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4 Things to Remember During a Classic Car or Muscle Car Restoration Project
Car restoration can be a lengthy process. You have found the perfect car at the right price. You have found a shop that will do the job the right way at the right price. You should not let your guard down at this point. Here are a few measures you should take to assure that your classic or muscle car restoration project stays on track. No need for a train wreck at this point!
1 Establish a schedule to visit the shop. Even if the shop is out of town, make sure the shop knows when you are coming and what you expect to see when you are there. This should be a benefit to the shop as there are several points in the process that require decisions to be made, and there is nothing better than having the client stand right there discussing the project. You could schedule the visit around a local car show, for instance, and see if the owner will accompany you to the show. This could be a great way to establish your relationship and look at various aspects of the cars that can assist in final design decisions.
2 There should be a detailed deposit schedule that coincides with the production schedule. Be sure the project is on schedule and, if so, make those deposits on time and in full. Cash strapping your project is a sure way to cause a problem. A project should be self sufficient and your deposit should not fund other projects, nor should other clients fund your project. This is an important item to assure that your relationship with the shop is one that promotes good communication.
3 During the restoration process, use the shop's blog as a method to praise the shop, assuming everything is going well. You do not have to wait for the project to be completed to start letting other potential clients know that the shop is reputable and fulfills their contract. Additionally, establishing this positive feedback as early as possible will elevate the shop's desire to keep the positive feedback coming and continue to do a good job for you.
4 What if an issue develops? Maybe there is a surprise that was not anticipated, or an issue with a part or a technician is unable to complete the project or a snag in the schedule. These problems can be solved and can be more easily solved in person. If the shop has been upfront and communicative with you, then issues do not have to turn into problems. Car restoration is a business of trust and client service. A good shop will not jeopardize the client relationship, nor will a good shop loose money if the issue is legitimate and could not be anticipated. The correct way to deal with an issue is to talk it through and solve the issue as a team. If this means the cost of the project elevates, keep in mind this is far less expensive then ruining the relationship with the shop that is restoring your car.
In conclusion, the process of restoring a classic car is a shared responsibility. The client, the shop and the suppliers all play a role in the experience. One can only control what one can control, so be involved and be a positive part of the process. Don't be overbearing, but do establish the relationship and expectations ahead of time. Understand that this is a highly technical and difficult process that will have its challenges, so be prepared. A restoration is like a tattoo, it will stay with the car forever, so make sure that the design, quality and the relationship is exactly what you want. It will be with you as long as you own the car!
About the Author Mike Marino is the GM of Precision Restorations in St Louis MO. Known for the systematic approach taken to all aspects of Car Restoration, Classic Car Restoration and Muscle Car Restoration, Precision Restorations can be reached at 314-652-1966 or at http://www.precisioncarrestoration.com
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