Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 01, 2017, 01:50:55 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 01, 2017, 01:50:55 PM
Well after 29 years, and 15 years under my ownership, it's time for some new paint on my Thunderbird. The whole project was brought on by some rust that started to form in the seam between the quarter panel and rocker on the driver side a couple years ago.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170311_094705_zpsffxsrmwy.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170311_094705_zpsffxsrmwy.jpg.html)
Fortunately the rust does't really pop through to the other side.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170421_164843_zpsaissqsid.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170421_164843_zpsaissqsid.jpg.html)
Well it snowballed from there :hick:. I figured since that area of rust needed to be fixed I might as well get 29 years of accumulated dents repaired at the same time. I pulled the easily removable molding, trim, emblems, and interior panels for easy body shop access. I also, per body shop request, circled all the dings and dents I could find. The shop will be removing the quarter windows and the rest of the window trim.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170426_110554_zpssulg7gno.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170426_110554_zpssulg7gno.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170428_151617_zpsmimr3qce.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170428_151617_zpsmimr3qce.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170428_151642_zpsnt58jmmj.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170428_151642_zpsnt58jmmj.jpg.html)
At some point moisture got behind the passenger door molding and formed a spot of rust the size of a pencil eraser.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170426_110616_zps1dxnja8q.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170426_110616_zps1dxnja8q.jpg.html)
As of this morning it's at the body shop.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/tbird%20body%20shop_zps127ubr8c.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/tbird%20body%20shop_zps127ubr8c.jpg.html)
In two weeks or so it should be done, and hopefully look like new again :D.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170311_094705_zpsffxsrmwy.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170311_094705_zpsffxsrmwy.jpg.html)
Fortunately the rust does't really pop through to the other side.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170421_164843_zpsaissqsid.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170421_164843_zpsaissqsid.jpg.html)
Well it snowballed from there :hick:. I figured since that area of rust needed to be fixed I might as well get 29 years of accumulated dents repaired at the same time. I pulled the easily removable molding, trim, emblems, and interior panels for easy body shop access. I also, per body shop request, circled all the dings and dents I could find. The shop will be removing the quarter windows and the rest of the window trim.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170426_110554_zpssulg7gno.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170426_110554_zpssulg7gno.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170428_151617_zpsmimr3qce.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170428_151617_zpsmimr3qce.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170428_151642_zpsnt58jmmj.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170428_151642_zpsnt58jmmj.jpg.html)
At some point moisture got behind the passenger door molding and formed a spot of rust the size of a pencil eraser.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170426_110616_zps1dxnja8q.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170426_110616_zps1dxnja8q.jpg.html)
As of this morning it's at the body shop.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/tbird%20body%20shop_zps127ubr8c.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/tbird%20body%20shop_zps127ubr8c.jpg.html)
In two weeks or so it should be done, and hopefully look like new again :D.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: tommym on May 01, 2017, 02:01:56 PM
Post by: tommym on May 01, 2017, 02:01:56 PM
Nice looking car to start with. Are you painting it the same colors?
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 01, 2017, 02:50:39 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 01, 2017, 02:50:39 PM
Quote from: tommym;460563
Nice looking car to start with. Are you painting it the same colors?
Yep. Same factory colors. I even found the tape stripes NOS.
For 29 years old the car still looked good,just not new car good. Getting a car in this condition repainted is cheaper than getting a rusty hulk that needs the lower 1/3 of the sheet metal replaced painted. It's easy to strip and only needs a couple small repair patches as highlighted above. That's also why it's only a 2-3 week job. The hope is to have the body work done by Friday or so and into the paint booth next week.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 08, 2017, 01:49:04 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 08, 2017, 01:49:04 PM
Well a week in and all the dents and rust spots are gone. The rust where the quarter panel met the rocker wasn't bad. The body guy was able to grind it down to bare metal and there were no holes. It didn't need a patch panel. Just etch primer and sealer. The driver's door needs to have the hinge pins changed and to be aligned, along with a different driver side fender (the stock one had rust caused by dirt and water trapped by the sound insulation behind the fender liner). So in the next couple days the body should be down to metal and primed. The goal is to get the first layer of paint down by the end of this week and finish everything up sometime the following week.
