Restoring your classic muscle car is a process that requires commitment and patience. When restoring it is good to do some proper research on what it needs for it to be in good condition. Classic muscle cars are rare to come across and can be expensive to acquire.
The work should use lead body fillers on your classic car. It’s the best remedy that can be used on rare sheet metal. Different panels may need repairs to restore it to it’s original condition. Some of the metalwork tips for you for your classic muscle car restoration include:
Floor Pan
These classic muscle cars may be over 40 years old. The floor plan may have rusted including other components and parts of the vehicle. The condition of the floor pan may be too worn out to repair. It means the floor would need to be cut out and install a new floor panel.
The process is intense and needs the removal of some components in the vehicle like the car seats. The bad sections are cut out, and the new parts are cut to fit in the area. Butt welding is used to reduce overlapping. Overlaps give an opening for erosion to take place. MIG welding is the preferred welding process to restore the required strength.
Fiberglass filler is used on the joints for strengthening. A small amount of hardener may be used to improve the strength. Polyester glazing putty is used to fill in the pores.
Windshield
The channel is where the windshield lies on. Due to the long lifespan of classic muscle cars, the channel tends to rust. The metal in this region oxidizes faster due to the gap sealers drying out. The glass is removed and the worn out part cut out. Fresh metal is welded into the sections. Contours must be created for the metal to fit into the windshield seat.
Rear Quarter Panels
Rear quarter panels also tend to wear a lot in the classic muscle cars. It can be one of the toughest ares to restore due to work needed. It needs proper cutting, alignment, and fitting. The lead filler used on the area is removed for clear visibility of the joints. The joints need suitable welding due to the strength required.
Doors
The doors may also rust a lot due to the prolonged lifespan of the classic car. The edges of the outer and inner skin may wear faster due to the exposure to humidity. The worn out parts are cut out and restored with new metal. It requires concentration to be able to achieve the necessary door profile.
This whole process of restoring your classic muscle car metalwork needs specialized tools. They make the process easier and faster to do. The bodywork can have a few touches to make it a bit more upgraded and unique during the process.
Lead fillers, hardeners, and polyester putty are used on the surface. They smoothen the finish and give the car that smooth outline. They are coated with a paint job which doubles as a metal protector for your car’s restored body.
Are you in need of metalwork restoration for your classic car? Contact us today for a consultation and quote at (561) 729-0911
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