bigbranz
02-11-2004, 09:16 PM
Hello all,
Great website with lots of valuable information. I have a '78 GMC Caballero that I have bigs plans for. The body is in decent shape, but everything else needs some attention.
I would love to be involved with all aspects of the restoration, but have no idea of where to start or what I am doing. Any suggestions?
Mrapii
02-11-2004, 09:50 PM
The first thing I would do is to address all of the safety and reliability issues. Inspect the brake system, steering system and suspension and make sure they are in safe condition. If you have to make repairs consider upgrading (ie if you have to replace the shocks consider a performance shock instead of a Pep Boys no name special). Then I would make any repairs to the engine, trans etc. to make sure your Cabo doesn't leave you stranded. The last thing I would do is the body and paint--this is my opinion as I know people you make it look good first and then work on the mechanicals.
After doing several "restorations" my experience is to keep the car driveable (unless your going for a frame off) as you bring it up to your standards. I can't count the cars that friends have bought, took apart and then lost interest. Keep it driveable as you work on it and you will finish it.
Tommy
02-12-2004, 04:11 AM
Welcome to a great site. Get it running right & deal with looks later. Glad to see another Carolina boy!
87ElCamino
02-12-2004, 05:58 AM
I would love to be involved with all aspects of the restoration, but have no idea of where to start or what I am doing. Any suggestions?
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Welcome to ECC/NECOA Marcus!
Since you're in Region 5 (NC/SC) try to get in touch with other local NECOA members to show you where to begin. As Mrapii said, address the safety items first. Get it driveable first and then look into body restoration. Feel free to use the ECC SEARCH ENGINE (http://www.elcaminocentral.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=search) to find answers to your questions. If you can't find info that way then post questions in the appropriate forums and we'll try to help you out.
bigbranz
02-12-2004, 09:22 PM
Thanks for the input and the welcome to the site. I definitely look forward to working on my car with info found on this site. Thanks.
Tommy
02-13-2004, 05:13 PM
Come on down to region 5, we'll try to help you out. 8-)
Alchemist
02-14-2004, 03:55 AM
Hello all,
Great website with lots of valuable information. I have a '78 GMC Caballero that I have bigs plans for. The body is in decent shape, but everything else needs some attention.
First of all....Welcome! And you're RIGHT! Lotta folks in here really know their stuff!!!