| v> | | | | and tag each bag as you go and describe its |
| The following are some specific suggestions that you | | | | contents. Use small wire tags on larger parts. Clean, |
| may want to consider when restoring a classic 1955 | | | | sandblast and paint nuts and bolts before assembly. |
| Chevrolet, 1956 Chevrolet or 1957 Chevrolet. | | | | Order your new parts early, before assembly. |
| If you have not located a decent classic yet, then | | | | Inspect each order to make sure you get what you |
| start with the best car you can afford. A rusty car | | | | paid for. If you ordered something new then don't |
| will still be a rusty car unless all the rusted sheet | | | | settle for a used part. Make sure that the mounting |
| metal is replaced. If you can not weld or do paint and | | | | hardware is correct and of the right quantity. Don't |
| body work then by all means look for a solid car. | | | | throw away any part until you have a suitable |
| Sometimes you will be better off purchasing a classic | | | | working replacement. |
| that has be restored a few years ago and is in need | | | | Many of the parts found on a classic Chevy are |
| of a fresh paint job. The best place to look for rust | | | | stainless. With a little practice you can take out the |
| is by checking the condition of the floor pans and | | | | minor dents and scratches then polish. Stainless can |
| braces. Another place is between the rear bumper | | | | be buffed to look like new again with a round cloth |
| and trunk area. Take a good look at that bargain | | | | buffing wheel mounted on your bench grinder and |
| classic, it could cost you 1000s of dollars in the long | | | | special polish. Chrome on the other hand usually has |
| run. | | | | to be re-platted or new reproduction pieces |
| Take lots of pictures and draw diagrams of even the | | | | purchased. |
| simplest part of any disassembly. Note hardware size, | | | | Unless you are a paint and body pro leave this part |
| type and location. Months down the road you will be | | | | of the job to experts. Only problem here is that |
| glade you did. Assembly and shop manuals are | | | | most paint and body shops only like to do quick |
| available on line for Tri-5's or you can purchase | | | | fender benders. Try to find a shop that only works |
| reproduction copies for each of the three years. | | | | on old cars. Have them work on your car until its |
| Take time to organize and catalog your parts when | | | | done and inspect the work daily. Save money by |
| taking your classic Chevy apart. Don't just throw nuts | | | | taking your classic apart, have a paint and body man |
| and bolts in a bucket for later use. Use zip lock bags | | | | do the painting and you put it back together. |