Jeep restoration on any model such as a Wrangler, Cherokee, or even a military jeep is not a cheap or quick process. If you’re considering Jeep restoration, make sure to do your research and ask lots of questions. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Jeep restoration, from sourcing parts to choosing a Jeep restoration near me.
Map of Jeep Restoration Near Me
For “Jeep Restoration Near Me”, see the map below…
How Does the Jeep Restoration Near Me Work
At the local Jeep restoration near me, they will first evaluate the vehicle. They are looking for major work that needs to be done like frame work, welding, rust work, and rebuilding the engine. Most shops do this initial consult for free to give you a quote on the work.
You may have a budget in mind and the resto shop can help you figure out what can be done within your money constraints. Once you’ve agreed upon a cost and a timeline, they can begin to do the work. In my experience, a minimum of a 50% deposit will be due upfront. The deposit will help to ensure they can begin the labor and pay for sourcing out parts.
If you don’t have anyone who specializes in Jeeps, consider finding a truck restoration shop.
Sourcing Jeep Parts and Beginning the Process
The Jeep restoration near me will start by sourcing parts. This can be done through a variety of sources including online Jeep part retailers, Jeep junkyards, and even other Jeep enthusiasts. The aim is to find original parts or high-quality aftermarket parts that will fit your Jeep model.
If you’re having trouble finding a specific Jeep part, the shop may be able to fabricate it for you. This is usually done as a last resort because it can be expensive and time-consuming. Also if you are looking for an original restoration, fabricating parts, will impact the value.
Disassembly
Once the parts have been sourced, they will begin the process of disassembling your vehicle. They will take apart everything down to the frame if necessary. This is done so they can inspect all the parts and make any necessary repairs. It’s also easier to sandblast and repaint the vehicle is in pieces.
Cleaning and Repairing the Frame
The frame will be cleaned and any rust will be repaired. This is a critical step in the restoration process because the Jeep’s frame is what everything else is attached to. If the frame is not solid, it will not be safe to drive.
Sandblasting and Painting
Once the frame is repaired, it will be sandblasted. This removes all the old paint and any rust that might still be present. After everything is sandblasted, it will be primed and then painted. You can choose to have your Jeep painted in its original color or you can choose a new color. If you have chosen to get parts powder coated, this is the stage they add it.
Reassembly
After the frame is painted, the restoration shop will begin to reassemble your Jeep. They will start with the frame and then attach all the Jeep’s body parts. This is usually the most time-consuming part of the restoration process because everything has to be fitted together perfectly.Any specialized custom paint work will be added at this stage as well.
Final Details
Once its put back together, the restoration shop will do a final inspection. This includes a test drive and a read-out of the specs to ensure it meets your requirements.
You Need to Decide on an Original or Resto-Mod Restoration
An original Jeep restoration means that the Jeep will be restored to its factory specifications. This includes the engine, transmission, paint color, and trim level. A resto-mod is where the Jeep is restored but with modern upgrades.
Some common resto-mod upgrades include a new engine, updated suspension, and bigger tires. You need to decide which type of restoration you want before the Jeep restoration near me can begin. It plays a huge role in the vehicle’s final value and it dictates how and where the resto shop can source parts.
What to Expect in Terms of Cost and Time
The cost of a Jeep restoration can vary depending on the scope of work. A full Jeep restoration can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000. The time it takes to restore can also vary depending on the Jeep’s condition and the scope of work. A full restoration can take anywhere from six months to two years.
How to Choose a Jeep Restoration Near Me
There are a few things you need to keep in mind when choosing a Jeep restoration near me. The first thing is to make sure they have experience restoring Jeep. You can do this by asking to see before and after photos of their previous Jeep restoration projects.
You also need to make sure they have a good reputation. Ask around Jeep clubs, Facebook Jeep Groups, or look for online reviews. The last thing you want is to entrust your Jeep restoration to a shop that doesn’t do a good job.
What Questions Should I Ask the Jeep Restoration Near Me
Once you’ve found a Jeep restoration shop that you’re considering using, there are some important questions you need to ask them.
These include:
- What is the cost estimate?
- How long will it take?
- Do you have experience restoring Jeeps? is there a year or model that you specialize in?
- Can I see before and after photos of previous related projects?
- What do you see as the absolute priorities I need to focus on getting restored first?
- Where will you source parts from?
- If you run into issues, how do you communicate a change in timeline or cost?
My Experience Restoring a 1993 Cherokee Sport
I found a 1993 Cherokee Sport and it was in pretty good shape when I brought it from a junkyard for $5,200. , There was some minor body damage in the rear, but the 4L 6-cylinder engine was intact along with the 5-speed manual tranny. The cloth interior was pretty pristine considering this was a salvage yard find.
I knew I didn’t need a full restoration and I wanted to go the resto-mod route. Aside from fixing the rear end damage, I was looking to boost up the engine, add a performance exhaust, bring in some new tech, and do a custom paint job.
I found a Jeep restoration shop that had experience restoring Cherokees. They had impressive before and after photos specifically of Cherokees and solid customer feedback. I brought it in and they took about 30 min to inspect it. They estimated it would cost about $15,000 to bring it back to life and gave my a prioritized item list. That was helpful so I could figure out what I could and couldn’t afford. I thought this was a fair price considering the condition of my Jeep.
I expected the project to take about six months, but it ended up taking closer to eight months. The Jeep restoration shop did a great job and I love my Jeep. It’s been reliable and fun to drive.
Jeep Restoration Near Me – Conclusion
If you’re considering a Jeep restoration, make sure you do your research and find a reputable Jeep restoration shop. Jeep restoration can be a costly and time-consuming process, but it’s worth it if you end up with a Jeep that you love. Make sure you ask a lot of good questions up front and have your budget nailed down before you start getting too far in the process. That’s what I have learned from the Jeep restoration near me.