Restoration
A full restoration is the most complete service I offer — and the one in which my craft truly comes into its own. I work panel by panel, with an eye for the original lines and the character of the car. Mechanics and appearance come together in a single process, so that you end up with a classic that is not only beautiful but also reliable. Everything is arranged for you from A to Z, from intake to handover. Below I take you through the entire process, step by step.
Intake & Inspection
Every project begins with a thorough intake, in which I accurately record the current condition of the car with photographs and a detailed inspection. We discuss the story behind the car: where it comes from, what has been done to it in the past and what you have in mind for it. Together we set realistic expectations regarding the end result, the timeline and the intended use. On that basis I draw up a clear schedule and cost estimate that reflects the scope of the project. That way you know exactly what you are embarking on in advance, with no surprises afterwards.
Dismantling & Inventory
The car is completely taken apart in the workshop, right down to the bare chassis and loose panels. Every part is assessed individually, labelled and carefully stored, so that nothing goes missing during the entire process. This phase often reveals things that remain invisible during a superficial inspection, such as hidden rust or old repairs. That is precisely why dismantling is a crucial moment of truth for the project. What comes to light here helps determine the next steps, the inventory of parts and the final approach.
Metalwork
With the car fully dismantled, I start on the welding and lead loading: panel by panel, without haste but with pure precision. Affected areas and rust are carefully repaired with an eye for the original lines, seams and proportions of the bodywork. This is craftsmanship in the most literal sense, with every imperfection corrected by hand and restored to its original shape. The aim is a repair that cannot be recognised as a repair. This keeps the character of the car fully intact and creates a rock-solid foundation.
Dry Ice Cleaning, Underbody and Rust Treatments
Before even a single drop of paint touches the car, your classic is thoroughly cleaned and stripped right down to the bare metal. For this I work with, among others, a specialist in dry ice cleaning, to remove old layers of underseal (Tectyl) from the underbody and wheel arches. This reveals the true condition of the floor pan and provides a clean base. Hidden welding often comes to light as a result, which I can anticipate within the other welding work on your classic. I then treat the bare metal with a high-quality rust converter and stone-chip coating, available in any RAL colour you wish. The cavities are certainly not overlooked — think of the insides of sills and doors — as it is precisely these unseen steps that make a restoration durable.
Prep Work & Paint Job
With a sound, protected base, it is time for the prep work and the build-up of the professional paint job. The colour and finish are decided in close consultation with you — strictly original or personalised; your taste reinforces the character of the car.The car is built up in several smooth layers, sanded in between and carefully sprayed for the right result. Even small details, such as brightwork and original striping, receive the attention they deserve here. This is the moment the bodywork is as good as new again and the car visibly comes back to life.
Assembly & Mechanical Rebuild
All parts that were carefully removed and stored earlier now find their way back onto the car. During reassembly and final assembly I continually check that everything fits exactly and functions as it should. Where desired, I combine this with a thorough rebuild of the mechanical components. Every part of the classic is carefully adjusted to factory specifications or refined to your requirements. In this way, engineering and aesthetics come together perfectly as one.
Handover
Before the car is finally handed over to you, I carry out extensive testing. During these tests I fine-tune the mechanics, the engine and all settings down to the smallest detail. I deliberately allow time for the handover, because it is more than simply handing over the keys. You receive your classic ready to drive, including the complete story and an extensive photo report of the entire restoration process. A special moment befitting the craftsmanship delivered, after which you can start enjoying your dream car.
Curious what a restoration looks like in practice?
Take a look at some completed projects in the portfolio, or get in touch for a no-obligation conversation about your own classic.
Get in touch
Opening hours
I work by appointment only. Please feel free to get in touch to arrange a time.
Contact details
Postal address
Kemphaan 33
8532 AS Lemmer, Friesland, the Netherlands