When it comes time to restore a car, the trim can become a big part of the build. If you redo an entire car, you can't just bolt on those old parts with a new paint job. That would almost be like putting on a tuxedo with a dirty pair of sneakers. Most people will paint the car and then send out their trim to be completely redone or restored. This usually takes some time and can be an issue if you're pressed for time.
When you decide to build a car, you should always look into the availability of parts, as that could save you some cash. What do we mean? Sometimes it's easier to buy new aftermarket parts, as we did for this '64 Impala, instead of restoring old trim. Building show vehicles usually means deadlines and time issues. Buying new trim will cut your time in half, as you'll have it in hand and won't have to be waiting on it to come back from the chrome shop or the polisher.
The "now" factor allows you to put your ride together quickly instead of waiting. And these days, the quality of aftermarket replacement parts, like those from CARS, Inc. and other restoration parts businesses that you'll see mentioned in LRM, is right there, with a cost factor that won't bust your budget. Now follow along as this Impala gets put together using off-the-shelf moldings from CARS, Inc.
 This '64 Impala was ready...  This '64 Impala was ready to receive new moldings, but not before the paint was buffed to a mirror-like shine. |  After allowing the paint to...  After allowing the paint to breathe for about a week, the body was buffed out before the car was reassembled. |  First on the agenda was to...  First on the agenda was to start assembling the CARS, Inc. '64 Impala moldings that were painted to match the exterior of the car. |