Restoration
One of the most asked questions when it comes to restoring a vehicle is “How much does it cost?”
Good Question: I’ll try and answer that the best I can:
Because there are many unknown or unforeseen repairs on any restoration project; (for example hidden rust beneath another metal structure), it is not possible to accurately forecast the cost of restoring a vehicle. The true cost is only revealed during the rebuilding process. It is for this reason that all of our restorations are done on a time/materials basis. Each project will hold its share of unique repair challenges.
Although a somewhat accurate estimate could be made if a vehicle was first fully disassembled; stripped of all body parts, chrome, glass suspension, interior , paints, and undercoating, etc,etc., every piece inspected and documented individually for condition and originality in addition, after the removal of all paint coatings, old collision damage, body dents, and body rust would need to be evaluated. Obviously this disassembly and analysis alone would not be an inexpensive venture, especially if the customer decides not to go forward with the project.
For the above reasons, initial cost estimates are simply a best guess proposition. All restoration work is contracted on a time and materials basis. An advance deposit of $5000 is usually required to start the project. When that amount is used, further advance/retainers are required until the project is complete.
Remember, the idea of an inexpensive restoration is jut one of the many myths held by people not fully understanding the true meaning and scope of the word. Although restoration is not for everyone. The vehicle owner must make a substantial financial commitment before deciding to restore.
Restoration is usually completed in 5 steps.
- Pick up vehicle and haul to shop. Remove all parts, interior, glass, motor, transmission, dash. Send parts to bead blaster, or sand blast as needed. Then you, the customer comes to the shop to discuss what needs to be or should be done with the vehicle.
- Complete engine work, welding of parts as needed, body work, and fitting parts. Ordering parts as needed, by customer or shop, and add those mechanical parts.
- Paint Frame, body, underside, and any interior parts. Prime as needed.
- Install balance of parts, and chrome, bumpers, windows, glass, then comes the interior work, upholstery. Upholstery work is usually not included in the quote and must be paid by the customer directly to the upholstery shop that will be completing that work.
- Complete all
We know from experience that the key to providing the highest level workmanship is an intense focus on the values that guide our people’s actions. These are our Core Values and Beliefs. We respect our people and believe that qualified individuals who are treated with respect and given responsibility respond by performing the best work possible. We require complete honesty and integrity in everything we do. We insist on giving our best effort when performing the art of Auto Restoration.
Clarity in understanding our mission, our goals and what we expect from each other is critical to our success. In all our dealings we strive to be professional and fair.
Have you been thinking, who should I choose to build my project and should I trust my pride and joy to a repair facility? Many of the projects we build are for clients who keep their vehicle for the remainder of their life and pass it on to their family to enjoy it with the same passion!
When building your dream ride with this criteria every detail is accounted for. This type of client will be polishing their pride and joy for many years to come so we want them to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that we provided the highest level workmanship. If you have any questions to help you decide where to have your project built, please call us at 219-663-1847 and we will be happy to answer them.
