Graveyard Run Call the Shop

The Graveyard Run blog · Field notes from the shop floor

Shop Journal

Posts from the shop, in the shop’s own words: why an estimate on a restoration is so hard to give, the frame-off process from teardown to reassembly, and getting a car ready for an AACA or Concours show field.

A 1937 Chrysler Imperial roadster on jack stands in the shop, front end opened up for tear-down.
Featured post

Why it is hard to give an estimate on Restorations

It’s hard to give an estimate because you never know what you’re getting into with some of these cars. Especially the ones prior to the 1950’s.

By Rachel Richardson and the GYR gang 3 min read
A tan 1941 Nash Ambassador 6 on a grass show field, hood raised, its Keeneland Concours d’Elegance placard in front of the grille.
Show prep

Concours d’Elegance Car Show Preparations

To be invited or nominated to show your car at a Concours d’Elegance is like being invited to New York Fashion Week — only for cars.

Graveyard Run Restorations Read
A man in a red shirt receiving a trophy beneath a “Welcome AACA Members” banner, a table of trophies alongside.
Show prep

AACA Car Show Prep – Before, During, and After

If you have ever showed your vehicle, you will know that there is always a mile-long list of things to do before, during, and after the show.

Graveyard Run Restorations Read
A stripped sedan body on a rolling stand in the shop, bare panels and floor exposed, doors and glass removed. Aug–Dec 2020
Six‑part series

Frame-Off Restorations Process

With every frame-off restoration, we begin by reversing the factory’s assembly process.

  1. 1 Disassembling
  2. 2a Bodywork
  3. 2b Paint
  4. 3 Component repairs
  5. 4 Interior, chrome & windows
  6. 5 Reassembly
Rachel Richardson and the GYR gang Read the series