1969 Olds Cutlass Convertible Restoration Page 6  FOR SALE
April 24, 2015  About time for an update.

Once the rear quarter was fit and trimmed the long process of slowly welding it on begins.  There are a million little tack welds spread all over the length of the seam to minimize heat and warpage in any one area.  It's just a matter of tacking all around until they all connect.

Once they are all joined the weld is dressed or ground down smooth.  The seam is virtually invisible.   I'll do a little shrinking and a skim coat of body filler and it will look like new.

The inner and outer wheelhouse for the drivers side are on back order so I'm on hold for the body work.

In the meantime I'm going to get started on the frame and suspension.

I rolled in the replacement frame.  The original was badly rusted and weakened in the rear. Finding a 69 convertible frame was a little challenge.  This one needs a minor repair but overall is in good shape.

First step is to get it stripped of all the suspension, fuel and brake lines.

A lot of penetrating oil, heat and impact wrench and the slowly the parts come off. 




The rear differential and links finally came free.  I also removed the ball joints and bushings from the control arms.

And the frame is stripped and ready to be sandblasted.





Back from the sandblaster!



Everything came very clean and looks terrific.







Time to get some epoxy primer on all this bare metal.
After a few coats it really looks good!.













I also tore down the rear differential.  It will be cleaned, painted, new seals and all the internals inspected.


Next up, nice clean rust free reconstruction!


Lots more to come!

Check back often.


 Back     Home   Next

---

Updates almost daily I hope!

Contact me! john@57rustbucket

Like on Facebook!