About Rick Barr

https://project1320.com

Rick Barr is a professional auto customizer by night, and mobile mechanic by day in Memphis, TN. From a very early age his passion has been to tear apart cars and trucks and put them back together in a better way.

Posts by Rick Barr:

turbocharged engine

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Choosing the Right Engine: Comparing Turbocharged, Supercharged, and Naturally Aspirated

The automotive industry has seen a huge surge in the popularity of turbocharged and supercharged engines in recent years. These forced induction engines offer higher power output, improved efficiency, and better performance compared to naturally aspirated engines. But what exactly is the difference between these two engine types?

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how these technologies work and why they are becoming increasingly popular among car buyers when it comes to car customization. We’ll also explore their various benefits so you can make an informed decision when purchasing your next vehicle.

Turbocharged Engines: A Forced Induction System for Increased Power Output

Turbocharged engines are seen as the most efficient form of forced induction due to their ability to generate more power while also improving fuel economy. By compressing air and forcing it into the combustion chamber, more oxygen is available for each cycle which leads to increased power output. This is because the increased pressure allows for more fuel to be burned in a given amount of time, leading to greater efficiency.

The turbocharger itself is made up of two main components; the compressor wheel and the turbine wheel. The compressor wheel draws in ambient air and compresses it into a small area known as the “hot side”. From here, it is then sent through an intercooler where it is cooled before reaching the intake manifold. The turbine wheel, on the other hand, takes exhaust gas from the engine and uses it to spin a shaft that connects both wheels together. As this happens, energy from the exhaust gases is transferred over to the compressor wheel which helps compress incoming air even further.

One of the biggest advantages of a turbocharged engine is its ability to deliver large amounts of torque at low RPMs. This gives them great acceleration at all speeds and makes them ideal for performance vehicles. Additionally, turbochargers require less maintenance than superchargers since there are fewer moving parts involved in their operation.

Another benefit of turbocharged engines is that they can be tuned very easily by simply changing some parameters such as boost pressure or ignition timing. This allows drivers to modify their vehicle’s performance without having to purchase additional hardware or parts like superchargers or naturally aspirated engines.

Overall, turbocharged engines offer a great balance between power output, efficiency, and performance in comparison to naturally aspirated and supercharged engines. With new developments in technology, these types of engines are becoming increasingly popular among car owners who want improved acceleration without compromising on fuel economy or emissions levels.

Supercharged Engines: An Alternative to Turbos

Supercharged engines are another type of forced induction system that is quickly gaining popularity in the automotive industry. Unlike turbochargers, superchargers are mechanically driven by a belt or chain connected directly to the crankshaft which helps compress incoming air and deliver it to the engine. This results in an immediate increase in power output as well as torque at lower RPMs, making them ideal for vehicles looking for improved acceleration.

However, due to their mechanical nature, superchargers require more maintenance than turbocharged engines since they have more moving parts involved in their operation. Additionally, superchargers can be less efficient than turbos due to their higher parasitic losses and greater heat generation. Despite these drawbacks, superchargers are still capable of producing plenty of power without sacrificing too much fuel economy or emissions levels.

One of the benefits of a supercharged engine is its ability to generate large amounts of torque at low RPMs which allows for faster acceleration times compared to naturally aspirated engines. Furthermore, since the boost pressure is generated mechanically rather than relying on exhaust gasses as with turbochargers, drivers can expect consistent performance from every start-up regardless of temperature or altitude changes.

Superchargers also tend to be less expensive than turbos when it comes to installation and tuning costs since there are fewer components involved in their operation. This makes them a great choice for car owners who want improved performance without spending too much money on aftermarket upgrades.

Overall, supercharged engines have become increasingly popular among car owners due to their ability to deliver increased power output and torque at lower RPMs along with better fuel economy compared to naturally aspirated engines. They are also relatively easy and inexpensive to install and maintain compared to turbos, making them a great option for anyone looking for an upgrade without breaking the bank.

Naturally Aspirated Engines: A Traditional Option

Naturally aspirated engines are the traditional type of engine found in most cars today. They rely on atmospheric pressure to bring air into the combustion chamber, where it mixes with fuel and combusts creating power. These engines offer good performance and fuel economy but are not as powerful or efficient as those that use forced induction.

