Classic car: How to become a vehicle restorer

The course was launched a year ago in Weinfelden with 15 participants after four years of preparation. In spring 2018, the first professional examinations will follow, and with them the issuance of the federal certificate of proficiency. Those who pass this exam and work in a Thurgau garage business can expect a bonus of 1000 Swiss francs, paid by ACS Thurgau. ACS Thurgau Managing Director Christof Papadopoulos: "We want to create an incentive with this. Garages also benefit from the training initiative, because classic car orders ensure a more even workload for the businesses and closer customer loyalty."

Restoration process also with the help of customers
Jürg Hofer, board member of the Interessengemeinschaft Fahrzeugrestauratoren Schweiz (IgFS): "The part-time course lasts three semesters and can be compared with the automotive diagnostics course. Ideal prerequisites are a three-year basic training in the automotive and agricultural machinery sector or comparable qualifications. Seven training locations are planned throughout Switzerland, two of which are in French-speaking Switzerland. In addition to the mechanical and electrical specialties, others will be added in the areas of car bodywork as well as paint." And Jakob Kuster, owner of the Oldtimer Wellness Garage Kuster in Scherzingen, adds: "Restoring a vehicle is an emotional matter. For such work, you need not only good mechanics, but also good planning. I advise against quotations. A cost estimate is always the better solution. Customers should be involved in the restoration process, even if it's only for parts cleaning. I have had very good experiences with this." The second course will take place in Weinfelden in February 2017.

www.fahrzeugrestaurator.ch
Photo: Martin Sinzig