Where to Start When Restoring a Classic GM Muscle Car and How to Find the Right High-Quality Chevelle Parts for Your Restoration

The American classic muscle car is synonymous with words like pride, dedication, attention to detail and ingenuity. And as one generation passes down to another, the restoration of these classic muscle cars begins once again with the same fervor it shared years ago. Talk to any muscle car enthusiast and they will tell you that restoring a classic can be one of the most rewarding and satisfying experiences they have ever had the joy of completing. These same people that have taken the time and effort to complete projects—whether small or large—will also tell you that restoration process takes hard work, dedication, patience, and money.

If you feel the passion and think you’re ready to bring back the former glory of an American classic such as the Chevelle then follow these tips below to help make your restoration run smoothly.

Budget: How Much Are You Willing to Spend On Your Restoration?

Before purchasing a vehicle, it is important to plan and set aside the money you will be able to put towards your restoration project. It is always a good idea to give yourself breathing room, as these types of projects often times wind up being more costly than originally expected. Start the process with a Chevelle parts catalog so you have a good idea of how much money will be needed to put towards certain Chevelle parts. There is nothing more frustrating than running out of funds halfway through the restoration.

Time, Effort and Skill Level

Remember, each project is different, ranging from minimal to a complete, more labor-intensive restoration. Ask yourself: Are you planning on completing the entire restoration on your own or taking the vehicle to a professional? If this is your first restoration project, you will most likely want to attempt a restoration that doesn’t need extensive work. Don’t take on more than you can handle; some things are better left to the professionals.

Purchasing the Right Restoration Project

When it comes to buying the car to restore, make sure you have fully evaluated your skill level. Only buy a car that you (or someone that you know) will definitely be able to restore. Never buy a car without fully inspecting it. Become the expert on that type of car before setting out to purchase one so that you know what to look for and all the right questions to ask the seller. Remember to ask if the car is complete, and if it is not, what parts the vehicle is missing. Also ask and inspect the car yourself for any rust as this will add to your restorations total overall cost. It is a good idea for you to have the mechanic examine the vehicle and determine approximately how much time and money will need to go into the car’s restoration.

Find the Right Parts Supplier for Your Restoration Project.

Find a trustworthy source to order your Chevelle parts from. Some restoration parts manufacturers will provide you with free catalogs listing all the Chevelle parts and prices available for specific models. Check to make sure that the Chevelle parts needed for the car you plan to restore are not hard to come by and fit within your budget. Find a trusted manufacturer that specializes in your specific car’s restoration parts, for example, Chevelle parts or El Camino auto body parts.

While restoring your first car is a thrilling experience, it is important not to jump blindly into anything. Take the time to research the specific car you want to restore. The more you know on the subject, the more time and money you will save in the long run, and the higher the chances are that your restoration project will be a success.

Resource Box:

Original Parts Group Inc. is the industry leading manufacturer and retailer of over 75,000 classic GM restoration parts and high-performance accessories. Since 1982, OPGI has the largest selection of Chevelle parts, El Camino; Monte Carlo; GTO, Tempest and Le Mans; Grand Prix, Bonneville and Catalina; Cutlass, 4-4-2 and F85; Skylark, Special, GS and GSX; Riviera, and Cadillac classic parts anywhere. From Chevelle interior soft trim to Cadillac body panels and everything in between, if it exists, OPGI is your best chance at finding the restoration parts and accessories you want.