Painting the 442 (Update) [Archive] - 73-77 Oldsmobile Forums

442MUCH

08-15-2008, 09:16 PM

In March I booked my 442 in for painting. Due to the economy they couldn't take my car in until July 2. I was told that it would take about a month to complete because they wanted to do it right and strip the car down.

The last time the car was painted (1987) the guy told me he wanted to strip the car too.

Stripped 442 (1987)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/Through%20The%20Years/car1987.jpg

Anyway, I called Bruce (the fellow who owns the shop that offered to paint the car when no one else would) and asked how the car was coming along. He said "Not good." His main body guy didn't show up for work and he was looking for someone to hire. The economy is so hot here that there is a labour shortage. We're short 4-5 people at work ourselves. Bruce said that he had a guy lined up to start on July 28.

On August 2 I went in with my camera to check the progress on the car. Bruce said the new guy never showed up. So he's looking again.

One month later (nothing done)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3976.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3977.jpg

Today at work, I got a call from Bruce . He said they found some rust and if I wanted to see the car in its current state.

So, I grabbed the work digital camera and headed over to the body shop. When I got there, I expected to see this.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3975.jpg

But I was shocked to hear that the guy who originally left, was back! Bruce said that he was an excellect body man but a bit of a flake. He said that he gave him enough that he won't be going anywhere for a while.

Anyway, below are some pictures of the 442 as of 7 hours ago. I'll keep you guys posted as the car progresses if you're interested. It seems that "stripped" means different things to different body shops....

442MUCH

08-15-2008, 09:17 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3979.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3980.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3981.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3982.jpg

442MUCH

08-15-2008, 09:20 PM

Bruce did say that for a 32 year old car with original fenders, quarters and doors, the car was in "remarkable" shape.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3984.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3983.jpg

Rust!! Now history.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3978.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_3985.jpg

More to come......

oldsmeister

08-15-2008, 09:59 PM

I like what I'm seeing. The car really is in remarkable shape and it looks like they aren't cutting any corners on the prep work. If they continue that workmanship then I'm sure the paint will be flawless before they let it leave the shop. Did they happen to mention what type of state of the art paint procedure they plan to use? It will probably be quality 2K primers and base/clear. I'll look forward to watching the progress.

mdkingsley

08-15-2008, 10:19 PM

You can really see any little ding when they sand it. You will have a great car when done. Cant wait to see the final product.

442MUCH

08-15-2008, 10:24 PM

You can really see any little ding when they sand it. You will have a great car when done. Cant wait to see the final product.

Bruce told me that they found door dings that were filled with bondo. He said that they will fix that by straighting out the steel rather than just filling it. He seems really picky but that's OK with me. :D

ragz442

08-15-2008, 10:35 PM

dwtucker

08-15-2008, 11:02 PM

442MUCH

08-15-2008, 11:05 PM

Looks like they're doing it right Ken, look forward to seeing it finished. We've got the opposite economic problem here in MI, at least with housing, etc. I don't think new cars are selling real well, but people still need to get their old ones fixed.

So far I'm happy with the work.

Nobody is buying trucks and SUV's here because of the gas prices and house prices have tripled in the last four years. So, there is a virtually 0% unemployment rate but things are getting expensive.

Alberta has no provincial sales tax and the province is debt free but we notice crime on the rise as we are attracting ubdesirables. Edmonton is a city of 1 million. Last year we had 39 murders. That was a record! To compare...Montreal, a city of 4.5 million had 30 murders. Most people killed are "known to police" so it's not all bad.

Such is life in the city. I'm glad I live in the suburbs...11 years can't remember a murder.

76Supreme455

08-15-2008, 11:09 PM

442MUCH

08-15-2008, 11:10 PM

First off, I really like your car. Very nice....

I bet you freaked when you saw it exspecially after you had expectations. But, once it is done, it will look awesome. Share the photos when it is done.

Nice ride...

Thanks Dave. I've never seen it like this before and in March I'll have owned it 30 years. Going with the same colour combo, code 35 blue and silver. Once the paint has cured (about 1 or 2 months?) I'm going to have the 3M film applied to the front to stop the rock chips. I'll post them as I get them.:)

442MUCH

08-15-2008, 11:13 PM

Ken, looks like they are doing a fantastic job. The car is going to be awesome when they are done with it. Looks like I am about to go through the same process with my 64 F-85, then onto painting my 76 Supreme. Can't wait to see yours finished. I willl look forward to the pictures!

Alan, I was glad there was rust in only one spot. Actually, it was hidden pretty well, and the stripping down to metal found it. I guess that's the way to go. It's better than the way it was done 21 years ago!

76Supreme455

08-15-2008, 11:18 PM

Alan, I was glad there was rust in only one spot. Actually, it was hidden pretty well, and the stripping down to metal found it. I guess that's the way to go. It's better than the way it was done 21 years ago!

I was very interested in that rust spot. My Supreme has one rust spot and it's in the same spot, right where the water has run down inside that opera window. I will be having mine stripped to bare metal as well.

76HOProposal

08-16-2008, 12:50 AM

I was very interested in that rust spot. My Supreme has one rust spot and it's in the same spot, right where the water has run down inside that opera window. I will be having mine stripped to bare metal as well.

I recently went to visit the sister car to mine (76/77 White Proposal). The only bad rust spot it had was in exactly the same position.

What the heck? :confused: Now that is strange. Hum

Glad mine doesn't have quarter windows. Looks like something to really watch out for because it seems quite common. Wow!

jds1976cutlassS

08-16-2008, 01:18 AM

Hey Ken-the next time you are at the shop,tell them to pick your header panel up off of the floor before someone steps on it.Guys in a shop get a 1 track mind and they dont watch out where they are going,then CRUNCH:eek:From the looks of the pics they are doing it "buy the book",the shop looks relitively organized and BUSY.That is a sign that they do good work.We do good work but our shop is dead,noone here has any extra money. Good bodymen are in short supply most places (here included) and getting one to work on something pre 1990 is tough.I wish someone would bring me a car like that to work on,I'm sick of PT crusiers and Altimas:mad:I'm courious-What paint brand do they have?

Andy 73

08-16-2008, 10:14 AM

442MUCH

08-16-2008, 10:39 AM

Jerrad - I noticed that too, but only after reviewing the pictures. I'll call them today and ask them to move the header panel. I don't know what paint their using. I'll have to ask.

As for the rust spot. In 1987 I had the car painted. I noticed when they removed that plastic piece in front of the back wheels (to save paint chips) it held on to the moisture. That's where that came from. I had them repair it and remove the piece. They repaired it with bondo mostly. Within a year it was cracking. I went to another shop for the repair and that's what he told me. The new shop did the the repair and cleaned the bondo out. The guy called me to show that they replaced the bondo with metal.

Anyway, obviously the metal repair is not as good as original however Bruce commented that for all original panels the car was in "remarkable shape". I drove the car all year round from 1979 to 1985. Luckily in Alberta we don't get a lot of snow as compared with the east and it's low humidity. In winter they sprinkle the roads with gravel and sand and clean it up in the spring. So that's why you see so many older vehicles on the road than back east.

The paint that's coming off the car is Standox. It was slightly darker than the original colour. Any thing else I should ask them at this stage? I don't paint my car too often. :D

442MUCH

08-16-2008, 10:56 AM

Wow I thought a paint job was sand paper primer and paint. Now I am worried about sending my 75 in for paint, It must be bring lot of cash and don't come and check untill its done. I didn't have a clue that it was that extensive. Can't wait to see the photo's. Andy

You can see the difference between what they did in 1987 and what they are doing now. This is almost a mini restoration! My car is not a show car...it's a car I show. I could not sit and just look at it. I have to drive it. It's been across Canada and the USA three times each. I've driven out to Vancouver Island, BC and to Hyannis Port, MA. There's a lot of miles in between.

I'd like to take a trip to Vancouver and cross the border. Drive south through WA into OR and the Redwoods and even further south into CA down Hwy 1. This trip would probably cost me as much as the paint job. It's in the plans anyway...sometime.

jds1976cutlassS

08-16-2008, 12:41 PM

Jerrad - I noticed that too, but only after reviewing the pictures. I'll call them today and ask them to move the header panel. I don't know what paint their using. I'll have to ask.

The paint that's coming off the car is Standox. It was slightly darker than the original colour. Any thing else I should ask them at this stage? I don't paint my car too often. :D

They really should have EVERYTHING stored somewhere,and not in the trunk(like the wheel mouldings).When I tear down a car I store it all in one place 'till I'm ready for it.Make sure they put some type of rust killer in the hole before they weld the patch in(Rust Mort,ect),it'll kill the surface rust in the innerstructure.Most guys do that but its better to make sure.Also,have someone grab a plastic car cover from the painter and have them cover the interior before it fills with anymore dust(when they prime and block it its gonnna get really messy in there and it'll take forever to clean,the plastic car covers are disposeable and cheap).I'm sure when you get it back and hit the deforster the first time you dont want a face full of dust:D.I see they have tape on the sideglass but they really should have some tape(even if its masking tape) on all of the glass.One little slip of the sander and its done.I hope you dont think I'm trying to nit-pick the shop it looks like they do good work but I do this for a liveing and little stuff like that bugs me.Standox is good stuff,they were way ahead of the domestic paint co.s in the 80s.Its kinda pricey now,though.Dont let them talk you into a 2nt line paint(Lesanol,U tek,Omni,Nason ect) They are good but they dont stand the test of time IMHO.

jds1976cutlassS

08-16-2008, 12:54 PM

Wow I thought a paint job was sand paper primer and paint. Now I am worried about sending my 75 in for paint, It must be bring lot of cash and don't come and check untill its done. I didn't have a clue that it was that extensive. Can't wait to see the photo's. Andy

Its not as scary as it looks,but it is a shock to see it that way.You should see the look on peoples faces when they want to look at their car and I have it cut in half or tore down to the floor.A good teardown for a complete is the only way to go,it'll make all of the difference in the end.Oh,and if a shop ever tells you to bring cash and dont come back 'till its done,RUN.

76Supreme455

08-16-2008, 02:38 PM

Good bodymen are in short supply most places (here included) and getting one to work on something pre 1990 is tough.I wish someone would bring me a car like that to work on,I'm sick of PT crusiers and Altimas:mad:I'm courious-What paint brand do they have?

