I'm restoring my 82 trans am and I'm not too comfortable with working on the engine with help from my dad, but I keep forgeting the things I keep wanting to work on elsewhere on the car. However, i'm serious when i say that i just want to restore not butcher. I'm not into adding nos or lifts or ground effects or anything like that. If anyone has any ideas I'd appreciate it.

 

Make a list. Not only will it keep you on track, it helps keep you motivated, because you can actually see how much you got done.

 

I have made a list. I'm trying to think of things I can add to it.

 

Do one thing, and if it makes it easier while something else is out, like the engine, then work on that. For example, it is tons easier to work on the fuel lines without an engine and transmission.

Get ONE project ready, then move onto the next step. Rebuild your engine, get it together, put the wire harness on it if you would like, then let it sit until its ready to go in.

Doing lots of things at one time is reall a tough way to go especially if your impatient.

I put Baer 12" Brakes, Converted from a 4BBL to TPI, Urithane bushings, Installed a Aluminum Driveshaft, all at one time. It took me about 6 weeks... AND I Powdercoated everything I could get my hands on. It was a rough 6 weeks...

John

 

Have lots of money on hand too.
I know ...

Pacer

 

Prioritized list are great. I work on basic mechanical things first so I can drive the car.

Engine, Drive train, Brakes, etc. Then I work on other mechanical (shocks, cruise control, etc. ) intermixed with work on cosmetics.

Another thing i would recommend is taking a lot of pictures and keeping a log or journal. These both help immensely to visibly see your progress. You will be amazed how bad it was.

my 2 cents,

 

i found it better to focus on really major things like weatherproofing the car, rust and rot, and stuff like that. but that all depends on how far you are on ur car too