What is a "restoration"? - Steel Soldiers::Military Vehicles Supersite

wgtactical · 09-20-2009, 19:03

I've seen so many examples of what folks tend to call a restoration, but I can't recall any gage or format to measure a restoration by. Heck, I've even purchased vehicles with an alleged "restoration"

Basically, I've seen new paint over dents, rust (both surface and deep pitting), dirt, flaking paint, etc. But I've also seen new paint over properly prepared surfaces as well.

With that said, does it mean that if its got paint on it and it has the silhouette of a particular vehicle...do we call it restored?

Or if it is an era correct example (in every detail) as one seen in service for the period?

Or is it simply the way it would have looked when it rolled off the assembly line?

I just think it would be nice to have some sort of grade criteria for what we're going to find ourselves calling "restored"

SCSG-G4 · 09-20-2009, 19:48

To me, a restoration means removing 'all the rust' and properly refinishing the surface of the 'skin', then fixing all mechanical and electrical parts to 100 percent serviceability. Purists will argue for the as factory approach, but I am not after trailer queens with less than 100 miles on them. YMMV.

B3.3T · 09-20-2009, 19:54

"Restoration" is a broad term and without a method of gaging it, can mean anything from cleaning off the mud to a full rebuild better than the factory ever realized. I've seen both extremes in the MV hobby. The car hobby has a host of terms; off-frame, factory-authorized, etc., that all aid. But we have no standard.

clinto · 09-20-2009, 20:04

Restoration is when you disassemble EVERY single component... and rebuild it. The vehicle looks brand new.

Here's what restoration is:

Examples of Our Restorations

1969 1/2 A12 Super Bee

Everything less than that is repainting, refinishing, refurbishing, etc.

ctmustang · 09-20-2009, 20:05

Maybe in the MV hobby-just my 2 cents-doing the best you can with what your pocket will allow.

MWMULES · 09-20-2009, 20:22

I think of it in 4 classes, 1 Factory= frame off complete redo every thing rebuilt or replaced, usually better then they came from the factory (trailer queen show piece), 2 combat= everything operating , maintained, painted as it was in active service ( driver, parades, trail rides whatever) 3 modified= bobbed, re-engined something that did not come from the factory, 3 original = the way it came out from active service minus the DRMO and GL graffiti, maintained and operantional.

re·stored; re·stor·ing
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French restorer, from Latin restaurare to renew, rebuild, alteration of instaurare to renew

CharlyArmy · 09-20-2009, 20:27

There are two types of work that can be confused. The first is Restoration and the second is Refurbishment.

Restoration: Simply put, as if the vehicle came off the assembly line

Refurbishment: Bringing the vehicle as close to 100% as possible, mechanically, electrically and visually.

Ever see those rework electronics, power tools and such. They all say refurbished, not restored.

papabear · 09-20-2009, 21:07

RESTORED:
I agree with most of you that "restored" means brought back to assembly line condition...and that means each and every part/panel. These are the high dollar trailer queens that are roped off at displays and rallies or left on the trailer "under guard"
I think it was Clinto that said he once had a lengthy argument over a particular type valve stem/cap on a particular auto.

MOTOR POOL CLASS: Running. driving, stopping, safe to operate on the road, all systems/body panels correct type for the era represented. These units may have some minor dents, evidence of patch welding/repair ...fair to good paint...you know like you would expect to see in any military motor pool where vehicles are frequently used.

STANDOFF CLASS : Running. driving, stopping (usually), enough era correct parts to represent the vehicle, no large holes eaten in the metal, paint pretty good but probably faded, may have some bondo, you know...looks pretty good and correct if you stand off about 50 feet.

Neary all the vehicles here in our little group (CAMO) fall into the Standoff Class

however we use these vehicles proudly at displays, parades. gatherings etc, and allow folks (especially kids) to get in/on them and have a good time under supervision. Heck, we even give rides at every opportunity.

Guess it depends on what you want the vehicle for and how much you want to put into it.

I know MVPA has a "grade sheet" for classes of vehicles but when someone starts nit-picking one of our vehicles we ask..."where's yours"? Sometimes we just show them the closest gate.

Just my humble ramblings.

wgtactical · 09-20-2009, 22:41

I agree there should be at least three categories to cover the scope of what everyone is doing. I know that there has been a tremendous effort and resources put into the Eddie Black machine, and that the detail goes well beyond factory specifications. This particular project has seen an investment that exceeds what the machine will ever be worth, but then again I didn't do it to try and turn a profit either. This is more like a full size model car for us, as we have done whatever it takes to make it as nice as possible.

With that said, hopefully the MV crowd can adopt some sort of guideline for grades or classes that will more accurately define the effort put into the project.

papabear · 09-20-2009, 23:02

I recommend someone contact the GAMVPA and see what classes they use and maybe a criteria sheet for each class..(Grade sheet?).

Wonder if Clinto would be willing to tackle that mission?

BTW WGT...I've seen some of your posts and you folks do EXCELLENT work!!