A significant advantage of naturally aspirated engines is their reliability. Without using a turbocharger or air compressor, these engines don’t require additional maintenance or repair work, which helps reduce ownership costs over time. Additionally, since naturally aspirated engines don’t use a compressor, they’re quieter than turbocharged and supercharged engines when running at low speeds—making them a great option for those who want a tranquil driving experience.

One downside of naturally aspirated engines is that they lack the power output of turbocharged and supercharged alternatives. This means that these vehicles won’t speed up as quickly or reach higher top speeds as those with forced induction systems. Additionally, these types of engines may also struggle on steep inclines due to their lower torque ratings, making them less suitable for mountainous regions.

Naturally aspirated engines are still the most common type of internal combustion engine found in cars today due to their lower cost and reliable performance. However, if you’re looking for something with more power and efficiency to give your car an extra edge then turbocharged or supercharged options may be worth considering despite their added complexity.

Customizing The Engine for Your Needs

Whether you’re looking for increased power, better fuel economy, or improved performance, there is a type of engine that can meet your needs. Turbocharged and supercharged engines offer the best of both worlds – increased power output and efficiency – while naturally aspirated engines are still a good option if you don’t need as much power or want to maximize fuel economy. By understanding how each of these engine types works and their respective benefits, you can make an informed decision when it comes to selecting the right engine for your vehicle.

Things to Keep in Mind

Before selecting a new engine for your vehicle, there are several things you should consider. It is important to understand the differences between turbocharged, supercharged, and naturally aspirated engines so that you can choose the right one for your needs. Additionally, it is important to consider factors such as the type of car you have and its intended purpose in order to make sure that the engine you select is best suited for the application. With this information in mind, you will be able to make an informed decision when selecting an engine for your next car or truck.

You also need to consider how much your budget is for the engine customization, as this will affect your decision. Turbos and superchargers are more expensive than their naturally aspirated counterparts, so it is important to factor the cost into your budget. Additionally, you should also keep in mind that turbocharged and supercharged engines require more maintenance than naturally aspirated ones due to the extra heat they generate.

Overall, understanding the differences between each type of engine and considering your needs will help you make an informed decision when selecting a new engine for your vehicle. With all of these factors in mind, you can ensure that you get the most power, performance, and fuel economy out of your next car or truck.

black classic car

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How To Make Your Classic Car More Fuel Efficient

Lots of people collect classic cars because they have a certain allure. There is much joy to be felt when an old vehicle is still able to run after all these years. Classic cars are a unique type of vehicle that requires a different approach when it comes to fuel efficiency.

Do Classic Cars Use A Lot Of Fuel?

One of the main reasons that people don’t drive their classic cars as often as they would like is because they are gas guzzlers. It can be quite expensive to fill up a classic car’s tank, especially if you are driving it on a regular basis. Even if you only take your classic car out for special occasions, the high cost of fuel can still put a damper on your fun.

Improve Classic Car Fuel Economy

There are a few things that you can do to make your classic car more fuel efficient. By following these tips, you can save money on gas and enjoy your classic car more often.

Keep The Car Properly Tuned Up

One of the most important things you can do to improve your car’s fuel economy is to keep it properly tuned up. This means regularly checking and changing the oil, as well as ensuring that the other fluids are at the correct levels. It’s also important to check the air filter and replace it when necessary. A dirty air filter can reduce your car’s fuel economy by up to 10%.

Inflate The Tires Properly

Another way to improve your classic car’s fuel efficiency is to make sure the tires are inflated properly. This is something that should be checked on a regular basis. When the tires are underinflated, they create more resistance, which causes the engine to work harder and use more fuel.

Remove Excess Weight

If your classic car is carrying around a lot of excess weight, it’s going to use more fuel. Any unnecessary items should be removed from the car. This includes things like golf clubs, extra clothing, and anything else that you don’t need on a regular basis.

Avoid Idling

When you’re stopped in traffic or at a red light, try to avoid idling for long periods of time. This wastes fuel and can also damage your car’s engine. If you’re going to be stopped for more than 30 seconds, it’s best to turn off the engine until you’re ready to move again.

