Car Restoration Course

Lesson 1 • Understanding Vehicle Anatomy

Introduces major vehicle systems and structural components. Provides the vocabulary needed to assess, document, and communicate about any restoration project.

Lesson 2 • Project Planning and Documentation

Teaches systematic project scoping, budgeting, and record-keeping before any wrenches turn. Accurate documentation prevents costly mistakes throughout the restoration.

Lesson 3 • History and Philosophy of Restoration

Covers the evolution of car restoration as a craft and defines key restoration categories. Establishes the mindset and standards that guide all subsequent work.

Lesson 1 • Systematic Disassembly Techniques

Presents a logical sequence for stripping a vehicle without damaging reusable parts. Proper sequence prevents rework and protects components needed later.

Lesson 2 • Fastener Identification and Handling

Covers thread types, grades, and corrosion removal so fasteners survive teardown. Correct fastener management reduces replacement costs and assembly errors.

Lesson 3 • Cataloguing and Storage Systems

Teaches labelling, bagging, and shelving strategies to track hundreds of parts. Reliable cataloguing is the foundation of a smooth, error-free reassembly phase.

Lesson 1 • Dent Repair and Panel Straightening

Teaches hammer-and-dolly, stud welding, and PDR methods to restore panel shape. Straight panels minimise filler use and improve final finish quality.

Lesson 2 • Body Filler Application and Shaping

Covers polyester and lightweight filler mixing, spreading, and block sanding. Correct filler work creates the flat, contoured surface required for primer.

Lesson 3 • Rust Assessment and Classification

Teaches methods to locate and grade surface, scale, and penetrating rust before cutting. Accurate assessment determines repair strategy and material requirements.

Lesson 4 • MIG and TIG Welding for Bodywork

Introduces welding processes suited to thin sheet metal and structural repairs. Weld quality directly determines panel strength and finish quality.

Lesson 1 • Paint Correction and Polishing

Teaches wet sanding, compounding, and machine polishing to remove defects after cure. Polishing transforms a good paint job into a mirror-quality show finish.

Lesson 2 • Colour Matching and Paint Selection

Teaches how to decode factory colour codes, mix paint, and verify match before spraying. Accurate colour matching is critical for panel blending and period-correct restoration.

Lesson 3 • Basecoat and Clearcoat Application

Covers multi-stage application of basecoat and clearcoat in a controlled environment. Correct flash times and coat thickness produce depth, gloss, and UV protection.

Lesson 4 • Surface Preparation and Priming

Covers epoxy, self-etching, and high-build primers and the sanding sequences that follow. Proper primer selection and prep determine topcoat adhesion and longevity.

Lesson 1 • Cylinder Head Reconditioning

Covers valve grinding, seat cutting, spring testing, and head resurfacing procedures. A properly reconditioned head restores compression and prevents oil and coolant leaks.

Lesson 2 • Engine Break-In and Initial Start

Covers pre-oiling, initial start procedures, and the break-in protocol that seats rings and bearings. Correct break-in determines long-term engine reliability and oil consumption.

Lesson 3 • Engine Disassembly and Inspection

Covers the correct sequence for removing an engine and tearing it down to bare block. Thorough inspection at teardown determines which components require machining or replacement.

Lesson 4 • Short-Block Assembly

Presents the sequence for installing pistons, rings, bearings, and crankshaft with correct torque and lubrication. Proper assembly sequence prevents premature wear and catastrophic failure.

Lesson 1 • Differential and Axle Service

Teaches ring-and-pinion setup, bearing preload, and axle seal replacement for rear and front differentials. Correct gear mesh pattern prevents noise and premature differential failure.

Lesson 2 • Front Suspension Rebuild

Presents ball joint, control arm bushing, and steering component replacement for common suspension designs. Restored front suspension geometry is prerequisite for accurate wheel alignment.

Lesson 3 • Transmission Rebuild Basics

Covers manual and automatic transmission teardown, inspection, and reassembly with new seals and synchros. A properly rebuilt transmission eliminates slipping, grinding, and leaks.

Lesson 4 • Wheel Alignment and Corner Weighting

Teaches caster, camber, and toe adjustment using alignment equipment after suspension rebuild. Correct alignment maximises tyre life, handling, and straight-line stability.

Lesson 1 • Lighting and Accessory Circuits

Covers headlight, taillight, and accessory circuit diagnosis, upgrade, and relay installation. Proper relay use protects switches and ensures correct current delivery to loads.

Lesson 2 • Electrical Fundamentals for Restorers

Reviews Ohm's law, circuit types, and wiring diagram interpretation specific to vintage vehicles. Electrical theory underpins every diagnostic and repair task in this chapter.

Lesson 3 • Ignition and Charging System Service

Teaches distributor rebuild, points-to-electronic conversion, and alternator and regulator testing. A healthy charging system ensures reliable starting and prevents battery drain.

Lesson 4 • Wiring Harness Inspection and Replacement

Covers tracing, testing, and replacing deteriorated factory harnesses with OEM or custom looms. A sound harness eliminates fire risk and intermittent electrical faults.

Lesson 1 • Upholstery and Headliner Replacement

Covers seat foam replacement, fabric and vinyl cutting, and headliner installation techniques. Quality upholstery work defines the interior presentation of the finished restoration.

Lesson 2 • Final Assembly and Pre-Delivery Inspection

Covers the systematic reinstallation of all systems and a structured pre-delivery inspection checklist. A thorough final inspection confirms the vehicle meets safety and quality standards.

Lesson 3 • Carpet, Door Panels, and Trim

Teaches carpet cutting, sound deadener application, and door panel fabrication or restoration. Proper fit and fastening prevent rattles and water intrusion in the finished vehicle.

Lesson 4 • Glass Installation and Weatherstripping

Covers windscreen, rear glass, and side glass installation with correct adhesive and seal systems. Proper sealing prevents leaks, wind noise, and structural weakness.