From stock rebuilds to high performance, the V8 Speed and Resto Engine Machine Shop is fully equipped to do it all – in house.

The V8 Speed and Resto Engine Machine Shop is a full-service facility handling all aspects of original and high performance engine rebuilding for classic cars, muscle cars, hot rods, and other enthusiast vehicles.

Contact us today for your engine needs!

Some Of The Engine Services We Provide:

  • Engine Disassembly, Cleaning, Measurement
  • Cylinder Block Boring, Line Boring, Honing, Resurfacing
  • Cylinder Head Machining, Valve Machining, Decking, Reconditionng
  • Connecting Rod Resizing and Refurbishment, Piston Installation
  • Crankshaft Grinding and Balancing
  • Precision Engine Assembly, Run-In, Leak Checks, Dyno Tuning
  • Complete Engine Detailing and Appearance Restoration, Painting, and Custom Finishes
  • Photo Documentation of the Reconditioning Process

The Art Of Power

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop is not only home to an award winning restoration shop complete with mechanical, fabrication, body, paint, and interior departments, but also a complete, in-house engine machine center capable of refreshing original as well as building complete custom high performance engines.  

We tailor each engine to the unique specifications of the customer. Whether it’s a meticulous, 100% concours-correct restoration or a high-performance engine for the street or track, our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Our in-house engine machine shop and world-class fabrication, body, and paint departments enable us to create engines that meet the highest standards of quality and performance, including custom designs for one-of-a-kind vehicles.

Ready To Rock

Our goals include making the engine building and installation experience as enjoyable as possible by including many elements often overlooked in traditional rebuilds, such as the starter, engine mounts, linkages, and fasteners. Our process includes running the engine and verifying proper oil pressure, cooling system function, ignition timing, carburetor or fuel injection settings, and providing the customer with video footage of the engine running demonstrating leak free performance.  We also provide a-la-carte engine machine services, such as flywheel surfacing, valve jobs, block boring, parts cleaning, and more.  

Our Process

The process begins by our team learning all we can about the performance and appearance aspirations of the customer and the engine.   Many questions are asked and answered, including intended usage, power desired, appearance desired, custom aspects, and more. Once the usage and performance targets are determined, a build plan is drafted to select the required parts and components required to meet the goals of the project.   We work only with top manufacturers and reputable companies to source the parts required to build a performance engine. 

Next, each engine is carefully cleaned, disassembled, measured, and analyzed before the machining and reassembly processes begin.   This allows us to evaluate the condition of each component and decide the best course of action to achieve the customer’s goals.   New parts are proposed and ordered, and the machining process begins.   Machining tolerances are corrected to factory “blueprint” specs. Once machining and assembly are complete, each engine is run on our test station to ensure proper and leak-free performance.   Optionally, engines can be run, tested, and tuned on our dynamometer as well.   From there, engines progress to our world-class body and paint shop for proper polish, colors, and finishes.   Accessory brackets are restored and installed, and custom parts are completed and the engine final assembly is completed.  The end result is a ready-to-install engine that delivers performance and aesthetics worthy of a concourse restoration or a full custom build.  

Our customer experience and machine shop team will bring you along for the full experience through photo updates and videos of milestone moments, including video of the machining process, first start ups, and dyno tuning sessions.

ENGINE PACKAGES

CLASSIC RENEWAL SERIES

​​Original Looks With Fresh New Performance

This package renews your vehicle with a correct appearing engine, with performance restored to as-new.  This can be the original, numbers matching engine the car was born with, or if not available, a correct replacement.   Our team restores the original engine to have the correct finish, color, and internal specifications.  Rebuilding focuses on conservative machine work to preserve as much of the original block and cylinder head material as possible. Classic Renewal Series engines can be expected to make a similar power level to the original, but with blueprinted machine work, and all new internal wear parts like bearings, rings, and any other parts requiring replacement such as camshaft, lifters, oil pump, timing set, and gaskets.  Cylinder heads are cleaned and inspected, and machined as needed with a new valve job, springs, seals, and rocker arms.  The carburetor and distributor are rebuilt and tuned to match the engine.  Research to correct previous modifications and to obtain factory original or NOS parts is also part of this package.

Classic Renewal Series engines utilize all the original and correct equipment, including the front accessory drive system, carburetor, ignition system, spark, plugs, plug wires, sensors, connectors, and wiring.  The accessory drive brackets and components are restored and installed with correct belts, hoses, and fluids.   

