Restoration Process
The restoration process generally consists of an initial inspection to assess the condition of the vehicle. 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.
Once the vehicle is disassembled the metal is 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 Arc & Anvil prefers to do its own cleaning in house.
Once the metal is bare, the welding process is undertaken. Then priming and bodywork begin with several stages and applications of primers, fillers and block sanding. 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 Arc & Anvil prefers to use a quality base coat clear coat paint system. Once painted, the car and parts are wet sanded and buffed to a deep, high, gloss.
Generally the Arc & Anvil assembles all of the body components and lets a glass shop install windshields and back glasses. 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 Arc & Anvil keeps a digital photo documentation and provides a disc of photos of the complete restoration at the end of the job.