Restoring a classic car on average takes about 1000 hours. It’s hard to do all that work on your own and you may lack some of the technical skills and resources needed to get the job done right. If you need help with your project there are specialized shops that can help with vintage and classic cars too. Below I will share where to find a qualified antique car restoration shop, what to expect from their service, and how to use them to your full advantage. I will also share my experience with the classic car restoration near me.
Find a Classic Car Restoration Near Me…
If you’re searching for “Classic Car Restoration Near Me”, see the map below…
Restoring an antique car takes a lot of time money and skill. It also requires tools, workspace, finding parts, troubleshooting, and sometimes finding some help. This is what has led me in my life to seek out the classic car restoration near me. I sometimes start a project and stumble on an issue that I just don’t have the tools and expertise for. It’s sometimes easier to pay someone who can be responsible and get it right the first time.
How the Classic Car Restoration Near Me Works
When I refer to a quality classic car restoration, I am not talking about your local body shop. I am talking about a place that specializes in vintage autos and can completely overhaul your resto from trunk to hood.
These are hardcore enthusiast shops with a team of expert mechanics that specialize in different disciplines of restoration. This includes rust removal, structural bodywork, paint, welding and fabrication, automotive electric work, upholstery work, and more.
You can go to these places and literally just drop off a car and get it back finished. Now of course that is going to be super expensive. What I really suggest is to use these places as a resource. Use them for advice, guidance, and one-off issues you can’t do yourself. This keeps the project in your hands, but you spend money and your time a bit more wisely.
Why Get Help On Your Antique Car Restoration Project?…
I used to feel like doing a vintage muscle car or restoration project must be done by me and only me. Maybe the help of a friend or two to get the engine in and out. As I have gotten a bit older and smarter, I have learned to outsource tasks that I am either not good at or simply hate doing. For example rust work!
It just makes more sense to outsource and pay for someone who specializes in antique cars who has the tools and equipment to do certain things. The stuff I enjoy doing I would never outsource like finding original parts, rebuilding interiors, and putting together the engine.
If you are thinking of trying to outsource some of your house restoration project tasks here are a few to consider:
- Repair on the frame (so important the frame is solid and balanced)
- Rust removal
- Instrument & Gauge Cluster Upgrades (Good to get their ideas)
- Powertrain mods and upgrades (Good to get their ideas)
- Suspension mods and upgrades (Good to get their ideas)
- Paintwork (especially if you want something custom like flames or pinstripes)
- Headlight restoration on glass if it is extremely hazy or fogged
- Any frame off services
- Electrical work and diagnostics
- Performance upgrades (Custom tuning)
- Interior upgrades (Adding new technology)
- Chrome work on bumpers, grills, wheels, trim, etc.
- Interior upholstery work
Trying to do everything on your own wastes a lot of time. If you don’t do it right you can also waste a ton of money.
Word of Advice Before You Start an Antique Car Restoration
Before you even start a vintage car or restoration process find a shop to talk to. Ask them what services they do and what they specialize in. Some may do more paintwork than electrical work for example. Also, get advice from them upfront about what you are considering. They will know how hard it is to find parts and be able to help you frame your budget and expectations.
When You Call a Shop Be Specific About The Type of Restoration
Are you a purist who wants to keep everything original or do you want to inject some personality into the car?
You need to be very specific about what you want when you get outside help. When you put your vintage car project into someone else’s hands, they may be making important decisions on your behalf. If you want the car to look as close to the day it rolled off the production line then be very clear about it. A full restoration with a focus on capturing the original will always get the most cash at resale. Imagine if you dropped off a muscle car for restoration and want it original and get back a chopped and modded hot rod.
My general philosophy though is…it’s your car. Do what you want and don’t let anyone dictate how you spend your money. Unless you are trying to restore a classic car in order to sell it, you should build a car the way you enjoy it and not build it for the next owner. There is nothing wrong with doing a resto-mod.
Pain Points You May Want to Outsource…
I am not recommending outsourcing everything below, but these are some big bucket items that places like the classic car restoration near me can perform with their eyes closed.
Paint and Body Work
Whether you need cosmetic work like paint or structural bodywork such as creating a new panel, it’s good to consider the pros.
On a vintage car, the paint will fade over time. One of the cool things about a pro restoration shop is they can take the shell and spin it on a spit to paint it. They also can do a lot of custom airbrush art work that most of us laymen can’t do. You find a custom car painting shop here.
Then there is bodywork and dealing with rust. Most people are okay banging out dings and dents, but custom fabrication and extensive rust removal is a different animals. While hopefully you chose a project with not much rust, sometimes it is unavoidable. A restoration shop can work the rust or build you a new panel.
When it comes to any bodywork, there is no easy path. If you see somebody and paint issues that are going to extend the timeframe of your project significantly, you may want to consider calling an auto body shop.