Drive Smoothly

Accelerating quickly and braking hard uses more fuel than driving smoothly. Anticipate when you need to slow down and brake gradually. When you’re ready to speed up again, gently press the accelerator. This type of driving uses less fuel and is also easier on your car’s engine.

Classic Car Modifications For Fuel Efficiency

If you’re willing to make some modifications to your classic car, there are a few things you can do to improve its fuel economy.

Install A Lean Burn Conversion Kit

One way to improve your car’s fuel efficiency is to install a lean burn conversion kit. This type of kit allows the engine to run on a mixture of air and fuel that is leaner than what is normally used. This means that less fuel is needed to produce the same amount of power, which will improve your car’s fuel economy.

Replace The Carburetor With Fuel Injection

Another modification you can make to improve your car’s fuel economy is to replace the carburetor with fuel injection. Fuel injection is more efficient than a carburetor because it doesn’t waste as much fuel. This means that your car will use less fuel and get better gas mileage.

Install A Lower Gear Ratio

If your car has a manual transmission, you can improve its fuel economy by installing a lower gear ratio. This will allow the engine to run at a lower RPM, which uses less fuel. You’ll lose some power with this modification, but you’ll make up for it in fuel savings. Some people may be okay with this change but some may not want to sacrifice losing power for fuel efficiency.

Classic cars are a great way to travel and see the world. However, their fuel efficiency can be a bit of a challenge. There are a few things you can do to help improve your car’s fuel economy, even if it’s a classic model.

customized neon green car

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Dealing With Clients Who Have Weird Car Customization Requests

If you’re a car customization specialist, you’re no doubt used to fielding some weird requests from clients. Maybe they want the car to have a unique paint job or extra features that aren’t usually available. Although you want to impress your customers, it can be tough to say no to some of their request. However, you don’t want to end up ruining your relationship with a client over something that’s not even your specialty. Here are a few tips on how to delicately turn down a client’s request without offense and maintain a positive relationship with them.

Thank Them For Coming To You

First, make sure to thank the client for thinking of you when they had their unusual request. This helps to soften the blow a bit and let them know that you appreciate their business. It maintains the positive air in the atmosphere even if you are about to politely decline their request.

Explain That You Don’t Specialize In That Area

Next, explain to the client that you don’t specialize in that area of car customization. Thank them again for coming to you, but let them know that you would recommend they find someone who does specialize in that area to get the results they’re looking for.

Offer Suggestions For Other Services

If the client is insistent on working with you, try to offer some other services that you do specialize in. This shows that you’re still trying to be helpful and work with them, even if their original request isn’t possible.

End On A Positive Note

Finally, make sure to end the conversation on a positive note. Thank the client again for their business and let them know that you’re always happy to help with any other needs they might have in the future.

Weird requests from clients are just a part of doing business for car customization specialists. By following these tips, you’ll be able to turn down requests politely and maintain a positive relationship with your clients.

customized turbocharged engine

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Pros And Cons Of Car Customization

Customizing your car is a popular trend among drivers these days. There are all sorts of ways to change your car, from adding accessories and changing the color, to installing new engines and exhaust systems. While there are many pros to car customization, there are also some cons you should be aware of before making any changes to your vehicle. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of car customization, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s right for you.

Pros Of Car Customization

One of the biggest pros of car customization is that it allows you to personalize your vehicle and make it unique. Whether you’re adding a new paint job or installing low-profile tires, customizing your car is a great way to make it your own.

Another pro of car customization is that it can improve the performance of your vehicle. If you’re installing a new engine or exhaust system, for example, you can expect an increase in power and efficiency. And if you’re adding lightweight wheels, you may see an improvement in handling and braking.

The third pro of car customization is that it can increase the value of your car. If you customize your car in a way that makes it more appealing to buyers, you may be able to sell it for more money down the road.

Cons Of Car Customization

There are also some potential cons to car customization that you should be aware of. One of the biggest is that it can be expensive. If you’re adding a new engine or paint job, for example, you can expect to pay a pretty penny.

Another con of car customization is that it can void your warranty. If you make any changes to your car that are not approved by the manufacturer, you could void your warranty and be on the hook for any repairs that may be needed.