I wish you would come to Tennessee. I want someone like you painting my 76Supreme! Actually, I do have someone that does great work and believe me, you pay for his good work! :)

jds1976cutlassS

08-16-2008, 11:39 PM

I wish you would come to Tennessee. I want someone like you painting my 76Supreme! Actually, I do have someone that does great work and believe me, you pay for his good work! :)

It would be nice to live somewhere(like Tennessee:cool:) where I could make a liveing doing older cars,there is no market for it here AT ALL. I waste my talents fixing new cars for ins. companys that pay pennies and if someone local wants somthing older done they whine about the price then get some hack to do it.About 2 weeks ago I did the finishwork and painted a '66 Mustang,charged $950.00(including materials) and he bitched about the price and the fact I have to repaint 1 headlight bezel(base was a little thin in 1 spot):mad:.

Firethorne77

08-17-2008, 10:24 AM

Ken-

Thanks for sharing the pics of the mini-restoration. Short of stripping the car of its interior, frame, motor and bead blasting it, its gonna look extra sharp.
This is exactly how my car was prepped.. right down to the metal.
As for the stubborn lower quarter spot of rust.. same deal back in the early 90's I had mine cut out, metal welded in , poof, it took just 2 years before it came bubbling out. Was poor prep work back in the day.

NOS panels were my solution a year and a half ago durring its last resto.

One other note: Where is the factory hood? Find it, bring it there.. get it painted. You might change your'e mind on the look some time..so have it done now, let it breathe for a few months, wax it, store it properly.

I cant wait to see the car painted.

442MUCH

08-17-2008, 01:41 PM

Thanks for the advise guys. I'll call the shop on Monday. When I originally called to get the booking for paint every shop told me they don't do older cars. They said that they take new cars with say fender damage. They remove the fender, replace it with a new one, prime and paint and out the door. Older cars, they said always have issues. I suppose like the rust this shop found on mine.

I called my collector car insurance and asked them who they suggested since they insure the car. They gave me a few places to call. Same thing happened. So the woman from the insurance co. asked me to let her make a call. She called me back in about an hour and recommended the shop I'm at now.

I asked her if they do good work. She said that they did all the work for the local Toyota and Mercedes dealerships and do excellent work, guaranteed. I asked if they had any experience in body work and not just repair and replace. She said not to worry. She said that the insurance company uses this shop for the collector car insurance repair they appove. She told me to book it and that the insurance guarantees all work from that body shop and she sent me an email that stated how the work done at this body shop was guaranteed for life.

I replied and asked her what does guaranteed for life mean. She said since the whole car was being painted by an approve body shop that all work done was fully guranteed. If for example, in 10 years I noticed rust anywhere coming through, then the ins. co. would approve repainting the whole car. She said since the job is supposed to be done correctly, rust should not be a factor since I don't drive the car in winter and only drive on nice days.

I told her that Canadian Tire is still kicking their ass for the guaranteed for life battery they sold me in 1981. I haven't paid a penny for the seven replacement batteries (1000 CCA) since. She said that's the policy the company has and she just relays that policy.

That's why Bruce said he was going to strip the car, but I never imagined he was going to bare metal. When I asked why he went to bare metal he said, that the car had been painted before and he wanted to see if there were any issues. He wanted to see what he was working with.

I just saw a '77 Vette in the pick up lot and the paint was fantastic! So, hopefully the same will go for mine. Once I get the car back I'll go through the interior and clean it like I used to. I can remember spending 3-4 hours on the interior back in the 90's and the same under the hood. I don't have any tears or rips or issues inside the car other than just a good cleaning. Most people think the interior is very clean, but it's not clean enough for me.

Looks like the bill for this paint job will be close to $10,000. I went over to my friends place. He owns a 71 W30 si I took pictures of how the hood striping was applied. Bruce said they can copy from the pictures and reproduce the factory look. Now that they've started, I suspect that she'll be ready around the first week of September. I'll wait until spring and apply the 3M film they use on new cars to cover the header panel so rock chips will be history. Maybe I'll add some film to the front of the rear wheel wells too.

I'll make a surprise visit on Wednesday and see how things are progressing. I'll bring my camera of course.

zodiacblue442

08-17-2008, 06:37 PM

Thanks alot for posting the pics and giving us the details! Very interesting! Can't wait to see the finished product! My 442 was plastic bead blasted to bare metal. The guy that did the body work cut corners on some of the rust. I see a rust bubble or two on the right rear qtr. and just below the vinyl top stainless on the left side. :mad: :mad: :mad: Can't really blame him for the bubble appearing in the vicinity of the vinyl top (there's a reason why they're called rust rags) but I'm totally ticked off about the right quarter panel. His work lasted 6 years. No reason why the rust should ever come back if it was repaired correctly. Other places he fixed the rust are fine. He just got in a big hurry on the right quarter panel. The car has only seen a few rain showers and a few car washings. NO snow or salt/sand since restored in 2001 and I live in a low humidity climate.

Question to you auto bodymen out there. Any suggestions on how to fix the rust bubbles starting to show? A few rust bubbles are starting in the area about the size of a nickel at about 12 o'clock on the right rear wheel opening.

Thanks for any suggestions.

ragz442

08-17-2008, 08:59 PM

Question to you auto bodymen out there. Any suggestions on how to fix the rust bubbles starting to show? A few rust bubbles are starting in the area about the size of a nickel at about 12 o'clock on the right rear wheel opening.

Thanks for any suggestions.

Gary, the only way to fix it so it won't come back is to cut the rust out and weld in a patch. I've used the panel bonding adhesive [instead of welding] a couple of times with good results. The key is to make sure all the rust is gone. At least where it sounds like it's at, you'll be able to blend the paint and keep the color match.

442MUCH

08-18-2008, 07:27 PM

76HOProposal

08-18-2008, 08:10 PM

I called the shop today and asked what paint they were using. They gave me a brand I've never heard of. The paint is Glasurit basecoat / clearcoat. Any of you ever heard of this? I'll do a little surfing to see what I can find out.

Oh yeah. Almost every German import uses or used Glasso (as it is also known as) at their factories.

You might think about using the 3M clear protection (aka. XPEL) from the back of the front wheels all the way to the rear bumper. It least that is what I'm thinking I'll do on my car. From the lower body line contour on down.

442MUCH

08-18-2008, 09:37 PM

Oh yeah. Almost every German import uses or used Glasso (as it is also known as) at their factories.

You might think about using the 3M clear protection (aka. XPEL) from the back of the front wheels all the way to the rear bumper. It least that is what I'm thinking I'll do on my car. From the lower body line contour on down.

So Bob, what's your opinion on the paint? I'm still gathering info. The entire lower body, that's an idea worth considering.

ragz442

08-18-2008, 09:54 PM

Ken, Glasurit is a top of the line auto paint. I wouldn't have any worries about them using it, especially if that's the line they use exclusivley.

76HOProposal

08-18-2008, 10:00 PM

Glasso has always had the reputation of being the best paint available. In the last few years I've heard that the other paint manufactures have come up to their same level. The top coat or the clear coat is everything. Research with urethanes have come a long way. Glasso has had them in their line for years.
Ferrari used Glasso for years, but recently switched to PPG.

I've been told if your going to use a company's paint, to use their system all the way out. From metal etch to top coat.

jds1976cutlassS

08-20-2008, 02:26 PM

I called the shop today and asked what paint they were using. They gave me a brand I've never heard of. The paint is Glasurit basecoat / clearcoat. Any of you ever heard of this? I'll do a little surfing to see what I can find out.

Glasurit is the top line product in BASF's paint systems,VERY good paint.They also have the best colormatch IMHO.Their paint code database goes back to 1937 or so for domestic (North America) carlines. You should be VERY happy with the results:cool:.

442MUCH

08-20-2008, 08:39 PM

Yeah, I looked it up on the net and saw that it is a pretty good paint system. The universe is unfolding as it should. :D Thanks guys. I'm going to wait until Saturday and then get more Pix.

442MUCH

08-22-2008, 07:53 PM

Here's an update. Not much done but the work on the rust area is moving along (albiet slowly). So what is the bronze I see on the quarter?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4131.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4132.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4133.jpg

442MUCH

08-22-2008, 07:55 PM

Pass. quarter is in pretty good shape.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4134.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4136.jpg

More to come......

ragz442

08-22-2008, 09:31 PM

So what is the bronze I see on the quarter?

Ken, I believe that's weld-thru primer. Looks like it's coming along nicely. Around here it's very hard to find anyone to do rust repair, and when you do they don't give any warranty. Everyone has their own way of doing it, as long as it holds up and doesn't pop back out is all that matters. After it's done I would seal up the back side of the wheel well lip real good. Hopefully [I'm sure he will] fit the wheel well trim before prime/paint.

442MUCH

08-22-2008, 09:52 PM

Ken, I believe that's weld-thru primer. Looks like it's coming along nicely. Around here it's very hard to find anyone to do rust repair, and when you do they don't give any warranty. Everyone has their own way of doing it, as long as it holds up and doesn't pop back out is all that matters. After it's done I would seal up the back side of the wheel well lip real good. Hopefully [I'm sure he will] fit the wheel well trim before prime/paint.

Thanks Todd. I saw that Bruce (the shop owner) is a classic car guy. He had his 1964 Pontiac Acadian at the shop. In Canada, The Acadian was Pontiac's answer to the Chevy II. I'll go back next Friday (or Saturday) to check out the progress. Hopefully there will be more of a difference from its current condition.

jds1976cutlassS

08-26-2008, 01:16 AM

The "bronze" is a copper based weld through and anticorrosion primer.Its suppost to be better than the old zinc based weld through primers.Alot of guys(me included) will spray the work area down with it when the inner structure is done and before the outer goes on.Its alot heavier and durable that etch prime(and it doesnt burn when welding:D).That looks like nice work he's doing,the structure welds look good.Make sure they spray in some anticorrosion compound(wax based,with the wand,they'll know what i'm talking about)when they're done welding,I'm sure they use it but just makeing sure.

442MUCH

08-26-2008, 02:19 AM

Thanks Jerrad. You're really making me feel good about the work. :D This is my baby afterall and it is shocking to see what they've done to her. I'll keep checking in with the shop on Fridays and snap more work in progress. :)

Firethorne77

08-26-2008, 07:27 AM

Its like pacing up and down the hall way while a loved one is in surgery for not just days, weeks or months ! LOL..
Great documentation of photos of the work Ken. I would ask about the potential of overspray in some of the area's of the chasis and the exhaust. if they intend to cover that up, clean it etc while the car is undergoing the work. Looking good in the progress dept.

