As many classic car owners are well aware, there are some cases where sourcing parts for particularly unique or antique vehicles can be difficult. Certain models went out of production decades ago and are tough to find a full range of parts for, but there are some good resources available if you know where to look.
At Andersen Restoration Parts, we're proud to serve as one of the top such resources in the classic car world. We offer an unmatched selection of high-quality classic car restoration parts across every common brand out there, with products ranging from idler arms and suspension kits to bushing kits, center links and numerous others. Here's a comparison of a fully certified restoration shop like ours with some of your other options for finding classic car parts - why shops like ours should be your first stop in most cases, but how to proceed in other settings if you find yourself in them.
Why a Classic Car Restoration Shop Should be Your First Stop
Firstly, let's consider the benefits of coming to an experienced and certified classic car restoration shop like Andersen Restoration Parts. Here, you'll find:
That said, there may be certain situations where you find yourself in other settings when looking for classic car parts. Our next few sections will identify these, plus look at some precautions you should take and some additional advice on how to proceed.
Car Shows
Another common way of finding classic car parts is by attending car shows and auctions. While this can be an enjoyable experience, it's important to prepare beforehand and know what you're getting into.
It's generally a good idea to bring a knowledgeable friend who understands cars - they can help you assess the condition of any prospective purchase in detail so that you don't end up with a lemon. In addition, it's important to be aware of the going rate for the parts you need and stay within your budget - don't get pulled in by too-good-to-be-true offers or desperate sellers.
Swap Meets or Car Clubs
Down related lines, it's often possible to find classic car parts by attending swap meets or joining a car club in your area. This can be a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and even pick up some tips on how to restore your vintage ride.
Again, it's key to stay within budget here - don't overspend just because you're in a crowd of fellow enthusiasts. Similarly, be sure to ask plenty of questions and have the parts thoroughly inspected before agreeing to any sale.
3D Printing a Part
One newer option for finding classic car parts is 3D printing. This can be an effective way to obtain rare parts that are no longer available - you simply provide the digitized version of the part and then pay a fee to have it printed out.
While this option can work in some cases, there are some significant risks to also be aware of. Firstly, printed parts may not be of the same quality as original ones, which can result in a compromised performance and even potentially damage to your vehicle. Secondly, it can be quite expensive - with some parts costing hundreds or thousands of dollars.
In addition, most people aren't familiar enough with 3D printing technology to be sure that their part will actually work. To be safe, it's usually better to stick with parts from a restoration shop or another trusted source.
Aftermarket Manufacturers
Another option for sourcing classic car parts is from aftermarket manufacturers. These companies specialize in producing replica parts that are based on original ones but made with different materials or according to a slightly different design.
While this may be an appealing option at first glance, it's important to understand all the potential drawbacks associated with aftermarket parts, such as increased chances of failure and reduced performance. Ultimately, it's best to stick with genuine parts from a reputable source whenever possible.
Overall, there are many good resources available for classic car owners who need to find specific parts for their vehicles. The key is to do your research beforehand and understand the pros and cons of each option before making a purchase. This way, you'll be able to get the parts you need without breaking the bank or risking damage to your vehicle.
And at Andersen Restoration Parts, our experienced staff can provide expert advice on what parts are best for your classic car. Feel free to reach out if you need assistance or have any further questions. We're here to help!