Finally, car customization can also be time-consuming. If you’re adding a new paint job or engine, for example, you’ll need to take your car to a shop and have the work done. This can take days or even weeks, depending on the extent of the modifications.

So, those are some of the pros and cons of car customization. As you can see, there are benefits and drawbacks to consider before making any changes to your vehicle. Weigh all of your options carefully before deciding whether or not car customization is right for you.

Should I Customize My Car?

Now that you know some of the pros and cons of car customization, you may be wondering if it’s right for you. The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including your budget, your goals for your car, and your level of expertise.

If you’re on a tight budget, for example, car customization may not be the best option for you. As we mentioned earlier, it can be expensive to make changes to your car. If you’re not careful, you could end up spending more money than you have to.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to improve the performance of your vehicle or make it more unique, car customization may be a good option for you. Just be sure to do your research and work with a reputable shop to avoid any problems.

Finally, if you’re not sure whether or not you have the expertise to customize your car, it’s probably best to leave the work to the professionals. Unless you’re confident in your ability to make changes to your car, it’s best to leave it to those who know what they’re doing.

Customizing your car is a popular trend these days, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making any changes to your vehicle. Use this article as a guide to help you decide whether or not car customization is right for you.

car engine close up

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Engine Swaps On A Classic Car

It’s no secret that engine swaps are a popular way to customize your car. By swapping out the engine in your vehicle, you can change the entire driving experience and create a car that is truly unique to you. However, before you go ahead and make this kind of modification, there are some things you should know. In this article, we will cover the basics of engine swaps and help you decide if this is the right modification for you.

What Is An Engine Swap And Why Should You Do It?

An engine swap is simply the process of replacing your car’s original engine with a different one. There are many reasons why someone might choose to do this – you might want more power, better fuel economy, or just a different driving experience. Whatever your reason, engine swaps are a great way to customize your car.

However, before you swap out your engine, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, engine swaps can be expensive and time-consuming. You will need to purchase a new engine and then have it installed, which can be costly. Additionally, you will need to make sure that the new engine is compatible with your car. If it’s not, you may have to do some modifications to the car’s chassis or body in order to make it fit.

What Kind Of Engines Can You Swap In?

There are many different kinds of engines that you can swap into your car. The most popular choices are V8s and diesel engines, but there are many other options available as well. It’s important to choose an engine that is compatible with your car and that will fit in the available space.

Additionally, you will need to make sure that the new engine meets your driving needs. If you are looking for more power, then you should choose an engine that is more powerful than your original. However, keep in mind that powerful engines often require more fuel and may not be as efficient as smaller ones.

How Much Will It Cost?

The cost of an engine swap can vary widely depending on the engine you choose and the modifications you need to make to your car. Generally, you can expect to pay several thousand dollars for a quality engine swap. Additionally, you will need to pay for installation, which can add several hundred more dollars to the total cost.

Is It Worth It?

Engine swaps are a great way to customize your car and make it your own. They can be expensive, but they are worth it if you are looking for a unique driving experience. Additionally, engine swaps can increase the value of your car, so they can be a wise investment as well.

Before you decide to swap out your engine, make sure you weigh all of the pros and cons and decide if this is the right modification for you. If it is, then go ahead and take the plunge – you won’t regret it!

Classic Car Maintenance After Engine Swap

After you’ve put a new engine in your classic car, it’s important to keep up with proper maintenance, just as you would after getting your car ceramic coated. For an engine swap, you’ll need to do regular oil changes, tune-ups, and other routine maintenance. By keeping up with these things, you can ensure that your new engine will last for many years to come.

Additionally, it’s important to be careful when driving your car after an engine swap. Take things slowly at first and make sure you are comfortable with the new engine before pushing it to the limit. Once you get used to it, you can start enjoying the benefits of your new engine!

Swapping out the engine in your classic car can be a great way to customize it and make it your own.

Will An Engine Swap Lower My Classic Car’s Value?

If you are thinking about swapping out the engine in your classic car, you might be wondering if it will lower the value of the vehicle. In most cases, engine swaps do not have a significant impact on the value of a classic car.

While an engine swap might not significantly affect the value of your car, it is important to keep in mind that this is a modification. As with any modification, there is always a chance that you might not get your money back out of it if you decide to sell the car down the road.