Julian Hilton

08-26-2008, 08:29 AM

Tell me about your hood.. how did you get the ram air scoops on it? Fiberglass? etc.. thanks Julian

442MUCH

08-26-2008, 08:52 AM

Tell me about your hood.. how did you get the ram air scoops on it? Fiberglass? etc.. thanks Julian

Check this out.

http://www.vfnfiberglass.com/site.htm A few of us around here are using them. :)

76HOProposal

08-26-2008, 06:24 PM

Ken,

Did they find that the quarter window sealant changed in structure over the years? (gone to more like clay) And did they find any corrosion at the bottom edge of the window?

It is amazing what shops charge and get for a complete these days. It's finding one that can give you the quality you expect for that money.

Like Jerrad stated, it looks good from what you have shown to me.

442MUCH

08-26-2008, 06:28 PM

Ken,

Did they find that the quarter window sealant changed in structure over the years? (gone to more like clay) And did they find any corrosion at the window at the bottom edge?

Hi Bob,

No. There were no other rust issues except where noted. Every other spot on the car was rust free, thank goodness. :)

texxas8902

08-26-2008, 07:02 PM

Bob, I recently resealed my quarter windows and found the original sealant more like dried play doh. It still had the string that ran through the sealer imbedded in the chunks when I pulled it out. Luckily no rust in my lower inner window area either even though one leaked slightly.

76HOProposal

08-26-2008, 07:10 PM

Bob, I recently resealed my quarter windows and found the original sealant more like dried play doh. It still had the string that ran through the sealer embedded in the chunks when I pulled it out. Luckily no rust in my lower inner window area either even though one leaked slightly.

Yeah that's the factory stuff that seems to almost have a canvas or cloth strip in it. My 68 Hurst Olds had it front and rear still. I've never seen anything like it in the aftermarket.

I've spoke to a few guys that used to work at Fisher Body. The say in their opinion it still is the best stuff for working with, and leaving a straight clean edge.

442MUCH

08-29-2008, 08:22 PM

Well it's moving along...slowly, but it's moving. Took these pics today because wasn't sure if they'd be open over the long weekend.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4162.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4163.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4165.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4166.jpg

442MUCH

08-29-2008, 08:25 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4167.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4168.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4169.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4170.jpg

442MUCH

08-29-2008, 08:27 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4171.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4172.jpg

Well that's it for this week. Hopfully it will be in primer when I see it next time.

jds1976cutlassS

08-31-2008, 12:08 AM

Nice.Thats looks like short strand fiberglass filler over the repair on the LT quarter.Thats good stuff,I use it over all of my welded repairs (seals out moisture and durable).I see they got the header off of the floor too:).I wonder what he was doing with the torch? Anyway,it looks good but I doubt it'll be in primer by Fri,he's got alot of work left:( but dont worry-looks like hes doing a great job!

442MUCH

08-31-2008, 04:52 AM

Jerrad,

Thanks for updating me. It sure is nice to hear a professional opinion. I thought that after all that good work, why would he slap on all that Bondo. Im glad to hear that it's fiberglass and that's what the good bodymen use. Bruce must be right when he said that the guy was good at what he does. I can wait, knowing that this is excellent prep work. Thanks again for your comments.:)

jds1976cutlassS

08-31-2008, 11:53 PM

Hey,no problem Ken I'm just saying it like I see it.I've seen enough people in the last 20 years with that"omigod!what did you do to my CAR??!!"look on their face that I thought a few encourageing words from an "expert" might help:D.

442MUCH

09-05-2008, 08:24 PM

OK, went to see the car today. Bruce said that they would be starting the prep work on Monday. That "stuff" on the car is an aluminum compound of some sort. Anyway, we're getting close. I noticed that they removed my original weatherstipping. I hope there are no issues with reassembly. The pictures below were taken at lunch time today.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4174.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4175.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4176.jpg

442MUCH

09-05-2008, 08:25 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4178.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4179.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4180.jpg

More next week......:)

jds1976cutlassS

09-06-2008, 12:10 AM

The "aluminum" compund would be "all metal",an aluminum reinforced filler that works well.I had some on my '66 Chevelle that I applied 20 years ago and its still on there today(it didnt even crack when I rolled it:eek:).Looks like some good glazeing filler on the doors,he'll sand most of that off and make the doors arrow straight.Its better to glaze the whole area than to try to do all of the little dings by themselves.Hes moveing right along and it looks good.Did they take all of the weatherstripping out?Keep us posted,cant wait to see it in primer.

442MUCH

09-06-2008, 02:35 AM

ragz442

09-07-2008, 12:22 AM

Looking good Ken!

jds1976cutlassS

09-08-2008, 10:42 PM

The weatherstripping is off the doors. I didn't check the trunk. Sounds like the car will be in primer next time I see it. We're getting close.:D

They must be repainting the door jambs? No reason to take them off otherwise.I really wish someone there would put some tape on the glass edges,that REALLY bothers me.One little slip and opps! 80 grit scratches in glass does not polish out.Looking good so far!!:D

442MUCH

09-09-2008, 02:10 AM

They must be repainting the door jambs? No reason to take them off otherwise.I really wish someone there would put some tape on the glass edges,that REALLY bothers me.One little slip and opps! 80 grit scratches in glass does not polish out.Looking good so far!!:D

Jerrad,

I'll ask them about the glass on Friday and see what they say. Thanks for your concern. I'll have to see if they can also cover the small "Transport Canada" sticker on the driver side door jam so it can be saved. Any imported car will have that sticker to show that it was passed by Transport Canada and conforms to 1976 Canadian regulations. I'll post more pictures on Friday.

442MUCH

09-12-2008, 09:45 PM

OK, I realize that this might be boring for some of you, (it's taking longer than I thought)! Went to the shop today and Bruce was out for lunch. The receptionist knows me by now and said that the guy working on my car didn't show up to work and Bruce had been trying to call him all week.:rolleyes: She said that I could go back if I wanted and take pictures, so I did. I'll call Bruce on Monday to see what's going on.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4191.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4182.jpg

Around the rear window. I'll ask Bruce to add tape to the glass, but it's possible all the sanding is done??

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4185.jpg

442MUCH

09-12-2008, 09:49 PM

No weatherstripping

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4186.jpg

There was no rust on this side, but they did some work here anyway.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4187.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4188.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4190.jpg

Perhaps it would be better if I posted here only when the car is finished as this is going on longer than I'd hoped.

Hurstolds1973

09-12-2008, 10:05 PM

It always seems like it takes longer when its something you love so much! Don't rush it will be done right! Looks like they are doing an awesome job!

442MUCH

09-13-2008, 02:56 AM

You're right Joe. They've had it since July 2. Since I post the the car in its current stages, I was hoping that they'd be a noticable difference from week to week. What worries me is the bodyman has been AWOL again:mad:. They won't fire him as he's good and it's difficult to get people right now. I just hope that I get the car back before the snow starts falling, otherwise it's trailer time.

jds1976cutlassS

09-13-2008, 11:37 PM

Ken,he is SO close to paint its scary.All of the heavy work is done,they just have to take care of the small areas and it looks ready for primer.That sucks that the guy left,there are alot of flakes in the collision industry,one of the reasons I dont like to tell people what I do for a liveing:(.The only reason I can see why they took the weatherstrip off is to get at the moulding that's there.Most of the heavy(80 grit)sanding is done but theres alot more to come,it'd still be a good idea to put some tape on the glass.Oh,and if the guys tools are still there,he'll be back.

76Supreme455

09-14-2008, 02:37 PM

Hey Ken;

It is looking great! Don't stop posting the pics....I am enjoying them as they progress....this way, I know exactly what to expect when my 76 goes in for the same treatment! And buy the way, I love the 65 Acadian Beaumont in that latest shot at the body shop. I have always loved those cars.....would love to have one of them someday. That was a real treat to see the one in the picture. Thanks!:):)

442MUCH

09-18-2008, 01:47 AM

Hey Alan...good eye. I didn't think many Americans knew about these cars. It's a 64 though (not that I would have know without the 1964 license plate on the front bumper).

Unfortunately there will be no update this week as the flakey bodyman has been AWOL again:mad: I'm off next week and I'll have to make another visit to see what they're going to do about it. Oh well, I'll keep you guys posted. Getting for the weekend car show (1183 cars last year) in the Rockies.

442MUCH

09-23-2008, 07:56 PM

UPDATE. The bodyman is still AWOL. I called today and they said that they were putting someone else on the job. I asked if the this was the same guy that was supposed to paint the car. They said "no". They said they had guys that just did painting. We'll see where we are on Saturday.

ragz442

09-23-2008, 09:47 PM

Sorry to hear about your "paint jail" experience Ken. Too bad the guy that started it couldn't keep his sheit together. Back when I did bump/paint for a living, that used to happen alot. Another guy and myself had to finish several all overs that got abandoned. I'd ask the owner to make sure the car is straight for paint [blocked properly]. For the money your paying you should be getting a top notch job. I wouldn't worry about rushing it at this point, just make sure the final results are satisfactory.

442MUCH

09-24-2008, 04:46 AM

Summer cruising is done for me and I still have 1-2 months before the snow usually falls. Now that they've assigned someone else to the job, it makes me feel a little better. I'll check it out on Saturday and see where we are.

Firethorne77

09-24-2008, 08:35 AM

Ken-
I had 3 different body men on my car durring its phases of restoration back in '06-'07.
Just like Todd said, make sure you are happy with the results.
It's the nature of the beast for it to go awry when it comes to restorations, something always does. Keep them pointed in the right direction and all should turn out well.

jds1976cutlassS

09-24-2008, 12:59 PM

Hey Ken-The work is far enough along that a little time spent and it should be ready for primer.I dont know how that shop works but here the painter does th initial prime and block w/180 then re-prime and prep for paint.That sucks about the origional tech,wish I lived a little closer so I could come and help.

442MUCH

09-24-2008, 03:27 PM

Bruce told me that he has guys just for body work and guys just for painting. Not sure if that is a good thing or not. :confused:

jds1976cutlassS

09-25-2008, 12:20 AM

Thats how 99% of the production collision shops are set up now,a good "combination" tech is very rare.It actually works out good in most cases,most guys are either really good at heavy hits,light bodywork and panel replacement OR prep/paint,not both.If a tech has been in a shop for a while,a good owner/manager will have him/her placed where they are the most efficent.I wouldnt worry,sounds like Bruce runs a good shop and they'll get your car done to your satisfaction.

442MUCH

10-11-2008, 03:21 PM

OK. Went to see the car yesterday. The guy was there! Not sure if he was the guy who would periodically leaves or his replacement. Didn't want to ask if he was the "flake" or the "replacement" as he still has the car!

