Seasoned auto enthusiasts and even weekend-warriors can make great progress on their classic car restoration projects – but only if they have the right tools. Most classic cars have old parts, rusty patches, and jagged edges. It takes a well-stocked tool kit to work with these problems and make your car as good as new. If you’re thinking about taking on a new project, here are a few of the most important pieces of equipment and tools that you’ll need.
Impact Wrench
Most old cars have lug nuts and bolts that are far too difficult to unscrew with muscle power alone. Even if you can manage to get them off manually, they’re probably found all over your car. To save yourself time, energy, and a lot of frustration, you’ll need to keep a quality impact wrench in your garage. It can take even the tightest bolt off in seconds.
Angle Grinder
If you plan on doing your own bodywork, you’re going to need a grinder. Angle grinders allow you to take off large patches of rust in no time, and they’re indispensable for cutting sheet metal. Once all your panels in place, you’ll also want to grind away the jagged areas to make your car stylish and safe.
Hydraulic Jack
To get to your transmission or fuel injectors, you’ll want to be able to lift your car off the ground. Most shops have two or four-post hydraulic lifts, but those just aren’t practical for a home garage. Fortunately, you can still get a little bit of lift from a good hydraulic jack.
Air Compressor
An air compressor may be the most important tool in your garage. You’ll need it to power a variety of devices, including your impact wrench and angle grinder. You will also have to use a compressor with your paint gun to achieve a smooth, even coat.
Fiberglass Repair Kit
Steel bodies look great, but fiberglass can be far easier to repair and maintain. In fact, you can even use fiberglass to repair small dents in steel. Whatever type of chassis you’ve got on your car, you should keep a fiberglass repair kit in stock. It will also come in handy for repairing boats, swimming pools, and bathtubs.
Engine Crane
If you’re serious about classic car restoration, you should probably look into getting your own engine crane. Changing your timing belt, repairing your transmission, and plenty of other jobs may require that you take your engine out of your car.
Basic Hand Tools
Last but not least, you will need a great set of basic equipment. Every enthusiast loves to play with power tools, but you won’t get far without some good wrenches, screwdrivers, and cutters. Make sure you’ve also got small pliers and wires for precise electrical work.
Help from the Pros
Even if you’ve got a fully-stocked kit and the knowledge to use it, you may need some professional help with your car. Whether you’ve got a tough project – or you just don’t have the right tools for the job – call a leading professional now to get assistance with your classic car restoration project.