Reviving the Past, Driving the Future
A Full Vehicle Restoration Service typically involves restoring a vehicle to its original or near-original condition. This is a comprehensive process that requires significant time, expertise, and attention to detail. Here’s an outline of what’s typically included in such a service:
Initial Assessment and Consultation
- Inspection: A thorough inspection of the vehicle’s condition to assess the level of restoration needed.
- Planning: Discussing with the owner the desired outcome (factory-original, custom, or restomod) and setting a realistic budget and timeline.
- Documentation: Photography and documentation of the vehicle’s current state and creating a restoration plan.
Disassembly
- Complete Strip Down: The vehicle is completely disassembled, and parts are cataloged.
- Parts Assessment: Each part (body panels, drivetrain, suspension, etc.) is inspected to determine if it will be restored, replaced, or upgraded.
Bodywork and Paint
- Rust Removal: Rust is removed from all affected areas, often through media blasting or chemical dipping.
- Metal Fabrication: Repair or replacement of damaged or rusted panels.
- Panel Alignment: Ensuring doors, hood, trunk, and other panels are properly aligned.
- Paint Stripping: Removal of old paint down to bare metal.
- Primer & Bodywork: Application of primer and addressing any imperfections in the body.
- Paint Application: High-quality paint is applied, often in several layers (base coat, color coat, clear coat).
- Buffing & Polishing: Post-paint polishing for a showroom-quality finish.
Mechanical Restoration
- Engine and Transmission Rebuild: Complete restoration or upgrading of the engine and transmission to factory specifications or custom preferences.
- Suspension and Brakes: Rebuilding or upgrading the suspension system and brakes to ensure proper handling and safety.
- Steering System: Refurbishment or replacement of steering components.
- Exhaust System: Restoration or replacement of the exhaust system.
- Fuel System: Restoration of the fuel tank, lines, and carburetor or fuel injection system.
- Electrical System: Repair or complete rewiring of the electrical system, including lights, gauges, and ignition systems.
Interior Restoration
- Upholstery: Restoration or replacement of seats, headliner, door panels, and carpeting.
- Dashboard and Gauges: Restoration or replacement of the dashboard, instrument cluster, and gauges to factory specifications.
- Interior Trim: Refurbishing of trim pieces, console, and other interior components.
- Climate Control: Restoration or upgrade of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Glass and Trim
- Window Restoration: Replacement or restoration of glass, including windshield, side, and rear windows.
- Chrome and Trim: Polishing or re-chroming of exterior trim pieces, including bumpers, grilles, and moldings.
Wheels and Tires
- Wheel Restoration: Refurbishment or replacement of wheels to their original style or a custom option.
- Tires: Installation of period-correct or custom tires based on the owner’s preference.
Reassembly
- Once all components are restored or replaced, the vehicle is carefully reassembled, with an emphasis on precision and ensuring everything works seamlessly.
Detailing
- Final Polishing: Paint is polished and waxed for a pristine finish.
- Interior Cleaning: Deep cleaning of the interior to showroom condition.
- Final Adjustments: Ensuring that everything from engine timing to door alignment is perfect.
Testing and Tuning
- Test Drive: Thorough road testing to ensure the vehicle performs as expected.
- Tuning: Fine-tuning of engine, suspension, and other systems to ensure optimal performance.
Delivery
- A final presentation of the restored vehicle to the owner, with before-and-after documentation, including photos of the restoration process.
Additional Services (Optional)
- Performance Upgrades: Modernizing performance with custom engines, suspension, and electronics.
- Custom Modifications: Custom bodywork, interiors, or unique paint schemes.
- Concours Preparation: Preparing the vehicle for Concours d’Elegance or other high-level automotive shows.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Offering maintenance packages to keep the restored vehicle in top condition over time.
Typical Timeline
- 6 to 24 months depending on the vehicle’s condition, availability of parts, and the level of customization required.