Repairing and restoring a muscle car, such as the 1966 Pontiac GTO, is a major project and an absorbing hobby, and it pays to spend a little time in planning and preparation. Restoration can be broken down into three phases: engine, paint and interior.

Organising your work space is crucial, and there are some essential pieces of equipment that will make your project much easier:

Compressor

A mid-range air compressor will be essential to supply air to pneumatic sanders, wrenches and screwdrivers. If you plan to do your own paint job, it will supply air to air-fed masks worn when spraying in a booth.

Auto Body Kit

This will contain all you need to work on fenders and other body areas, and should include pullers and a rubber mallet.

Paint booth

If you intend to paint your muscle car yourself, and have the space in your workshop, constructing a paint booth is straightforward and will save you a great deal of money.

Trolley Jack and Jack Stands

You will need two trolley jacks, one for each end of the car, and a jack stand for each corner.

Vehicle Mover

It can be difficult to move a car in a confined space, but with a vehicle mover, a person working single-handed can move any car safely and efficiently. Stringo offer an extensive range of ergonomically-designed vehicle movers in sizes to meet every need. Vehicle movers are particularly useful for moving freshly-painted cars without disturbing the finish.

Engine Hoist

An engine hoist is needed to allow you to remove the engine safely, and to reinstall it after restoration.

Electrical Tester

Many older cars will have problems with electrical systems, and this can be one of the trickiest problems that muscle car restorers have to face. An electrical tester will allow you to check the electrical system and get your classic car back on the road all the sooner.

Pneumatic Sander

Possibly the most important part of a paint job is the preparation. Many old cars are badly rusted and will need hours of work to restore them to their original condition. Time and effort will be reduced by using an air sander.

Magnetic LED Lamp

A rechargeable, cordless, magnetic LED lamp can be clamped to any suitable service, such as the underside of the bonnet, and its bright white light will make many awkward jobs much easier.