70 Convertible Resto

[BlueSS454]

I finally drug the convertible into the shop tonight. The first thing I did was pull the front clip and the deck lid and throw them in the scrap pile. Next thing to do is run over to the steel yard to pick up some 1" square tube stock so I can cage up the cab section so it doesn't move when I cut it apart. Updates are going to be slim for the next month or so. I have to get a couple more pieces (deck lid, cowl shoulders) before I cut it apart. I plan on doing a marathon week or 2 to hammer out the metal work.
Here are some pics in the shop.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5072.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5073.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5074.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5075.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5076.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5077.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5078.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5079.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5080.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5081.jpg

[BlueSS454]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5082.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5083.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5086.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5084.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5085.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5094.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5099.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5095.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5096.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5097.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5098.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5100.jpg

[BlueSS454]

Baltimore built with the partial VIN stamped into the firewall behind the heater box

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5091.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5089.jpg

[Six Actual]

Thanks for the pics, Tom. Isn't it something when you see bad rust on one section of the trunk or door for example, the other sections appear to be fine (unless their may be rust damage under the paint)?

There are not too many enthusiasts who would even think of tackling that project.......way too much work and $$$$ involved. You are the exception with your excellent skills. :)

Keep the pics coming whenever you get the chance! I suspect that this thread will be quite long.

I like the open "Bomb Bay" door on the passenger side floor. :speechless:

Are those trim rings on the wheels the real deal?

[BlueSS454]

Those are original GM Olds Rally II trim rings :biggrin:

[Shadowgray396]

Wow that looks like a big project ahead of you. good to see another one going to be saved. Keep the pictures coming as you move along.

Ray

[BlueSS454]

I picked up the fenders yesterday and the steel I needed to cage the cab. The only things left I need are the hood (on order from AMD), windshield bridge, rear seat divider, and the sections to repair the lower half of the firewall (toe boards) probably have those in the next month or so.
I spent this morning welding the braces in the cab and cutting the floor out. I still have to remove the B pillar braces before I can cut the rockers off. I might do that tomorrow.

Fenders mocked up...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5451.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5452.jpg

Cage welded in...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5453.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5454.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5458.jpg

Floor sliced out with help from the air chisel and sawzall...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5461.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5463.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5464.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5462.jpg

[Postsedan]

Tom,

Love it! London bridge is falling down, falling down!

Dan

[BlueSS454]

Thanks Dan! Just wait until I have the rockers, seat divider, and trunk floor cut out. After that, the wheel houses, quarters, and deck filler panel :biggrin:

[69supersport396]

Looks like fun!

[Shadowgray396]

Looking good, keep the pictures coming.


Ray

[xplantdad]

You are a brave man Tom! :)

[BlueSS454]

Spent another few hours on the convertible today. Removed the rear seat divider, B pillar braces (what a major pain that was) and cut the rockers out. I have some rust repair to do on the A pillars and the quarter window support panel in the back then I can fit the floor in. I might have that done next weekend.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5468.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5469.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5470.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5471.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5473.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5474.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5477.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5479.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5478.jpg

[Postsedan]

After looking at these pics, the words... carnage, carcass, catastrophic come to mind. Tom, nice to see your saving this Chevelle. Hopefully it inspires others to do the same.

Dan

[Six Actual]

Wow, you accomplished a lot today, Tom. :aok:

[BergerPost396]

Holy yabba dabba doo batman I thought mine had floor issues! Glad you are saving it Tom!
http://i246.photobucket.com/albums/gg114/9566BA/69%20Chevelle/69%20Post%20Chevelle/FredFlinstone.jpg

[BlueSS454]

Few more pics. Dealing with some rot at the bottom of the door hinge posts. I'm working on fabricating pieces to weld in. This is a very difficult area to reach with cutting tools so it's taking me a little longer than I figured. I'd really rather have a clean parts car to chop this stuff out of but I'll make due with what I have. I also ordered what I hope is the rest of the metal pieces I need which include Inner & Outer cowl boxes for both sides, rear seat divider, windshield frame bridge, front floor sections, and a CI hood from AMD. I really should put a cowl and firewall in this thing too but I don't want to mess with the VIN tag or have the partial VIN stampings missing off the firewall.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5505.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5507.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5508.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5509.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5511.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5513.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

Good to see you saving this one. You have challenge ahead of you. Great pictures of your progress.

Ray

[Postsedan]

Tom,

These cowl sections are now available. I just ordered one for my Buick.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v677/Postsedan/Postsedan2011/322.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v677/Postsedan/Postsedan2011/373.jpg

Dan

[BlueSS454]

Ordered them Monday Dan :) What I really need are those panels that extend down on the inside part of the A pillar to where the bottom of the fenders bolt. Dynacorn has them but they won't release them.

[Duke 69]

Man, every time I see that car, it looks more like it sat under water or at least sat out in the open somewhere. I have seen plenty of rust before but this one.............WOW! You will get it done, Tom and it will look great!

[Postsedan]

"Dynacorn has them but they won't release them."

Well that sucks....nothing worse than being "gun-ho" about a project and then hitting a wall :frown:

Do you have a good donor car you could cut up?

Dan

[BlueSS454]

I have a friend that has one in Maryland, but I haven't looked at it close enough to see if that area on that car is toast as well. I will be seeing him this coming Saturday at a Chevelle Club meeting so I will have him look then. I already started to fab up some pieces to fix that area. I'm hoping it will work, if not I'm going to have to go grab me a parts car :)

[BlueSS454]

Man, every time I see that car, it looks more like it sat under water or at least sat out in the open somewhere. I have seen plenty of rust before but this one.............WOW! You will get it done, Tom and it will look great!

I should have taken some pics of where I winched this thing out of :biggrin:. It was sitting in Grasonville, MD which is just east of Annapolis over the Bay Bridge on Kent Island, completely surrounded by salt water. It was sitting a bunch of tall grass, weeds in a low lying area that was holding A LOT of water. It was raining the day I picked it up too..that sure was fun! Here is a pic the day I got it after I winched it up on the trailer and got to another friend of mines house in Bowie, MD.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/PA080162.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/PA080161.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/PA080156.jpg

[Dave Birdwell]

Tom..... where's the hood???? :tongue: :wacko::laughing: :secret:

[BlueSS454]

Tom..... where's the hood???? :tongue: :wacko::laughing: :secret:

It flew off on US 50 coming over the Bay Bridge :wacko:

[Duke 69]

Like I said before Tom......you ARE a glutton for punishment! Let's see..salt water, weeds and debris, damp all the time....yeah that pretty much covers everything I think! Are you sure you didn't go get this thing with a boat? I sure will enjoy the resto. pics.

[Six Actual]

That car, without a doubt, is definitley a challenge for anyone, IMO, but I'm confident you'll get her done Tom, and I KNOW it will be the closest to Perfect it can ever be.