The Classic Renewal Series is the perfect option for a correct restoration or an original surviving vehicle that needs an engine refresh.   We can even work to preserve the original paint on the engine block, intake, manifold, and valve covers where possible.

This series pairs well with the Day Two Period Correct appearance packages, which rely on authentic performance parts matched to the time period of the engine.   For example, should the customer seek a “Day Two” appearance featuring as-then-available performance parts, valve covers, and other items to reflect the look of a 1968 Camaro back in 1968, our team will locate and install proper examples of these vintage speed parts.  

RESTO MOD SERIES

Familiar Appearance, Modern Technology And Performance

When you open the hood, Resto Mod engines lead people to believe that there’s not much difference from the original… until you take them for a ride!   This series delivers an engine that appears to be mostly factory correct and original, but is hiding modern technology and performance modifications under the skin.  Once the architecture, performance, and appearance plan is hatched, our team goes to work amassing the parts.  The original or a replacement block is used, cleaned, and machined for proper tolerances. A stroker crankshaft may be added, along with custom pistons featuring ceramic coatings and upgraded ring packages. The block might be treated to a hydraulic roller camshaft conversion. A double roller timing chain, improved oil pump, new gaskets, roller rockers with modern springs, and other improved performance parts are used throughout.  Modern, high-performance aluminum cylinder heads, and an aluminum intake manifold are used to reduce weight and increase performance, all while being painted to match the original finish of the cast-iron pieces.  Original cast-iron heads can be machined and improved through porting and valve improvements for a completely stealth appearance.  Performance exhaust manifolds  or headers are treated to high-temp ceramic coatings for heat management and appearance.  An electronic ignition system hidden under a stock appearing distributor or other electronic ignition system is utilized.  This engine can be expected to make 50 to 100 more horsepower over stock and sometimes far beyond that. 

This is a great option for a person who wants to truly drive and enjoy their classic vehicle while retaining a familiar appearance under the hood. Our team couples these engines with an optimal, modern serpentine accessory drive system incorporating the proper water pump and power accessory units to ensure smooth and trouble free operation under the hood. These engines may be carbureted or rely on any number of electronic fuel injection systems, ranging from throttle body style to multi point with injector bosses machine into the intake manifold.  All the components, including the front accessory drive are color-matched in our paint shop to achieve the desired appearance.  The engine is test run to verify leak-free performance, and dyno tuning is also an option.   These engines are built to drop in, ready to go in your hot rod, street machine, Pro-Touring car, truck, or street cruiser!

STREET PERFORMANCE SERIES

Let’s Have Some Fun!

The Street performance series is a fully custom built engine that can be of a different architecture than what originally came in the car, or a highly modified version of the original.  For example, this could be a modified modern LS engine fitted with a performance camshaft, improved cylinder heads, supercharger, and the accompanying electronics to make it sing.  Or, it may be a vintage Ford FE series engine that has been bored, stroked, and treated to premium forged internals, block oiling modifications, high-tech coatings, a roller camshaft, cross-bolt main cap modifications, and more.  Our team works with the customer to custom design an engine that delivers the performance desired, targeting horsepower levels, torque, torque curves, transmission, and gear type, sanctioning body rules, and more. These engines feature a variety of exterior finish choices, from clear coated raw aluminum to painted finishes and ceramics.    Each is seasoned on our engine testing fixture, dyno tuned, leak checked, painted and detailed, and ready to install.  

CUSTOM SERIES

A One-Of-A-Kind Power Plant Designed To Stand Out.  Or Not.  

Our top offering is a fully custom built engine, both inside and out, featuring the elements from the STREET PERFORMANCE SERIES but adding a custom designed appearance to match your high-end, custom built car or truck.  CUSTOM SERIES engines are nice enough to bring home the cup at the big shows, but also deliver power and performance on the street or track.   

These engines can be of any architecture, deliver performance from smooth and quiet to extreme, utilizing superchargers, turbochargers, stack injection, multiple carburetors, vintage or modern induction… the sky’s the limit.   They feature custom exterior components, like valve or coil covers, air intake systems, brackets, housings, and accessory drive systems.  Custom Series engines flaunt the details, like deburred blocks and heads, custom mixed paint with gloss or satin finishes to match the other colors and finishes on the car, custom fabrication, and more.  Our world class body and paint team can match any color or finish desired.  We deliver an engine that has been designed, engineered, broken in, dyno tuned, leak checked, cleaned, prepped, and painted to show ready condition, ready to install in your show car or truck.