If you are planning on keeping your classic car for many years, then an engine swap can be a great way to customize it and make it your own. However, if you are looking to sell it in the future, you might want to think twice about making this modification.

mechanic buffing a car's body

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How Do Autobody Shops Impress Their Customers?

So you’ve finally decided on how to fund your auto body shop, you are now open for customers. You have marketing strategies in place and have started with a few customers. What you need to figure out next is to thrive in the industry and not just survive. With lots of great auto body shops offering the same services you offer, how do you stand out? Furthermore, how do you keep your customers and then gain some more?

Impressing your customers means giving them a good experience with the services that you offer. Sometimes, no matter how good your results are, if you’re difficult to work with, they’d still prefer to have the job done somewhere. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do a stellar job at the services you have to offer. 

So what should you do? Here are some ways you can impress your customers.

A Warm Welcome

Many customers will love it if you make them feel special. To start off, you should be welcoming and inviting. When they contact you through phone, email, social media, or physically in your shop, you should be able to make them feel welcomed. 

Greet them politely. If they are repeat customers, it is also good if you remember what the previous service was. It will help boost the mood because you remembered customers and will help them feel more welcomed.

Be A Comfort Zone

Those who go to auto body shops aren’t always those who just wish to have them customized. Sometimes, they need to go to the body shop because their car has to be repaired. It is already stressful for them that their car needs repairs so don’t stress them out further, especially if they just had the accident. 

After making them feel welcome, make them feel comfortable. A chair and some refreshments can help. When they are relaxed they can better tell you what they want their vehicle to be. Of course, you could assess it for them, but their opinions matter most. 

Send Regular Updates

Customizing or repairing a vehicle may not be done in a single day. For detailed and bigger jobs, it could take months for them to be completed. Don’t expect your customers to simply wait for you to finish. Eventually, they’ll need updates.

Instead of giving them updates only when they call up, you can inform them that you could provide status updates regularly. You can send these updates as emails or text messages.

Discuss The Timeline

One of the first things that customers would want to know is when they could take home their vehicle. It is best to give accurate estimates according to the extent of work that needs to be done. 

Tell them that you’d still need time to fully assess the vehicle before you can give a more precise timeline. Once you do, then you have to meet that timeline. It would be best to finish earlier than later so be careful with your estimates.

black car with low profile tires

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Top Reasons For The Low Profile Tire Switch

What is your most favorite car customization that you’ve done on your vehicle? Is it the engine upgrades, the exhaust system, paint job, or the tires? There are many other customizations that can be done on vehicles but one that creates a huge impact especially on the appearance is switching to low profile tires. 

Low-profile tires are popular. These have larger rims and would readily fit on standard wheel wells. Best of all, it won’t rub when you turn. Have you ever wondered what exactly are the people’s reasons for opting for low-profile tires? Well, people select low profile tires for different reasons but among the most common of them all are the following:

Make Wheels Look Big

Low-profile tires create a look that many people love to have for their vehicles. Some people try to achieve this look by using smaller tires on larger wheels. This is called tire-mounting. Although this may get them the look that they want, it is not the best option because the overstretched tires still have a risk of being blown out. 

Reducing this risk is possible by choosing to use low-profile tires instead. The specialty tires like the low-profile ones can be used without reducing safety. That’s because they are specifically designed to fit the larger rims.

Provides Better Handling

The low-profile tires are also chosen because they provide better grip and help in a more smooth turning. They look race-worthy but some of them are also legal to be used on the streets as well. 

Due to the shorter sidewalls of the wheels, the low-profile tires are more responsive when it comes to making turns. That’s because such sidewalls flex less as compared to the standard ones. If your car isn’t great on curvy roads, a switch to low-profile tires could be a great solution.

Adds Aesthetic Appeal

If you are bringing your vehicle to a car show, using low-profile tires is a great way to improve the aesthetic appeal of the vehicle. With it, the custom wheels will be more prominent. You can even angle the tires to give it a bit more personality and to stand out from the rest. 

Challenging Scenarios For Low Profile Tires

Although many choose to have low-profile tires for the reasons above, you should also remember that it can still be a challenge to use them in certain situations. First of all, they can be more vulnerable to damage due to the shorter width. This will not be a problem for those who only drive their cars on smooth roads or for occasional driving. Potholes and other debris could damage them easily.

