Books

“I am learning all the time. The tombstone will be my diploma.”  -Eartha Kitt

When friends and acquaintances ask how I plan to restore a car without any prior automotive knowledge, my answer is always the same, "I bought a really good book."  In truth, I bought several.  Admittedly, I have and will continue to take help from anyone willing to offer, but just like the practice of medicine, automotive restoration requires self-directed learning.  Below is a list of books (in the order I purchased them) that I will guide my restoration and allow me to speak the language of those saints willing to offer me help and answer my questions along the way.


Book #1:   "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Restoring Collector Cars" by Tom Benford

Aptly named, I know.  Truthfully, the first half of this book isn't too helpful if you've already bought a car to restore, but the second half (which focused on the process of restoration) has some great tips and tricks.  

Book #2:  1954 GMC 100-350 Pickup Truck Reprint Owner's Manual 54

This is what would have come with the truck if you purchased it brand new from a dealer back in 1954.  It basically describes all the features and options of the truck.  It is another helpful reference and will go in the glove compartment when the restoration is complete.

Book #3:  GMC Trucks Maintenance Manual 1947-1954 Models 100 Thru 400

As any restoration expert will tell you, this is an ABSOLUTE necessity (I learned this from book #1).  Incidently, this was also highly recommended by everyone on the oldGMCtruck forum. 

Book #4:  GMC Master Parts Book Models 100 through M470-30

This is another essential reference tool.  It is a two volume set and I am sure it will become indispensable once I start pulling things apart and trying to put them back together.

Book #5:   "The Key to Metal Bumping: An instructive Manual of Body and Fender Repair Practices" by Frank T. Sargent

This book is fantastic!  Its a quick read, incredibly informative, and very easy to understand.  Who new pounding out dents could be so fun!

Book #6:  "Custom Auto Interiors"  by Don Taylor and Ron "the Stitcher" Mangus 

This is a great book...the photos are fantastic and narrative is quite good.  Truthfully, I'll probably hire this part of the restoration out, but its still a useful book to help me with design decisions and will help me understand what I am paying for.