Selected Services – Not A Comprehensive List

  • Disassembly
  • Hot Tank Cleaning
  • Shot Tumbler Parts Cleaning
  • Magnaflux Crack Detection
  • Measuring / Dimensioning
  • Engine Design / Parts Selection
  • Blueprinting
  • Deburring
  • Block Surfacing
  • Block Boring
  • Block HoningAlign Honing
  • Cylinder Head Surfacing
  • Valve Seat Refacing
  • Valve Guide Replacement
  • Valve Grinding
  • Connecting Rod Reconditioning
  • Piston Installation
  • Crankshaft Grinding
  • Crankshaft Balancing
  • Cam Bearing Installation
  • Complete Engine Assembly
  • Custom Paint / Finishes
  • Test Run / Leak Check
  • Engine Dyno Tuning (3Q 2025)
  • Installation / In-Car Tuning
  • And Many More Engine Building Services

LET’S DO THIS!

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop Engine Machine Shop is our in-house engine lab where we control every aspect of the engine building process.  This allows us to keep stringent quality control standards along with our focus on the customer experience for a smooth and rewarding engine building journey.  Contact us today to chat about your special car and start the plan for your custom engine experience! 

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Logo

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop Team has a performance engine machine shop job opening! We are hiring an Engine Machinist Technician for Restoration and Custom Cars at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop in Red Bud, IL!

Are you an experienced engine machinist? Can you disassemble, clean, measure, machine, and reassemble engines and take pride in your precision work? Are you passionate about breathing new life into classic cars? Do you have a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of engine operation and how to make power? If so, the V8 Speed and Resto Shop is looking for you! We are a renowned automotive restoration and customization shop with a great Team culture, competitive salaries, and outstanding benefits. We are seeking a talented and experienced Engine Machinist for our in-house Engine Machine Shop.

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please click the application link below. We look forward to speaking with you and welcome an exceptional Engine Machinist like you to our team!

Fill Out Online Job Application Below!

Engine Machinist Technician Job Description:

Technician Responsibilities:

  • Understand all the workings of an internal combustion engine, including design, theory, operation, and performance modifications.
  • Possess knowledge of all engine parts and their functions.
  • Ability to identify failure points and diagnose internal engine issues.
  • Understand engine and valve train geometry, camshaft operation and specifications, seat pressures, head flow, cam timing, oiling systems, and other internal systems.
  • Understand the effects of performance modifications to engines and how to implement them.
  • Possess knowledge of the differences between daily-driver, weekend cruiser, and various levels of high-performance engines.
  • Rebuild vintage and original engines for re-use in restored classic and muscle cars.
  • Have familiarity with aftermarket and high performance engine products.
  • Understand the operation of power adding devices such as superchargers and their internal engine requirements.
  • Be resourceful in finding specifications for vintage engines to facilitate their repair or rebuild.
  • Operate lathe, milling machine, engine parts Operates machine lathes to modify water pump castings, piston heads, valves and other such automotive components.
  • Operate boring and crankshaft grinding machinery.
  • Clean parts, before and after machining in agitator type cleaning tanks to remove grease and oil particulates.
  • Operate lathe, boring, or honing machines to refinish internal surfaces of bearing connecting rods.
  • Verify dimensions using micrometres, calipers and height gauges to ensure adherence to tolerance and specifications.
  • Ability to make recommendations to achieve performance goals of an engine.
  • Apply modern technology to vintage engines where required / requested, such as coatings, sealers, main seals, etc.
  • Grind metal surfaces of engine blocks and cylinder heads using portable and fixed machinery.
  • Repair cracks in engine cylinder heads or other vehicle parts using heliarc welding equipment.
  • Operate drum lathe to resurface brake drums or discs.
  • Operate flywheel grinder to resurface flywheels.
  • Assemble engines in short, long or full assembly configurations.
  • Ability to effectively work with individuals at all levels including management, customers, vendors and co-workers.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Reconditioning various parts such as heads and connecting rods, assisting with or performing crank, valve and flywheel grinding and the installation of valve seats, helicoils, sleeves and valve guides. 
  • Operate various other shop machines as needed such as drills, lathes, mills and other shop hand tools.
  • Collaborate with our passionate team to ensure every project meets our high standards of quality.

