Many car enthusiasts dream of owning an iconic classic car. Some even have the knowledge and skill to buy a broken-down model and restoring it to its former glory. It’s a popular hobby with gearheads young and old, but it can be a big challenge. Finding a classic car is a difficult task in itself; actually taking the time to make it look and run like new is something else entirely. Then again, that’s part of the fun.
There are several factors you need to take into consideration if you’re going to invest the time and money necessary to restore a classic. It would be difficult to list them all here, but here are five of the most important factors you should keep in mind.
Find a Valuable Model
There are countless old cars out there that can be considered “classic,” but not all of them are valuable enough to be a worthwhile investment. Even some of the more popular models may not be worth as much as you think they would be. Do plenty of research as you look for classic automobiles to make sure that you find one that retains its value once it’s restored.
Avoid a Rusty Chassis
Rust on an old car isn’t exactly unusual, but some vehicles will be rustier than usual. Rust can be repaired, but it’s a costly and time-consuming endeavor. You will need to buy new steel body panels, strip the entire chassis, sandblast every inch of metal that contains rust and replace anything that is beyond repair. You should reconsider your purchase if you aren’t willing to put that kind of effort into your restoration project.
Find a Vehicle that Still Runs
While it is certainly possible to repair a vehicle that no longer runs, it’s still a difficult process. In some cases, all you need to do is replace a couple of easy-to-find parts, but in other cases you will need to buy or rebuild the entire engine. Finding a vehicle that still starts and runs will save you a lot of work.
Make Sure You Can Find the Right Parts
One of the biggest challenges of restoring a classic car is being able to find the right parts. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to find original parts, but you may have to settle for newer parts that are compatible with your vehicle. In any case, you should make sure you can find the right parts to complete the restoration before you begin.
Don’t Be Afraid to Get Advice from an Expert
If you aren’t an expert on the vehicle you want to restore, try to find someone who is. This person should be able to help you make the best possible investment and help you with every step of the restoration process. Remember that restoring a vehicle is a tough job, so there’s no shame in asking for help.
Speaking of asking for help, the friendly staff of GM Outlet Parts is always on hand to assist you if you’re looking to buy GM parts or restore a classic car yourself. Shop GM Outlet Parts online or Contact us for more information. Feel free to call our sales department at 1-866-702-4024. We’re always happy to help.
Sources:
http://autos.aol.com/article/restore-classic-car-tips/ http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/159800/cars/top_10_tips_for_classic_car_restoration.html
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