Academics

Auto Restoration | Institute

 

Automotive Restoration Institute

Learn auto restoration skills in convenient workshops at the Automotive Restoration Institute. The same expert instructors and top-notch facility that have made McPherson College’s Auto Restoration Program famous are available to hobbyists and professionals.

Each workshop concentrates on a specific skill area and is 5 days in length. You learn restoration by doing restoration with hands-on experience.

Enrollment in each workshop is limited (classes are limited to 10 student per instructor) so all participants benefit from personal attention by our expert instructors with ample time on equipment. With this one-on-one approach, no matter what level of skill you have, you will increase your restoration expertise.

Workshops include valuable information on locating tools, materials, and parts. In many cases, you can bring parts from your current restoration project to work on.

2012 Institute Workshops

Classes offered June 4-8, 2012*

• Automotive Electrical Systems by Joe Dickhudt: Learn how to solve those nagging electrical problems and hard-starting problems to get your vintage auto up and running the way it should.  Class includes meter reading and automotive troubleshooting techniques, ignition systems and tune-ups, Pertronix installations, 12-volt conversions, generator/alternator conversions, repair of old wiring and installation of new wiring harnesses.

• Automotive Paint by Garrick Green: The theory and practice necessary to successfully use modern paint materials. A full face respirator is required (3M 07163 or equiv.) and will be available for purchase from the campus book store.
• Chassis Restoration by Jon Nadeau: Learn about the basic operation of steering, suspension, brake systems, and frames.  Includes hands-on tear down and assembly of components on a typical American vehicle.
• FULL Sheet Metal Restoration by Ed Barr: Includes - TIG, MIG, and Oxy-acetylene welding, use of the English wheel, patch panel fabrication, the application of lead body solder, dent repair, and metal finishing.
• The Finishing Touches by Chris Paulsen: Includes - Wood graining, pin striping, stainless steel trim repair and polishing, and brass and aluminum polishing.
• Upholstery and Trim by Richard Dove: Learn the basics of using an industrial sewing machine; sew seat covers, door panels, bind carpets, and more.

Classes offered June 11-15, 2012*:

• Automotive Paint by Garrick Green: The theory and practice necessary to successfully use modern paint materials. A full face respirator is required (3M 07163 or equiv.) and will be available for purchase from the campus book store.
• Babbitting by Chris Paulsen: Covers different types of Babbitt and the equipment needed to restore the rod and main bearings in early engines. We will pour and bore several during the week. Please contact us about bringing your own engine!
• Manual Transmissions and Drive train by Jon Nadeau: Learn the theory and practice of rebuilding manual transmissions and axles.
• FULL Sheet Metal Restoration by Ed Barr: Includes - TIG, MIG, and Oxy-acetylene welding, use of the English wheel, patch panel fabrication, the application of lead body solder, dent repair, and metal finishing.
• Engine Overhaul by Roger Stout: Learn engine rebuilding with the guidance of our expert restoration faculty (Project engines are supplied by the College).

Click here to Register Online

* Actual class dates and offering may change due to demand.