How to Restore GM Classic

Installing your engine can take three times more time than disassembling it.

General Motors, or GM, is one of the largest car manufacturers in the world and their classic vehicles are extremely popular with enthusiasts and collectors. Since GM's establishment in 1908, they have produced some of the most easily recognizable cars in America such as the 1912 Cadillac, 1949 Buick Roadmaster and the 1964 Pontiac GTO. Restoring your classic GM vehicle may seem daunting, but with the right equipment, proper replacement parts and a basic automotive knowledge you can successfully complete this restoration project.

Things You'll Need

• Jack
• Jack Stands
• GM re-chroming kit
• Grease
• Large tarp
• Storage containers
• Rubber mallet
• Ratchet
• Socket set
• Tire iron
• Power sander
• Sandpaper
• Work area
• GM replacement parts (specific to your car brand and model)
• Automotive tools
• GM re-upholstery kit
• Air compressor
• Handheld welder
• Primer
• Exterior paint
• Engine hoist
• Welding protective gear

Instructions

1. Obtain books, manuals and magazines detailing the process of restoring classic GM vehicles. Join a General Motors enthusiast group in your area to find other GM lovers who can offer advice or even help you. The more information you collect, the easier it will be to successfully restore your classic GM vehicle.

2. Set up a large work space that can accommodate your GM classic once it has been disassembled. You need space for additional lighting, any equipment and storage bins as well. Keep this area organized. Fasten a tarp to the floor for maintaining larger parts. Store any small components within labeled containers.

3. Lift your GM classic vehicle with a jack, then secure the vehicle by placing jack stands beneath its frame. Unbolt and remove the hood, trunk lid, front grill, bumpers and doors. Dismantle and remove the headlights, taillights, mirrors, windows, wheels and axles. If there is excessive rust, you can use grease and a rubber mallet to loosen the rust for removing these components.

4. Disconnect and disassemble the engine and all of its components, then use a hoist to pull these parts out of the body of your GM classic. Lay all major parts onto your tarp, and store screws in labeled containers.

5. Disassemble the interior of the GM classic vehicle. Disconnect all parts and components of the GM's console, then remove any interior trim. Discard the carpeting. Detach the seats, and use a GM specific re-upholstery kit to restore separately. Dismantle the fenders using your ratchet and socket set.

6. Examine, clean and restore each part and component that has been removed. Replace all components showing signs of rust or damage. Purchase replacement parts through GM authorized dealers and restoration catalogs.

7. Survey the GM vehicle's hood, fenders, doors, body, frame and floorboards. Ensure that the body and frame of the your GM vehicle is straight, then use a handheld welder to repair rusted areas, erosion and holes. Always wear protective gear such as a welding mask and gloves, then solder small, healthy pieces of metal onto these areas.

8. Use a power sander to make the body's exterior smooth, then reattach and secure the bolt of the fenders. Ensure that the GM vehicle's panels are properly aligned, then apply a thick coat of a rust protectant primer to the body's exterior. Once this primer is dry, paint the exterior of your GM vehicle. To maintain authenticity, paint the vehicle in an original factory color.

9. Restore all power components, including the radiator, alternator, carburetor, engine and transmission. Examine the brake systems, axles, driveshaft and starter, replacing parts if necessary. Use your engine hoist to replace these components back into the body of your GM classic, then install all power components. Work carefully in order to prevent damaging these delicate pieces.

10. Examine each electrical component, replacing damaged pieces and wiring. Rewire and connect the headlights, taillights and brake systems. Attach the bumpers. Install the mirrors, windshield and any windows. Re-chrome any exterior trim with the proper kit. Secure new wheels and hubs to restored wheel assemblies, then pull out the jack stands and lower the GM classic.

11. Build in the interior by installing carpeting and restored seats. Maintain the authenticity of your GM vehicle by using original factory colors and materials. Fasten the door handles, console, all controls and all interior trim and paneling. If every interior component is operational, ensure that your GM vehicle is running properly by performing a test drive.

References

• GM Classic Muscle Cars
• GM Muscle Car Headquarters
• General Motors History