It does have a clean title, doesn't it? I'm only asking because of where it was sitting all those years prior to you reeling it out of there. Unless I missed something, it sounds as it was abandoned from your description. I'll still post this and re-read your post again.

It never seems to fail that as you cut deeper into a project car, you'll always find additional work that wasn't anticipated or worse than you originally thought. However, that's what this hobby sometimes involves and makes it so great. Please note that I said..."sometimes."

Thanks for posting the pics.......BUB! :waving:

[BlueSS454]

The title is safely tucked away with the titles for the rest of the old cars :).
Since I had a free day off today, I figured it would be the perfect time to spend a whole day trying to get something accomplished. So with that in mind, here is what I did today. I fabricated pieces to repair the lower section of the door hinge post. To make it a little easier, I unbolted the front most body mounts and picked the whole front of the shell up with my cherry picker. That gave me full access to cut out the crap and get in there with the welder. I still have to make 1 small piece and trim up & shape the right side repair which I'll do one night this week. After this is done, the floor can go in, probably this weekend.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5537.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5538.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5540.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5542.jpg

[Duke 69]

Kinda like Johnny Cash "built" his car....one piece at a time! You're on your way now! Keep the progress pics coming, too.

[BlueSS454]

Things are going to start happening very quickly once I'm done with this floor mess :biggrin:

[Postsedan]

Tom,

Lot`s of coffee and the "Oldie Station" cranked up! Oh, turn off the cell phone too..... Get R Done!

Dan

[Shadowgray396]

I know I've seen some of these lower panels parts being made

Here's one I found http://www.makmetalfab.com/

[BlueSS454]

I can get that whole outer cowl and inner cowl which I have on order now. They should be here next week :)

http://restorationpartssource.com/store/media/dynacorn/thumbnails/111/1419F_t.jpg
http://restorationpartssource.com/store/media/dynacorn/111/1419C.jpg

I just can't get the inside door hinge/A pillar panel

[BlueSS454]

Got the floor semi in today. I have some tweaking I need to do, I'll take care of that this week.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5543.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5544.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5545.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5546.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

Looks like you are moving ahead on your project. Looking good.

Ray

[BlueSS454]

Here are a few more shots, the 1st 2 a little more detailed on what I have to do. I ran into an issue where the repair I made to the door hinge post is interfering with the forward most part of the rocker panel. Originally, this piece was sandwiched between the inner and outer rocker panels. Dynacorn had not taken this into consideration with the new 1 piece floor pan that comes with new rockers. It's not a big deal though, all I have to do is drill out the 4 most forward spot welds on the new floor, then the door hinge panel will fall to where it should and the floor will slide forward and lock in place then I can tack the floor to the A and B pillars, take a few measurements to make sure everything is in check, then weld it solid.

Here is the area I need to attend to...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5549.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5555.jpg

Then some shots of the floor sitting in the cab. It actually fits quite nice.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5550.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5551.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5552.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5553.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5554.jpg

[Six Actual]

I now see where you cut the lower half of the cowl/firewall, Tom. Are you just going to shape your own sheet metal to fill that gap?

So, you gonna drop that LS-7 engine in it backed up by a Ford Toploader? :biggrin:

[BlueSS454]

I have repair sections coming in for the lower part of the firewall :biggrin: I don't think I'll bother with that LS7 combo..I have a nice small block/automatic combo that would blow it's doors off :laughing:

[Dave Birdwell]

LS7... now THATS funny.... :)

[Six Actual]

I have repair sections coming in for the lower part of the firewall :biggrin: I don't think I'll bother with that LS7 combo..I have a nice small block/automatic combo that would blow it's doors off :laughing:

Be careful Tom, because you also may have to take on "the '70." Many of us are aware that car is an LS-5 car. No, sorry, an L78 car or is it a L34 car with an M-22? Well, whatever is in that engine bay, that car has been proven it has turned an E.T. in the 12's or was it in the 11's? And the :donkey: of the owner said that's his proof right there. No questions asked. :flypig:

[BlueSS454]

Tweaked the floor a bit more tonight. It's fitting just where it needs to. I have to give it a little pull in one direction tomorrow then hang the doors back on, throw the fenders on and check the gaps. If all is good, I can secure it with some sheet metal screws and start welding :biggrin: I might run out early in the morning to Home Depot first and get some insulation rolls for the ceiling in the shop..it's gonna be super cold tomorrow.

[BlueSS454]

Quick update, no new pics since it still looks the same. I got the floor in place and tack welded to the A & B pillars. The driver door is giving me a little bit of a fit with the alignment. The good news is the cowl is square resting on the floor and every measurement is dead on and perfectly symmetrical. Once I get that door aligned right, I can fully weld the cowl back on and the B pillar then chop the trunk floor out.

[Six Actual]

Sounds and looks good so far. How were you able to work with cold sheet metal in this unusually cold weather?

[Dave Birdwell]

Sounds and looks good so far. How were you able to work with cold sheet metal in this unusually cold weather?

He made sure not to stick his tongue out as to not stick to the cold metal.... :)

[BlueSS454]

I ran into a little snafu tonight. I cut the braces loose from the B pillar because I thought it was screwing with the door alignment. Good thing I did that because it popped in all kinds of directions. The cowl is sagging back and down. Right now I have it jacked forward but it's not staying there on it's own even with several tack welds on the A pillar.....this is going to SUCK.

[Six Actual]

Cowl out of alignment? That's not good and if I'm correct, anything forward of the cowl will be very difficult to align correctly, but you knew that already.

[BlueSS454]

I fixed it :)

[Postsedan]

Tom,

Well Done! Now on to the next phase.

Dan

[BlueSS454]

I'll have some new pics this weekend. I want to finish welding the floor in during the rest of this week, then I'm gonna break out the air chisel and chop the trunk floor out :)

[BlueSS454]

Welded the floor in tonight. I still have to get the front sections and weld them in, they should be here next week.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5584.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5585.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5588.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5592.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5594.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5593.jpg

This is next on the list to get chopped out...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5599.jpg

and replaced with this...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5591.jpg

[69supersport396]

Nice work.

[BlueSS454]

Started chopping the trunk out tonight, pics to follow after I get it fit in!

[BlueSS454]

Trunk pics!

No more junk in the trunk...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5600.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5601.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5602.jpg

I'm replacing the tail panel but drilled the spot welds out and retained it for now to use it as a reference point for installing the trunk.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5606.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5608.jpg

THe butcher job on the original quarter.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5609.jpg

New Dynacorn floor in place..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5610.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5613.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5614.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5616.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5617.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5615.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5611.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5624.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

Great pictures and work. Keep them coming.

Ray

[Duke 69]

Hey...there IS a car under all that rust!! Nice work so far, Tom. I'm really enjoying your pics thusfar. A great documentation for you and for us....this is how it might be done. Not so sure if I would have the courage but at least I can see what and how.....

