionals normally wear disposable mechanic gloves, not only to ensure their hands are clean at all times, but also to protect the skin from harsh chemicals.
Old school mechanics may scoff at the modern trend for wearing PPE when working with cars, but there’s a reason for health and safety regulations. For a mechanic, disposable gloves mean there’s less chance of botching up a particular task by contaminating the parts with oil or dirt, while you can also reduce the risks of skin irritations, such as eczema or dermatitis.
When you’re spending hours in a workshop restoring a car, mechanics’ latex gloves can be a godsend to keep your hands clean. If you suffer from sensitive skin or allergies, nitrile gloves mechanic-quality don’t contain latex, so they can prevent irritation and give you a better grip on smooth components.
Reasons a car restoration might fail
Don’t set yourself unrealistic deadlines, as running out of steam half way through is a common reason for failure. Restoring classic cars is a long job, so never expect a quick fix, as it won’t happen.
The most common reasons for failure include rebuilding the engine, or fixing the electrics, as you may not have the relevant skills. It’s also why so many vehicles appear on auction sites listed as a “project car”, as owners have simply lost interest, or run out of money!
Another stumbling block can be the interior, as it’s a skilled job and you may not have the patience to see it through. However, as long as you plan carefully, there’s no reason why your project shouldn’t be a success.
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