1968 Dodge Charger R/T: Restoration Guide

Are you a classic car enthusiast dreaming of restoring a legendary 1968 Dodge Charger R/T? You've come to the right place. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the restoration process, from initial assessment to the final reveal. We'll dive deep into the specific challenges and rewards of bringing this iconic muscle car back to its former glory. The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T is more than just a car; it's a symbol of American automotive history, representing power, style, and a bygone era. Restoring one is a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning, dedication, and a solid understanding of the vehicle.

Why Restore a 1968 Dodge Charger R/T?

The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T holds a special place in automotive history. Its distinctive fastback design, powerful engine options, and association with pop culture (think Bullitt and The Dukes of Hazzard) make it highly desirable for collectors and enthusiasts. Restoring a Charger R/T allows you to: — CRCL Stock Trading Plan For 2025-07-16 A Comprehensive Guide

• Preserve Automotive History: Contribute to the legacy of a classic muscle car.
• Enjoy a Valuable Investment: Well-restored Chargers can appreciate significantly in value.
• Experience a Hands-On Project: The restoration process is a fulfilling hobby.
• Own a Piece of Americana: The Charger R/T embodies the spirit of its era.

Assessing the Condition of Your 1968 Dodge Charger R/T

Before you begin any restoration work, it’s crucial to thoroughly assess the condition of your Charger R/T. This initial inspection will help you determine the scope of the project, create a realistic budget, and set a timeline. Here are the key areas to evaluate: — Michigan Wolverines Football: News, Scores, And History

Body and Exterior

• Rust: Check for rust in the typical areas: floor pans, quarter panels, rocker panels, trunk, and around the windshield. Rust is the most common enemy of classic cars.
• Body Panels: Inspect for dents, dings, and any previous repairs. Assess the alignment of panels and gaps.
• Trim and Chrome: Evaluate the condition of chrome bumpers, trim pieces, and emblems. Consider whether they can be restored or need to be replaced.

Engine and Drivetrain

• Engine Condition: Does the engine turn over? Does it run? Assess compression, leaks, and overall condition. The original 440 Magnum or 426 Hemi are highly sought after.
• Transmission: Check the transmission for proper shifting and leaks. The R/T models often came with a heavy-duty automatic or a 4-speed manual.
• Rear End: Inspect the rear axle for condition and any signs of damage or wear.

Interior

• Upholstery: Evaluate the condition of seats, door panels, headliner, and carpeting. Decide whether to restore or replace.
• Dashboard and Gauges: Inspect the dashboard for cracks and damage. Check the functionality of gauges and electrical components.
• Wiring: Examine the wiring harness for corrosion, damage, and age-related deterioration.

Undercarriage and Suspension

• Frame: Check the frame for rust, damage, and structural integrity.
• Suspension: Inspect springs, shocks, ball joints, and bushings for wear and tear.
• Brakes: Evaluate the condition of brake lines, calipers, rotors/drums, and master cylinder.

Sourcing Parts for Your 1968 Dodge Charger R/T

Finding the right parts is essential for a successful restoration. Luckily, there are numerous resources available to help you source the necessary components:

Online Retailers

• Specialty Websites: Websites like Year One, Classic Industries, and Summit Racing offer a wide range of parts specifically for classic Mopar vehicles. Year One offers an extensive catalog.
• eBay: eBay can be a valuable resource for finding rare or hard-to-find parts. Be sure to verify the seller's reputation.
• Amazon: Amazon has a selection of parts but may not be as specialized as dedicated classic car retailers.

Local Suppliers

• Auto Parts Stores: Local auto parts stores may carry some common parts, such as filters, fluids, and some mechanical components.
• Salvage Yards: Junkyards and salvage yards can be goldmines for finding used parts. The might be original components.

Restoration Clubs and Forums

• Dodge Charger Clubs: Joining a Dodge Charger club can provide access to a network of enthusiasts who can offer advice and help you locate hard-to-find parts. They can also offer expert guidance.
• Online Forums: Online forums dedicated to classic Mopars are great places to ask questions, share tips, and find parts.

The Restoration Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Disassembly

• Document Everything: Take photos and label parts as you disassemble the car. This will be invaluable during reassembly.
• Remove Body Panels: Start by removing the body panels (hood, fenders, doors, trunk lid). Set them aside for restoration.
• Strip the Interior: Remove seats, carpet, headliner, and dashboard components.
• Remove Engine and Drivetrain: Carefully remove the engine, transmission, and rear axle.
• Sandblasting or Media Blasting: After disassembly, consider having the body sandblasted or media blasted to remove all paint, rust, and contaminants. This provides a clean surface for repairs.

2. Bodywork and Paint

• Rust Repair: Address any rust issues by cutting out and welding in new metal.
• Body Panel Alignment: Ensure that all body panels fit properly and are aligned correctly.
• Body Filler: Use body filler to smooth out any imperfections.
• Priming and Painting: Apply primer, followed by several coats of your chosen paint color. Consider the original factory colors to maintain authenticity.