[BlueSS454]

Just give me another 2-3 weeks :biggrin:. I just finished cutting out the rear wheel houses. Came in for a sammich and more tea. Going back out in a few to slip the new ones in and clamp them in place.

[BlueSS454]

Few more from this afternoon. I cut the wheel houses out, and fit them in there. Ran into a minor issue that I have to address. I could have done this today but I wasn't really in the mood and kind of tired so I will let it go until one night this week.

Cut out...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5628.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5625.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5626.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5627.jpg

New ones...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5629.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5631.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5630.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5633.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5634.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5636.jpg

Here is where the issue is. There is a gap between the rear seat pan and the new wheel house. The original wheelhouses fit the contour of the new floor so I'm hoping it's just a matter of moving the new piece a little to make it set in place.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5632.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5635.jpg

[Postsedan]

What? No, DSE Mini Tubs? If so, you`d eliminate the gap issue.

Looking great Tom.

Dan

[Six Actual]

snip~
Here is where the issue is. There is a gap between the rear seat pan and the new wheel house. The original wheelhouses fit the contour of the new floor so I'm hoping it's just a matter of moving the new piece a little to make it set in place.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5632.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5635.jpg


I was going to ask you about that in this post Tom, but you already addressed it.

However, what ideas or options do you have to resolve that issue if moving the new piece doesn't completely close that gap?

Nonetheless, excellent and professional work so far, bud! :aok: :)

[BlueSS454]

Dan,

This car is going to be a bone stock restoration :). I have not done a Bill Rose caliber car so that's what I'm going for!
As far as dealing with the gap....I'm going to stop at Tractor Supply one night and get some big vice grip clamps and draw it in.

I picked up the inner/outer cowl shoulders, doors, and seat back divider tonight so I'll be busy the rest of this weeks nights.

[BlueSS454]

OK so I WAS moving along pretty well until I ran into this issue tonight. I got a new set of doors last night to try. The left one is acceptable and I can work with it, but there is something going on with the right side that I'm going to have to play with a little more to get it right.

Here is the left door. The gap at the quarter is a little wider than I care it to be but I can adjust for that. It line sup at the rocker pretty well. I'm happy about that.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5637.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5639.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5642.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5648.jpg

Now the right door. The gap at the quarter is good and the gap at the rocker is good. The issue with this one lies in relation to the front of the rocker It should sit back about a 1/4" so the fender can **** up against the rocker and have the proper gap for the door to open. You can see here the edge of a door is a bit further back than a 1/4". The other issue is as you can see in the one picture, the angle in which the door skin is folded over. It's hitting the 1/4 panel. It's not a big deal to fix but still not really what I wanted to see.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5644.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5645.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5647.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5646.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

The right side is the bad side on all most all of the chevelles that I have look at and was no exception on my car. It is always by the door handle the gap gets larger just like your picture. Also the angle at the top of the door and the quarter panel is different. Here's my fix. I ended up welding a rod along quarter panel edge to fix the gap problem.

http://i777.photobucket.com/albums/yy58/shadowgray/Body%20Shop/7-21-09/Picture010.jpg

http://i777.photobucket.com/albums/yy58/shadowgray/Body%20Shop/7-21-09/Picture009.jpg

[BlueSS454]

I have a pretty good idea of how I'm going to handle the door gap issue, what I don't like is the area in the lower front corner on the right door where it meets the rocker. If it stays there it will be a large fender to door gap. I'm going to throw the fenders on again and see what it looks like.

[Czeto]

I had (have) the same problem with my 68 convertible. After lots of hours, I quit. Figure I'll tackle it when I retire. I saw "welding a rod along quarter panel edge" trick on one of those car shows.

[BlueSS454]

Ok Picture time :biggrin. Where do I start off, I did quite a bit in the last week. Both inner/outer cowl shoulders are finished. The left side I pretty much replaced the whole thing, the right side only needed a patch. Here is a pic of the left inner. I don't have any shots of the right inner since I was in the mood to weld and I spent 8 hours yesterday finishing it up. I also don't have pics of the outers right now because I was trying to get the doors and fenders on and aligned so I could cut the quarters off.

I didn't want to mess with the astro vent duct, it looked like a major PITA to try to remove so I went around it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5659.jpg

I was able to get the doors into alignment after a little persuasion and having an extra set of hands to move things around and tighten up the hinges. After that, I threw the fenders on to make sure the gaps were good and the front was square. The fenders are perfectly square to the cowl..a huge plus, and the fender to door gaps are good, just need some fine tuning which can be done later.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5738.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5739.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5742.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5740.jpg

Next, time to cut the quarters off.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5715.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5714.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5720.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5717.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5719.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5749.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5716.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5733.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5735.jpg

Right now, the only pieces left on are the tail panel and deck filler panel. The deck filler panel has 5,354,635,654,645 spot welds in it so I'll do that tomorrow night. The tail panel is just clamped on there so that will come off rather easy. I'm debating whether or not to put new trunk gutter weatherstrips channels on or not. I have them but the originals are in nice shape. I'm also going to blast and paint the B pillar support pieces before I put the /'s back on, no sense in leaving any rust on there now.

Here are a couple shots of the whole car semi mocked up.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5723.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5728.jpg

The GM tooled Goodmark 1/4's

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5709.jpg

Comparison of the original rear seat divider vs. the repro. The repro looks like it belongs in a 72 with all the emission stuff that come sup through the floor.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5722.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5721.jpg

[Duke 69]

Wow, Tom....you ARE making some real progress! So far, everything looks good. I still can't believe the rust on that car..it's truly everywhere! The sheetmetal looks like it lines up pretty darn good and I know what a hassle that can be...take off, put on, move around, adjust...oh poop it doesn't line up...do over. You are a man on a mission, for sure, and I know it will be some nice when you get it done. Can't wait to see that.

[ALbertG]

very cool!!..you'l be ready for paint in the spring!!

[BlueSS454]

Here's a little more Chevelle porn for you guys :). I was feeling a little industrious tonight so I cut the deck filler panel off, cleaned up all the junk at the pinchweld in that area and see how things were going to go...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5756.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5757.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5758.jpg

and then....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5761.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5770.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5762.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5766.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5769.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5768.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5763.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5767.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5764.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5776.jpg

And a few of the whole car

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5771.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5772.jpg

The gaps look surprisingly good. They need to be fine tuned but I don't see that being any kind of an issue at all.. They are all pretty close to spot on which makes me happy. The outer wheel houses are sitting nice and snug against the lip at the quarter. The quarters fit nicely at the rockers and the door jamb and the inner structure along the top of the B pillar.
Sad thing is I'm not remotely close to being ready to screw everything together and weld it. I have to take it all back apart (everything is just clamped on), and blast all that rust away that's under the deck filler panel and behind the quarters. No sense in leaving any of that crap on there since it's easily accessible now :biggrin:

[Shadowgray396]

Looking amazing, It's going to be one nice car when you are finished.

