Vintage Car Restoration: Choosing Rebuilt, Remanufactured, or Reused Auto Parts

In vintage car restoration projects, one of the biggest issues owners and restorers have is replacing old and worn out components. Finding original factory replacement parts is a struggle, and not just for those who own classic cars of the '70s and before. When one owner lamented how Nissan stopped making critical engine components on a car that was only eight years old at the time, even renown CarTalk hosts were baffled by the business decision. The simple fact is that no matter what age your car is, it's possible to run into a dead end when it comes to finding new factory replacement parts. Instead, the following is a quick look at the three primary methods of restoring key automotive parts:

Vintage Car Restoration: Choosing Rebuilt, Remanufactured or Reused Auto Parts

• Rebuilding might also be termed reconditioning. This process involves inspecting, cleaning, and replacing only the worn and broken components of a larger piece. The rebuilder will begin with all the components within something like the engine block being equally worn and then will clean out and replace only those pieces that require immediate replacement, such as just the bearings and piston rings. When OEM parts can't be done, new aftermarket parts or components are generally substituted.
• Remanufacturing is the process of taking apart and completely remanufacturing it to the standard of a new part for the given vehicle. This is a much more intensive process that includes specialized work like re-machining components and installing necessary mechanical inserts so as to meet original mechanical tolerances. When remanufacturing an engine, for example, new pistons, rings, connecting rods, camshafts, lifters, and more are installed. Some of these components may be found with aftermarket companies while others will be fully fabricated to spec.
• Finding used parts is often the only way to ensure a given vintage car restoration project stays as authentic as possible. Unfortunately, finding the perfect used parts for classic cars can be among the most time-consuming, expensive, and risky of endeavors. Those shopping around for used parks, whether it's online or in a scrap yard or similar recycling place, should take caution and consult with an expert before making too big an investment. Ask sellers how parts were removed (avoid sellers who don't use wrenches and hand tools) and stored, and request a return guarantee should the component not work.

Need Help With Your Vintage Car Restoration Project? Contact CHRA

Vintage car restoration projects are fun and exciting endeavors. They are also activities that shouldn't be rushed into and when it comes to broken parts, it's important to take care and do things right. Here at CHRA, we pride ourselves on doing things right and ensuring each vehicle we're consulted on gets thoroughly inspected and undergoes the restoration necessary to make it the ideal vehicle their owners want. Our expert team is skilled in such processes as fabricating specialized parts and re-machining to create new pieces from old. Contact us to get started.