1912 Stanley Model 73

Stanley steam cars were still popular even after Charles Kettering patented the electric starter in 1911. The 1912 Model 73 has been completely restored to a like-new condition. When antique cars are restored, the goal is to retain the original elements of the car as much as possible, so that it is exactly the way it would have been a hundred or more years ago. It is important not to change too much when possible. Sometimes original parts have worn down and need to be fixed. To do this, restorers may use machines to smooth or polish or cut down metal. Sometimes parts even have to be replaced. Restorers search and search for original parts. They search all over the internet, they go to swap meets across the country, and they connect with many people who know a lot about antique cars.The paint and upholstery in antique cars very often has to be replaced, because the wear and "tare" of a century takes its toll. The original patterns of stitching are used and the paint closely resembles colors that would have been used at the time the car was first produced. You can see now how much care and research goes into restoring an important piece of history such as the 1912 Model 73!