Ray

[Six Actual]

Any new pics to post, Tom? :)

[BlueSS454]

Little update, not much new to look at. Been spending a ton of hours fitting, cutting, moving, tack welding, repeating. It still looks the same but I'm making headway. I've been fighting with the deck lid and deck filler panel for 2 weeks now but I think I finally have it where I want it. Have some more clamping and screwing together to do tomorrow night then HOPEFULLY start welding Sunday.

Here are the final trunk gaps. It's a perfect 1/4" on the sides. The gap to the filler panel is pretty even but widens up at the ends where it meets the 1/4 panels. The reason for that is the new deck lid does not match the contour of the filler panel so I'll have to use a small amount of filler there. I had to beat and bend the new deck lid into submission on the right side where it meets the filler panel. It looked like someone stepped on it. Nothing a good old fashion properly placed pry bar couldn't fix.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5886.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5888.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5887.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5889.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5890.jpg

The placement of the deck lid hinge supports after moving them around 100 times...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5880.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5879.jpg

The inner & outer cowl shoulders redone. The left (driver side) I replaced the whole thing as it was just easier to do than piecing it in. The right side, I decided to piece in as opposed to installing the whole piece. I didn't want to disturb the blower motor location nor the partial VIN stamp under the opening for the blower motor.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5884.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_5883.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

As usaual Tom looking good. You do very nice work.

Ray

[BlueSS454]

OK, picture time. I've got both quarter fit and tacked in place along with some screws. I have the trunk gaps as close as I can get them to the point where I'm satisfied. The bumper fits pretty well too. The left door gap is not bad but still needs some work which I can do after the quarter is welded on. The right door I had to twist and beat into submission in order to get it lined up the way it's suppose to. It's still not 100% but good enough to where I can weld that quarter on. During the fitting process somewhere, I picked up an extra 1/8" on the right door so now I don't have to slice the rocker and reweld it to close the fender to door gap. both fender to door gaps are pretty nice. I will more than likely have to roll both doors out just a touch and move the fenders out a bit so the hood fits a little better. Right now it's a little tight on the sides. The right fender will need a little twist also. Overall, I'm pretty happy right now. Saturday is do or die time, I will be welding all day long.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6022.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6023.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6024.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6025.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6026.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6027.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6028.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6030.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6031.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6032.jpg

[BlueSS454]

Continued...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6033.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6034.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6035.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6036.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6037.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6039.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6040.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6041.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6042.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6043.jpg

[BlueSS454]

Continued...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6044.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6045.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6046.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6047.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6048.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6049.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6050.jpg

The B Pillar braces. I fixed one, still have to fix the other

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6051.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6052.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6053.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6054.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6055.jpg

[Postsedan]

Tom,

Outstanding!

Dan

[Shadowgray396]

Great Job Tom.

Ray

[Duke 69]

Looks great, Tom! That "gap" business can be torture sometimes...move this...that doesn't line up anymore and so on. How I remember that on my car. Even now, I can envision the process and hope I don't have to go back! (Unless I do another car, of course!)

[69supersport396]

Nice!

[ALbertG]

I love cutting and welding!!..very nice job

[BlueSS454]

The Left quarter is 80% welded. I just took a lunch break. I should have the whole rear section welded back together today!

[xplantdad]

Tom are you sure that the deck filler panel has 5,354,635,654,645 spot welds in it? I thought it was closer to 5,354,635,654,744? :)


Seriously...you are doing some amazing work!

[BlueSS454]

LOL Bruce. I might have missed a few while I was counting. The quarters are done. The only thing I have to do is the deck filler panel. I'll do that tomorrow night, I'm taking a me day today :yes:

[BlueSS454]

Fitting the front end today. Everything is looking good, still have to tweak the hood a bit and put a bumper on. Also today I'll be trying to finish up all the welding. Since I have more daylight today, I might be motivated to stay out there longer and git 'r done :).

[BlueSS454]

Front end is on and adjusted for the most part. I still have to do something with the left side of the hood. It actually needs to move over a touch but I need another set of hands for that endeavor. The fender extensions fit fairly well to the repro metal..better than I expected. The is a slight issue with the front bumper gap under the fender extension but I can fix that rather easily. I didn't feel like pulling the bumper back off tonight. The rear seat divider is also tacked into place. I fixed the issues with that my way which you will see in the pics below.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6158.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6160.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6161.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6163.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6164.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6166.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6168.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6165.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6167.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6154.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6155.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6156.jpg

[BlueSS454]

And here is how I fixed the rear seat divider. It wasn't really molded right as there was a huge gap in the center where it goes over the hump on the trunk floor. Instead of bending and rebending, I cut it out and put the original center piece for the top pump motor.

You can't really see the gap here but it's at least a half inch

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6054.jpg

Fixed :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6180.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

Looking very nice. You do great work. I know it going to turn out great. Keep the pictures coming.

Ray

[Postsedan]

Tom,

It`s time for a "Cold One", you deserve a break. It`s very gratifying to sit back and enjoy your work.

Nice job!

Dan

[BlueSS454]

Thanks guys. I'll take a break when it's in final primer :) It's all downhill after that! I figure I have another 2 months before I'm ready for paint. I'm trying to get all the dirty stuff done before it gets hot out. Doing plastic filler work is no fun when it's hot.

[Duke 69]

Amazing progress so far and outstanding work, too! As always, the devil is in the details...fit, gaps, lines ,etc. I'll enjoy looking at the final product and I am sure you will, too!! What about the drivetrain? I know this a resto.

[BlueSS454]

I'm SO glad you asked about that Duke :biggrin: I have a 1970 dated 454 block, LS6 intake, and I have a line on a pair of 291 LS6 heads to complete it. The block and intake are sitting in the shop that's going to hovering around 496 CID while looking bone stock. I plan on backing it with an M22 as well just not sure if I'm going to hunt down an original one or go with an Autogear unit. I dropped the rear off to have a gear swap/posi install on Saturday...3.31 12 bolt of course.
I'm pushing to have it painted early June.

[Six Actual]

Wow, really Tom, what a huge difference. My only question is what's taking you so long? J/K....You do work fast. Man, it's hard to believe it's the same car from Page #1. :)

[BlueSS454]

I WAS going to be done welding AND grinding tonight but my Ar/CO2 bottle and spool of wire ran out at the same time..how strange is that? That never happens. I'll be good to go after a quick lunch time trip to LC Machine shop to get the bottle refilled and a new, BIGGER spool of wire :).

[BlueSS454]

Nothing new to post quite yet, I slapped the grille in and been grinding welds and manipulating some other things to get the gaps a little better. It's coming back apart next week to get ready for media blasting.

[Duke 69]

Gotta keep moving now, Tom. Before you know it, it will be time for paint!

[BlueSS454]

I am DONE welding. I installed the new windshield bridge this morning, quite a bit easier than I expected, took me about an hour.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6319.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6320.jpg

I also fixed the issue with the repro deck lid hanging low. Some 3M 1" green tape, and a grinder took care of it followed by a little mig weld and some shaping with the grinder and flap disc.

