| The restoration of vintage cars is not inexpensive or | | | | useful in ascertaining what parts may need to be |
| foolproof, nor is it a project to be hurried through by | | | | replaced and reconstructed; many parts may have to |
| just anyone; a certain standard of diligence is required | | | | be ordered before the restoration proceeds. |
| and hidden components need to be rebuilt in order to | | | | * Engine lubrication and cooling systems need careful |
| replicate the quality of the displayed outer body of | | | | attention and selection of quality products is |
| the car. | | | | paramount during the restoration process. |
| Pitfalls can be numerous and varied and need to be | | | | * The skills required to restore an antique car are |
| mulled over with considerable vigilance: | | | | many and varied. Jobs such as re-machining the |
| * The purchasing of a good car for restoration can | | | | piston system; wiring of ignition; installing carburetors, |
| be a difficult prospect; it is recommended that a | | | | clutches and transmissions, fuel tanks, gaskets and |
| recognized professional is consulted about any model | | | | other parts all require great skill and precision in order |
| before purchasing; an appraisal from an expert can | | | | to avoid many pitfalls. Consult others if required in |
| save you much time and heartache. | | | | order to keep the restoration on track; sheet metal |
| * Many restorers of antique cars are ill-equipped and | | | | basics, welding, sectioning, auto body metal |
| poorly prepared to tackle the project. Study well | | | | preparation and filling and glazier skills will have to be |
| before beginning any restoration and ensure that any | | | | mastered in advance to ensure a quality job. |
| tools to be used are in good-working order and | | | | * License plates and getting the correct legal |
| well-maintained; good tools will ensure that fewer | | | | paperwork for owning, driving and displaying your |
| pitfalls occur. | | | | restored prize are important considerations for any |
| * Be aware of the many different areas involved in | | | | restorer of cars. |
| car restoration before beginning a project; an overall | | | | As with any specialist project it always pays to be |
| evaluation of what needs to be done should be | | | | well-prepared before advancing with the complexities |
| carefully drawn up in advance by the restorer. Work | | | | of antique car restorations; purchase parts wisely, |
| on the antique car's chassis, engine, wheels, electrical | | | | take your time on completing individual restoration |
| wiring and upholstery will need to be tackled | | | | tasks and always maintain adequate lighting and |
| methodically and with great expertise. | | | | electrical supply in your workshop. Do all this and any |
| * Rebuilding of old engines can be especially difficult; | | | | hazards experienced during the restoration shall be |
| individual parts may need re-machining and extreme | | | | lesser in number and degree of severity. |
| precision is required in carrying this out. An initial | | | | Happy motoring! |
| evaluation by an antique automobile expert will be | | | | |