Another thing you should take note of is the comfort that they provide. Compared to regular tires, low-profile tires offer less comfort. That’s because there is no extra height that could serve as cushioning. 

Although they grip the road better, they also let you feel the cracks or bumps in the pavement more. Also, it is best to check if low-profile tires are legal in your area before purchasing them. Make sure to purchase from reliable manufacturers for your own safety.

ceramic coating maintenance

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Maintenance Tips For Ceramic Coated Cars

Ah, the ceramic coating, one of the many glorious things about modern car detailing. It’s an absolutely great product that you can use to protect the paint on your car. Lots have raved about it and its many benefits. 

So when was the last time you washed your ceramic coated car? Did you ever apply a maintenance spray on it?

You should have easily answered those questions if you were well informed about the ceramic coating on vehicles. One common mistake car owners might think when they have ceramic coating is that their car is resistant to the elements.

The ceramic coating does protect your car and makes maintenance easier but that doesn’t mean you should skip it. The ceramic coating eventually degrades as it is exposed to harsh environments and your driving habits as well. That’s why you should still know how to maintain it.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Tip 1: Don’t Skip On Washing Your Car

Even if your car doesn’t easily get as dirty because of the ceramic coating, that doesn’t mean that you should stop washing your car. You should still have your car washed but there are a few considerations. 

First is to make sure that you don’t go to the drive through car washes especially if they have the trolling brushes or mop rags. Those can ruin your ceramic coating. 

Instead, you should use wash mitts or sponges that are of high quality. They are softer and will help prolong the ceramic coating. Remember that you don’t need to rub as hard because dirt is already easier to remove due to the ceramic coating. 

Also take note of the soap you use. The usual car wash soaps have a pH that could damage the coatings. Use those specifically formulated for ceramic coated vehicles. 

Tip 2: Wash In The Shade

If you have a canopy, it would be better to wash your car under it. If not, the next best thing is to wash your car when the sun is about to set or early in the morning. 

The heat from the sun is what you are avoiding when you wash your car in the shade. Sunlight could also dry up the soap you are using and create water spots in the process. 

Tip 3: Dry It Up

Even if the car surface is hydrophobic due to the ceramic coating, you should still dry it up. Drying it up will help make sure that watermarks are avoided. 

Make sure you always use a clean and soft microfiber towel to dry your car. Clean ones will help prevent introducing more dirt into your car. 

Tip 4: Use Separate Bucket For The Wheels

The wheels of the car are likely to be dirtier than the surface of your vehicle. You don’t want that dirt transferred to the surface of your car so you should opt for a different bucket for cleaning your wheels. 

Similarly, your wash mitt should be different too. All those tiny particles that could be made of metal or hard rocks. You wouldn’t want to wipe that on your vehicle and risk scratching it just because you are cleaning it.

Tip 5: Apply A Coating Spray

A coating spray is also ideal for ceramic coated cars. There are specific ones that are compatible with the ceramic coating. However, it is best not to use wax, polish or other sealants on top of the ceramic coating. 

It isn’t needed at all and it won’t really stick to the coated surface. Additionally, there may be some ingredients that could be abrasive for the ceramic coating. If you are to apply something on top of your ceramic coating, make sure they are compatible. 

funding your business

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Tips On Finding Funds For Your Auto Body Shop

Running a business, any business is difficult. But if you have the passion for it, then you’ll find a way on how to do it. One of the biggest challenges in starting an auto body shop business is to find a way to fund it. 

Take a  look at your savings? Do you think you have enough to start an auto body shop? What if it doesn’t immediately pick up? Do you just give up on your dream or find other ways to keep the business afloat?

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Heavily Modified Green Car - Front Headlights Shot

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Customize, Yes. But Where To Start?

Take a good look at your car. What do you think it says about you?

If you’re on this site, my hope that “boring” not on that list of adjectives.

Like a piece of art, your vehicle is your “canvas” and you’ve got plenty of so-called “paint brushes” and “painting styles” to make your car or truck uniquely yours.

Today we’ll talk about the categories of customization, first starting on just exactly what we mean when we use the words “Car Customization”

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