Before:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6242.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6241.jpg

After:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6339.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6341.jpg

The 4 speed shifter hump template...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6233.jpg

Trunk Latch installed...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6336.jpg

And some finished shots:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6311.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6312.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6313.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6314.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6317.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6318.jpg

The only original metal left is the cowl, firewall, trunk latch support, and B pillar skeleton on the cab. I managed to be able to salvage and reuse the original fender extensions, rear valence, and grille filler panel. Those are also the original bumpers off the car which I will send out to Tri City plating and have rechromed.

I have to finish grinding the welds tomorrow night, then start taking it all back apart and and prep it to pull the body off the frame so it can be media blasted.

[Six Actual]

Excellent work, Tom!

[Six Actual]

One question, Tom. I KNOW you would never ignore this and I'm certain it's just the pic, but is that gap larger than at each end? Sorry, BUB, I had to ask. Thanks! :)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v215/4rosie/Untitled-1.png?t=1301888565

[BlueSS454]

No John, it just appears that way from the angle of the photograph. My OCD won't stand for an uneven gap :)

[Shadowgray396]

I'm sure that car is better built now then when it came from the factory. Excellent workmenship. You should be proud.

Ray

[Duke 69]

Once again Tom, I can't believe what you have done to this car in such a short time....esp. considering what you started with!! Truly outstanding, to say the least. When it's all done and in a show somewhere, I sure hope you have lots of pics on hand because nobody will believe the story without them!

[BlueSS454]

Picture time!
I finished up some grinding this morning then prepared to pull the body off the frame. Having a lift makes this task SO MUCH easier!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6345.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6346.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6357.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6358.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6362.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6374.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6376.jpg

Here is an idea of how many welds are in 1 rear wheel house...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6379.jpg

As if that wasn't enough work for the day, I decided to strip the frame...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6370.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6366.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6365.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6368.jpg

[ALbertG]

nice!

[Duke 69]

If nothing else, you certainly can claim a PhD in plug welding! It IS hard to believe how many welds are in just a wheel house! Excellent work, my friend

[Postsedan]

Now the real fun begins :thumbsup: Keep the pics coming.

Dan

[Postsedan]

What happened? Did you go on a vacation for "Spring Break"?

Dan

[BlueSS454]

Dan, I've been grinding and grinding and grinding some more.

After making a ton of phone calls to try and make this happen, it finally did this afternoon. The frame and body have been media blasted. Time to rebuild the frame. I have some body work to do on it before painting it. Have to smooth out all the pitting.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6384.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6395.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6393.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6388.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6397.jpg

Some frame rot I have to fix

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6401.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6404.jpg

and a dent

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6399.jpg

[Postsedan]

Nice, No vacation time for you. Looking great!

Dan

[Shadowgray396]

Just another step closer to getting it done. Looking good, this is going to be one very nice car. Keep the pictures coming.

Ray

[BlueSS454]

Blew a coat of epoxy on the media blasted cowl yesterday as well as began the process of filling in the pits on the frame. I'm using Evercoat Metal Glaze for that along with some high build primer. I wasn't really ready to start priming the frame yet but I notice a spec of flash rust forming so I wanted to get some material on it before it spread. I'll be spending all this week finishing off smoothing the frame. I used PPG DP74LF Epoxy on the cowl. I will be using this on the rest of the interior areas of the cab section as well.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6478.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6481.jpg

I have the frame set up on these saw horses so I don't have to bend over, I'm getting too old for that :biggrin: The shop is a little cramped up now with the frame sitting in the front like that but I'll deal with it for a week or 2 until I finish the frame and shrink wrap it so I can put the body back on.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6484.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6485.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_6483.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

Class A job, Nice shop by the way.

[Duke 69]

Looking VERY NICE!! Yes, the shop may be a bit crowded right now but that won't last long. What's this "getting too old" crap all about?? I sometimes wish I was as "old" as you are!

[Six Actual]

Beautiful work...... :)

[hotshotandres]

Wow u wanna work on my body work on my 65 Malibu SS??? Excellent work.

[BlueSS454]

I haven't had any updates on the convertible in a while so I'll give a quickie. I haven't had much time in the last few weeks to do much of anything to it. I've been wrapped up in another restoration project that has a very fast approaching deadline and HAS to be completed. Once that is finished and out the door, I'll be going full throttle back on the convertible. In the meantime with what little free time I have had, I've been filling in the pits on the frame. It's about finished, I just have a few areas to knock the filler down on and reprime it.

[69supersport396]

You sure are busy!

[Shadowgray396]

I was wondering how it was going. I haven't had much time to work on mine lately either. To busy at work these days and on the road alot. Looking forward to more updates when you get back to it.

Ray

[BlueSS454]

Now that the Overhauled '72 Malibu is out of my shop, I can get back to work on the convertible. I'm going to try and get the frame done in the next month or so along with finishing the bottom of the cab section and getting it painted and ready to drop back on the frame.

[Shadowgray396]

Looking forward to seeing more pictures. I only a few weeks away from having mine running for the first time in over 5 years.

[BlueSS454]

I fixed the body mount hole rot in the frame yesterday, have to grind it all today. I also finished the majority of the pit filling. I have to flip the frame over and do the bottom side now.

[BlueSS454]

Ok so I've been a little busy on the convertible the last 2 days. I finished filling in all the pits in any visible areas anyone may see, blew a few coats of high build urethane primer on then shot the black. I'm overall pretty satisfied with how it came out. There are a couple areas where I sagged it (had to adjust my gun) but no one will ever see where those are.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_8101.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_8103.jpg

All the materials I used are seen here. The Metal putty (same as Evercoat Metal Glaze) was used to fill in the pitting then gone over with a DA to smooth it out. The areas I could not get to with the DA I had to do by hand which took forever. After that was done I used the U-Tech Urethane high build primer as the first undercoat to level the rest of the surface imperfections out. Once I was happy with that, I blew 1 more high build coat on and hit it with 400 sandpaper.
For the top coat, I used the Transtar 6161 Epoxy Primer and 6141 Activator. I found the Transtar Epoxy to have the right tone for the frame from what I've seen on original frames. I will also use this on the firewall and underside of the body as well as the other chassis parts I need to paint.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_8106.jpg

The finished frame...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_8114.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_8117.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_8121.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_8116.jpg

[Postsedan]

Nicshhhh!

Dan

[69supersport396]

Gonna have it done next year? Can I drive it?

[BlueSS454]

I fully intend on having at the MCC show next year :). You're going to have to come out for vacation for the 25th Anniversary show right Rick :biggrin:

[69supersport396]

we'll see.

