Many classic car owners love nothing more than getting inside the workings of their vehicle, but in all the enthusiasm there is a risk of making classic car restoration mistakes.
To help those about to embark on a restoration, here’s our advice on ways to avoid our top five common classic car restoration mistakes.
BEING DISORGANISED
As with any major project, preparation is everything.
Being organised is key to a successful restoration project, and this is particularly true when it comes to taking the car apart and putting it back together again.
Remember to label everything and take photos as you proceed. Making a record of the condition of parts can be a great advantage when finding replacements if they are needed.
When it comes to the disassembly, start from the inside, such as seats and dashboards, progressing out to the bodywork and engine.
It’s also important to research the history of the classic that’s going to be restored, no matter if it’s been chosen for practical or sentimental reasons. This could uncover any common issues and whether finding parts might be a problem.
NOT GETTING EXPERT ADVICE
A classic car restoration can feel like a daunting prospect, so it pays to ask for help and advice if needed.
To start with, an initial inspection, ideally with a classic car expert, can help spot any major issues before any restoration work is started.
As the project progresses, then there’s plenty of resources to call on for research and help, including classic car clubs, social media groups and forums.
Our highly experienced restoration team are experts in their field, and enjoy passing on knowledge to classic car enthusiasts who have come to us to restore their vehicle.
This includes keeping them fully informed with the progress of the restoration, which could be a handy reference for any restoration work of their own in the future.
BUDGETING INCORRECTLY
The make and model of the car, and the size of the restoration, will be big considerations when budgeting – including factors such as the finish requirements and rarity. Tools and parts will also need to be included in the equation. When this has all been calculated, plus any possible extras you may want to include, then it can be determined how best to proceed.
Other things to remember when budgeting include any possible rust. Depending how bad it is, treatments can include replacing entire panels, while rust convertors or patches can be used for less serious cases.
It’s also sensible not to order parts before they are needed, in case they sit gathering dust for months.
Also, an engine rebuild can end up being a major financial draw, so it can be wise to allocate specific fund for this as needed, so money set aside for other work on the car does not get unexpectedly swallowed up first.
Classic car restoration mistake – NOT PROTECTING THE INTERIOR
No-one wants to finish a classic car restoration project as a job half done.
But this could be the case if upgrading and maintaining the interior is not considered.
A bespoke air conditioning system will not only make the cabin comfortable and drivable, but it can also protect the interior from damp, making it look stylish and high quality for long after the restoration.
Our cutting-edge systems, whether installed by our expert team or supplied in kit form for self-installation, have been developed and tested around the world in extreme conditions, so owners can have a pleasurable experience behind the wheel, whatever time of year it is.
FORGETTING MODERN TECHNOLOGY
Preserving the aesthetics of a classic car when undertaking a restoration, while utilising state-of-the-art technology to enhance the driving experience, is possible with expert assistance.
For example, there are a range of upgrades now available for classic car restorations, such as electrical upgrades, power steering, fuel injection systems, seat and radiator upgrades, to name but some.
Furthermore, some upgrades, such as our air conditioning systems, can be reversed at a later date if the car needs to be returned to original condition, another factor in a possible resale.
GETTING ADVICE TO AVOID CLASSIC CAR RESTORATION MISTAKES
If you want to talk to one of our classic car experts about your vehicle, whether you want to upgrade it, restore it or just have an inspection, then please contact the team at Clayton Classics. We look forward to hearing from you.