The word has too many different connotations: it's too
subjective. I remember it got popular when old cars started
to get popular (ie., worth $$$), and "restoration" shops
started to pop up everywhere. Anybody with a spray gun and
a bucket of bondo could "restore" your old whatever, and
damned sure do it cheaper than the next guy.
Nowadays, most sports car owners are usually a little more
discriminating. Ideally, a "restoration" is a complete virtual
100% tear down and reworking to literally as-new
specifications throughout. Not every car is worth doing that
to, nor is it often justified unless the vehicle is truly unique
in some way. On the other hand, some folks consider a paint
job and an interior kit to be a "restoration." Well, to the latter
individuals, I suggest that they keep watching "Monster
Garage" and dream on.
I look at each job individually and determine what it will
take to restore the car to the level desired, and I generally
try to preserve as much of the original as is practical. I don't
believe in indiscriminate or unnecessary parts changing; I
simply do what is necessary to get the job done properly.
I'm well equipped to take on any level of mechanical or body
reworking, and I do all metal work and body prep in house. I
use traditional metal working procedures. Crash damage, tin
worm eradication, and patch panel repairs are a specialty,
the metal finished to your specifications, and corrosion
preventative treatment done where appropriate. Bodywork
fit and panel straightness are very important, and I try to
pay attention to all the details.
If you have a realistic approach and have a comprehensive
job that you'd like to discuss, no matter how big or small, feel
free to contact me.
"Metal is my friend!"