Rookie restoring a 1968 Camaro

[SSinister68]

As the title suggests, I’m a rookie when it comes to body work/ automotive restorations. I’ve been gathering some info, and am pretty sure which direction I want to go with the car, and how I want to use it. I’ve had this car for 10 years and have not done much with it. It’s time to begin the restoration. It’s a 1968 Camaro SS coupe.


The car will need to be totally restored, as I know there will need to be some quarter panel work, a new floor and trunk, and some window channel repair, minimum.


I think my next steps should be
1.) remove the rest of the glass and interior from the car
2.)remove the remainder of the front clip (core support, inner/outer fenders)
3.) leave the doors in, remove the subframe and rear axle
4.) take a million measurements and make a body jig
5.) strip the car to bare metal (mostly using mechanical methods- a DA polisher and 60 or 80 grit sandpaper)
5.) brace the interior of the car
6.) media blast with crushed glass or walnuts where the chance of metal warping is low
7.) since the car will be in this state for quite a while, it should be shot with primer, but at least all of the rust will now be visible (SPI’s epoxy primer?)
9.) remove floor and trunk pans
8.) install one piece trunk/floor from Real Deal Steel
9.) install DSE mini tubs
10.) Repair/replace panels


Anything you’d change or do differently?


I know I’ll make mistakes, I just don’t want to take any chances in ruining the car. All input is greatly appreciated.