Click the photos for an expanded view of each.

Components that are prepared and ready for reassembly.

The cowl being painted.

The frame was painted with a popular auto chassis rust inhibiting paint.

The engine was mounted in the frame, and all related components reconnected. The rubber bushings in the front suspension were replaced. The ball joints were replaced, the tie rod ends, and steering components were in perfect condition.

A view of the clutch linkage and steering area.

September 14th 2004. The floors were in remarkable condition. No rust under the throttle pedal indicates a low mileage auto.

When the original carpet was removed, we found a mint condition Wrigleys Juicyfruit wrapper, and an unusual razor blade knife that used a long narrow blade. They had a light coating of blue overspray from the factory painting process.

Floor rust is common in cars of this era. It was amazing to find zero rust in the floors. Very few restored antique cars have the original floor pans. Throughout the restoration, each item uncovered was found to be in better condition than expected. The overall condition of this car was a pleasant surprise.

September 15th 2004. A popular rust inhibiting paint from Wurth was applied to the floor areas after they were cleaned and prepared. (rear view)

A popular rust inhibiting paint from Wurth was applied to the floor areas after they were cleaned and prepared. (front view)

September 20th 2004. The trunk floor/fuel tank braces had accumulated gravel road dust, and the interior cavity had filled with silt. Resulting in some minor "pinhole" rust through at the rear. They were sand blasted to bare metal, welded repairs were made, and they were treated inside with Wurth rust inhibiting paint, then prepared for installation.

UPDATE January 2016 - These braces are now reproduced.

"SHERMAN" brand, PART NUMBER 731-76B.

LINK SUMMIT RACING

A reproduction trunk floor was purchased from Late Great Chevys in Florida. Some minor modifications are necessary for a correct appearance.

September 25th 2004. The right quarter panel had some rust perforation behind the spare tire support. A repair patch was made to precisely fit into the opening as this area is visible from both sides. Slightly thicker metal is used. This allows for a better weld with less distortion, and thicker metal is easier to shape for contoured patch panels. A small metal brake is used for bending sharp edges, and most contour work is done with gloved hands. Repeatedly test fitting the patch until it fits into the opening like a puzzle piece.

The finished repair patch after welding.

September 26th 2004. Initial test fitting of the trunk floor.