Engine Machinist Technician Skills, Experience, and Job Requirements:

  • Proven experience as an Engine Machinist Technician.
  • A keen eye for detail and a commitment to delivering exceptional results.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently on projects.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and a passion for overcoming challenges.
  • Excellent communication skills and a customer-centric approach.
  • Passion for custom cars and the automotive culture.

Join Our Enthusiastic Team!

If you have a deep love for classic cars, take pride in your craftsmanship, and possess the skills to bring engines back to life, we want to hear from you! At the V8 Speed and Resto Shop, you’ll have the opportunity to work on remarkable projects and collaborate with fellow automotive enthusiasts.

About The V8 Speed and Resto Shop:

We value the well-being of our Team and their families above all else, and we all focus on generating the best employee and customer experience possible. Our core values center around the way we treat people and would like to be treated. We live and breathe classics, customs, restored and modified muscle cars, restomods, pro-touring cars, and more at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop. We take pride in meticulously restoring and customizing vintage vehicles, and our commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail sets us apart in the industry. We understand the significance of these cars to their owners and treat them as such. Our team is composed of highly skilled professionals who share a common passion for automotive excellence.

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Purpose:

  • We believe in the importance of classic vehicles not only as historical objects, but for their personal significance to enthusiasts and their families, and for the joy they bring to the world.
  • We believe in the importance of the automobile industry as a workspace where people of all skill sets and in all areas of business can thrive working around special vehicles that ignite their passion.
  • We believe that dream cars can and do exist, and that our team is here to build them.

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Mission Statement:

  • To connect people with the best times of their lives through things with wheels.  
V8 Speed and Resto Shop Core Values

Values Statement:

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop achieves our goals and the goals of our customers by applying the following core values to everything we do:

  • Happiness
  • Quality
  • Respect
  • Honesty
  • Loyalty
  • Teamwork
  • Passion
  • Innovation

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Vision Statement:

  • To ensure that automobile enthusiasts will always have a trusted, talented, and passionate source to provide services they need to enjoy their special vehicles.
  • To always provide a healthy, safe, creative, and respectful workplace where our team can enhance their skills and abilities and enjoy satisfying and rewarding careers.

LINK: ABOUT THE V8 SPEED AND RESTO SHOP

This Engine Machinist Technician position requires experience. This is not an entry level position.

  • This position requires big picture thinking and a great attitude.
  • This is a full-time position. Shop hours are 8-5 Monday – Friday (Technician Hours 7AM – 3:30PM optional)
  • This job opening provides many benefits. We provide paid health insurance – PPO Health, Dental, Vision insurance 75% company paid. Paid time off starts accruing on day 1. Paid Holidays, 401(k) 3% matching, Flexible schedule, Company Paid $50K Life insurance, Employee discounts on parts, Provide in-house and out of shop training.
  • Competitive salary based on experience.

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop is a great working environment with awesome teammates and lots of cool tools and equipment to grow your abilities. We have a backlog of work and are always looking to build better, more creative hot rods, customs, and muscle cars. We are located in a small, safe midwestern town of Red Bud Illinois.

If you want consistent, rewarding work every day, every week, building award winning show cars this is a job for you! We are hiring for this auto body shop job opening now.

Flip Through Some V8 Speed and Resto Shop Car Builds:

[dflip id="215882" ][/dflip]

Fill Out This Job Application To Schedule An Interview Today!

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The V8 Speed and Resto Shop is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The V8 Speed and Resto Shop does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

This is a HUGE episode of the V8 Radio Podcast!   NOT ONLY do we celebrate the 150th episode of this fine automotive podcast, but we make 2 HUGE ANNOUNCEMENTS on the show!   And not little ones like “there’s a new tee shirt available…” (because there’s not.. ) but some great stuff that will positively impact the podcast, the V8 Speed and Resto Shop team, and customers alike.   No foolin’, folks.   Kelle Oeste joins as a guest, and we still have time for trivia and much more on the latest V8 Radio Podcast!

https://www.v8radio.com

#podcast #carpodcast #v8radio

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V8 Radio Podcast
SPECIAL 150TH EPISODE! Not 1, but 2 HUGE ANNOUNCEMENTS on the V8 Radio Podcast!
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Below are answers to many common restoration questions, but we always encourage customers to email or call us anytime to chat! 