He said that he was going to prep the door jambs and was going to paint the bottom portion of the grill (actually, I told him the bottom portion should be painted). Anyway he told me that the car would be sanded and ready for paint very soon. He also said that I would have the car before the end of the month. I guess we'll see about that. Don't know if there's any noticable change, but here are the latest pictures.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4427.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4428.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4429.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4430.jpg

442MUCH

10-11-2008, 03:22 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4431.jpg

Photo op. He wasn't really working.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4432.jpg

jds1976cutlassS

10-11-2008, 11:10 PM

End of the month doesn't sound unreasonable as long as someone stays with it.I still say it looks good,cant wait to see it in primer(as I'm sure you cant either!!!)

442MUCH

10-12-2008, 01:07 AM

I went there just before lunch so I saw the guys doing the cars and saw this guy (Ringo) working on the car. I told him that it was chosen by Olds in Lansing for the parade and the other guys said "No pressure Ringo". He told me not to worry. He said "It will be better than factory and you'll see the difference when it's done. You will love it when it's finished."

Well I hope he's right. Monday is Thanksgiving so one less work day next week. I'll check in on Friday again next week.

442MUCH

10-17-2008, 09:05 PM

Well, I thought it snowed but there was a noticable change from the week before. Looks like this may be the remnants of sanding. So I suppose primer is next week. Anyway here's the latest....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/n579053146_844791_2010-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/n579053146_844792_2443.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/n579053146_844793_2845.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/n579053146_844794_3250.jpg

442MUCH

10-17-2008, 09:06 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/n579053146_844795_3671.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/n579053146_844798_9044.jpg

RocketRuss

10-17-2008, 09:16 PM

Ken, Looking good so far. Can't wait till I can get some $$ together to get mine in and done. ....NO not doin the "hillbilly" body shop thing either...lol

442MUCH

10-18-2008, 01:04 AM

Question: Should I leave the rear wing off the car or keep it on to off set the ram air hood? :confused:

Hurstolds1973

10-18-2008, 08:45 AM

Ken it looks great ! I can't wait to see it done! As for the rear wing I have always loved the way it looks on your car!

brad442

10-18-2008, 10:27 AM

Keep it on. Len Casillo (The GM designer who designed our cars) looked at my car in Detroit this summer. He talked about all kinds of things they did while these cars were being designed. He LOVED the wing (and the stripe I have on mine) and said, "We should have put those on at the factory". That's a direct quote. The wing definitely adds to the style of the car. I vote keep it...

Revots12

10-18-2008, 10:52 AM

Keep the wing ! Its what makes your car stand out ! !

sumrof75

10-18-2008, 03:26 PM

Do you have an extra deck lid around? If so take it to them and have both shot, one with the wing one without then you could change at a later date if so desired.

ragz442

10-18-2008, 03:39 PM

Do you have an extra deck lid around? If so take it to them and have both shot, one with the wing one without then you could change at a later date if so desired.

Good idea, rustfree deck lids seem to be pretty easy to come by. I'd do the same with the factory hood also. Although I think it looks awesome with the hood and spoiler. Looks like they're on the home stretch Ken, can't wait to see it done.

damaged442

10-18-2008, 11:08 PM

Good idea, rustfree deck lids seem to be pretty easy to come by. I'd do the same with the factory hood also. Although I think it looks awesome with the hood and spoiler. Looks like they're on the home stretch Ken, can't wait to see it done.

I was thinking the exact same thing with them painting the stock hood too. I also vote to keep the spoiler. :D

zodiacblue442

10-18-2008, 11:31 PM

Question: Should I leave the rear wing off the car or keep it on to off set the ram air hood? :confused:

My vote is keep it! :D Also thanks a bunch for the RCMP literature you sent me in the mail. :)

jds1976cutlassS

10-19-2008, 02:22 AM

"Thats no moon,its a space station!" Primer looks good(or is it featherfill? I'll bet primer) and it looks like the blocking party has begun. I dont see alot of cutthroughs so it must be comeing out straight. Looks good from what I can see. Oh,and I vote for the spoiler:cool::D

442MUCH

10-19-2008, 05:56 AM

Gary - the RCMP were recruiting at a car show and I thought I'd grab a magnet and some literature for Donutrun just for the fun of it. I thought RCMP literature, magnut and sticker would be unique in the US, just like the car.

Brad - if the wing is good enough for the designer, well that's good enough for me. I believe I met Len in Lansing at the 100th. He told me he designed this body style and told me that they made 500,000 rear bumpers before they realized that the design would hold water and promote rust. He told me this because he had asked if my bumper was original and I said yes.

Thanks guys...the spoiler stays and I do have an extra rust free trunk lid Tony.:)

Jerrad - the "stuff" on the car seemed like powder. And I noticed a sanding block on the roof of the car. What's "featherfill" and what are "cutthroughs". I assume that a few cutthroughs as opposed to a lot of cutthorughs is a good thing.

jds1976cutlassS

10-19-2008, 10:59 AM

Jerrad - the "stuff" on the car seemed like powder. And I noticed a sanding block on the roof of the car. What's "featherfill" and what are "cutthroughs". I assume that a few cutthroughs as opposed to a lot of cutthorughs is a good thing.

The powder on the car is primer that has been sanded off.See the panels that seem to have black overspray on them?Thats guidecoat,helps the person blocking the car "see"what he's doing.The high spots will have the guidecoat sanded off first,leaveing the low spots with the guidecoat still there.The areas he has sanded look uniform.A "cutthrough" is where the person blocking cut through the primer to metal or filler trying to get the panel straight.Featherfill is a sprayable polyester bodyfiller that some guys will use to make a car real straight,think of it like a real heavy coat of primer.I really dont think thats what is on there but its hard to tell from here. And yes-a few cutthroughs is better than alot-alot just means that it'll have to be re-primed to get it straight.:cool:

76Supreme455

10-19-2008, 12:00 PM

Hey Ken;

I know I am late chiming in on this one, been out of town, but I agree about keeping the spoiler and hood scoops, but I would also do the stock hood and decklid as well. Your car is looking awesome and I just can't wait to see the finished product! :D

Firethorne77

10-19-2008, 12:30 PM

Looks like great progress. Seems to me Ken, you'll have her back in the garage before the first flakes fly hopefully.

I'd suggest not covering the car when its done as to let that pretty blue paint breathe properly. You'll hear people tell you that in the industry who say that as well.
I was instructed by more than a few professionals to give it 3 months before I covered it. Then it was ok. I have heard that I should never cover it as it was not a "baked on" paint job like the factory paint jobs are done. Reason being that the paint needs to breathe and covering it makes the body work set in. My response was there was not a lot of filler as every panel was done! So only time will tell. Every paint job has a skim of filler here and there, you just can not get around that.

Keep the spoiler. Just as the designer stated. Get the spare factory hood and trunk lid sprayed the same exact time they do the car. Store them aside.

Looks like you will have fun this winter detailing her up after spending months inside the body shop.
I bet you cant wait to fire her up and see her all gleaming and shiny. :cool:

442MUCH

10-19-2008, 11:22 PM

Jerrad - thanks for the explanation. These guys turned a paint job into a mini-resto. I appreciate the "play by play".

I have ordered new weatherstripping for the roof (around the door glass and the trunk). Weather here has been holding up so hopefully they'll get it done before the snow (usually end of November but last year was late December)

Alan - I plan to have the stock decklid and original hood redone. I'm also going to order a replacement set of decal and masks because I anticipate that the next time she'll need a paint job will be in another 20 years (or my son Alexander can do it when the car is his).

Pete - I just bought a new (NASCAR) cover but had planned to use it in the spring for the reasons stated. I also plan to add the 3M invisible paint protection film to the header panel. I'll wait until Spring to give the paint time to cure. Then the pin stripes will go back on too.

Firethorne77

10-20-2008, 09:53 PM

Nascar cover? hmmmmmm gets me thinking?
Is it a specific driver or is it just a type of cover?

3M is a good idea, just wonder about discoloration with age

77-442

10-20-2008, 11:17 PM

442MUCH

10-21-2008, 01:13 AM

Nascar cover? hmmmmmm gets me thinking?
Is it a specific driver or is it just a type of cover?

3M is a good idea, just wonder about discoloration with age

No specific driver. Canadian Tire sells them. Not sure if you know about Canadian Tire stores. With 3M, they guarantee that it will never fade or yellow.

http://goshopping.thestar.com/shop/product--catId_1001359__locale_en__catCrumbIds_1001194-1001358-1001359__productId_5025347.html

442MUCH

10-21-2008, 01:17 AM

Ken,

It looks like the car will be a real beauty when finished. I noticed that none of the fenderwells or frame rails/undercarriage were masked off. It would probably be a good idea to have them tape and paper them off so you don't have a ton of catalyzed primer and paint on them.

Jim

Jim - I'll have to check that out. I have painted the inner fender well in the past. But I'll ask and see what they say. Thanks.

442MUCH

11-02-2008, 11:16 PM

No change on October 24th or 31st. Looks like the guy is AWOL again.:mad: The car has been primered twice and the blocking has been done. Just some small pieces and trim and she's ready for paint or so I'm told. Will update when I see a change from the last pictures.

Firethorne77

11-03-2008, 02:30 PM

Ken-
Ask them if an enclosed car transport back to your home is included with the full body service on the 442?
I can most certainly say that "snow" is a real dirty four letter word come the end of the month.
You know why I say that? Real simple: Dec 30th 2006 my car was left outside at the body shop to be picked up. It was snowing that day no less.
But it was a hell of a birthday present!
Here she is two miles from just being painted getting some Ultra 94!
I hope they get the car done for you before the weather gets too bad.

Team11HurstOlds

11-03-2008, 03:44 PM

Your car looks great and shows great dedication. I had my Pro touring Olds painted last year for $9,000 but I did all the dismantling myself. I still haven't finished putting it all back together because I'm waiting on the frame which I had boxed and powdercoated. Your car is going to be a show winner when it's done. Congrats!

442MUCH

11-03-2008, 10:48 PM

Thanks guys. The good news is that so far it's a mild fall. Today was 50F and no snow in sight...I hope I didn't jinx it. Anyway, I will visit the shop on Friday, like every Friday and see what's happening. Bruce the owner has told me he is at this guys mercy as he is having trouble finding someone to replace him. He say's he an excellent bodyman but not that reliable.

The ecomomy here is still pretty strong and labour shortages are a problem, so people are hard to come by. I'll see if I can get Bruce paint my original hood and trunk lid for the trouble caused.

