There are few other cars as renowned for their styling and performance than a vintage Ford Mustang. The horsepower, the scoops and the elegant yet powerful design all make it one of the most hotly sought after vehicles ever to ride the road. The problem, as with most vintage cars, is that the odds are that at least of a few of the years it’s been around haven’t been kind to it. That’s where you come in. With a few easy tips you can start your vintage Mustang restoration to bring back the original luster.
Evaluate
As with any major improvement problem you should start with a
comprehensive analysis of what needs to be done. This will require a bit
of knowledge and a bit of imagination. Some parts you will have to
replace outright, while others you can refurbish. You should know the
basics of the major systems: What’s the condition of the frame? You
should look for any asymmetry or rust damage. How far is the engine from
running smoothly? Here your concern should be the condition of each
individual component. Do you need to replace the interior? According to
Mustangv8.com, an online Mustang refurbishing forum, it will cost up to
$3000 to replace the interior.
How are the brakes and transmission? Both of these systems rely on the
mechanical soundness of their components and have a great impact on the
vehicle’s overall performance, make sure they are up to the job. Does
the interior or body need work? Though these are mainly cosmetic, you
are restoring a Mustang partly because it looks so cool. There can be
fixes worth your time and effort and some will require more work than
they’re worth and should therefore be replaced. Once you know what basic
components will need to be refurbished or replaced, give yourself some
room to dream. This is your opportunity to put your special,
personalized touch on your Mustang.
Budget
Now that you have a general idea as to what needs to be done, you can
start to work a budget that fits. According to Cargurus.com, most
Mustang restoration costs start from $5000 and increase when there's
more that needs to be done. There are pricing guides
and actual parts available online. Don’t make any hasty purchases till
you’ve wrapped your head around the current market. If you’re not
absolutely sure you’re getting a fair price, don’t buy it; wait till you
see prices of similar products. While you can do much of this research
online, don’t forget the extras that don’t apply specifically to the
restoration. Car insurance
and vehicle registration fees are often forgotten, yet are mandatory
costs that you will incur. Research certain safety features that will
reduce your car insurance cost and increase your physical safety once
you’re able to take your Mustang on the open road.
Educate Yourself
Unless you spent several years working in a garage, chances are there
are some things you could learn about the best methodology for restoring
your Mustang. There are books, such as Mike Mueller's "Mustang: An
American Classic," websites, and
online forums that are incredible resources. The important thing is you
put the time into boning-up on the best ways to restore the vehicle.
Take your time, use multiple sources, and don’t be afraid to reach out
to ask the experts.
Plan
The next step is to plan the restoration. If you’re working with a time
constraint this will be a bit more difficult, but if the only time
limit you have is self-imposed, it’ll make it easier. Start with the
mechanical soundness of the vehicle. You’ll want a vehicle that runs
smoothly and won’t fall apart if you hit a bump (literally and
figuratively) in the road. Then move on to the interior and body of the
vehicle. As to the best practices for each of these components of the
restoration, that’s where your evaluation, budgeting, and education
becomes useful.
Restoring a vehicle is fun and rewarding experience. When you’re
restoring one of America’s favorite muscle cars, the Ford Mustang, it
can be even more so. Follow these general guidelines to make sure you
get the results you want.
Thanks Cherie Nolasco for the tips!
