Classic cars like the Ford Model T and Chevrolet Bel-Air will always be respected for their historical significance, which is why so many car enthusiasts enjoy finding and restoring classic cars to add to their collections. Whether your car is from the 1930s or the 1970s, there are a number of steps you can take to restore it to its former glory.
What is Restoration?
Automobile restoration can be defined as the process of repairing a degraded aspect of a car. The ultimate goal of restoration is to return an automobile to its former authentic condition, as if it had just come out on the market again. This means that restorations are meant to be historically accurate. Depending on the quality of the car upon purchase, it may need extensive restoration, in which case it’s best to ask for professional help.
Interior
You will need to repair and/or replace any necessary elements of the interior so that they match what was available from the factory as the time. A 1940s car would hardly have included a CD player, so be sure to stick with accuracy. You may find yourself repairing seats to their original form or even cleaning, repairing, and replacing the gauges on the dashboard.
Exterior
Restoring a car’s exterior can be a lengthy process because you must refinish the car’s body and frame until it looks like it did when first sold. This means you need to first inspect the frame for misalignment, rust damage, stress fractures, and collision damage. The methods for restoring the exterior of your classic car are complex and extensive, so work with a professional to ensure complete accuracy.
Mechanical
Again, the goal is to keep your restored car in its original pre sale condition, and that includes the engine and all of its ancillary components. You’ll need to inspect them and correct them to factory specifications, which is a process that involves a great deal of research and mechanical knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