442MUCH

11-07-2008, 09:14 PM

OK. I didn't post last week because the bodyguy had not shown up the entire week. This week in was in for two days but it looks like he did a lot in that time. He wasn't in today but I was told they will be masking the car for paint pretty soon. Don't know if they are just stalling at this point. Took quite a few shots this time. I dropped off new weatherstripping for the doors and trunk. I see that they've removed the door panels. Here's the latest...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4451.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4452.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4453.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4454.jpg

442MUCH

11-07-2008, 09:15 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4455.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4456.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4457.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4458.jpg

442MUCH

11-07-2008, 09:17 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4459.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4461.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4462.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4463.jpg

442MUCH

11-07-2008, 09:18 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4465.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4466.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4467.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4468.jpg

ragz442

11-07-2008, 09:26 PM

Looking good Ken! The panel gaps look great, that's going to be 1 sweeeeet ride!

442MUCH

11-07-2008, 10:51 PM

She's coming along, slowly but surely. If they start masking next week it won't be too long. So far the weather is warmer than normal so hopefully it lasts otherwise it's trailer time (and this car has never been on a trailer)! Anyway, I'm going to call Bruce and ask him to let me know as soon as it goes into the paint bay.

Paint Bay

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4440.jpg

jds1976cutlassS

11-07-2008, 11:00 PM

Hey Ken- They're real close to paint but they should go around it again with some 600 wet it would make a lot nicer job(i'll bet thats their plan).I'm sure you've heard of the old saying"a paint job is only as good as its prep work".You are SOOOOOO close and it looks great,they really did a good job.Make sure you get me some pics of the car in the booth.

442MUCH

11-07-2008, 11:21 PM

Jerrad, As I recall Bruce did say that there was some sanding and then masking to do. Maybe you're right and they plan to do the 600 wet. I'll ask about that and make sure. The paint booth is on the other side of the wall (from the driver's side). I'm glad you agree that they are close to paint. I did notice a picture of an OAI hood and the hood painting instructions that Sledhead2 (Dave) sent me, on the front seat. Maybe I'll have it before the end of the month (before my plate expires). :)

jds1976cutlassS

11-07-2008, 11:27 PM

I'll bet you have it back by Dec. 1:cool:That should give them plenty of time.

442MUCH

11-08-2008, 12:01 AM

I'll bet you have it back by Dec. 1:cool:That should give them plenty of time.

Thanks :D

442MUCH

11-14-2008, 01:30 PM

Sorry, no update this week. Just phoned the shop and the guy wasn't in this week.:( So no change. Maybe next week?:rolleyes:

442MUCH

11-21-2008, 09:55 PM

Sorry, no update this week. Visited the shop and the guy wasn't in this week. :mad: They don't know where he is. I told Bruce, that it was OK as I look forward to getting free winter storage. I don't think he liked that comment. He said he's going to put his foreman on the job to finish it off. So no change this week. Maybe next week? Gee, I hope the bodyman's in when I finally pick up the car. One of the main foundations of our Charter of Rights and Freedoms is Freedom of Speech and I plan to excercise that right:D

442MUCH

12-13-2008, 10:43 PM

Bruce (the owner of the shop), said the car will be in the paint bay week of the 15th. I called yesterday as asked if it was worth coming in to see it and he said "no, but if you come in on Saturday you'll see a difference." I told him I couldn't come in today and he said then the next time you come in you'll see a difference." He said they plan on painting the car just before or during the Christmas break, which is fine, as I'm off during the break. I've already priced out a flat deck tow truck as there is snow on the ground and today was -26C. I'm going in next Thursday at lunch to see it. So hopefully it will be masked and in the paint bay.

ragz442

12-13-2008, 11:02 PM

Cool, can't wait to see it finished. Going to be some Christmas present for ya!

442MUCH

12-13-2008, 11:28 PM

ragz442

12-14-2008, 01:41 PM

Todd, since I made the appointment to get it painted, it would have been a great Easter present, Victoria Day acquisition (May 19) Canada Day celebration (July 1), Heritage Day prize (August 4), Labour Day gift (Sept 1), Thanksgiving Day offering (Oct 14) or a Remembrance Day moment (Nov 11). However I will settle for a Christmas present before a New Year's celebration. :D

Ken, it's too bad you got jacked around like you did. It will all be worth it as long as the final product meets your expectations.

Back when I did bump and paint work for a living [mid 80's] it wouldn't be unusual for a job like yours to take several months from start to finish. We did these in between regular insurance jobs and we didn't make alot of money off them [we weren't getting 10k though either]. I worked in a restoration shop that did some nice jobs, but you still had to make a weekly pay check to pay the bills.

The only difference though, I guess, is the customer was not mis-led on a completion date.

jds1976cutlassS

12-14-2008, 06:16 PM

I'm going in next Thursday at lunch to see it. So hopefully it will be masked and in the paint bay.

Dont forget to take some pics for me!I think that it SUCKS that they have put this off this long,I could have hitchhiked up there,had the car done and hitchhiked home by now.If Bruce was any kind of shop owner he should have found a way to get it done.

442MUCH

12-14-2008, 06:25 PM

Todd, they told me they have no cars to do other than mine 'till the new year. So it seems that they were doing mine in their spare time.

442MUCH

12-14-2008, 06:26 PM

Dont forget to take some pics for me!I think that it SUCKS that they have put this off this long,I could have hitchhiked up there,had the car done and hitchhiked home by now.If Bruce was any kind of shop owner he should have found a way to get it done.

I'll make sure that I have pictures. You're right. As I told Todd, it looks like they were doing the car in their spare time. He'll hear about it.

Firethorne77

12-14-2008, 08:09 PM

Ken-
Make sure the day you take the car from them is sunny and dry on that flatbed ride home. :)

442MUCH

12-15-2008, 01:04 AM

Ken-
Make sure the day you take the car from them is sunny and dry on that flatbed ride home. :)

Today was sunny and dry.......and -30C (-37C with wind chill). That's -22F and with windchill -35F.

If any of you hear me complain about the heat this summer, remind me of this post.:)

442MUCH

12-18-2008, 08:49 PM

Well, they painted the door jams and the lower portion. I was told that it's moving into the paint bay next week for 3-4 days. From that I presume that it will be ready to come home the week of the 29th. I won't hold my breath, but at this point they can keep it until Spring for all it matters.

They painted the underside of the hood. The top side has a hard shell and almost feels like enamel paint. Anyway, it's moving along. Here's the latest as of noon today.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4496.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4488.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4489.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4491.jpg

442MUCH

12-18-2008, 08:50 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4492.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4493.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4494.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4486.jpg

Firethorne77

12-18-2008, 09:12 PM

ragz442

12-18-2008, 09:44 PM

geowindow6768

12-18-2008, 10:09 PM

442MUCH

12-18-2008, 10:56 PM

I can understand your exasperation. BUT... as many delays, nick picking small stuff you may pick out( like the overspray on your white interior trim), she will come out fantastic.
Just have to roll with it, take your time with her when you get her home. Lots of detailing and cleaning should make her look beautiful.

Pete, it does look like they sprayed the trim, however I checked that out closely when I was there and didn't see anything. I wonder if it is a reflection of he paint? Anyway, if it is paint I'd rather have that than them pulling the trim off and have it snap or crumble. I don't really like people taking stuff off the car or doing stuff to it (now I'll really be anal). But now, they can just call me when she's done. I'm off after tomorrow until the 5th.:D

442MUCH

12-18-2008, 10:59 PM

The color looks good. Not to nitpick Ken, but for 10k they should have pulled those w/strips/door bumpers off before paint. I would have pulled the seats and alot of that side interior trim [at least] also, I probably wouldn't have painted the door stikers either. That's just small detail stuff really. As long as the body is straight, 442#'s and stripes look right and the paint is slick it'll be sweet. You can fine tune that other stuff in later if need be. I hope it comes out nice after all you've delt with.

Todd I appreciate your comments. You have more experience than I do with this sort of thing. I did notice that the body was like glass when I touched it. It was so smooth. The bumpers I can replace easily if I need to and as for the strikers, I think they were painted from the job 21 years ago as I saw that they were painted and it didn't raise any flags. Looks like they did match the paint pretty good though. I'll keep you guys updated.

442MUCH

12-18-2008, 11:05 PM

Ken, keep that car there as long as possible and inspect it in the shop as often as possible. I made the mistake of taking my Vista Cruiser back the week after it was painted (1st week of Jan. '98) and it sat in the garage waiting for warmer weather and that's when I found all the 'mistakes'. Hopefully they are going to paint your spare parts at the same time for a nominal fee.
My neighbour owns a flatdeck and he dropped off another parts car for me - cheap; just in case you're interested.
By the way I still would like to drop by sometime for a visit. I'll give you a call.

We got back last Sat. from Mexico. We left there at 30 C and landed at the airport in sandals and shorts at -30 C.
Stupid weather.
George

George, isn't the weather crazy? The coldest December in Alberta history right after the hottest July in history. It seems like everyone I know is either in, just got back from or going to Mexico. A guy I work with (he's Mexican) went there in the Spring and stayed at a resort that the staff call the "Royal Canadian". It's called something like Royale Camino or something similar.

Looks like I may have the car for our summer show in Olds this year...at least I hope. Bundle up this weekend, an Arctic front is coming.

PS. What's your neighbour charge?

MrRocket

12-19-2008, 08:08 PM

Wow! Nice car and congrats on getting the work done...even if it's taking forever. The work looks good to my untrained eye. All the pics are a nice "portfolio" of all that was done, thanks for sharing it with us. It took me 45 minutes to read it since I hadn't seen any of it yet. Very cool.

jds1976cutlassS

12-20-2008, 12:22 AM

The color looks good. Not to nitpick Ken, but for 10k they should have pulled those w/strips/door bumpers off before paint. I would have pulled the seats and alot of that side interior trim [at least] also, I probably wouldn't have painted the door stikers either. That's just small detail stuff really.

Or the door latch mech.,but thats all stuff that can be cleaned up easily.Its possable that they REALLY want that car done and want you to have it back ASAP.I have never really understood why some shops drag their asses on jobs like this,the other tech in our shop just got done with a Pontiac G8 GT that was hit in the front HARD,R and I engine,2 new rails,engine cradle,ect.A HUGE job,$22,000.00 worth of damage and it looks like new.What i'm getting at is he stuck with it to get it done,it wasnt all he worked on but there was steady progress.Ken,I still think that they are doing a good job on your car,Hope you get some pics of it in the booth for me.

