The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Restoration Process

I am considering buying a 54' Chevy 3100.

I have been thinking about what to do in what order. What would be the most logical and timely way to restore a truck?

Do I start with disassembling the entire truck and work on the engine and transmission, then the body and interior. Or do I work on one thing at a time, as issues come up?

Here\'s a good Tech Tip from Randy Baumann that you might start with.

Peggy M

Personally I would start with the mechanical stuff.
Brake system first, also check wheel bearings.
At this point you can probably drive it.
Then if needed, engine and transmission.
And last I would remove the body and clean and paint everything on the chassis. Then all the body work and reassembly.
Sounds easier than it is, but that's the general idea.

Grigg

I agree with Grigg. First focus on all the mechanical and electrical systems; make it road worthy. Then focus on the body/paint job and, finally, the interior.

Buy a driver.

I figured that was the way to do it.

I was planning on doing the brakes and electrical first. The reason I ask is bc if I redo all the electrical, wouldnt I have to take it back off when it comes time to paint? I just figured that would make it twice the work

We did it that way. Yes, we took all the electrical out before paint. Much easier the second time around with the electrical, but at least we drove it for 2 years with no electrical problems. I can't tell you how many things we did twice, I guess that is all part of the restoration process. Frank

There's also an FAQ on how to start a restoration.

No matter what, though, before you do anything with a wrench, get the camera out and take pictures of everything. Document the truck. That way, when it's time to reconnect the starter linkages, or figure out which wire bundle goes where or even how the brakes go on, you'll know.

Have fun!
John

Oh, and go buy Tom Brownell's book (look in the Features section) "How to Restore your Antique Chevrolet Pickup" It's pure gouge!

John

I second the recommendations on Tom Brownell's book.

A digital Camera is an invaluable tool, plus its cool to look back on what the truck looked like before you started on it.

Do something every day even if only ordering parts or asking questions. A real restoration is a lot of work = time. A lot of for sale adds read restoration started or most of work done. But if you stick with it in the end you have something to enjoy for a long time. :hammering:

mechanical then body