Where is your shop located?

  • The V8 Speed & Resto Shop is located in the heart of the USA, 1/2 hour from St. Louis, MO, in Red Bud, IL
  • 817 S. Main Street, Red Bud, IL 62278 (314)783.8325

What do you do in your shop?

  • We perform complete restoration services, ranging from simple classic-car maintenance to full rotisserie, show-quality restorations, custom car designing and building, hot rods, and much more.
  • We currently have 31  people on staff, including dedicated metal fabricators, mechanics, body technicians, painters, engine machinists, interior technicians, parts restoration technicians, detailers, video / TV production, photography, web development, and administration.

How much does a restoration cost?

  • While often asked, it is impossible to predict the total cost of a restoration when considering the numerous variables of a project Including parts choices, and quantity of work.  These variables are discussed in detail as we work with the customer to learn their goals.   Unfortunately, we cannot have any responsible discussions about costs without seeing and inspecting the car in person in our shop. 

Factors affecting costs include:

  • Condition of vehicle
  • Type of vehicle
  • Quality of restoration desired
  • Types and amount of modifications
  • Desired time-frame of job
  • Choice of and Availability of parts for vehicle

These and many more elements determine the overall restoration cost, but we can assist in the planning of your project to help your vision come to life.   

Can you help me plan my restoration?

  • Planning and Project Management are two very important parts of the restoration process, and we work with the vehicle owner to create a solid plan and then stick to the plan to prevent additional time and costs.   

How do I get my car to your shop?

  • Vehicle owners are free to bring the car themselves, or we will help find transport options to deliver the car.
  • Vehicle owners are responsible for packing their car and/or parts safely for transport.   Should a vehicle be returned to the owner disassembled, the owner is requested to supply or pay for packing materials, moving blankets, crating, tie-down straps, or other items needed for safe transport.    An enclosed trailer is also requested.   The V8 Speed & Resto Shop is capable of protecting and loading a vehicle for transport, however the standard shop rate will apply along with any additional materials such as blankets, crating, protective foam, or other materials required.  

What if I do not have a vehicle yet, can you find one for me?

  • We can assist with locating a car.   We provide vehicle location and inspection services for customers for a finder’s fee.

How long do restorations take?

  • Depending on the factors listed earlier, restorations can take months to several years.

Do you do modifications?

We perform many kinds of modifications to meet the customer’s needs. These include:

  • Custom car design and building.
  • Custom metal fabrication
  • Electronic fuel injection installs
  • Modern engine installs & tuning
  • Air conditioning systems
  • Custom interior, consoles, etc. 
  • Overdrive transmissions
  • Custom exhaust
  • Engine Machining and Rebuilding
  • Audio, navigation, and entertainment systems
  • Improved braking & suspension systems
  • Performance modifications
  • Body fit enhancements & custom work
  • Safety improvements
  • Complete interior restoration & custom work
  • Complete restoration project documentation and photography

… and many more!

Do you complete stock original restorations?

  • Yes.  We can return a vehicle to as-new condition or modify it as the customer wishes.

Do you work with other shops?

  • We perform most of the restoration services in our shop.   We have had customers request that certain stages of their restoration be done by other shops during the process.    While we are generally OK with this, it must be noted that if a partially completed restoration project leaves our shop to visit another, the vehicle has left our control and we are not responsible for the other shop’s work or damage incurred on the vehicle.   This can include paint chips and scratches, “un-doing” of our work for another shop to perform tasks, loss or breakage of parts, changes in our design or installation of parts, other shops not working to the same quality standard as our shop, etc.   The customer is responsible for the time necessary for our crew to package and load the parts and vehicle should it leave our shop.   We will photograph the entire vehicle before it departs to have an accurate description of condition and completeness before it leaves so the customer can be sure of the status when the vehicle left our shop.    Likewise, we will document the condition of the vehicle when it returns to our shop for completion and alert the customer of any issues found that occurred out of our possession.  

How is billing handled?