442MUCH

12-21-2008, 02:41 AM

They said that the small trim was being done and that the car would be going into the paint bay for 3-4 days. I asked a friend who has painted cars before and I asked him how long it takes for paint to cure. He said "a week or less". I said that I'd heard that it took months. He said that in the old days it could take months but with todays paints, curing is done by chemical reaction not air, so it would be done in a week or less.

I figure CAA (Canadian version of AAA) will tow the car on a flat deck. That's the best way since I am a member. I'll sign up for the premium service (160 kms or 100 miles free towing) and that should cover it. At this point I don't expect the car until January 2009 but that's OK as it would just sit in the garage anyway.

Just got back from a friend's garage party. He has 40 cars in his garage and a ton of old signs. He invites all the "Car guys and gals" every year. Everybody brings something (food and drink) and we all have a great time. Now I'm getting anxious for the car to be home after looking at all the other cars.

442MUCH

12-21-2008, 04:24 AM

442MUCH

01-16-2009, 08:09 PM

Well it's the new year, but with the weather the way it is, I'm in no hurry to bring my 442 home just yet. Apparently they plan to paint the disassembled parts first, then paint the car and then install them. . It was moved and is fifth in line to the paint booth. Anyway here is what it was like today

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4521.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4522.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4523.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4524.jpg

442MUCH

01-16-2009, 08:11 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4525.jpg

They painted underneath as I asked

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4528.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4526.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4533.jpg

442MUCH

01-16-2009, 08:12 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4534.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4536.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4537.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4538.jpg

MichiganMuscle77

01-17-2009, 03:46 PM

I hope you don't mind me asking this... heck you might have already answered it anyway...

But what is it costing you, grand total, to have the car stripped, repaired and repainted?

My car has an OK paint job. No rust showing through or anything like that... but I know for certain that whoever did the paint job used bondo and generally did a terrible job prepping the car for paint. No dents were pulled, there was a lot of over sanding and uneven spots on the car... Long story short, it needs to be stripped down and completely redone. Rust repaired, low spots fixed, etc.

I just have no idea if I'll ever be able to afford it.

442MUCH

01-17-2009, 04:49 PM

$10,000. Canadian, which today is about $8,000 US. or about $1000 a month by the way it's going :-)

HURSTOLDS_75

01-17-2009, 05:41 PM

Is there anyone that might know the spots that they sometimes place the build sheet in my 1975 w-30 hurstolds.

HURSTOLDS_75

01-17-2009, 05:42 PM

Is there anyone that might know the spots that they sometimes place the build sheet in my 1975 w-30 hurstolds.

442MUCH

01-17-2009, 06:14 PM

You should make this its own thread rather than posting everywhere. I answered you in the non-auto section under Happy Birthday.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/offtopicfreeway-1.gif

jds1976cutlassS

01-17-2009, 06:20 PM

Hey Ken,the car looks good.The prep work looks good(from what I can see) and the primer has a slight "sheen"meaning that it was final sanded with 400-600,that'll let the sealer(or base) lay down nice and smooth.The "cut in"paint work looks nice and clean.:cool:

442MUCH

01-17-2009, 06:40 PM

Hey Jerrad. Thanks for explaining that. The hood has a white "shell" on it. :confused: I was wondering why it looked like they painted the parts of the car white. Well that sounds encouraging. The car was not in the same building as before. Now, it was in the same building that houses the paint bay. If what I say was a line up for the paint bay, then my car was in the 5th spot. We'll we're moving in the right direction.:rolleyes: Thanks for chiming in. :D

oldsmeister

03-11-2009, 07:12 AM

Is the car still in the paint booth? The build up was quite impressive. I'm looking forward to seeing the final result.

Workingspy

03-11-2009, 10:32 AM

Do you have a ETA for the paint job, I bet your getting a but edgey as spring creeps near. I know how things can just drag out, actually all my stuff dragged out for the better and gave me free storage most of the time.

Cheers,
Evan

442MUCH

03-14-2009, 03:16 AM

The car has had a few small things done to it. The mirrors and small trim items are primered and ready to paint. They are doing the car when they have time. I was going to get in there and demand that it get done, but then we got an Arctic front and temps went to -40 and we got a ton of snow, so I backed off.

The weather is getting better (it was 11C today or 52F). Everything is starting to melt. If I wait a few more weeks I may be able to drive it home. I brought my factory hood in today for them to paint, in case I want to go back to original at some point. The car is in a heated, dry body shop, so until the weather clears up, I'm happy to leave it there for now. The car looks like its ready for paint and assembly. If they started today, they could finish it in a week. But I'll wait until it's good for me to take the car out. I'll update this thread as soon as I have something interesting to add.

Hurstolds1973

03-14-2009, 08:52 PM

Can't wait to see it done!

442MUCH

04-04-2009, 03:49 PM

Got the call on Thursday asking me to come in on Friday and make sure the colour they have picked out is what I want. I went in yesterday and brought my paint chip booklet. The colour they had picked out is an exact factory match, even down to the small metallic chips.

Then I was introduced to the painter. He came over and told me of his plan of attack. They are using a water based paint. The primer it self looks like white paint with accents in certain places. It feels like glass to the touch.

I told the painter about where the stripe should be and how to place the decal...I told him to go to the Stencils and Stripes Unlimited website as my car is used as an example for the trunk lid decal. To make sure, I sent a picture of proper placement later that day.

He was dressed in street clothes so I had his full attention. He must do hundreds of cars a year but seemed very interested in what I had to say and even clairified what I wanted done. It seemed like I was talking to a waiter taking a food order, rather than a fellow who was going to paint my car.

They had the original hood stripped and ready for paint and confirmed the pictures and OAI hood stipe application and location from the schematics that Dave (sledhead2) had sent me. The way they were talking, it seemed that they had done this before although they didn't say.

The painter said it would take most of the day to mask the car and paint. Then they'd let it dry for a day or two and then remask for the silver colour.

Bruce said that now that the snow is melting I might be able to drive the car home. They hadn't done anything (except for small items) in the last 6 weeks as we were getting snow storms in March. But now, all roads here are clear of snow but they are wet because although snow has mented on the roads, it is still meltling on the grass and boulevard medians.

Although I told Bruce I need the car by April 15, I might call him and let him have it until the end of the month.

No pictures this time as nothing has really changed since the last set. Bruce said that if they start painting and I can't come in, he'd take some digital shots for me. It's getting close! :D

geowindow6768

04-04-2009, 08:03 PM

442MUCH

04-04-2009, 10:35 PM

It seems like just a couple of weeks went by since we talked about how to get it back to your place. Now you've had heated storage for this horribly frigid winter. Don't rush it for the show, get it finished right. You have all summer to show the car.

You're right. That's why I haven't been pressing too much. Still, there are stones on the road, I may still get CAA to take it home for me. I top up to the premium membership. Are you going to the show this year?

ragz442

04-04-2009, 10:45 PM

442MUCH

04-04-2009, 11:25 PM

Hope it turns out slick Ken, looking forward to seeing it finished. Do you think you'll ever make another Homecoming? I'd love to see your car in person. Maybe 2011, it'll be it's 35th birthday :D. I'm hoping to have mine done by then :o.

Homecoming is possible as I do love cross country trips. When, I don't know. However if you and your wife ever decide to visit the Canadian Rockies.....:D

ragz442

04-05-2009, 01:36 PM

However if you and your wife ever decide to visit the Canadian Rockies.....:D

That would be awesome, one can always dream............

jds1976cutlassS

04-05-2009, 02:46 PM

geowindow6768

04-10-2009, 04:09 PM

Ken, I was so looking forward to go to the show this year but there's another wedding I have to go to that day. :(
This is going to be the most expensive year:eek: for attending weddings; went to one in Mexico, going to one in Windsor in May and then Winnipeg in June and then the one on the day of the show which thankfully is just south of Sherwood Park.
I am looking forward to seeing your car this year though. You'll have to have a little homecoming party when you finally get it back.:)
George

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 02:21 PM

Got a call from Bruce the owner this morning. He asked if I wanted to see the car in the paint booth. Well Hell yeah! Headed over, here are the latest pictures.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4639.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4640.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4641.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4642.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 02:22 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4643.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4645.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4646.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4647.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 02:24 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4648.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4649.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4650.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4651.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 02:25 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4652.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4653.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4654.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4655.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 02:27 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4656.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4657.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4658.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4659.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 02:28 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4660.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4661.jpg

:D

damaged442

04-18-2009, 05:44 PM

Finally!!! Woohoo!!! :D:D:D (for some reason I can't type in caps, but believe me, I'm excited for ya!!) It's about time!!!

Firethorne77

04-18-2009, 05:57 PM

How sweet to see the paint actually getting laid down!

Its been how many months? Summer time in a few weeks, she will be home and enjoying it!

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 08:35 PM

Ok. So I went home and a few hours later Bruce called me and said the painter (Brad) wanted to ask me a couple of questions about the stripe application. So I went over and he let me hang around the paint booth once I answered his questions.

He applied the stripes and masked the car off and painted it silver (2 coats). The blue paint had 4 coats. Then he peeled everything off and got the clear. The pictures here show only one coat. Brad said he will apply at least one more and possibly more, depending how it looks. Now he says he has to paint the individual parts and then someone will assemble the car. Here is what went on in the last few hours.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4662.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4667.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4668.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4673.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 08:36 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4674.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4675.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4677.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4679.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 08:37 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4683.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4687.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4688.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4689.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 08:39 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4698.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4701.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4710.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4715.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 08:40 PM

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4716.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4717.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4721.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4724.jpg

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 08:41 PM

Now the clear coat

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4729.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4733.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4735.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4737.jpg

Hurstolds1973

04-18-2009, 08:46 PM

OMG! Nice KEN

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 08:52 PM

OMG! Nice KEN

Thanks Joe...starting to get excited. :D

ragz442

04-18-2009, 08:53 PM

Looking great Ken! It's gotta feel good to see color on it, can't wait to see it cleared. Your going to have 1 sharp '76 there!

Edit: that was a short wait................looks fantastic!

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 09:07 PM

Looking great Ken! It's gotta feel good to see color on it, can't wait to see it cleared. Your going to have 1 sharp '76 there!

Edit: that was a short wait................looks fantastic!

Thanks Todd. I told them I'll come by on May 2 to pick it up. That'll give them time to paint the mirrors, tail lights etc. and reassemble the car...I hope. :)

ragz442

04-18-2009, 10:25 PM

From where I'm sitting, it needs to be on the cover of Hemmings Muscle Machines!

442MUCH

04-18-2009, 10:45 PM

From where I'm sitting, it needs to be on the cover of Hemmings Muscle Machines!

