Repair 7

Auto Body Restoration Tips

Whether a vehicle owner desires to preserve a loved automobile or simply maintain its value, restoration is the way to go. Auto body technicians can perform just about any kind of restoration job, including body work, painting, sheet metal and fiberglass work, engine rebuilding, collision repair, interior restoration and fixing rust holes in floor boards and rocker panels. However, several issues must be considered before and during auto body restoration.

Evaluate Restoration Decision

Evaluate the condition of the car. If it appears heavily damaged, it may be beyond repair. Usually, if the frame is solid from top to bottom, the car is most likely restorable. However, if the frame is weak or filled with holes, especially on the interior floor surface, the cost of fixing the car must be caully weighed against the long-term reliability of the vehicle. Using a flashlight, inspect all the tight areas of the car, including the trunk and engine compartment. If possible, go to a garage and have the car lifted up on a hoist for a thorough examination.

Choose Qualified Body Technicians

Choose qualified professional to restore the car to its original luster and value. An amateurish restoration job can result in lost of time and money. Auto body restoration must be done properly so that the vehicle is as close to the original as possible. Try to get a feel for the kind of work the dealer performs. For example, if the company possesses a restoration gallery, review the stages of their work on other automobiles. These observation will give a good idea of what to expect.

Monitor Restoration Process

Monitor the progress of the restoration process. Auto body restoration does not happen overnight. Theore, visit the shop in order to observe the different stages the vehicle must pass through. The client should request a contract outlining the time and date of each restoration stage, or if this is not possible, request contact at the beginning of each stage. Close observation will give the client a more personal relationship with the auto body technicians and the work being performed.