Classic Cars

December 26th, 2009

If your hobby happens to be cars and you are considering restoring a classic or muscle car for kicks, there are certain tips and suggestions you should be aware of as you work on your dream car in order to get the best results possible, especially if you plan on showing your car in competition after the rebuilding process is complete.

The engine compartment is one of the most important areas on your classic car and it is judged just as much as the outside as it is on the inside to any aficionado.

Start with the carburetor.  Many original carburetors came from the factory with a greenish-gold coating that served as a level of protection.  This was called dichromate.  Depending on how old the car is and how much the car has been serviced, this coating has probably been removed.  However, at any hardware or auto parts store, you can buy an aerosol spray that will restore this look.  In addition, once this is repainted and the other parts, like the gaskets and the linkage are restored, this section of the car will be ready to be shown off.

Next, consider the emblems that are on the exterior of the car.  Many of these are probably worse for wear after many years of neglect or exposure to the elements.  The easiest way to restore this part is to clean off the old paint and invest in a model paint set.  You can usually buy chrome colored paint that can be applied with a child’s paint brush for precision and detail.

Finally, consider reusing the original bolts on your car.  This is the best way to ensure originality and the vintage appeal of your car.  Take the original bolts off the car and to remove grime and dirt, clean them with a chemical solution that you are able to buy at any auto parts store.  This is inevitably cheaper than buying new hardware and will ensure that your car looks just as original as it should.