Post Paint Basics of Rebuilding a Classic Car
Replacing Fenders
Disassembling the fenders only takes the removal of few bolts, but reassembling the fenders may not be as easy. Before you start make sure you get an assorted pack of aluminum alignment shims. These shims come in 1/8, 1/16, 1/32, and 1/64 sizes. Get the multi-pack to avoid last minute adjustment problems. Start by making sure the top of the rear fender sits flush with the door. If it is too low use the proper shims underneath the fender until it is level. A perfectly aligned door will follow the body line as well as open and close with minimal effort. Many door alignment issues stem from worn out hinges. This is the common cause of “door drop” or “sag”. A professional can replace the center pin of the hinge. For do it yourselfers, it is just easier and more cost effective to replace the entire door hinge mechanism.
Replacing the Hood
Prior to removing the hood you should notch or etch the original location of the metal with a scribe marker. If you are using an aftermarket hood it is going to be more a process of trial and error than with the standard hood your car came with. The upper hinge mounts usually are slots that allow for movement of the hood backward and forward. The lower hinge mounts are what allows you to open and close the hood. Make the final adjustments by rotating the rubber hood stop clockwise and counterclockwise to raise and lower the hood. If the rubber stops are dry and crusty you need to replace them. Since there is no glue or screws attaching this part you can simply pop it out and put in new ones. The hood should sit flush with the body when closed.
Replacing the Trunk Lid
Replacing the trunk lid is quite similar to replacing the hood of your car, although most only allow for front to rear adjustments. Once you are satisfied with the fit adjust the trunk latch unit until the lid sits flush with the deck.
Replacing Window Seals and Weather Stripping
Replacing window seals is fairly inexpensive and one of the simplest post paint details. You can either buy window seal kits for your model or you can buy them by the foot at any motor vehicle parts store. The window seals will cover the pinch welds in the door frame and new weather stripping will protect the interior of the car from road noise, wind, water, and snow. This is a must do for convertibles because they can spring leaks more often than hard tops.
Replacing the Windshield
When it comes to replacing the windshield it is better if left up to a professional. But for the do it yourselfers it is not impossible with the right tools and a helping hand. If the windshield isn’t already out begin by removing the window trim, then cut the urethane weather seal under the glass with a tool commonly dubbed the cold knife. Once everything is trimmed away push the windshield out gently from the inside of the vehicle. Clean out the frame and lay down a fresh coat of urethane weather sealer. You can either use suction cups to lift the windshield into place, or you and some help can gently lay the windshield down into the frame. Press around the edges to ensure a tight seal has been made.
Replacing the Trim
After you have gone through all the major steps of the post paint process you can begin to replace the trim around the windows. The installation of trim is a rather effortless process. Usually you can pop the top first then the sides and the bottom. Some models like the Chevelle have to be popped out at the top and bottom first, and then on the sides. It is easy to see how they should be taken apart. Look at the edges and see what direction the metal is folded over in. This will give you a good idea of how and where to start. Installation of the new trim is as simple as sliding it back on or popping it into place.
Replacing the Bumper
Before you just slap on the bumper you should inspect the bumper mounts. The slightest damage to the triangulates bumper mounts will cause added strain to the entire assembly of the bumper. Replace or straighten bent mounts to achieve the best alignment.
Emblems
Emblems come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Choose emblems that come factory stock for your car or brand. Heavier emblems will require you to attach them with speed nuts. Lighter emblems can be attached using a sticky adhesive, retainers, or push nuts.
It’s the attention to detail that can make a cookie cutter restoration into something quite brilliant. Cars that have been slapped back together after the paint job are unforgiving to the eye and can be easily spotted with the dried out weather stripping and crooked doors. With a little time and patience you will have an eye catching muscle machine.
