Before You Get Started

When you’re thinking about undertaking a major repair or restoration, the enormity of the job can sometimes seem overwhelming. No project is ever truly easy, of course, but there are things you can do avoid some of the pitfalls. Just a few simple steps before you start can make it that much easier to finish.

One of the first things to do is to research your project. Study the shop manuals and ask questions on some of the forums. This will help you learn what you are getting into and what tools and parts you will need. There’s plenty of accumulated knowledge out there and learning from others’ experiences is a great way to make your project go smoothly.

The next step is to prepare your work area. If you’re going to be working outside, make sure you stabilize the car on solid, level ground. And, if this is going to be a long-term project, make sure you’re ready for inclement weather. A car cover is a great way to protect your car while the project is ongoing. If you’re working inside, make sure the work area is clean and free of debris. To make the project as efficient as possible, have the tools you need close at hand before you start working.

Whether you’re indoors or out, always remember to work safely. Disconnect the battery to avoid a short. Never work under the car while using just the jack. Use solid jack stands to support the car. And always work in a well-ventilated area.

When you’re taking things apart, put the nuts and bolts for each step into a sandwich bag or small storage bin. If the project is going to take a while, label each one so you do not have to rely on memory. Sometimes you can put bolts back temporarily, which helps, but baggies or bins are always a smart idea. Use tags to label wire connectors and hoses as they come off with what they are or where they connect. Regular masking tape works great for this, by the way. If you have the space, a shelf is a great place to store all of the items that have been removed from the car. This keeps them organized and out of the way.

Take notes as you work, and if you have a digital camera, take pictures at each step. Most people remember things visually, so if you find yourself getting lost in the project, seeing how things used to be arranged can often help you figure out how to make them look that way again.

Always clean any old parts before you reinstall them. Wiping away the gunk and dirt makes it easier to inspect the parts for age and wear, and it also makes reassembly much easier.

If you’re prepared for the project, working on old cars can be more like fun than work. So be prepared, and have fun!