A Guide to Restoring Your Classic Car

A Guide to

Some classic cars have been around for more than 50 years. Classic car restoration is the process by which the car is returned to its former glory and splendor. By following some of the basic guidelines, restoring classic cars can be a memorable and enjoyable experience. One of the inherent qualities of classic cars is that they always stand out among all other cars on the road. A few of the classic cars belonging to the 60’s and 70’s era include the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet 210(1954), Chevrolet Impala, Mercury Park Lane , Porsche 944, Plymouth Duster, Ford Station Wagon (1959), and L88 Corvette.

Restoring your classic car not only draws second looks from onlookers but it can also fetch a good price when you are ready to part with it. Restoring a classic car requires time, dedication, patience, and most importantly, money. If you are doing the job, you will need special tools. During the restoration process, it’s essential to tag the parts of the classic car which needs to be restored so as to simulate a more systematic approach. 

When restoring a classic car, a major part is the engine. The engine is the heart of the car so it’s advisable that a certified mechanic is given the responsibility of repairing it. Once the engine starts smoothly, you can steam wash the compartment of the engine and also repaint it. The gearbox and the transmission is the second part which needs to be checked. Changing the oil in the transmission and gearbox is suggested. Next in line are the body panels. Rusty or damaged body panels should be replaced.

The car windows need to be checked for cracks. If you need to replace the windows, it’s best to get new windows from authorized auto glass shops. Polishing the classic car with chrome polishing products would ensure that it looks as good as new. All the rubber which lines the doors and windows should be sprayed with silicon spray so the doors and windows can operate smoother. The interiors are another important segment of the car which should be considered. Try to install brand new upholstery for the interiors and change the floor panels. Finally, you should try to restore the original paint color of the car to add more value to the car.

Restoring a classic car is quite laborious and it can take a few months. You have to scour car part dealers and other car shops for the perfect restoration solution. Restoring your classic car is definitely more painstaking than modifying a classic car with new mechanical parts. Once you’ve successfully restored your classic car, the satisfaction and joy can be indescribable.

For more information on restoring classic cars, please visit the following links:

• Automobile Restoration: Deals with restoration of vintage cars and classic cars.
• Restoration Experts: An automobile portal for classic Jaguars.
• Restoration Beginners: A beginner’s corner for classic car restoration.
• Restoration Help: Contains information on restoring cars fast without spending a fortune.
• Restoration Help: Serves as a how-to resource for restoration of classic cars.
• Antique Auto & Classic Car Restoration: A full range of restoration services for classic cars and antique autos.
• Restoration Basics: A site covering some important aspects of Classic Car restoration such as exterior body work, interiors, and chrome work.
• Aston Martin Restoration: One of the best Aston Martin classic car restoration specialists.
• Impala Restoration: A site for all owners of Impala classic cars.
• Corvette Restorers: A society with more than 15,000 members dedicated to the preservation and restoration of Corvettes.
• Mustang Club: Dedicated to the care and restoration of Mustang, Shelby, Roush, SVT Cobra, and Steeda.
• Restore Classics: Provides restoration parts for Nova, Camaro, Impala, and GTO.
• Automotive Restoration: Automotive performance parts and restoration parts for Camaro, Charger, and Buick.
• Original Parts: A group specializing in original classic car parts.
• Auto Car Restoration: Some tips on restoring a classic car.
• Classic Car Restoration: A DIY network with useful restoration tips.
• Color Sanding: Explains the fundamentals of color sanding.
• Chrome Restoration Tips: Specializes in classic car restoration and chrome polishing.
• Body Filler Basics: Learn the 12 essential tips on body fillers.
• Restoration Tools & Supplies: A place to find classic car restoration tools & supplies.
• Classic Car Restoration Techniques: More basic techniques to restore classic cars for beginners.
• Classic Car Restoration Guide: A guide for implementing antique and classic car restoration process.
• Restoration Videos: Study these videos to understand the basics of car restoration.
• Restoring Cars: Offers car restoration tips and instructions.
• Classic Car Shine: How to make your classic car shine!
• Car Buyers Guide: A comprehensive classic car buying guide.
• Classic Car Test-Drive: More on inspecting and test-driving classic cars.
• Restored Classics: A number of fundamental steps and studies on restoring a classic car.
• Classic Car Pix: Provides several photos of restored classic cars.
• Restoration Photos: Offers snaps on restored classic cars.
• Purchase Classic Cars: Serves as a guide for people interested in buying restored classic cars.
• Engine Restoration: Useful information on restoring classic car engines.
• Classic Car Interiors: Offers tips on how to restore classic car interiors.
• Classic Car Sell: Learn how to sell your classic car.
• Classic Car Club: A premier classic car club with tips on restoration.
• Classic Ford Club: Check out classic Ford photos, links, news, and more.
• Classic Porsche: Search the catalogue to find Porsche classic original parts.

Article by
Matt Robertson

Matt is the Managing Partner at Leland-West Insurance Brokers, Inc. He started with the firm while still a college student, way back in 1984. According to Matt his only remaining hobby is Motorsport ... because its all he can afford ("will work for tires"). Reach him at matt@lelandwest.com