Improving Your Car's Performance

3 Tips for Classic-Car Restoration

29 August 2016 by George Mason

Restoring classic cars is an enjoyable hobby for many people across the US. It's also a hobby that can be time consuming. Restoring classic cars can require a lot of time and effort depending on their condition. Many who enjoy this hobby do a lot of the work themselves. However, a good mechanic is often required at least a few times when restoring an older automobile. Here are a few things that you should consider before undertaking a classic-car restoration project.

Auto Repair Shops

Unless you are a trained mechanic, a trip to an auto repair shop will likely be needed at some point in your restoration of a classic car. The trick is to find a shop that has experience working with the type of car being restored. For rare classic cars, finding someone qualified to work on your car may actually be difficult. This should be considered when choosing a classic car to restore. Shipping the car to an auto repair shop may be necessary for some models, and this can get pricey. Basic shipping across the country can easily exceed $1,000.

Finding Parts

Another tip for those considering restoring a classic car is finding out how difficult the parts are to find before taking on the task of restoring a certain vehicle. Some classic cars have plenty of options when it comes to parts, both used and after market. The parts for other cars may be more challenging. This is often the case for rare cars or cars that are not commonly restored. Potential classic-car owners should check the market for both used and after-market parts before making a decision. A quick call to an auto repair shop that does restorations can also help determine how hard it is to get parts for a certain car.

Don't Consider It an Investment

When it comes down to it, car restoration is an expensive hobby that often does not lead to a big payday. After spending time, effort, and money on a restoration, many are surprised to find that their car will not sell for as much as they thought it would. Upkeep of these cars can also be rather pricey. While there are a few exceptions, restoring a classic car is often a better hobby than investment opportunity. That being said, for those looking for a classic car as an investment, cars that are in working condition and have very little rust are often better investments than cars that do not run and are rusted out.

Restoring a classic car takes a lot of time and resources. Before making the plunge, buyers should consider whether there is a mechanic or repair shop in the area that is qualified to work on the car and whether it is easy to get parts. Talk to professionals such as Blue Valley Garage to see what services they offer. It's also good to remember that more often than not, no profit is made from restoring and selling a classic car.

Share

Search