  • Once a plan is in place, we request a pre-payment for parts to purchase to help us start the process. This amount will be different for each project, but the money is used to help cover the initial parts orders, or material costs needed to begin the job.
  • Our shop sends invoices to the customer every week to ensure that our shop and our customers are in constant communication and “on the same page.”  We charge a shop rate for time, parts and materials are additional.  Parts may incur a shipping charge. 
  • The invoices are generated from our Technicians’ time entries as they work, so there is great detail on our invoices.   However, we are always happy to provide greater detail or explanation of services should the customer request it. 
  • Due to our weekly invoicing structure, payment is expected upon customer receipt of invoice.  If payment is not promptly received, work will be suspended and the vehicle will be placed into storage until the customer account is brought to current status.   Pre-payment terms are available to prevent customers from accruing a balance with the shop.  
  • We understand there are times when a project needs to be “put on hold”, and we will gladly work with customers who let us know in advance that they foresee a work stoppage.   Should a customer fail to submit payment in a timely manner, we will make arrangements to place the vehicle in local storage at the customer’s cost of $200.00 / month until the balance is caught up or a solution is agreed upon.   This protects the customer from incurring any additional labor charges while the vehicle is in storage.   We are flexible and are always willing to work with a customer to help ensure the project is completed to their expectations.   
  • Accepted payment methods include cash, check, or online payments through credit cards and e-checks.   Paying by check or cash is preferred.  E-checks will incur a flat $10.00 fee. Credit cards are convenient, but there is a service fee charged to us which we in turn add to your next invoice. The average fee is about 3.5%.
  • If you click on the view and the pay invoice button “Debit card” is underlined in green, you can select bank transfer or credit card by clicking on the words.  The bank transfer option allows you to enter your checking account info and pay by check online.
  • Our shop labor rate is subject to change during the lifespan of a project. In the event that our labor rate changes, any project that is within ninety (90) days of completion will be exempt from the rate change. If it is determined that the project will require longer than ninety (90) days to complete, the owner will be notified of the labor rate change prior to invoicing. Our employees are our greatest assets. This adjustment allows us to provide competitive compensation and benefits, fostering a motivated and skilled workforce that is dedicated to meeting your needs effectively.

What happens if I have a question about something on an invoice?

  • Should there be a question about an invoice, we encourage customers to contact the shop as quickly as possible to resolve the matter.  We understand there are sometimes items on invoices that require clarification, and we encourage our customers to review and question the invoices upon receipt to make sure everything makes sense and appears correct.  We are always eager to provide greater detail or adjust for billing errors should they occur.   

How are consumables handled?

As we celebrate our 20th anniversary in 2024, one of our key goals is to continuously improve our services and provide you with the most efficient, effective, and high-quality experience possible. To improve this process, we will be entering one line for all consumables on invoices created after the 29th of March. In order to be fair to all customers, we will be charging 6% of the total invoice. For your reference, here is a partial list of the consumables we will no longer be listing individually on your invoice:

  • Paint, clears, primers, activators, hardeners
  • Wet sand and buffing supplies
  • Electrical terminals, wire, some fuses, flashers and bulbs
  • Aerosol lubricants and cleaners
  • Nuts, bolts, washers and screws
  • Adhesives and gasket sealants
  • Heat shrink, wire loom and techflex
  • Abrasives, seam sealers, tape, masking papers and plastics
  • Paint prep towels and cleaning chemicals
  • Upholstery glues, clips, staples, and other supplies
  • Grommets, trim clips and fittings 
  • Rubber hoses for fuel, power steering, antifreeze and brake lines
  • Zip-ties, cotter keys and other clips
  • Thread locking compounds
  • Drill Bits
  • Cutting tools, end mills, grinding stones
  • Assembly lubricants, oils, anti-seize compounds
  • Machine Lubricant / Coolant
  • Solvent tank chemicals
  • Caps and plugs
  • Body filler products
  • Car cleaning products
  • Alignment shims and tire balance weights
  • Hose clamps and other line clamps
  • Some body plugs and rubber bumpers
  • Brass fittings and small brake and fuel fittings
  • Some body bolts and nutserts
  • Trim clips and rivets
  • Patch panel material
  • Bushings and o-rings
  • Freeze plugs and springs
  • Gasket making compounds
  • Wire wheels and sanding discs
  • Cut off wheels and sanding belts
  • Tig and Mig wire and tungsten
  • Small carb or fuel parts 

We understand that any change can raise questions, and we’re always happy to discuss this further. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any inquiries or concerns regarding this new process.

Do you sell parts?

  • We are authorized retailers for many industry-leading automotive part manufacturers. We sell everything from restoration parts to performance parts to replacement repair parts.

Who supplies the parts for my car?