On a note you can see how much sun fade (even after lots of polish and wax) the paint had after 29 years. The gray that was below the tape stripe and behind the tail lights/rear bumper is darker than the paint that was exposed to the sun.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170508_094804_zpsz782p4wv.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170508_094804_zpsz782p4wv.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170508_094737_zpsvxkgapai.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170508_094737_zpsvxkgapai.jpg.html)
On a note you can see how much sun fade (even after lots of polish and wax) the paint had after 29 years. The gray that was below the tape stripe and behind the tail lights/rear bumper is darker than the paint that was exposed to the sun.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170508_094804_zpsz782p4wv.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170508_094804_zpsz782p4wv.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170508_094737_zpsvxkgapai.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170508_094737_zpsvxkgapai.jpg.html)
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: ZondaC12 on May 08, 2017, 01:58:37 PM
Post by: ZondaC12 on May 08, 2017, 01:58:37 PM
I still can't believe you're doing this. I have some dents here and there but eventually I'll have someone PDR them. I just can't bring myself to cover up factory paint unless it's absolutely necessary!
Crazy how a perfect Cali car can still suffer from that quarter-to-rocker rust. Only a Fox would do that :rollin:
It's definitely gonna be amazing when finished.
Crazy how a perfect Cali car can still suffer from that quarter-to-rocker rust. Only a Fox would do that :rollin:
It's definitely gonna be amazing when finished.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 08, 2017, 02:28:53 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 08, 2017, 02:28:53 PM
Quote from: ZondaC12;460669
I still can't believe you're doing this. I have some dents here and there but eventually I'll have someone PDR them. I just can't bring myself to cover up factory paint unless it's absolutely necessary!
Crazy how a perfect Cali car can still suffer from that quarter-to-rocker rust. Only a Fox would do that :rollin:
It's definitely gonna be amazing when finished.
Yeah that quarter to rocker rust is probably the result of the seam sealer breaking down and water getting in the area. It's gone now.
The factory paint on the car looks better in pictures than it does up close. In the last year or two the clear coat on the roof above the passenger door and the middle of the trunk lid was starting to haze. It only took about 27 years for the infamous clear coat haze to start. Lots of wax and garaging kept it away for much longer than usual.
Also having 3 cars around with almost perfect paint was starting to make the Thunderbird look its age. Can't have that ;).
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: ZondaC12 on May 10, 2017, 02:13:46 PM
Post by: ZondaC12 on May 10, 2017, 02:13:46 PM
I keep forgetting that the two-tones are CC...as are other colors. So used to single stage and my wax rags turning colors :)
It's amazing what photos hide, just as you said the car looks brand new to me.
It's amazing what photos hide, just as you said the car looks brand new to me.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 10, 2017, 03:42:50 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 10, 2017, 03:42:50 PM
Quote from: ZondaC12;460692
It's amazing what photos hide, just as you said the car looks brand new to me.
All those white circles are dents and dings. I could look down the door at certain angles and see them all. It used to drive me nuts :hick:
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 12, 2017, 07:44:58 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 12, 2017, 07:44:58 PM
Well it's stripped. The guy assigned to paint the car hurt his back on Wednesday, right after he pulled both fenders off to e-coat the back of them before aligning everything. So forward of the doors there's nothing but the hood right now. The guy should hopefully be back Monday. I'm hoping it's done this coming Friday (a week from today) but I'm probably being optimistic. I'd rather it take longer than antited and look perfect vs. a rushed, half ass job.
Even when I get the car back it's not done. I have to put the sail panels, door panels, and all the exterior trim and moldings back on...
Even when I get the car back it's not done. I have to put the sail panels, door panels, and all the exterior trim and moldings back on...
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: tommym on May 12, 2017, 11:51:11 PM
Post by: tommym on May 12, 2017, 11:51:11 PM
I'm fortunate to have lived in SoCal and Nevada so never had a rust problem. The 87 Sport I bought new in 87, all silver, looked like new until my wife met another blonde at the intersection about 100yds from my house in Oct 2003. She was OK but the hit square on the drivers door almost bent the car in half. I bought the blue TC from a guy here in Henderson in Nov 2003. I should of known better when he said he was a Ford mechanic and the car ran great.
Put it on jack stands 2 days later, bought the Sport from Allstate, parked them both in the garage. Finally got it off the jack stands in Nov 2005. She's been my "work in progress" to this day.
She doesn't sit outside, never driven in the rain. Wife doesn't drive it. My son told her if she did drive it and something happened to the car to call him first and he would help her leave the country.