3. Engine Rebuild

• Disassembly and Cleaning: Take the engine to a machine shop for disassembly, cleaning, and inspection.
• Machining: The machine shop will perform necessary machining operations, such as boring, honing, and surfacing.
• Reassembly: Reassemble the engine with new or reconditioned parts.
• Testing: Test the engine on a stand or in the car before final installation.

4. Drivetrain and Suspension

• Transmission Rebuild: Rebuild or replace the transmission as needed.
• Rear Axle: Inspect and rebuild the rear axle.
• Suspension Rebuild: Replace or rebuild the suspension components, including springs, shocks, ball joints, and bushings.
• Brake System: Rebuild or replace the brake system components, including lines, calipers, and master cylinder.

5. Interior Restoration

• Upholstery: Restore or replace the upholstery on the seats, door panels, and headliner.
• Dashboard: Repair or replace the dashboard and gauges.
• Wiring: Replace the wiring harness or repair any damaged wiring.
• Carpeting: Install new carpeting.

6. Reassembly

• Reinstall Body Panels: Carefully reinstall the body panels, ensuring proper alignment.
• Install Engine and Drivetrain: Install the rebuilt engine and drivetrain components.
• Connect Wiring: Connect the wiring harness and electrical components.
• Install Interior: Install the restored or new interior components.

7. Finishing Touches

• Chrome and Trim: Restore or replace chrome bumpers, trim pieces, and emblems.
• Glass: Replace or clean and reinstall the glass.
• Detailing: Detail the engine bay, interior, and exterior for a finished look.

Common Challenges in Restoring a 1968 Dodge Charger R/T

Restoring a classic car presents various challenges. Here are some of the most common issues you might encounter:

• Rust: Extensive rust damage is often the biggest hurdle. This is one of the most common issues, and requires careful inspection and repair.
• Finding Parts: Sourcing rare or hard-to-find parts can be time-consuming and expensive. Some parts may be very difficult to locate.
• Budget Overruns: Restoration projects often exceed the initial budget. It is important to have a contingency fund.
• Time Commitment: Restoring a car takes a significant amount of time and patience. Expect this to be a lengthy project.
• Technical Expertise: Some tasks, such as engine rebuilding and bodywork, require specialized skills. Consider your own skill level and get outside help as needed.

Tips for a Successful 1968 Dodge Charger R/T Restoration

• Plan Thoroughly: Create a detailed plan, including a budget and timeline.
• Research: Learn as much as you can about your car and the restoration process. Read forums and car clubs to learn as much as possible.
• Set Realistic Goals: Don’t try to do everything at once. Break the project into manageable steps.
• Invest in Quality Parts: Use high-quality parts to ensure the longevity of your restoration.
• Seek Professional Help: Don't be afraid to consult with experienced mechanics and body shops when needed. Some things are best left to the professionals.
• Stay Organized: Keep track of parts, receipts, and progress. Organization will make things so much easier.
• Be Patient: Restoration is a time-consuming process. Don’t get discouraged.

1968 Dodge Charger R/T: Beyond Restoration

Once your 1968 Dodge Charger R/T is restored, you can enjoy it in various ways:

• Car Shows and Events: Showcase your car at car shows and events.
• Cruising: Take your car out for leisurely drives on weekends.
• Joining a Car Club: Connect with other enthusiasts and share your passion.
• Driving: Experience the thrill of driving this iconic muscle car.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1968 Dodge Charger R/T

Q: How much does it cost to restore a 1968 Dodge Charger R/T? A: The cost can vary widely, depending on the car's condition and the scope of the restoration. A full restoration can range from $30,000 to $100,000 or more.

Q: Where can I find parts for my 1968 Dodge Charger R/T? A: You can find parts from online retailers, local auto parts stores, salvage yards, and restoration clubs.

Q: What engine options were available for the 1968 Dodge Charger R/T? A: The R/T models came with either the 440 Magnum or the legendary 426 Hemi engine.

Q: What is the most common problem when restoring a classic car? A: Rust damage is the most common and challenging problem. — TCU Vs. SMU: College Football Prediction & Analysis

Q: How long does it take to restore a 1968 Dodge Charger R/T? A: The restoration process can take anywhere from several months to several years, depending on the car's condition and the owner's available time.

Q: Is restoring a 1968 Dodge Charger R/T a good investment? A: Yes, a well-restored Charger R/T can appreciate in value, making it a good investment.

Q: What are the best resources for learning about the 1968 Dodge Charger R/T? A: The best resources include dedicated car clubs, online forums, and restoration guides.

Conclusion

Restoring a 1968 Dodge Charger R/T is a challenging but rewarding undertaking. By following this guide, you can navigate the restoration process with confidence and bring a piece of automotive history back to life. From assessing the condition of your vehicle to sourcing the right parts and meticulously carrying out each step, the journey will require patience, dedication, and a love for classic cars. The result, however, will be a stunning piece of automotive art that you can be proud to own and enjoy for years to come. With proper planning, diligent work, and a passion for these iconic machines, you too can experience the thrill of the open road in a beautifully restored 1968 Dodge Charger R/T. Start your journey today!