Restoration of an antique automobile requires more than mechanical skills to take a car from a damaged, decomposing relic to a work of art, a flawless mending of the original creator's design. It requires research, networking, time, funding, perseverance and an endless striving for perfection. Insight into the designer's intentions is necessary to properly complete the restoration. Understanding the materials and methods used to assemble the vehicle were important to the design of the car and that knowledge is necessary to complete the restoration process. In other words, taking something apart to find out how it works will prove to be a boon to the person restoring the car as well as the one designing or engineering its replacement.

The process of restoring an antique automobile is as much an art as it is a science. Not only must each of the restoration steps be soundly based on facts but creativity, imagination, craft and skill are required to discover new ways of rebuilding and reengineering and integrating them into the finished product. In the end, there is great satisfaction in completing a project that perfectly duplicates the original design of the car's builder. The restorer establishes an understanding of design principles and finds ways of incorporating these skills in future restorations or in design work for future generations of automobiles.

Objectives:

This course is an introduction to automotive restoration. It will introduce students to the skills and steps required to bring an automobile through the restoration process. Techniques in metal work, painting, upholstery and mechanics as well as research methods and sources will be presented to the student. This year, the goal is to get the car running. Emphasis will be on the repair, refurbishment and restoration of the mechanical aspects of the car.

Methods:

The course will include required readings, lectures, guest lectures, discussions, research and hands-on lab work. The course is divided into several sections, each a different step in the process of restoring a car: preparation; disassembly and documentation; engine, drivetrain and mechanical; electrical; bodywork; paint; upholstery and trim; miscellaneous items; and reassembly and detailing. Some of these subjects may be covered in a single class period; others will take place over several. A 1934 Hupmobile Aerodynamic sedan has been secured for the students to work with and the students, based upon their research, will make many of the restoration decisions.

At the beginning of the semester, each student or a team of students will be assigned a different aspect of the restoration to research. These work projects will be due by the end of the semester. Accuracy, authenticity, and resourcefulness will be the basis of the grade for these projects. Topical exercises involving independent research may be assigned regularly. Field trips to related businesses will allow the students first hand examples of the various aspects of restoration. A dedicated area will be available for work on the Hupmobile. Some class time will be set aside to discuss project progress, share knowledge, and exchange experiences.

Student Responsibilities:

Students are responsible for the following: 1) complete the assigned readings prior to the class, 2) attend all classes, 3) participate in class discussions, and 4) complete the Assigned Research Projects and topical exercises on time. An attendance sheet will be passed out at the beginning of every class. Those that miss classes without an acceptable written excuse as per University policies or who consistently come late will receive lower grades for class participation. Discussion questions or short exercises may be handed out during the class, and students are expected to discuss them or report on the exercises.

Grading:

Grades will be based on class participation (25%), topical exercises (25%) and the Assigned Research Project (50%).

Students will present the Assigned Research Project in class and submit documentation.

Readings:

Students are responsible for reviewing the assigned readings and are to be prepared to discuss them in the class.

A set of supplementary readings are available in the School's Library. Even though these readings have been selected to assist students in completing their topical exercises and Assigned Work Project, they should not be viewed as the only sources to use.

Presentations:

Most class periods, students are expected to present any topical exercises to the class. Please prepare a Powerpoint Presentation to share your information with the class.

Presentation of the Assigned Work Project should be about 10-15 minutes long, followed by a discussion for about 10-15 minutes per presentation.

Schedule:

To Be Announced

Reading List:

• Lampman, C.M., Some Thoughts on Restoring a Studebaker. Kennesaw, GA: CML Publishing, 2007.
• Joseph, M., Collector Car Restoration Bible. Iola, WI: KP Books, 2005.

Supplementary Readings: 

• Factory and club literature about the Hupmobile are available in the Preston Stevens Library.
• The Detroit Public Library and other public and private libraries can provide additional information. Searching the Internet will provide additional sources.
• Periodical Literature: These periodicals have articles that might be relevant to your projects.
• Skinned Knuckles Magazine
• Collectible Automobile Magazine
• Hemmings Motor News and Hemmings Classic Cars
• Cars and Parts Magazine
• Antique Automobile (Antique Automobile Club of America )
• Automobile Quarterly
• Old Cars Weekly

For more information contact Rick Kamen