Guides

How the job goes

Written guides to the work behind the parts. Each one covers what the job actually takes, what to check before you spend anything, and which parts to price when you are ready.

Brakes and hydraulics Drum to disc brake conversion: what the job actually needs What a front drum to disc brake conversion on a classic car actually needs: master cylinder, proportioning valve, booster, wheel clearance, bleeding. Cooling System Why a classic overheats, and the order to check things How to diagnose an overheating classic car in order, cheapest checks first: gauge, coolant and air, cap, thermostat, radiator, fan, water pump, timing. Wiring and Electrical Rewiring a classic: harness options and what the job takes How to tell if your classic needs a full rewire, the three harness options, fuse blocks, grounds, wire gauge, relays, and safe staged wiring work. Engine identification Identifying a small block Chevy by its casting numbers Where to find small block Chevy casting numbers, how to read the date code, and what those numbers can and cannot prove about your engine. Body panels Buying reproduction sheet metal: judging fit before you weld How to judge reproduction sheet metal before you cut: test fitting, bracing the shell, gauge and stamping quality, and when a patch beats a full panel. Fuel System What a carburetor rebuild actually needs How to tell a carburetor fault from ignition or fuel delivery, what a rebuild kit covers, what actually wears, and how to set float level right.