Duffy's Collectible Cars Blog - Your Trusted Collector Car Store For Over 25 Years.

By: Jon Bratton
 
Muscle cars are often referred to as “Pony” cars because of the Mustang. Pony cars are generally described as sports car-like coupes with long hoods and short rear decks. The popularity of the Mustang created a new class of cars and created a platform for cars like the Camaro and Firebird,

By Jon Bratton

One of the most commonly asked question of visitors to the Duffy’s showroom is; “How do you make your classic cars shine?” A cars outside appearance is one of the most important things when buying or selling a car or just owning and taking pride in your vehicle. Here at Duffy’s we take great pride in making sure that each and every car has that freshly painted look, that deep mirror gloss finish that you can read the newspaper in. To achieve that goal it takes a little elbow grease, a few hours, and the right products. With a little effort and some advice from Duffy’s, you can make your car shine too!

Most people have hand waxed a car but have they done it correctly? It needs to be done inside or in the shade, not in direct sunlight. The cars finish needs to be cool to the touch but not below 55 degrees. Use a good name brand product and not one that has been in the cupboard for over 10 years. Use separate soft cloths in a circular overlapping motion for putting on the wax and for taking it off. Use a soft toothbrush (not your wife’s) for removing leftover residue in cracks and crevasses and around emblems. Hand waxing only works if the paint finish is good to begin with.

Paint finishes that are oxidized or have acid rain marks may need a power buffer. Please visit our video “How to buff a car”
 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcdnUsHE0OA

where I explain the procedure to restore your shine with a professional power buffer shine. The power buffer, along with 3M compound, combine to give you the best possible exterior restoration - certainly a step above the traditional hand wax. It’s not that hard to learn but well worth the effort.After all the hard work is done, it is a great sense of accomplishment to look at the shine and listen to all the great comments about your classic car. If you do not have the time or elbow grease Duffy’s Restoration Dept can give your car the shine it deserves. Or, if you just have some questions on how to do it yourself, please give me a call: Jon Bratton at 319-364-7000 or jon@duffys.com.

BUYING A CLASSIC CAR
Written By Jon Bratton

Buying a classic car is a vastly different experience than purchasing a typical late model vehicle. Let’s go through some of the key factors in selecting the right classic car.

STEPS FOR BUYING

1. Determine how you’ll be using the classic car. If it’ll be used as a daily driver there is no need to find a “show condition” vehicle. If you plan on entering classic car competitions or just want something nice to cruise in on a beautiful summer day you’ll have to find something that fits your needs. If you know the model you are interested in, narrow it down to 2 or 3 years (e.g., Mustang 1965-1967). This will help with your search. If you don’t know, research what changes were made each year and what suits your needs/wants best. Buy a car that excites you!
2. Check with local classic car clubs for any people who own, or have owned the type of classic you are interested in. They may be able to help you determine what to buy and what to avoid. These people will also be a great way to enjoy your new purchase later in cruises, shows, and touring.
3. Purchase from a reputable dealer. How long have they been in business? Do they have references? If you cannot go and look at the vehicle and you choose to buy from an individual, verses the reputable dealer, have a vehicle appraiser look at the car. They may be able to tell if its been in an accident, or if the engine, transmission or other vital components are not original. Research your appraiser before you hire their services. The reputable dealer will disclose those items.
4. Ask lots of questions. In my years of experience I have learned that everybody looks at a car differently and have different expectations. Order a used vehicle history report like Carfax on the car if it is 1986 and newer. This can be completed online.
5. BUY IT! Unlike a late model dealership there is only one car not a whole showroom full of the classic car of your dreams. You cannot go and order another one. When you find a classic car in the shape you want it , buy it! You have done all your homework, asked all the right questions, now is the time to realize your dream.

TIPS
• Buy a classic car with full service records or one that has been checked out by a mechanic. This will give you some added peace of mind.
• If you buy something fully customized, rare or imported, be prepared to pay more for parts and labor. In many cases you’ll have to get parts custom made which can be very expensive. You may also be able to buy used parts from someone who is “parting out” a similar model. You can check online auctions for general availability of such parts. Duffy’s Parts Department may also have the parts you are looking for.
• Drive the car and look at it in person. This is the best way to make sure you like it, especially if it’s your first classic car.

WARNINGS
• Check that the VINs (Vehicle Identification Number) match. Verify that the VIN on the car’s title matches the official VIN tag on the car. The official VIN tag is typically located at base of the windshield, but in older cars may be in the driver’s side door sill or in the engine compartment. If they do not match then the vehicle may have been in a severe accident. VIN problems are also signs of bogus classics and stolen cars. Be very careful in this part of the buying process. Ask for a copy of the title before you send any money.
• Beware of internet scams. There are many unscrupulous individuals out there trying to sell a “bogus car”. The old adage “if it looks too good to be true” it ususally is.

Buying a classic car should be an enjoyable experience. The chase of looking for and finding that dream car is part of that experience. Duffy’s Collectible Cars can alleviate the worries and hassles of buying from unknown individuals. We check our cars from bumper to bumper so there are no suprises. We want to make sure each and every customer is happy. Now….”What is keeping you from buying a classic car of your dreams?” Call us toll free at 1-877-670-3937 or email us at sales@duffys.com to start driving your dream.