Parts Design
"When designing new reproduction components, such as body panels and grilles, a significant amount of research and engineering goes into the design. Our goal is to accurately replicate parts to ensure precise fitment. Since we're one of GM's largest distributors, we have first right of refusal to original GM tooling when it becomes available. Likewise, we also have access to GM's original blueprints. These original items are extremely hard to find, but that's not really a bad thing. Today, sheetmetal is laser cut and robotically welded. Original tooling, on the other hand, is extremely complicated. The machines are three times the size of an average office desk and rely on ancient vacuum actuation. While it's impressive to look at, no one can even figure out how to use original tooling, which is why it's easier to reproduce parts instead. We start by getting an N.O.S. sample of a part, or sometimes even dissembling a car, and replicate it as accurately as possible."
Up-And-Coming Chevys
With the economy in the tank, musclecars are expensive enough to where most hot rodders can't afford '69 Camaros and SS 454 '70 Chevelles. With so much direct interaction with hot rodders, Classic Industries is in a unique position to recognize more affordable platforms, which are increasing in popularity. "People consider them late-models, but third-gen Camaros are already 25 years old, and more people are starting to build them as parts become easier to find," says Vogt. "Later full-size chassis, like the '66-68 Impala, are also picking up in addition to '73 and later trucks. For people with a bit more money to spend, many are realizing the benefits of reproduction first-gen Camaro bodies over original bodies that will require tons of metalwork."
New Old Stock
Some people insist on going broke buying N.O.S. sheetmetal, but reproduction parts often come pretty darn close in terms of quality. If you're debating on whether or not N.O.S. parts are worth the premium, Vogt suggests first assessing your long-term goals. "If you're building an all-original stock show car and have the money for N.O.S. parts, by all means buy them. On the other hand, it makes little sense to splurge on N.O.S. parts if you're building a typical cruiser that isn't extraordinarily valuable. That said, as long as you have a good body guy, you can't tell the difference between N.O.S. and reproduction sheetmetal, and there are tons of $100,000 show cars that use repop parts. Also keep in mind that N.O.S. parts don't guarantee a perfect fit since many musclecars are at least 40 years old, and there's no telling what bodywork they've already had done to them over the years."
Covering Seats
Interior restoration kits are pretty straightforward to install, but many people get stumped when it comes time to put new upholstery on their seats. Although the job can be tedious, Vogt offers these handy tips for getting it done in your own garage. "Vinyl is just plastic, so the best advice is to put the seat covers in sun for a while to get the vinyl warm and pliable. If you try to do it in the dead of winter in Michigan, it won't turn out nearly as good as if you wait until the middle of summer when it's 80 degrees outside. Disassemble and recover the seats one at a time so you'll remember exactly how they came apart, and test-fit everything and make sure the seams line up before hog-ringing the covers down. Remember that restorations take three to four years, not one, so take your time and know your limitations."