Following these top tips for restoring a muscle car will save you time and money, not to mention give you an amazing sense of accomplishment. Sticking with a budget, using what is already available, and keeping things simple will have your old muscle car looking and running new in no time.
Shop Around for Parts
Depending on the car, some parts may be tough to find. Take advantage of online hunting if the parts you need are rare.
For more common parts, don’t be afraid to ask junkyards if you can look around. The thrill of the hunt is part of the adventure of restoring.
You can also put your mechanical skills to use by giving good old-fashioned bartering a shot. For example, trade car repairs for engine parts.
Using these methods will help you stick with your budget.
Use Original Parts When Possible
Muscle cars are made for enjoying, but that doesn’t mean value isn’t also a consideration. Using original parts when restoring helps maintain the value of your car.
It can be tempting to add an engine with more horsepower; that’s up to you. But to increase the value and have a restored muscle car that’s worth even more than when you purchased it, search for originals when possible.
Get Rid of Rust
Rust varies depending on the age and storage situation of a car. Either way, there is no sense restoring and painting if rust isn’t removed first.
Use a sandblaster or chemical rust remover to do the job. It’s wise to then add a rust stabilizer to kill off any rust particles left so the rust can’t come back.
Take Special Care When Painting
The exterior paint job of your car is the first thing everyone notices. There are no shortcuts for painting when restoring a muscle car. Choose colors wisely and take preparations seriously.
Scratches, dents, and any other imperfections should be taken care of before painting or else they’ll be highlighted afterward.
Next, black primer is a must and should be sanded down before the painting begins.
Don’t Forget To Take Pictures
Driving a restored muscle car is exciting, but a close runner up to driving is talking shop with people who appreciate all of your efforts in restoring it.
What better way to explain the details of your labor of love than with pictures? Get plenty of “before” pictures along the way and then “after” pictures when restoration is complete.
Not everyone has the skill set needed to restore a muscle car. Be proud of your accomplishment and take your time as you enjoy the restoration process.