Being dark blue with black trim she gets a little warm driving in the summer. One of these days I hope to have her painted silver like my Sport.
Best of luck with your paint. Car looks great.
Put it on jack stands 2 days later, bought the Sport from Allstate, parked them both in the garage. Finally got it off the jack stands in Nov 2005. She's been my "work in progress" to this day.
She doesn't sit outside, never driven in the rain. Wife doesn't drive it. My son told her if she did drive it and something happened to the car to call him first and he would help her leave the country.
Being dark blue with black trim she gets a little warm driving in the summer. One of these days I hope to have her painted silver like my Sport.
Best of luck with your paint. Car looks great.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: tommym on May 13, 2017, 12:07:54 AM
Post by: tommym on May 13, 2017, 12:07:54 AM
The attached picture is a car I saw at Barrett Jackson. That's the silver I want to paint my car. All the trim will stay black.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: My10-80 on May 13, 2017, 12:08:41 AM
Post by: My10-80 on May 13, 2017, 12:08:41 AM
I'm actually hoping to get my black 87 painted here shortly. After 30 years it just doesn't have the luster I'm sure it once had. Buy until that happens, I will be antiting those finished pics of yours and wish you a happy week or so till it comes back to you. From experience on my Mustang a few years ago, the antition can be overwhelming at times but the wait is well worth the finished product. Good luck to you.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: bodyman on May 13, 2017, 10:35:27 AM
Post by: bodyman on May 13, 2017, 10:35:27 AM
Quote
thunderjet302
I'm hoping it's done this coming Friday (a week from today) but I'm probably being optimistic. I'd rather it take longer than antited and look perfect vs. a rushed, half ass job
Definitely the right way to look at it. Once in a while I get that customer that genuinely seems upset with how long it is taking and my usual response is that I would rather have you upset with me for a week or two than for the rest of the time you own your car.
Looking forward to seeing it's progress.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 13, 2017, 10:54:00 AM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 13, 2017, 10:54:00 AM
Quote from: tommym;460721
The attached picture is a car I saw at Barrett Jackson. That's the silver I want to paint my car. All the trim will stay black.
If you want NOS moldings good luck. I was able to find the plastic pieces no problem NOS, the rubber ones, not so much. I'm going to be using a set I carefully removed (so they didn't bend) from a 67K mile Thunderbird. The molding on my car wasn't bad but the center chrome strip was faded. The molding from the 67k mile car were like new, so I'll be using those.
Quote from: My10-80;460722
I'm actually hoping to get my black 87 painted here shortly. After 30 years it just doesn't have the luster I'm sure it once had. Buy until that happens, I will be antiting those finished pics of yours and wish you a happy week or so till it comes back to you. From experience on my Mustang a few years ago, the antition can be overwhelming at times but the wait is well worth the finished product. Good luck to you.
Is you 87 single stage or clear coat? My car has clear coat paint and the clear coat was just staring to haze on the roof and trunk lid. A light color, being garaged most of its life, and regular waxing may have made the factory clear last much longer than most. If you have a single stage paint buffing it may bring back some of the luster.
Quote from: bodyman;460728
Definitely the right way to look at it. Once in a while I get that customer that genuinely seems upset with how long it is taking and my usual response is that I would rather have you upset with me for a week or two than for the rest of the time you own your car.
Looking forward to seeing it's progress.
It's getting a bit harder to wait as the weather is finally starting to turn for the better. I'm hoping it stays nice when I get the car back in a week or two. Like I said I'm doubtful it will be done by Friday the 19th. The fenders, bumper, and header need to be put back on and everything aligned before primer and paint. I don't see that happening in a week. When I went in yesterday there were even more dents that had been filled and sanded than this past Monday. The body guy found more that I missed :hick:.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: tommym on May 13, 2017, 02:41:52 PM
Post by: tommym on May 13, 2017, 02:41:52 PM
The moldings on my car are in excellent shape. When the car was re-painted the moldings were painted gloss black. Can't really see them in the pictures. The center molding was re-painted red. I'm lucky I haven't had to have them removed. I was told by the body shop that if they get damaged they would not even try to replace them.
Have you tried to use chrome or aluminum vinyl to re-cover your center molding? You can buy the vinyl in a sheet, 12in x 60in, cut it in 1in strips and use a blow dryer, (Not your wife's), and a felt squeegee to install it. Haven't tried it myself but I have re-covered several of my dash parts with matt black vinyl with excellent results.
