Restoration Tip From Forum Members

[Moparfiend]

Please add a single tip per post with any pictures or explanation you desire to share here regarding restoration. Remember ONE TIP PER POST

 

[Moparfiend]

I’ll start with a simple one.

Do not throw ANYTHING away during disassembly! Even if you think it’s trash. Sometimes old genuine parts are better than reproduction. Also can be used for inspection later or during body repair alignment and measurements.

 

[khryslerkid]

Take lots of pictures and label everything!

 

[eldubb440]

don't weld ANYTHING until EVERYTHING fits

 

[WileE]

Bag & note all hardware removed. Example: Valve cover bolts, after removal immediately put all in a ziploc bag with a post-it note inside that says "valve cover".

 

[dadsbee]

Gone are the days of 35 mm and waiting 2 weeks for the photoshop to return your blurry pictures. Take 100 shots of everything you're working on, as I'm getting tired of supplying them for everyone! LOL

 

[Moparfiend]

When installing weatherstrip use sprayway to lubricate the rubber. Will make it easier and have better results!

 

[dadsbee]

That said^^^ pay attention the first time you roll up the quarter windows with new roof rail seals. The 1/4 glass goes BETWEEN the two rubber sections, not on top of the outer. If you fawk it up it's almost impossible to correct that once it takes a set.

 

[66 Sat]

When you install your carpet DO NOT trim the edges that go over the rocker panels until AFTER you have installed your seats. The seats pull the carpet in slightly and you may end up with gaps and need to replace the whole carpet when you get time...

 

[Moparfiend]

When installing headliner use a good contact cement. You need one strong enough to hold while you stretch. It makes all the difference. If you use the wrong stuff you will end up with wrinkles. I tried several BEFORE I used this particular Weldwood Landau. Others mentioned this but it’s expensive and I believe the smallest you can get is a gallon which is overkill. BUT it’s worth it. This stuff is extremely strong and I was able to get professional results doing it my first time. This…..mic drop……..

 

[Moparfiend]

Watch out for your belt after painting! Use a fender cover. There are soft belts like the one pictured by Snap On.

 

[Richard Cranium]

The best restoration tip is to buy a "done" car. However, most "done" cars are never completely done, but it's easier to to correct small things that are off than to go through a full restoration.

 

[3sloppydogs]

If you can use a rotisserie especially if you are an older guy like me. It will save your back.

 

[Charles Cook]

Don’t drink alcoholic drinks while disassembling if it’s going to be years before reassembling. And don’t smoke weed either.
This important tip came from a friend but everyone is welcome to use it.

 

[chargervert]

Lifts are helpful too,I can't have enough of them. I have a two post work lift,a scissor lift and five storage lifts. Money well spent! Work civilized!

 

[3sloppydogs]

Chargervert that looks like schiwn stingray with the flag

 

[chargervert]

75 Stingray with springer forks and mags.

 

[themechanic]

When your parts order arrives is the time to open the package and not weeks, months or years later when you get around to install them.

 

[Moparfiend]

Make sure to have the factory service manual or SFM. It can be a PITA finding something but it’s the holy Grail. Almost everything you need is in there. It’s also free!

 

[OKDart]

Bag & note all hardware removed. Example: Valve cover bolts, after removal immediately put all in a ziploc bag with a post-it note inside that says "valve cover".

And don't put an ignition coil in the same box with bags labeled with a sharpie. It could leak oil an erase all the labeling.