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Step 1
Do it yourself. Since Chevy is American made and there are lots of classic Chevy Bel Airs around (in various states of disarray), it will be easier to find the parts you need at a reasonable cost. A good resource is the original manuals used by shop technicians when the Bel Air was new. These are available through Greg's Automotive (see Resources).
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Step 2
Send it to a shop. Find an experienced shop in your area that is not only experienced in classic car restoration, but has a proven record restoring Chevy cars and Bel Airs specifically. Ask for references and call the Better Business Bureau before paying for anything or signing a contract. One great shop with years of experience is Blue Sky Classic Cars located in Budd Lake, New Jersey.
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Step 3
Offer it up to your local auto body program or class. These are offered through technical schools, auto body training programs, high school auto body classes and community colleges. They get a great project and you get a restored car for virtually free.
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Step 4
Make it a group project. Get together your classic car club or a group of mechanically inclined buddies to make it a project none of you will forget. Don't forget to include the kids in the families that are interested in cars, making it a fun learning and bonding experience for all of you.
