Muscle car restoration specialist Jay Abbey returns to In The Shop with Atomic Autoworks for an honest conversation about building classic cars, rising restoration costs and the future of the industry.

In Season 3, Episode 2, Jay and host Eddie Barrett catch up on what has changed over the past year. They discuss increasing labor and material prices, customer expectations, reproduction parts, skilled-labor shortages and where the muscle car restoration business may be heading.

Jay also answers listener questions and shares practical tips, hard-earned lessons and stories from decades of restoring and building muscle cars. Topics include:

• What a quality muscle car restoration really costs
• Why restoration prices continue to increase
• Common mistakes people make before starting a project
• Repairing an original body versus using reproduction parts
• Dynacorn reproduction bodies, titles, VINs and registration concerns
• Why “bolt-on” parts rarely bolt right on
• Balancing originality, performance and drivability
• Managing unexpected damage, delays and rising costs
• The future of classic car restoration and the skilled trades
• Jay’s personal Camaro and the decisions behind the completed build

Whether you own a classic car, are planning a restoration, work in the automotive trades or simply enjoy hearing experienced builders talk shop, this episode offers a realistic look behind the finished paint and polished chrome.

Watch the video edition and see Jay’s Camaro on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@AtomicAutoworksTV

Learn more about Atomic Autoworks Garage:
https://www.atomicautoworks.com

Vehicle title, VIN, inspection and registration requirements vary by state and individual build. Always verify current requirements with the appropriate DMV before purchasing a reproduction body or beginning construction.

In The Shop with Atomic Autoworks
Season 3, Episode 2
Guest: Jay Abbey
Host: Eddie Barrett

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