 | Richard Smith has been in the Auto Body Industry for 26 years. He is ASE Certified Master Collision Tech, an I-Car Platinum Tech, and an I-Car Instructor. He and His wife own and operate Sharp's Auto Body & Collision Inc. located at 202 North Elm St. in Pittsburg, Kansas. He is a father of 5 children, Ex Military E-6 Staff SGT. and is active in his home Church. The one thing he enjoys doing is educating the public about the safety and proper repair of automobiles, no matter if it is a vehicle that has been in a collision, a small dent, or a complete restoration. The shop is always equipped with a skilled professional to handle your auto needs. |
Cars, Trucks, Vans & Automotive
2013-05-29 13:12:26
Where can I find the perfect project car?
A: Nothing like the summer months to kick restoration and cruising season into high gear. Finding the right car for the project is your first task, and maybe the most important.
As you mentioned, when you look for a car, you will want to keep in mind the amount of restoration needed so you can complete it in a reasonable amount of time. Factor in your own expertise. You might be exceptional at the mechanics but not body work, for example, so look for something more in your wheelhouse to save time. Also, you might want to choose something with parts that are not near impossible to find.
Now, there are many ways to find that perfect project car, and parts, and it may take looking into all of the sources before you find exactly what you want. Here is what I would try:
1. Put out the word with friends and coworkers. They may already have what you need.
2. Check Craigslist, Auto Trader and other listings.
3. Attend a classic car show or car club and connect to others with the same interest
4. Talk to your local mechanics and auto body specialists. They are a great resource for information on where you can find cars and the necessary parts to finish the projects.
If in question, your local auto body shop can help you decide. Take pictures to them and they should be able to sit down with you and go over the do's and dont's. They will want to give thorough advice however, so make sure that they have time to do this and you have not shown up at a busy time of their day so you get the best information. Your local shop can even help by purchasing your parts and repair. There is nothing like finding a diamond in the rough at a great price and restoring the gem to its original beauty. Good luck, and stop by if we can be of any help.
