Restoring a classic car can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and some restorations can even net the owner a profit if they decide to sell the car. Classic cars become more rare each year, but a well-done restoration can bring the vehicle back to its original condition. You also have the option to use new parts, which can enhance performance. However, restoring a classic car is not easy and can be intimidating at first. Here are a few key points to keep in mind when restoring your first classic car.
Set a budget and schedule
Before you make any purchases, it’s important to make some accurate estimates regarding the time and money your car restoration project will cost. Restoring a classic car is never cheap, but these projects fall within a wide range of costs depending on the type of car being restored and the parts being used. Generally, a restoration project will cost at least $10,000, while restorations of more rare and valuable cars could cost as much as $60,000.
Classic car restoration is also a very time-consuming process, especially when attempting to balance work and family obligations. Before committing to the restoration, it’s important to estimate how much time you will need and whether it is feasible given your time commitments. Restoration will take several hundred hours at a minimum, with restorations of certain models reaching well into the thousands.
If you don’t mind taking several years to complete the restoration, this might not be a dealbreaker. A longer restoration can also help break up the financial burden, as you can buy parts and tools as you need them instead of all at once. You will need to consider your personal needs and determine whether or not the restoration will be possible.
How to find a classic car to restore
Shopping around for a classic car is one of the most fun parts of the process, but it’s important to know what you’re looking for and where to look for it. Look for something that appeals to your personal tastes but that also falls within your budget. For many first-timers, their motivation may be to restore an all-time classic that they’ve coveted since childhood. Others may view the restoration as more of an investment.
While there are many different types of classic cars out there, finding the right one may take some time. Here are a few starting points for your search:
- Classified ads, both online and in newspapers
- Auctions
- Dealerships
- eBay
- Car renovation forums
A classic car is a major purchase, so make sure to inspect the car thoroughly when you view it. It is also usually a good idea to have a mechanic take a look at it and give their opinion as well.
Which type of restoration?
Car restorations generally fall into one of the two categories: original and custom. Some purists believe that a classic car should always be restored to its original condition, while others prefer to integrate custom and modern parts under the vehicle’s classic exterior. If your motivation is to make money off the vehicle as an investment, you will want to conduct an original restoration, as this will generally earn a higher selling price. But don’t let the purists deter you if you want to make your vehicle unique with non-original parts.
Planning for a classic car restoration
Once you’ve purchased your classic car and have an idea of what you want to achieve, it’s time to start planning for the restoration. During this stage, you should draw up a list of all of the parts, tools, and equipment you will need to get the job done right.
While the specific tools may vary slightly depending on the project, most restorations will require the following:
- Pliers
- Screwdrivers
- Wrenches and sockets
- At least one drill and drill bits
- A floor jack
- Sheet metal scissors
Restoring your classic car
Now that you have a thorough game plan and everything you’ll need ready to go, it’s time to get down to the fun part: beginning the restoration. While this part can be immensely enjoyable for a car enthusiast, it will take a good bit of work. Of course, your task list will depend on the car you’re restoring and how you’re approaching the project. But here are some of the most common steps in the car restoration process:
- Strip off the paint
- Remove rust and repair dents
- Fill in gaps, prime, and sand the exterior
- Paint the vehicle or have a professional handle it
- Install the engine
- Assemble and install the brake system
- Redo the fuel system and front and rear suspension, if necessary
- Install the wiring, gearbox, and heating/cooling system
- Refit the windows and windscreens
- Add the exhaust system, lights, door handles, glass, and other exterior fixtures
- Finish the interior trim items like the carpet, seats, headliner, and accents
If any of the steps in the restoration process feel over your head, don’t be shy about contacting a mechanic for help.