Have you tried to use chrome or aluminum vinyl to re-cover your center molding? You can buy the vinyl in a sheet, 12in x 60in, cut it in 1in strips and use a blow dryer, (Not your wife's), and a felt squeegee to install it. Haven't tried it myself but I have re-covered several of my dash parts with matt black vinyl with excellent results.
Quote from: thunderjet302;460729
If you want NOS moldings good luck. I was able to find the plastic pieces no problem NOS, the rubber ones, not so much. I'm going to be using a set I carefully removed (so they didn't bend) from a 67K mile Thunderbird. The molding on my car wasn't bad but the center chrome strip was faded. The molding from the 67k mile car were like new, so I'll be using those.
Is you 87 single stage or clear coat? My car has clear coat paint and the clear coat was just staring to haze on the roof and trunk lid. A light color, being garaged most of its life, and regular waxing may have made the factory clear last much longer than most. If you have a single stage paint buffing it may bring back some of the luster.
It's getting a bit harder to wait as the weather is finally starting to turn for the better. I'm hoping it stays nice when I get the car back in a week or two. Like I said I'm doubtful it will be done by Friday the 19th. The fenders, bumper, and header need to be put back on and everything aligned before primer and paint. I don't see that happening in a week. When I went in yesterday there were even more dents that had been filled and sanded than this past Monday. The body guy found more that I missed :hick:.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 13, 2017, 03:58:35 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 13, 2017, 03:58:35 PM
Quote from: tommym;460731
The moldings on my car are in excellent shape. When the car was re-painted the moldings were painted gloss black. Can't really see them in the pictures. The center molding was re-painted red. I'm lucky I haven't had to have them removed. I was told by the body shop that if they get damaged they would not even try to replace them.
Have you tried to use chrome or aluminum vinyl to re-cover your center molding? You can buy the vinyl in a sheet, 12in x 60in, cut it in 1in strips and use a blow dryer, (Not your wife's), and a felt squeegee to install it. Haven't tried it myself but I have re-covered several of my dash parts with matt black vinyl with excellent results.
The chrome trim on mine was faded (well actually the clear overlay over the chrome) and no amount of polishing would get it shiny again. This stuff did approximate the look of the factory finish: http://www.foxtbirdcougarforums.com/showthread.php?23126-Chrome-on-Side-moldings/page3
The moldings from the 67K mile car polished up nice and clear. Since they don't need the chrome strip to be covered I'll be using them instead of the moldings that were on my car. I saved those for spares, just in case.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: My10-80 on May 13, 2017, 10:23:56 PM
Post by: My10-80 on May 13, 2017, 10:23:56 PM
How did you remove the trim without bending them so they can be reused? When I approached my favorite shop about doing the car the first thing they commented on was the fact that these strips once taken off do not usually go back on as nice as they were before. I have read that others have taken them off without bending the aluminum backing. Clearly you were successful not once, but twice.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 14, 2017, 12:11:59 AM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 14, 2017, 12:11:59 AM
Quote from: My10-80;460733
How did you remove the trim without bending them so they can be reused? When I approached my favorite shop about doing the car the first thing they commented on was the fact that these strips once taken off do not usually go back on as nice as they were before. I have read that others have taken them off without bending the aluminum backing. Clearly you were successful not once, but twice.
