Car Restoration Tips

Car enthusiasts love restoration projects. It is an opportunity to rebuild their vehicles and customise them to suit their preference. Read the extract below to learn the various considerations you should make when restoring your car. 

DIY Versus Professional Restoration

Do not attempt a DIY project if you are not a skilled mechanic. Preferably, work with a garage specialising in the repair of your car's model or one that deals with restoration projects. Examine the reputation of the garage to determine how they treat clients and if they perform quality work. 

Have a Restoration Plan

Examine your vehicle to determine the kind of restoration work it needs. One of your primary considerations would be how you intend to use the car. For instance, if you need a daily driver, you may opt for body and interior restoration. A person that needs to use the vehicle on the track may need to rebuild the engine and upgrade the braking and suspension systems. If you need a show car, you will need to pay attention to detail since the vehicle needs to be as original as it was in the showroom. 

Mechanical Repairs

Engine, drivetrain and electrical repairs come first. Increase the vehicle's longevity by replacing engine components such as the pistons, crankshaft, timing belt, rings and gaskets. Replace worn out seals to prevent engine leaks. Examine other mechanical components such as the brakes and suspension. Old cars may have wiring and electrical problems. Therefore, conduct repairs to ensure the lights, air conditioner, radio, wipers and locks are functional. Hose the engine with soap and use engine degreaser to get rid of oil, dirt and grit.

Body Work

Below are tips to help you conduct body repair works;

  1. Strip the vehicle to its shell. Sand the body to get rid of oil paint.
  2. Conduct rust treatment and repair any dents on the vehicle. Use minimal filler on the car.
  3. Prime the car and sand it to ensure a smooth, even surface.
  4. Once the primer has cured, apply the paint undercoat and topcoat.
  5. Consider a ceramic coating to give your car a glossy and shiny look.

Does the car require upholstery work? Go for high-quality materials such as leather, faux leather or vinyl fabric. Besides, consider finer details such as the gear knob, handbrake cover, steering wheel and instrument cluster.

Car restoration is now easy with the above tips. Work with a reputable garage, formulate a restoration plan and observe the recommended mechanical and bodywork restoration tips.

To learn more, contact a shop that does car body restorations.


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