It's not even put together yet, but thanks. :D They told me that with paint jobs they usually clean the interior and shampoo the rugs. That'll be a bonus.

Brad the painter is also working on a '69 Camaro for a friend and loves the older cars. He races in his spare time.

Apparently, they are not using water based paint. Brad said he doesn't like water based paint for two tone cars. So, things are moving along. Didn't expect the paint to jump out like that with only one coat. Can't wait to see it assembled with 2-3 coats.:D

brad442

04-19-2009, 09:48 AM

Hey Ken,

Car is looking good! I have one question, did he "square off" the corners on the stripes? It looks somewhat square down behind the passenger side rear wheel. Maybe it s just the pic?

ragz442

04-19-2009, 11:56 AM

Hey Ken,

Car is looking good! I have one question, did he "square off" the corners on the stripes? It looks somewhat square down behind the passenger side rear wheel. Maybe it s just the pic?

I caught that also on the previous page when it was still in base, but didn't have the heart to mention it, seeing it was already painted. Looks sorta like the way the side stripes are done on the 70-72's. I don't think it's going to be a big deal and it may not even be noticable. What I don't get is he took the time to round off the hood stripes though?

This is kinda nit-picking Ken. It appears the paint layed down nice and it looks beautiful!

76Supreme455

04-19-2009, 01:12 PM

Ken, that just looks wonderful. I know you must be getting so excited. I know I would be. Can't wait to see it all put back together. Yes, I think it should be on a magazine cover as well! So cool!:cool:

442MUCH

04-19-2009, 01:51 PM

Hi guys, thanks for the comments. The painter (Brad) called me in to discuss the stripe layout. He had one side done. The car had rounded edges before, but I wasn,t sure how they were originally. When I saw the 1976 red/white 442 with 18,000 miles I looked over the striping pretty good and found that the striping on that car was different than mine.

I told Brad that I wanted a little more squareness in the stripes. When he started applying the stripes I liked the look of how he made them look. It did remind me of the classic 70 stipe, but it still was correctly applied to mine.

The stripe on the car before had the top 1/4" stripe applied across the bottom of the rear side lights. I realized that it was too high and told Brad to watch for that. Now, it doesnt touch the lights.

Yes they are squared off but I told them to go more square than round. I like the look and really, my car is not a show car, it's a car I show and a driver.

The 442 trunk decal was also placed about 2" from the trunk lid last time and about 1" up from the edge. This time I told them to place it about a 1/4" to 3/8" from the bottom and the edge. Same with the 442 on the door. The last paint job (1987) had it too far from the edges. You guys probably noticed that. I did, but all in all it still looked good (in my opinion) and 99% of people never knew. I of course never pointed it out. Who points out flaws on their own car?

I hope you guys don't kick me off of the forum for this small deviation. :D The pictures above only showed the first coat of clear and Brad said that he was putting on at least another one and possible 3 or four depending on how it looks.

So far, I like what they've done and I hope you guys like it when she's complete. :)

brad442

04-19-2009, 02:01 PM

Ken,

The car is looking fantastic! I know you can't wait to get her home. Glad you had the stripes done the way you wanted. When I looked at the photos, that just happened to catch my eye. As long as you are happy with it, we certainly are! Are they guys at the shop going to reinstall all of the other pieces, or are you going to do that once you get it home?

442MUCH

04-19-2009, 02:55 PM

Hi Brad, Brad the painter told me that he was going to paint the individual pieces and then once they were ready the car was going to be re-assembled. He said a realistic date to come in a drive the car home would be at the end of the month. I told him I will come by on May 2 to pick her up. He said to keep in touch but that was a reasonable time.

He also said the guy who did the bodywork a took the car apart was no longer working for them however he did say that he did an excellent job of labeling everything. So May second is the date right now. The first car show I'm planning to attend is scheduled on May 30. So I should be OK.

442MUCH

04-19-2009, 03:08 PM

brad442

04-19-2009, 04:05 PM

Oh yeah. He did ask me one other thing and I said I'd get back to him. The area around the rear license plate: should that be flat silver or gloss silver. I think I know, but am not 100% sure.

Comments? Thanks.

Rear license plate piece should be a flat silver. I would replace that piece if you can. There is a company on eBay making a really nice reproduction piece that stands up much better than the original piece.

ragz442

04-19-2009, 06:50 PM

Ken, I'm glad to hear the stripes and numbers are applied the way you wanted. The painter did one hell of a job on the car from what I can see. When they were done at the factory they were pretty sloppy, the parts of mine that are still original paint are not very straight. It appears to me you got a first class paint job!!

442MUCH

04-19-2009, 09:55 PM

Rear license plate piece should be a flat silver. I would replace that piece if you can. There is a company on eBay making a really nice reproduction piece that stands up much better than the original piece.

Thanks Brad. That's what I thought. Went into my "collection" and found one and it is flat silver. Thanks.

Ken, I'm glad to hear the stripes and numbers are applied the way you wanted. The painter did one hell of a job on the car from what I can see. When they were done at the factory they were pretty sloppy, the parts of mine that are still original paint are not very straight. It appears to me you got a first class paint job!!

Thanks Todd. Brad the painter had a picture of my car taped to the wall and asked if I wanted the stripes rounded like in the picture. We had talked before of not making them so round so when I went in to see what he'd done, I liked it. I told him to go ahead and do the same with the other side. For the hood he copied my friends striping of a 71 W30 and Dave's (Sled Head 2) hood. I really like the way the striping has turned out (I even took a picture of it because it looked different and was a "cleaner" look compared with what I had before. The edges on my car were too round before. Here's an up close picture before the clearcoat.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4725.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4724-1.jpg

oldsmeister

04-20-2009, 07:26 PM

brad442

04-20-2009, 07:51 PM

Ken,

It looks great. They really did a good job masking everything off too! Can't wait to see the finished product. You are going to turn alot of heads this summer... I mean the car is!!!! :D

Brad

JJWrightOlds

04-20-2009, 10:16 PM

Ken,

I'm new to the site. But, I've been watching this thread for quite awhile. Very few cars ever get the benefit of having the same caring owner for so many years. Your documentation of your car's history is first class! I'm sure your patience during this project will pay you back with MANY more years of enjoyment from your 442!

Car is looking fabulous!!

Dan

442MUCH

04-20-2009, 11:39 PM

That shop does very very nice work. I think that is as close to perfection as humanly possible. That paint job is better than the factory job and should last much longer than the original finish. Congratulations on preserving that fine car for the next generation.

Alan, now that it's on the way to becoming the car I want, the next generation will have to wait a bit longer.:D

442MUCH

04-20-2009, 11:43 PM

Ken,

It looks great. They really did a good job masking everything off too! Can't wait to see the finished product. You are going to turn alot of heads this summer... I mean the car is!!!! :D

Brad

So what are you saying Brad? Maybe I'll just touch up my gray and cruise the old folks home and see who I can pick up. (And I don't mean off the ground) :D

442MUCH

04-25-2009, 08:22 PM

Was on my way to a swap meet this morning and thought I'd stop by to see the car. Brad the painter is supposed to come in on Sunday and polish (or sand) the car again. The car has three coats of clear already and I thought it looks pretty good, but Bruce (the owner) said they want to make sure it's as close to perfect as possible.

Here are a few more shots....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4742.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4745.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4744.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4743.jpg

mrblackwell17

04-25-2009, 09:25 PM

Ken,
Probably late to bring this up, but did you have them paint the wheels? I didn't realize I forgot to have mine painted until I got it home afterwards.

Just a thought. Car looks great!!

ragz442

04-25-2009, 09:50 PM

Really looks sharp Ken! Take your time putting it back together, you don't want to nick up that paint job.

442MUCH

04-25-2009, 10:13 PM

Ken,
Probably late to bring this up, but did you have them paint the wheels? I didn't realize I forgot to have mine painted until I got it home afterwards.

Just a thought. Car looks great!!

Scott, the wheels are SSII's, so their colour is correct. It seems not many mid-seventies Cutlasses had SSII's - most had SSIII's or body colour. She's coming along. Thanks.

Really looks sharp Ken! Take your time putting it back together, you don't want to nick up that paint job.

No worries Todd, they will be fully assembling the car, not me. I just go in, inspect, pay and drive home. If they chip it, they'll fix it. :D

jds1976cutlassS

04-26-2009, 12:18 PM

mrblackwell17

04-26-2009, 01:32 PM

Ken,
Didn't know that about the wheels. Thought they were all body color with the 76-77 442's. I know mine were even before I had them repainted. Thanks for the info.

442MUCH

04-26-2009, 03:00 PM

Well Ken, Ive viewed all of the pics and I must say they've done a very professional job on your car. I was relived to see that the painter was "older" and not some hotshot that is there just to make big money. It was also cool of him to take the time to answer questions and let you "observe". Most painters I know(myself included) dont like to be bothered in the booth or have company(or be observed while spraying). Hey,I even learned a new trick(the little template he made for the corners of the stripes on the hood-nice). Is the same guy that took it apart going to be re-assembling it? I hope all of that hardware is well organized. They did a nice job Ken good things really are worth waiting for:cool:

Jerrad, that's good to hear - thanks.. Brad (the painter) said that he's worked at this shop for 22 years and has been head painter for years. I was surprised that Brad let me stay, but he talked about painting and how he's doing a friends '69 Camaro. He actually encouraged me to stay.

He called me to come in and answer some questions about the application of the stripes and when I had answered he explained what he was going to do next. Then after the car was masked, he sprayed the silver. I said thanks after a few pictures and he asked, "Do you want to stick around for the clear? It won't be long." "Sure!"

I asked him about Bruce saying that the paint was water based but Brad said that solvent paint was easier or better on two-tone paint.

Now I was told that after the clear they want to do some polishing and then re spraying clear again so "the body will be laser straight."

Apparently, the guy who took the car apart does not work there anymore. He's the guy who was always AWOL. Brad did say even though the guy didn't show up a lot, he did lable everything really well. We're getting close.

442MUCH

04-26-2009, 03:50 PM

Ken,
Didn't know that about the wheels. Thought they were all body color with the 76-77 442's. I know mine were even before I had them repainted. Thanks for the info.

Scott, I think a lot of people thought the SSII wheels had been discontinued in 75. I've even read that. But my car was ordered with the SSII and the options list also shows the code for the option (N71). I even met a guy who told me that I installed the 455 in my car because in 1976 only the Trans Am had the 455. That's why we have forums...to pass on info. :D

geowindow6768

04-26-2009, 08:11 PM

442MUCH

04-26-2009, 08:46 PM

Ken,
Are they painting the original hood too?