[BlueSS454]

Little update here. The chassis is about finished. I'm waiting on the brake dust shields and caliper brackets to come back from plating. I need to get another rear shock because one of them was boxed wrong, finish the left front lower control arm and get the spring in, install the steering linkage, rotors & calipers, tighten all the brake lines, and paint the trans cross member.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9238.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9239.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9240.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9242.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9253.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_8220.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9245.jpg

[Don_Lightfoot]

Looking real good Tom :thumbsup:

[Shadowgray396]

Looking very nice. I thought the blue clips only go on the center cross member only for the brake line? Looks really good.

Ray

[floyd66]

Read the whole thing tonight. Best thread I've read in 12 months. Nice work, I wish I had your energy and the contract to supply your welding wire. Appreciate you taking the time to post this build.

[BlueSS454]

Looking very nice. I thought the blue clips only go on the center cross member only for the brake line? Looks really good.

Ray

I'm not 100% sure on that yet. I have to ask a few key 1970 builders about that before I snug them down.

[BlueSS454]

Picture time :). I finished the bottom of the car and painted it this afternoon. This is one major hurdle I am glad that's over with. I still have to undercoat the wheel houses, address 1 minor issue up front by the lower fender mount, but that's nothing I can't take care of in an hour. Once that's done, I will turn my attention to the firewall and get all the pitting filled in (not smooth it, just fill the pits in) and finish up the rot problem on the lower cowl and windshield frame then it can go back on the frame. I should have all this done by the end of this week...hopefully.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9363.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9362.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9366.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9364.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9370.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9369.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

That looks great, I :bow: to the master, Class A job :hurray: :beers:


Ray

[Six Actual]

Personally, I would NEVER drive that car anywhere, ever, except on and off a trailer. Waaaaaaaay to nice! :thumbsup:

[xplantdad]

Wow...looking really good!

[Alan F]

Great thread Tom. I was reading through all the posts today. I commend you for the detailed pictures, especially of before and after conditions.
I was curious about how you repaired the rear frame rail? Any projections on completion date?

[BlueSS454]

The rear frame rail wasn't too bad of a repair, I just filled in the small holes with a MIG welder and made up a piece out of some 16 gauge flat steel for the larger hole. I intend on having this car done for next summer one way or another.

[BlueSS454]

I spent 10 hours doing bodywork and masking today. I have to hit the hood and deck lid with 80 on the DA and drill the holes for the deck lid emblem and finish up some minor filler work on the back of the body still. Primer tomorrow.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9588.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9590.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9591.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9592.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9589.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9596.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9599.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

You are going to have one beautiful car when it is done. Been fun watching your progress.

Ray

[Alan F]

I had a '70 SS convertible about 8 years ago that had a one repaint but was never restored. I had always thought that someone had incorrectly smoothed over the joints between the quarters and the trunk header because the filler was cracked. I guess they are supposed to be smoothed. Since then it's one of those things I always look for on convertibles. There must be some torsional flex there. I don't know what can be done to prevent the cracking but thought I would mention it.

[BlueSS454]

Alan,

Yes, convertibles are suppose to be smoothed over there. There was a lead joint there from the factory. I used a high strength fiberglass reinforced filler there as opposed to lead or body solder then put a skim coat of plastic filler over it to fill in the rest. I also solid welded the seam to reduce the flex there a little more.

[BlueSS454]

We have primer! I just hung the fenders on there to get them out of the way.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9614.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9616.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9617.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9618.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9619.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9624.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9613.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

You will be adding few more trophies on that shelf when this car is done.

[Six Actual]

Tom, :waving: <-------Hi! lol

Seriously, perhaps you should give it some thought to submit a few pics of the before, now and after to one or more of the big Car magazines. There's a good chance they would run an article on your Mastery. The job you've done thus far is unbelievable and is paying off, bud. I cannot think of any words to describe your great work and the progress you have made. :thumbsup: :beers: Speechless. :)

[xplantdad]

I agree!

[BlueSS454]

I just finished rebuilding the door hinges. Pictures, of course!

Starting out with the crusty old ones.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9627.jpg

The first thing that needs to be done is to cut away the little tabs so the pin can be knocked out. A cutoff wheel does that in about 10 seconds. After that, simply knock the pins out with a hammer.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9630.jpg

The new hinge pin kit and detent rollers

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9626.jpg

This tool makes removing the spring on the lower hinge a snap.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9629.jpg

Once the hinges are all apart and the old bushings out, throw them in the blast cabinet.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9628.jpg.

After blasting, a quick primer coat.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9641.jpg

There are 2 different bushings that go in the hinges. One of them is specifically for the slot directly under the lower door hinge spring. It's splined and slightly larger than the other 6.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9654.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9646.jpg

Be sure to pay close attention to which part of the hinge and which direction the bushings need to be installed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9647.jpg

When reinstalling the pin, pay attention to which side of the hinge the splined head goes. You will be able to see the spline marks in the hinge.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9649.jpg

Set the pins with a hammer. A couple shots will set them properly. For the lower hinge, the next step is to reinstall the spring. The process is the same for the upper hinges except no spring to install. Once the pins are knocked back in place, I put a couple tacks of weld on the bottom since I have no way of duplicating what the factory did to prevent the pins from coming loose.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9651.jpg

Our finished rebuilt door hinges ready for service!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9652.jpg

[xplantdad]

Very nice!!

[BlueSS454]

The body has been successfully reunited with the frame. The frame is wrapped in plastic as well. I didn't wrap up the rear axle or front suspension yet as I still have a few things do to under there. I used the lift to drop it back on. It went fairly smooth except when I unbolted the front half of the rotisserie and it slammed into the firewall....oops. So now I have to reshoot it one night this week. The body is perfectly square on the frame too, only took 1 shot! I was happy about that. Once it was down, I torqued all the body bolts per spec in the factory assembly manual to 45 ft/lbs. The only thing I am not too crazy about right now is how high the back sits up. I'm going to wait and see what happens after I have the car reassembled. I know there is another 300-400 lbs that will be bolted on in the rear area so hopefully that will weigh it down.
I had intended on having it painted by the end of the year, but that is going to be pushed back to March or early April now. In the meantime, I will get everything bolted back on the firewall (heater box, pedals, etc) and get the brakes finished and bled. The top is also getting put on before it gets painted. I'm not chancing an upholstery shop denting or scratching it. I'd rather fix something like that in primer as opposed to fresh paint. Over the course of the winter, I plan on having the interior done and ready to go, wiring, and all the exterior parts ready to go. Then I'll focus on the the engine and trans.

I've already blocked the body with 180, it's pretty straight already with only 3 or 4 minor low areas to take care of. I know I have an issue with the 1 door and a high crown on the hood which I will address later on. i will do the fenders and deck lid one night this week. Once it's done with 180, I'll reprime it and start blocking it with 400, then jamb the trunk, top well, and door hinge posts with color.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9659.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9658.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9657.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9656.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9660.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_9664.jpg

[69supersport396]

Nice!

[joeyv69ragtop]

Amazing work, Tom. Looking forward to seeing your progress.

