Are you the type of person that dreams of restoring an old classic that's several decades old?
We thought we would go through some of the basics of car restoration in this article.
Firstly, prior to starting the job make sure you have all the necessary tools, including clamps, hammers, screwdrivers, torque wrenches and many others. You may also have to prepare to sand, weld, buff, polish and paint the vehicle too.
Inside, out...
So, let's take a look at the interior. You need to be prepared for the upholstery to be torn, and the gauges possibly falling out of the dashboard. Also, make sure the leather on the steering wheel and gear knob are ok. Finally, ensure that the seatbelts are in safe working order.
Restoring the Exterior
Obviously, the bodywork needs to be looked at and maybe some panel beating is required. If the car has any rust spots you will need to sandblast them away.
Then when it comes to the paint work, you will need to strip the car down to the bare metal.
Some restorers will remove all body panels in order to remove any traces of the old paint. The paint work is removed using chemical treatments and sandblasting. The grey epoxy primer is used prior to the many layers of the final chosen paint colour.
With regards to headlamps and indicators etc, you may need to replace the bulbs and also (prior to priming and paint the car) need to cover then with protective paper and tape to ensure they don't get paint speckles on them during the spraying process, you may also need to replace the battery, electrics and even the spark plugs,
Pop the hood...
Firstly, start by completely dismantling the engine, fuel pumps, carburettors, cylinder heads and compressors, everything must go. Examine each part and see what needs to be repaired and which parts need to be replaced.
Finally, if you require more hands-on advice when it comes to car restoration and advice speak to H Bowers on 01782 590 700 or email us at enquiries@bowersautoparts.net.