Restoration
What a Rotten Floor Actually Costs to Fix
Everyone budgets for paint and engine work. Nobody budgets for the floor pans. Here's the real cost of cutting out rust and putting a classic back on solid metal.
Restoration
Restoration costs, parts sourcing and the jobs that eat your budget.
Restoration
Full Restoration Budget: Where the Money Actually Goes
The ads say 'ground-up restoration, never raced, garage kept.' The invoice says otherwise. Here's where a full restoration budget disappears, in real dollars.
Restoration
Repainting a Classic: Maaco Versus a Real Body Shop
One costs a third of the other and both promise 'classic quality.' One of them means it. Here's the honest trade-off before you hand over a two-tone Chevelle.
Restoration
Chrome Re-Plating Costs: What It Takes to Redo Bumpers and Trim
The bumpers look rough, so you price a set of reproductions, you price a re-plate, and you quietly sit down. Chrome is the most expensive surface on a classic.
Restoration
Rebuilding a Small Block V8: Parts List and Realistic Cost
The engine looks tired, so you price a rebuild, and suddenly the internet has opinions but no receipts. Here's the part list and the real money for a small block V8 done properly.