[Shadowgray396]

Looks familiar, I should have waited on the engine and exhaust, hard to keep over spray off everything.

http://i777.photobucket.com/albums/yy58/shadowgray/Body%20Shop/Photos%20in%2008/Picture004.jpg

http://i777.photobucket.com/albums/yy58/shadowgray/Body%20Shop/Photos%20in%2008/4speed5.jpg

[Six Actual]

Yo', Tom,
Niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiice....
One question.

What brand tires are you running on the rear, or are they just there for assembly purposes?

Thanks....

[Six Actual]

Yo', Tom,
Niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiice....
One question.

What brand tires are you running on the rear, or are they just there for assembly purposes?

Thanks....

Nevermind, Tom. :banghead: I see that they're BF's. :clonk: Although long premature, but have you decided what tires you are going to run on the car?

[BlueSS454]

John,

That's Ray's car, not mine. I just have crappy tires on there now. I will be running the Firestone Wide Ovals which I am picking up in Chicago in 2 weeks!

On a side note, I threw the top frame on there this afternoon to check fitment. After a side by side comparison of the power top and manual top frames, there is no difference between them that I have read. They are identical in every aspect. The spring assembly on the manual top bolts to the frame exactly how the hydraulic cylinders do on the power top, therefore, converting a manual top to power does NOT require buying a new top frame.

[Six Actual]

John,

That's Ray's car, not mine. I just have crappy tires on there now. I will be running the Firestone Wide Ovals which I am picking up in Chicago in 2 weeks!

On a side note, I threw the top frame on there this afternoon to check fitment. After a side by side comparison of the power top and manual top frames, there is no difference between them that I have read. They are identical in every aspect. The spring assembly on the manual top bolts to the frame exactly how the hydraulic cylinders do on the power top, therefore, converting a manual top to power does NOT require buying a new top frame.

Yep, I should have caught it......but I didn't. :speechless: Too quick scrolling down w/o paying attention to the Poster.

So, you are going with the the Firestone's then.

Keep the pics coming, man. :)

[BlueSS454]

OK here we go. It doesn't look much different but here it is. The whole car is done with 320, then 2 more coats of high build urethane primer went on. This SHOULD be the last time it needs to be primed unless I screw something up or find some wave action going on somewhere (knock on wood).

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0813.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0817.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0818.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0819.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0822.jpg


Post primer...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0829.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0830.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0831.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0832.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0833.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0834.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0836.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

You are one talented guy. Car continues to look amazing.

[Six Actual]

Talented is an understatement. You're currently in the wrong line of work, man.

I'm amazed at what your car looks like now, compared in the beginning when it was a rusted out shell, without any appearance or hope for resurection. :)

[Shadowgray396]

Talented is an understatement. You're currently in the wrong line of work, man.

I'm amazed at what your car looks like now, compared in the beginning when it was a rusted out shell, without any appearance or hope for resurection. :)

Amen to that. :beers::beers: all this work in only a year.
:bow::bow:

[BlueSS454]

Finished doing the interior in PPG DP74LF Red Oxide Epoxy primer this afternoon..just in time too. The temperature dropped about 20 degrees as soon as the sun went down.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0838.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0839.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0840.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0843.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0844.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0845.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0846.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0847.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0853.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

Looking good, looking forward when you get some color on it.

[BlueSS454]

I blew some color on the jambs last Sunday and did all the overspray areas as they were from the assembly line. This week I plan on getting the doors on and lined up, dealing with any issues there then rebuild the whole front end (fenders, hood, hinges, etc) so I can get the correct shim packs ready to go for final reassembly. It will also let me make sure all the body lines are good looking at the car overall. I will also be loading it up in the trailer to take down to a friend of mine's shop who does metal/bodywork on Chevelles almost exclusively to have a second set of hands go over to make sure I didn't miss anything. Once that is done, it's off to the upholstery shop to get the top put on.
After that, it will be ready for paint :yahoo:. It will need another sanding with 400 wet then 600 before paint, but that will be done the day or night before the Chevelle Doctor shoots it :). I am pretty optimistic that it will be ready for paint by mid-late January :yes:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0885.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0884.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0877.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0878.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0880.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0883.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0881.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0879.jpg

[Postsedan]

Nicshhhh!:thumbsup:

Dan

[Shadowgray396]

Love the color, going to look fantastic.

:bow::bow::thumbsup:

[BlueSS454]

I'm fighting with the front clip a bit now. The doors are one and where they need to be, however, there are some gap issues that need to be addressed. One thing I failed to realize when I was doing the metal work was that black hides things, gray primer shows them. There is also a bulge in the left fender that I need to deal with some how and the hood gap to the left fender needs to be widened a tad. The other issue I'm having is with the fender extensions. They are close, but I want them a little better.
Sometime in the next 2 weeks, I'll be taking the car down to another shop for some tweaking that I need a more experience eye for.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0930.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0931.jpg
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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0935.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0936.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0937.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0947.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0950.jpg

[BlueSS454]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0951.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0952.jpg[/IMG
[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0948.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0949.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0944.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0943.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0941.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0942.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0959.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0960.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0961.jpg

[BlueSS454]

Got the new header bow in today, a rust free original piece...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0955.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0954.jpg

Some down the side shots...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0971.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0970.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0965.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0966.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

Man does that bring back memories. I had to bend down my hood some to get it to fit correctly on the corners, weld a rod on the right quarter panel to fix a gap problem after I had the jam already painted and so forth. Thought I had everything ready when I took the car apart to paint it and felt like I started over when I started the painting process. I know you will get it to fit perfectly when you are done.

Ray

[BlueSS454]

Yeah I know what you mean Ray. Those gaps looked a lot better before I took the car apart and put it on the rotisserie. This is why I'm mocking it up again before it gets painted. Truth be told, I'm starting to get really irritated and losing patience with it at this point. That's why I'm taking it to another shop. I need a more experienced set of hands on it to get it right.

[Shadowgray396]

Yeah I know what you mean Ray. Those gaps looked a lot better before I took the car apart and put it on the rotisserie. This is why I'm mocking it up again before it gets painted. Truth be told, I'm starting to get really irritated and losing patience with it at this point. That's why I'm taking it to another shop. I need a more experienced set of hands on it to get it right.

Thats what I did, When my left fender curve didn't match the door like I thought it did and I watch the guy at the shop with more experience place it it some blankets and push on it to flatten the curve and then put it back on the car and it fit like it should I would have never tried it. It made me nervous to watch the process. So I hear what you are saying, so many tricks to learn to make everything fit correctly.

[Don_Lightfoot]

Appears to be coming along real good Tom. Good luck with the other shop. What colour of Gold is that by the way?

[BlueSS454]

Appears to be coming along real good Tom. Good luck with the other shop. What colour of Gold is that by the way?

Code 58 Autumn Gold :). I've been painting the wheels this week. I should have them done tomorrow and possibly have the tires mounted on Sunday :). Tonight I also beat the tar out of the bottom of the right door with a dead blow hammer and a block of wood. It wasn't straight enough for me.