Finding Original Parts
The longer an old car sits, the more the parts deteriorate. This leads to rust, corrosion, and seizure. Depending on the project car you can find a lot of vintage car parts online, but for some projects, it’s almost impossible. Calling a shop that specializes in antique auto restoration is sometimes the best move when you are stuck. These places have extensive networks and are skilled at finding rare parts.
Electric and Wiring Work
Wiring can be a challenge if you don’t have much experience with electrical work. In vintage cars that have been sitting outside, they have been exposed to moisture and rodents. Both of which can cause major damage to a car’s wiring components. A classic car restoration will not only to replace the wiring. but they will know in detail how the vehicles original wiring was laid and the specifics for the voltage requirements.
Mechanical Work
Adding and removing mechanical parts is some of the more fun work in my opinion. Where it gets complicated is if you are considering an engine or transmission rebuild. Rebuilding, while more expensive, is often the more reliable option over buying used. If you don’t know how to rebuild through you can impact the timing and cause more damage to the parts than you started with. There are shops that do engine rebuilds and transmission rebuilds for you in just a few days. Many of them offer guarantees on their work as well for unlimited mileage.
Interior Work
Damaged seats, ripped carpets, missing trim, broken gauges, and other interior issues can all be outsourced. What I would particularly seek help with is if you find rotten floorboards, wet carpets, and mold. While removing surface mold in a car is easy, there is clearly something allowing water into the cabin. If you don’t seal where the water or moisture is coming from you are going to have issues in the future.
Choosing the Best Classic Car Restoration Shop
You can find a shop that does complete tear-downs or shops that specialize in a specific discipline. I tend to like shops that specialize in something. For example, I have a paint guy at one shop, but I go to somewhere else for complicated upholstery work. I tend to see better results and it’s a better way to spend my money when I want the best work for my project
When picking a classic car restoration near me here is what I do:
- Call around to different places, get quotes, and talk shop.
- Get before and after pictures of their past projects.
- Read reviews and testimonials on Yelp and Google.
- Get them to estimate how long the work will take.
- Ask about what guarantees and assurances do I have.
If you are working on the vehicle to sell it to someone who buys classic cars, carefully consider your budget to leave room for profit.
Maintenance Tips for Restored Classic Cars
Maintaining a restored classic car is crucial to preserve its former glory and ensure it remains a joyous investment. Here are some essential tips to keep your classic car in top condition:
Regular Check-ups and Services
Regular check-ups are vital for any vehicle, especially for classic car restorations. Schedule routine services to ensure all parts are functioning correctly. This includes checking the engine, brakes, and wiring systems. Regular maintenance not only saves money in the long run but also keeps the car safe to drive.
Protecting the Paint and Bodywork
The paint and bodywork of a classic car are its most visible attributes. To maintain the quality of the paint job, regularly wash and wax the car. This not only keeps the car looking great but also protects the paint from environmental damage. Store your car in a garage or under a cover to protect it from the elements.
Interior Care
The interior of a classic car adds to its overall charm and value. Regularly clean the dashboard, seats, and other interior parts to keep them in good shape. Use quality cleaning products designed for classic cars to prevent damage to the materials.
Mechanical Maintenance
Mechanical parts need regular attention to keep the car running smoothly. This includes checking and replacing fluids, ensuring the wiring is intact, and keeping the engine in good health. Regular services by a professional who has knowledge and experience with classic car restorations can be invaluable.
Tire and Brake Care
The brakes and tires are essential for safety and performance. Regularly check tire pressure and tread depth. Ensure the brakes are responsive and in good condition. Replacing worn-out tires and brake pads is a small price to pay for safety and performance.
Addressing Issues Promptly
If you notice any unusual noises or performance issues, address them promptly. Delaying repairs can lead to more significant problems and higher costs. A well-maintained classic car is a joy to own and can be a great investment.
Taking care of a restored classic car requires time, effort, and a bit of knowledge. Regular maintenance ensures that your muscle car or antique vehicle remains in excellent condition, retaining its value and appeal. Whether it’s a full restoration or partial restoration, the effort you put into maintaining your classic car will ensure it continues to be a source of joy and pride.
Classic Car Restoration Near Me – Conclusion
When you set out to do an antique car restoration, you need to be ready for anything. Doing it on your own is amazing, but it takes a lot of time, money, tools, and workspace to get it completed. If the resto is your dream car, then there it makes no sense to concede to anything, but your best effort.
Half the fun of restoration is doing it yourself, but you should know when to call an expert and get help. Vintage restoration shops do this for a living, they have likely worked a car just like yours and will know exactly what to do. Even if you choose not to hire them most places will guide you in the right direction to do it on your own. That is my experience with the classic car restoration near me.