By the way, my '75 Cutlass is up for sale. I've had a lot of fun but it's time for someone else to enjoy it. I have too many projects that need work and not enough money to get them done.
George

The original hood is being painted too. I saw the Kijiji ad on your 75. That's a nice car. I heard it run last summer when the other guy (Roger?) owned it and it sounded great. Did you place an ad here?

geowindow6768

04-26-2009, 08:56 PM

I don't think I will. We're way up North here and I don't think anyone wants to move a Canadian car south.

sledhead2

04-27-2009, 06:30 PM

Ken car looks great, have them flat black the inside of the scoops makes them look much better.

Look at my cardomian, i masked off right in line with top edge of top side of scoop and went around and sprayed as far inside as possible.

Let me know if you need a better photo

442MUCH

04-27-2009, 07:57 PM

Hi Dave,

I told them that already and they said no problem. Your photo's sure came in handy, thanks for that. I'll check out cardomain and see how it's done - thanks.

442MUCH

05-02-2009, 02:54 PM

OK, here's the latest update as of May 2. Car was not ready but they are getting there. Possibly Wednesday. At least the estimated time for pick up is in days not weeks. There was a film on the car and glass. I asked what it was and they said that they resprayed the lower portion because they weren't happy with it, and instead of spending hours masking, they have a spray that does not allow paint to stick. They said that it will wash off like soap. It's supposed to turn into a kind of soap. Never heard of that. But up close, it does look good.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4761.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4762.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4760.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4759.jpg

ragz442

05-02-2009, 10:41 PM

Looking good Ken! Your on the home stretch now. It's cool how you were able to document the paint process. I know you were in "paint jail" for a while there, but the finish product looks great.

442MUCH

05-03-2009, 02:53 AM

Yeah, I think we're in the home stretch. I have a question if anyone knows. The car has never been stripped to this extent and the header panel has never been removed.

Is there a gasket between the fender and the header? I know there is one between the quarter and the tail lights as it shows up in my GM parts manual. But there is no indication of one for the fender/header.

ragz442

05-03-2009, 12:46 PM

Ken, I've had a few 76-77 header panels removed and don't ever remember seeing a gasket.

pgm99

05-03-2009, 02:54 PM

Ken,

My car HAS gaskets between the header panel and fenders.

H

Revots12

05-03-2009, 11:06 PM

Yes there is a gasket between the header panel and fenders BUT Its made of a very thin paper and is extremely FRAGILE if you ever come across one that is still intact treat it like it was signed by MOSES ! I saved a set from one of the cutlasses I parted out and put them in a ziplock baggie until it came time to put my car back together. Didnt think to make a template, but i didnt think i would ever need another set.
DAVE

442MUCH

05-04-2009, 08:18 PM

Thanks guys. I told the guys at the body shop not to forget the gaskets and they said they'd never heard of gaskets for fender to header panel. I said that the car has them but I couldn't locate them in my GM parts book. Thanks for chiming in. Mine look like they're made from the same material as the sport mirror gaskets. Some sort of urethane. Strange not all had them - Tood is there a gap between the header and the fender or no?

ragz442

05-04-2009, 08:37 PM

I went out and checked the header panel on my '76 'S' project that I have disassembled and SAS, there is a gasket. It's paper thin like DAVE stated. The header on my 77-442 had been replaced [I actually looked at the car it was on first...long story] and it doesn't have a gasket, but the PO may have forgot to put them back on or they were damaged. You can see a little gap there, but I don't think it's a big deal.

brad442

05-04-2009, 08:47 PM

Ken,

When I disassembled my front end for the first time ever in '04, there was no gasket on my car. I carefully removed every piece and recorded everything that was removed. I remember the taillight gaskets, door handle gaskets, door lock gaskets, trunk lock gasket, etc. But I specifically remember there was not a gasket on the header panel. I remember thinking there should have been one there. My car was built in Arlington, TX and I have seen different things between cars of the same years built at different plants. Could be a Lansing and Arlington difference...

442MUCH

05-04-2009, 09:18 PM

Do you think it could be the difference between a 76 and a 77? Perhaps the 77's didn't have them because they wanted to cut down on weight :p.

Seriously, Todd's car is a 77 and so is yours. But then different things on same year cars, I've seen that too. Well thanks for the info. Mine had some paint on them from the last paint job and I was wondering whether to try and find new ones (good luck), soak them to get the paint off, or not use any. The shop owner figured that the car probably didn't come with them, but then again this is the first time my car has been disassembled. Of course, it's possible that they disintegrated upon removal but as I recall they were thin urethane or something like that. Anyway, thanks for the info.

brad442

05-04-2009, 09:59 PM

Yeah, it could be a difference between '76 & '77. I need to take a look at Texxas89's car. His green '76 was also built in Arlington, TX, so that might give us a closer clue. Then again, the Texas heat could have turned my original gasket to dust when I took the header off for the first time. But I doubt it since all of the other gaskets were there.

Mike 77

05-05-2009, 08:52 PM

I have a gasket on my 77'. Very thin.
Mike

442MUCH

05-06-2009, 02:23 PM

So much for the year theory. Thanks Mike. So bacially, some came from the factory with them, and some came without.

texxas8902

05-06-2009, 08:47 PM

Mike 77

05-06-2009, 09:02 PM

442MUCH

05-14-2009, 10:08 AM

Mine 77 was built November-1-1976 in Lansing Mi. Very thin plastic of some kind. One was damaged when I removed the header for the restoration. I know this is the second time the header panel was off. First time in the 80's. it was replaced due to an accident. The gasket was re installed a bit ascew and damaged from poor alignment. I made another one from a very cheap, very thin plastic 3 ring binder cover. Took me 3- month of looking for right plastic material untill one day looking for a stapler at the Office Depot. "BINGO"
Mike

Mike, That is very cool to know! Just taked to the body shop. It will beready today at 5 pm or tomorrow. Stopped by yesterday and everything is on the car except the back bumper. They have to wash it, and the guy there said they will shampoo the carpets and clean the interior too. Looks like I might have it for the weekend.:) (And it's a long weekend here).

texxas8902

05-14-2009, 07:25 PM

So is it ready today Ken? I can't hardly wait to see it. I can't imagine how you must feel waiting to get it back.

ragz442

05-14-2009, 10:26 PM

Looking forward to seeing the "finished product" pics.

442MUCH

05-15-2009, 03:00 AM

OK boys. Believe it or not it's home!! I can't describe the feeling so I'll just give you the final shots. I even got two thumbs up on the way home. Thanks for putting up with me these last 10 months.

Well, with no further adieu, here is my 1976 Oldsmobile 442 in the original code 35 metallic blue with silver accents. Hope you like it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4778.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4777.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4789.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v417/vttedrm/DSC_4791.jpg

damaged442

05-15-2009, 06:30 AM

Congrats Ken! It looks great in the pics, I bet it looks even better in person! Don't worry about us "putting up with you". I don't know if I can speak for everyone, but I certainly enjoyed the updates and progress pics! :D

76CutlassS

05-15-2009, 07:02 AM

[QUOTE=442MUCH;19223]OK boys. Believe it or not it's home!! I can't describe the feeling so I'll just give you the final shots. I even got two thumbs up on the way home. Thanks for putting up with me these last 10 months.

Well, with no further adieu, here is my 1976 Oldsmobile 442 in the original code 35 metallic blue with silver accents. Hope you like it.

Wow does your 442 look nice! Very Sharp!

I dont get any thumbs up when I drive My Cutlass, Does a finger count?:)
-harv

76Supreme455

05-15-2009, 09:22 AM

Ken, that just looks fantastic! I know that you are thrilled to have it home and finished. I can't wait till I get mine done! Enjoy it!!!!!

kgl271

05-15-2009, 09:43 AM

That looks sooooo sweet. I bet it is nice to have it home again! Now enjoy the summer!

mrblackwell17

05-15-2009, 10:11 AM

Very nice! Looks much better in that driveway than it did in that dusty shop! :D

Love the way the hood turned out! Hopefully someday I can see your car in person.

Mikedinva

05-15-2009, 06:44 PM

Amazing ..... looks great Ken. You must be elated.

oldsmeister

05-15-2009, 07:08 PM

Shwing! Nice reflections in that paint. I enjoyed watching the restoration progress too so thanks for posting this thread.

Hurstolds1973

05-15-2009, 07:33 PM

Awesome Ken! It was a great time watching your car get its make over! I'm really happy for you it turned out great!

ragz442

05-15-2009, 07:40 PM

Looks awesome Ken!

moparnate

05-15-2009, 11:16 PM

man, that looks great, just in time for summer

442MUCH

05-16-2009, 12:23 AM

Thanks a lot guys for the nice comments. I was going through withdrawl there for the last while. Now she sleeps in her custom garage and....the universe is unfolding as it should. :)

1976CSB455

05-16-2009, 12:35 AM

Looks great, Ken! Congrats on finally getting her home! From the pics, it looks as though it was well worth the wait! :)

442MUCH

05-17-2009, 07:26 PM

Looks great, Ken! Congrats on finally getting her home! From the pics, it looks as though it was well worth the wait! :)

Thanks. Let the cruising season begin.

texxas8902

05-18-2009, 08:05 PM

Very fun to watch from start to the future. I got all the enjoyment and none of the body shop bills.:D

Firethorne77

05-18-2009, 08:46 PM

Ken-
Glad to see she is home. Looks fantastic. Nice Job! Cant wait for more pics... :)

jds1976cutlassS

05-23-2009, 03:51 PM

442MUCH

05-23-2009, 04:01 PM

See Ken- good things really are worth waiting for.:cool:I guess my question is:did they have any problems with re-assembly? Did the guy who did the origional teardown make a cameo apperance? Looks like it all went well from the photos. How does the appearance compare to the earlier (80s)paintwork?I can assure you that the new technology paint(like they used) will retain its luster far longer than the older stuff.Looks awsome!!If ever there was incentive for me to complete my car this is it.

Jerrad,

The paint job was better in terms of quality, matching and prep, compared to the last one. It did take me four hours to clean up the engine bay.:rolleyes: As for straightness of body panels and the matching to original colour, it was flawless. I had three dings on the left quarter from carrying aound a toolbox in the trunk about 25 years ago. The last guys painted over them. At least with these guys, there is not even a hint of any dents or anything. The body is as straight as an arrow. I suppose I can live with the clean up as long as I'm happy with the paint job. Thanks for the play by play on the posts. Made me sound like I knew what I was talking about when I went to the body shop to see how it was coming along. :D