  • Our policy is that the V8 Speed & Resto Shop sells the parts we install on cars built in our shop.   Consider the following:
    • We build LOTS of cars, so we are dealers for all the major restoration and performance parts. We work very hard to build relationships with the dealers to get great quality parts and service. 
    • We KNOW the parts. Many times, there are several options for restoration or performance parts, and we know the “good ones” to use. The wrong choice can equate to additional labor time making something fit or work properly, where the right choice can be a huge time saver.
    • When we order the parts, we can track the parts. We maintain a highly detailed spreadsheet for each car in the shop. We log all the part numbers, suppliers, date ordered, order status, shipping date, tracking numbers, and arrival date when they reach the shop. If there is ever a problem, we can track, return, or exchange the parts quickly.    
    • Incorrect parts are delivered to our shop far more often than one might think.    This can come from mis-labeling at the factory, a part not meeting our quality standards, a broken or damaged part, or a variety of other reasons.   Depending on the supplier, returns can be quick and easy, or a drawn-out process requiring constant back-and-forth communication.   Customer supplied parts can add significant time and distress to this process, especially when the crew is waiting on decisions from a customer who is unavailable.    When we order the parts, we can manage these situations more efficiently while reducing headaches for the customer.
    • Because of our strong relationships with our suppliers and our dealer status, suppliers often provide additional services to find us what we need in a timely manner.
    • Have you heard the saying, “You don’t bring steak to a steakhouse?” We spend a lot of time researching the best parts and suppliers to use. By installing what we sell, we can offer better support should a part not perform as expected.
    • We cannot warranty parts supplied by customers.  
    • We are a retailer, not a wholesaler, so there is a markup on parts.   This – fee helps to cover the research, quality control, handling, and administrative tasks associated with parts selection, ordering, and management.
  • KEEP IN MIND that MANY restoration and performance parts have NO FACTORY WARRANTY, and often, the time frame from part purchase to installation can be longer than the factory warranty.  

What happens to parts removed from my vehicle?

  • There are often left-over parts from a restoration or upgrade.
    • We recycle scrap metal and dispose of items that are unusable or destroyed during removal, unless the customer specifically requests these items back before their disassembly.   
    • We request that customers manage these extra parts.  We can help bundle parts for pickup by customers, labor charges may be incurred.    
    • We prefer not to be responsible for the storage, sale, shipping, or other handling of take-off parts, as this process can be very time and space consuming. 

Will my car be photographed during the restoration process?

  • All the cars are photographed for internal documentation and communication purposes, some are displayed in public galleries to share with the world, and some are even featured on V8TV‘s TV and Web show! 

Do you do partial restorations / modifications, or only complete cars?

  • We perform everything from simple classic car maintenance to rotisserie show-car restorations and complete custom and hot rod construction.

What about mechanical upgrades, like fuel injection or air conditioning installs?

  • We install many popular upgrades  to make them safer, more reliable, and more enjoyable to drive.

How do you safety check, tune, and “break-in” a completed restoration?

  • We drive and tune the cars we restore to ensure all systems are safe, working properly, and the car performs as intended. This can be up to 300 -500 miles on complex cars, less on others. We resolve minor issues that come up while the car is still in our possession before delivery so we can quickly remedy them. Keep in mind that if a customer mandates a timeline that does not allow our team to perform the required driving “break-in”, the customer may encounter issues with the vehicle that arise with initial usage.

How does a restoration affect the value of my vehicle?

