Curious as to what people setting up a shop for their restoration would need to acquire.
Just an exercise of foreboding for those considering this hobby.
Lets not get into comments concerning the size of the building… Just Equipment those have found handy to have.
I guess everyone would agree on a:
-Air compressor: I would recommend at least a 9.O CFM one
-MIG welder, not a flux core.
-Sawzall
-at LEAST 8 jackstands.
-Lots of varying sizes of 2x4/4x4
-an EXCELLENT Internet connection.
-one can never have too many clamps, of all styles.
-some kind of lift.
In actual fact, I’d be willing to bet that @Craig_Balzer already possesses the best listing.
Big Fricking Cabinet(s) for hardware/chemicals/paints/spares
Since you mentioned an Air compressor, you’ll need a Blast Cabinet
2- or 4-Post Lift (depending on your persuasion)
Welder (MIG / TIG / Stick / Gas) (depending on your persuasion) with welding table
Work bench(es)
Plasma Cutter
Grinder Wheel
Polisher / Buffer
Powder Coating Oven
Parts Washer/Cleaner
Microwave
Refrigerator (BEER!!)
Charging station for cordless tools
Desk & Lamp
TV
Stereo
Computer
Phone
Neon signs
Based on the above - lots and lots of 110V Outlets / circuits
You forgot… many, MANY bowls of M&Ms, strategically located around the shop…
As many 10 mm sockets as you can find.
Cordless tool set.
I use my 1/4" socket impact driver many times a day.
And I’m not doing a restoration.
Wash booth.
Two walls lined with these
Plus storage for parts to be restored, been restored, new and spare.
plain? peanut? peanut butter? all?
Cherry Picker
Engine / Transmission Stand(s)
It’s a free country, mate! Choose your poison… 
Heat or A/C or both !
I would add:
Engine hoist/lift
Trolly jack
High quality breathing mask, for the dust out of the blast cabinet.
Spray booth……for the small parts.
Good quality measuring tools……micrometers and such.
An abundance of PATIENCE!
Good luck!
First aid kit
Fire extinguishers at all doors.
Sink with hot/ cold water was wifes favorite.
I would recommend a full-time security guard and maybe a part-time good looking blonde receptionist or hostess.
And most important tool of all - a Credit Card backed by unlimited funds…
Chiropractor on call would be nice.
Zip lock bags,tape, sharpies, clipboards.
Save the cash and buy a car thats someone else has spent the money on🤣
At my tender age of 85, a bathroom is the most important tool I have in my garage. I and my buddies seem to use it constantly.
The SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT bit of equipment…!!!
someone else’s check book
