I got my maro when I was 16. It was my first car. My dad taught me everything as we rebuilt it. I drove it for 4 years as my everday driver. It killed on gas but never once thought about getting rid of it. Now that Im 20 n Im in my second year of college I finally got a little 2000 Alero to drive n give the maro a break. I finally got it in the garage n just wanted to know what are some ideas n things to look for as I tear it down to rebuild it n restore it.
Thanks Guys

 

I guess it depends on how far the restoration will go? Are we talking a complete restoration, or just some new interior and paint?
If it's a complete resto, then rust is the first thing to look for, especially if you live in a state that salts the roads in winter. Once the carpet is up, check the floorboards with a screwdriver tip to see if it pokes thru anywhere. Also look closely behind the wheelwells, and inside around the subframes and body. Check inside the trunk too, and near the lower corners of the windshield. Look inside the cowl vent screens to be sure they aren't full of debris, and rust too.
Mechanically I'd start with checking the front suspension. The ball joints shouldn't have any play with the front tires off the ground. Check the control arm bushings too for dried or rotted rubber. Check the front brakes, bearings, and seals.
The rest will show up as you look at these other areas. I was amazed at all the little tiny things I discovered when I started getting intimately involved in my resto. Seems like every time I start one little thing, another rears it's ugly head, and every time I order parts, or go get parts it's always a couple hundred dollars. Even when you go to buy a simple $25 part, you'll think of two others you should get, and it turns into $75-$100 again!

 

Also check under the core support, rear seats, check the rockers and I guess they'll call it a splash pan under the rear bumper. These spots are notorious for rust as well. pull the panel between the trunk lid and back window out and check for rust and debris. This will cause leaks in the trunk ( a mistake I made ). Check out my albums I've got some pics of the problems up. And if you need anything let me know I've got some parts left over.

 

lol well naturally I love the car so Id like to do a complete restoration. I appreciate all the ideas...that way i can miss as little as possible....

Blu80_Blck89- I deff want to know what you have left over...if theres anything i can use i will deff buy it off ya.

 

Does anyone else have any other ideas about it?