Restoration Process
The restoration process generally consists of an initial inspection to assess the condition of the vehicle. At that point the customer and Arc and Anvil generally determine the first list of parts that will be necessary. As the project progresses, parts requirements may increase as we find more evidence of rust or damage. Depending on the customer’s interest some of the disassembly and cleaning of parts may be done by the customer. Photo documentation of any details, specific assemblies, paint or decal locations door, trunk and hood gaps, seal installations etc. are invaluable.
Once the vehicle is disassembled the metal is generally cleaned to bare metal , there are various shops that offer Plastic Media Blasting, but I have had problems where sand gets used as well, causing severe damage to parts. For this reason The A&A prefers to do its own cleaning in house.
Once the metal is bare, the welding process is done. Then priming and bodywork begin with several stages and applications of primers and fillers and blocksanding. It is crucial to test fit panels during the priming-bodywork phase to facilitate proper fit and clearances. After the necessary rounds of blocking are completed The car and parts are ready for paint. The A&A prefers to use a quality basecoat clearcoat paint system. Once painted, the car and parts are wetsanded and buffed to a deep, high, gloss.
Generally the A&A assembles all of the body components and lets a glass shop install windshields and backglasses. Interior installation is usually handled by the customer or a specialty shop.
Communication
The Arc and Anvil desires to satisfy the customer and to get the work done in a timely manner. To do this communication is very important. Generally, biweekly visits with work completion payments are arranged. The work is billed by the actual hour, and by having biweekly visits the customer can decide where to take the next phase of restoration.
Along with biweekly visits, the A&A keeps a digital photo documentation and provides a disc of photos of the complete restoration at the end of the job.