  • There are many factors that determine the value of a vehicle, including:
    • The total production amount of a vehicle – lower usually means higher value
    • The mileage of the vehicle
    • The documentation of the vehicle, original bill of sale, build sheets, etc.
    • The condition of the vehicle
    • The options installed from the factory – sometimes cars with no options are worth more than those with many!
    • The current state of the market
    • Level of originality of vehicle
  • They say “They are only original once” and that statement holds bearing on vehicle values.   For example, a sought-after car like a 1970 Chevelle, outfitted from the factory with the SS 454 performance package, in bright red, with low miles, and in excellent original condition, is most likely going to be worth more than a restored version with performance upgrades that are not original.  
  • It is very possible to spend more on a restoration than the car is worth on the open market.   
  • Our shop specializes in what we call “Heirloom Cars”, meaning these are vehicles that have more sentimental or nostalgic value than current street market value.    These are cars that the owners never plan to sell.   Perhaps the car belonged to a family member or was bought new and never left the family.   Perhaps it is a car that a customer had years ago and always regretted selling, and how has another.    We understand the value of these sentimental attachments and treat the cars with the same level of respect as our customers do.
  • We are NOT the shop to come to if you want to “flip” a car bought cheaply and try to make a big profit… we do not perform “quickie” paint and restoration jobs just to make a car look good for a sale.    The term is “putting lipstick on a pig” and that’s not how we operate.  We maintain a specific set of core values that dictate how we work and the quality we deliver.   
  • If a customer is seeking a fun car to drive, it might be best to start with a lower-level version of the car of choice… for example, it’s probably not a good idea to heavily modify a numbers-matching 1969 Camaro Z/28 with a different engine and aftermarket performance parts.   However, finding a “plain-Jane” version.. a base model Camaro, maybe a 6-cylinder car, will not reduce the overall value by a V8 conversion and modified parts.  

What happens if the plan changes midway through a restoration?

  • We work with the customer to formulate a solid build plan, but there is a situation that we call “Might as well syndrome”, where the customer adds items to a restoration purely because of an opportunity to do so.     For example, if the crew is restoring the front suspension, and the parts are disassembled, that’s logically a good time to upgrade the stock suspension to something offering better performance.   After all, the parts are already disassembled, why do the work twice?  “Might as well do it now while it’s apart!”     The customer needs to recognize that these changes WILL add additional time and cost to the restoration of a vehicle, and will negate any original budget plan or estimate made.      A simple analogy is a restaurant… the steak dinner might list as $20.00 on the menu, but when you add drinks, salad, dessert, and tax… the bill is no longer $20.00.     Change Orders will be agreed upon by the customer and V8 Speed & Resto Shop when the plans change, so that everyone has the same understanding of the scope of work and costs involved. 
  • It’s important to keep in mind that these are old cars, and they have possible crash damage, hidden rust / corrosion, or previous repairs that might present themselves during the restoration process.   As hard as we try, we cannot always “see through the paint” and know what a car might require until the job has started.    We always present our findings to the customer for discussion and a repair plan and then proceed as directed, but these situations can add costs and time to a project.   
  • Because of workflow and safety considerations, work stoppage requests from customers must be in writing or in an authorization email if made by phone. The nature and involvement of these types of projects often prevents immediate stoppage, as vehicles may be positioned on lifts or jack stands, parts may be partially installed, etc. In addition, safety and quality considerations for our team and professional care of the customer vehicle and parts can all require time to prepare vehicles and parts for transport or storage. Time to meet these expectations is billed to the customer.
  • If the customer orders a work stoppage on the car, the customer will be charged storage fees while work is stopped.  This includes if the stoppage is due to a customer mandated outside service provider doing work on the car (customer mandated machine shop or other outside service, for example).  However, if a delay or work stoppage is motivated by the V8 Speed & Resto Shop, there will be no storage fees incurred.   
  • Our goal is to provide quality and efficient service, so we request that when we contact you with a question or concern, please respond as soon as possible so we may proceed with work or parts ordering without delay.   As you can understand, parts production and availability can be delayed, and we do not wish to add time to the process. 

Whose insurance covers the car during the build?

  • The owner is required to insure the car, but we maintain a full shop-keeper’s policy to protect the vehicle under our care, custody, and control. 
  • We store all vehicles indoors each night, and our facility is gated with alarms and security cameras. No customer vehicle is stored outside overnight.
  • We are not responsible for damages resulting from previous work performed by other shops.
  • Our insurance company will not insure a customer’s car stored at our off site storage units.  Customers’ insurance must cover the car when in the storage units.

Is there anything you do NOT do in-house?

  • Although some services are not completed by our staff, we have resources to manage these tasks on any project, such as media blasting.

These policies and procedures are subject to change and improvements as needed without notice. 

On this episode of V8 Radio, Kevin Oeste and Mike Clarke cover the 2017 V8TV Drive In Cruise event where nearly 400 cool and classic cars came out to see American Graffiti on the big screen! They also chat about Mike’s challenges with his engine machine shop and share some suggestions on how to get projects done. There’s also the trivia questions and a few laughs, all for the same low price!

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V8 Radio Podcast
V8 Radio Podcast: 2017 Drive In Cruise, Machine Shop Updates, Trivia, and More
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