[BlueSS454]

I finished painting 4 of the 5 rims the other day. I was fortunate enough to have a friend that allowed me to use his commercial sandblaster to blast the rims. It sure beat doing them in the blast cabinet! I ran out of gray paint for the back side of the 5th rim. I also mounted the 4 Firestone Wide Oval tires, still have to get a 5th tire too. It's nice having a tire machine in the shop! Now if I just had a wheel balancer too... Also, those are NOS center caps that I've been holding on to for the past 12 years for just the right car!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0980.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0981.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0983.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0986.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0988.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1003.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1004.jpg
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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1012.jpg

[Alan F]

Beautiful! You gonna hate to put trim rings on those beauties!:tongue::eek::yes:

[Shadowgray396]

Look sjust like when I did mine, Fun taping them off. I still haven't put my trim rings on mine yet. Very nice looking.

[BlueSS454]

I'm dreading more taking them to get balanced. I've seen what they do when smacking wheel weights on with hammers.

[Shadowgray396]

I'm dreading more taking them to get balanced. I've seen what they do when smacking wheel weights on with hammers.

Take them to someone who will be careful. I stayed right there while they did mine.

[BlueSS454]

I have a guy in mind whom I've taken other things too. He knows I have old cars too so I am hopeful that he will tell whoever is doing it to be careful. On that note...

Here is today's accomplishment. I cleaned up, painted, lubed, and reinstalled all the window regulator parts for the 1/4 glass. The supports had some rust on them so I just blasted the rusty part, primed and painted them with Stainless Steel paint. The regulators themselves I just gave a quick lube job too with some grease.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1031.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1030.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1024.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1029.jpg

Also threw some guide coat on the body. I have to reprime the deck lid, deck filler panel and part of the fender. I might do that tomorrow.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1018.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1019.jpg
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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1023.jpg

[Six Actual]

Those Firestone's look better than I thought they would. :cool:

[BlueSS454]

OK so this has been irritating me for several weeks now so I fixed it MY way. The door gap at the top was huge and acceptable at the bottom. The door to fender gap was barely acceptable and the rocker to door was not so much. I pulled the fender back off and leveled the rocker gap then put the fender back on and got that gap where I was happy. That just left the door to quarter to deal with. Solution....break out the welder...

Before:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_0936-1.jpg

After:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1033.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1034.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

Looked just like my door gap before I fixed it.

[tunes]

Much better! You guys amaze me with your skills.

[xplantdad]

Tom rocks!

[BlueSS454]

Here are some current pics. This is how I brought it home from John's shop. It's been blocked in 320 except the areas where he did additional bodywork. Those have been finished with 180, now they need primer which I am going to try and do on Saturday since it will be in the 50's. Once that dries I'll hit it with 320 and that SHOULD be it I hope. I am seriously tired of screwing around with bodywork but I don't want to miss anything so..... I will probably take the car to his shop one more time for a once over. Having another set of more experienced eyes is nice.

The deck lid had a dip in it...not anymore

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1095.jpg

We welded to the front edge of the hood to close the gap. The fenders needs a swipe of fill also.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1103.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1102.jpg

Right door gap that I was having an issue with required a little hammer and dolly work then some filler...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1108.jpg

We did a little adjustment on the left door also. I like the gap much better now...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1104.jpg

And a few overall shots...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1099.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1100.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1101.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1096.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1097.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

Looking good, Brings back all the memories of the two years working on the body work on my car part time trying to get everything to fit. I remember using a 2x4 to bent the hood down in the corner to get it to fit the fenders in front. You will have a very nice car. I had to take mine over to a friend (former body guy) also for some help.

[Postsedan]

Nicshhhhh!

Dan

[BlueSS454]

Ok folks, I know I haven't updated this in a little bit here so here it goes...

I had the top put on before paint on January 31st. I am VERY happy with the job Dave at CE Walls did, for a very fair price.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1171.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1170.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1172.jpg

Final primer sitting...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1111.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1110.jpg
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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1117.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1120.jpg

While it was sitting, I got the brakes on and bled...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1147.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1143.jpg
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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1136.jpg

[Shadowgray396]

I would say we are a little behind on here. Lol

[BlueSS454]

Yeah I'm a little behind. Over here I like to go into a little more depth about what all I'm doing which takes a lot more time.

I had a little pre painting night snafu with the hood circa 11:30 PM. I had to have the car up at the shop where we were painting it the NEXT day. Things like this seems to always happen under pressure. After I got the car in the trailer after midnight, I took it to work with me and fixed it in the trailer at lunch time after having filler and primer delivered to me at work. The hood hinge slipped into the relief for the crumple zone and poked an outy dent in the skin. Due to the nature of this damage, the only option was to sink and fill it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/Image02232012122633.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/Image02232012190022.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/Image02232012191439.jpg

The Doctor flew in Friday afternoon, arriving in Philadelphia at 5 PM. We headed straight up north from the airport. Once we got there, we pulled the front clip, finished hand sanding the car with 600 wet, then masked it all up. We had to drive around for an hour Saturday morning looking for seam sealer because I forgot to seal a few things. After that we washed the car down with wax and grease remover and ran over it with a tack cloth to get any loose dust off.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1260.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1256.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1252.jpg

The first thing to go on was the sealer. We used an epoxy primer from Utech to seal it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1264.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1269.jpg

After that was left to flash, Dr. Dave started hosing it with Autumn Gold DuPont Chromabase..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1270.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1280.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1283.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1277.jpg

After hammering on a few coats of the gold for a base, we left it sit for about an hour to grab some lunch, came base and hit it with 600 dry to take any dirt nibs off before hammering on the last of the gold. It made a huge difference in how flat the base laid down. After a 45 minute flash time, the stripes were laid out. No stencil kit was used, we did everything free hand going on the correct early specs from the factory assembly manual and a tape measure.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1291.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1293.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1294.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1297.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1299.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1300.jpg

[BlueSS454]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1303.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1304.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1314.jpg

Once the black was finished it's flash time, ready for clear...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1325.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1323.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1321.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1316.jpg

Here's was the table 'o materials...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1268.jpg

Pushed outside after the front clip was put back on

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1341.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1342.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1340.jpg

The trunk redone correctly as it left the assembly line. I had photos available to reference to.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1347.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1345.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1346.jpg

Here it is after a cut n buff. I didn't do this step. I had John Truman of Truman Muscle cars take care of this for me. John is one of the unsung heroes. I probably would not have been able to do this car if it weren't for his knowledge every time I ran into some issue I didn't know how to deal with.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1370.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1372.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1375.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1378.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1377.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1376.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1373.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1366.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v249/BlueSS454/70%20Convertible/IMG_1367.jpg

[tunes]

Beautiful!!!

[Shadowgray396]

Car looks so amazing. You have put a lot of work into detail on this project. I hope mine comes out half as nice as yours.

Ray