You just need a sharp joint knife and a hammer. Hammer the joint knife through the tape behind the molding from top to bottom, working your way along the molding. It cuts the tape and keeps the molding from bending up.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 15, 2017, 02:19:02 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 15, 2017, 02:19:02 PM
The front fenders have been jammed. So today the rest of the paint is coming off and the front sheet metal goes back on to get aligned. Once everything is straight it's off to the paint booth for primer. The hope is the car will be in primer by the end of the day tomorrow. The body shop plans on having it painted by the end of the day Friday, with Monday and Tuesday next week for wet sand and buffing. I'm hoping to get it back Wednesday next week, so I can begin putting the moldings, trim, and interior parts back in.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095731_zpsscrgxtot.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095731_zpsscrgxtot.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095717_zpsczhxxwtw.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095717_zpsczhxxwtw.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095709_zpsnzgxs30k.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095709_zpsnzgxs30k.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095651_zpsoigdsslr.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095651_zpsoigdsslr.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095643_zpsm5xwvfgs.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095643_zpsm5xwvfgs.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095731_zpsscrgxtot.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095731_zpsscrgxtot.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095717_zpsczhxxwtw.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095717_zpsczhxxwtw.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095709_zpsnzgxs30k.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095709_zpsnzgxs30k.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095651_zpsoigdsslr.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095651_zpsoigdsslr.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095643_zpsm5xwvfgs.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170515_095643_zpsm5xwvfgs.jpg.html)
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 17, 2017, 01:27:54 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 17, 2017, 01:27:54 PM
Fenders are back on and all panel gaps aligned. The panel gaps are even better than stock. Primer is going on today. Tomorrow and Friday the car will get paint laid down. I'll hopefully have some pictures of paint on Friday. The car will be wet sanded and buffed on Monday and Tuesday next week. I should have it back on Wednesday, so I can start putting interior panels and exterior trim back on. Hopefully I'll have Humpty Dumpty back in one piece by memorial Day weekend.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095339_zpssbjg4xm7.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095339_zpssbjg4xm7.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095327_zpsuxniycbd.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095327_zpsuxniycbd.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095440_zpsglqb6rie.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095440_zpsglqb6rie.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095339_zpssbjg4xm7.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095339_zpssbjg4xm7.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095327_zpsuxniycbd.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095327_zpsuxniycbd.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095440_zpsglqb6rie.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170517_095440_zpsglqb6rie.jpg.html)
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 19, 2017, 06:32:12 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 19, 2017, 06:32:12 PM
Well it's in primer :hick:. It should be painted by the end of the day Monday. So after wet sanding, buffing, and re-installing some removed trim and the quarter windows it'll be done. I'm hoping I'll have it home Thursday. Fingers crossed. It's taking longer than planned but I want it to look showroom stock on the outside. Helps with the whole sleeper thing. I'm also ditching the 5.0 fender badges. I want stock appearance more than anything else.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 24, 2017, 02:05:55 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 24, 2017, 02:05:55 PM
It's got paint!
Now it just needs to be wet sanded, buffed, the bumpers installed, header panel and lights installed, front fender liners put back on, quarter windows put back on, window trim put back on, exterior door handles put back on, lock cylinders put back on, and then it can come home. The I have to put the door panels, sail panels, side mirrors, moldings, and emblems back on. Then the car is done :hick:.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170524_092655_zpsxkstce71.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170524_092655_zpsxkstce71.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170524_092635_zpsuxnbje1n.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170524_092635_zpsuxnbje1n.jpg.html)
Now it just needs to be wet sanded, buffed, the bumpers installed, header panel and lights installed, front fender liners put back on, quarter windows put back on, window trim put back on, exterior door handles put back on, lock cylinders put back on, and then it can come home. The I have to put the door panels, sail panels, side mirrors, moldings, and emblems back on. Then the car is done :hick:.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170524_092655_zpsxkstce71.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170524_092655_zpsxkstce71.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170524_092635_zpsuxnbje1n.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170524_092635_zpsuxnbje1n.jpg.html)
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: Aerocoupe on May 26, 2017, 08:10:46 PM
Post by: Aerocoupe on May 26, 2017, 08:10:46 PM
Amazing how good the car looked before but now a person can really see the difference in how the old paint had just given up the gloss ghost and the pigment had faded. Looks awesome man!!!
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 26, 2017, 09:18:42 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 26, 2017, 09:18:42 PM
I stopped by the body shop this morning. They are still wet sanding/buffing the car (getting rid of any orange peal that's left). The front and rear bumpers were getting painted when I stopped, the header was already done. I should have it home this comming Thursday or Friday.
As far as appearance goes there is a huge difference, even though the car looked good before. The gloss is just so much better. New paint vs. 29 year old stuff will do that. It's much more noticeable in person than in pictures.
As far as appearance goes there is a huge difference, even though the car looked good before. The gloss is just so much better. New paint vs. 29 year old stuff will do that. It's much more noticeable in person than in pictures.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on May 27, 2017, 09:06:33 AM
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on May 27, 2017, 09:06:33 AM
Schweet!!! I've always liked the two tones...
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 27, 2017, 11:26:38 AM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 27, 2017, 11:26:38 AM
Quote from: TurboCoupe50;460964
Schweet!!! I've always liked the two tones...
You know I've owned this car for so long that when I see a single color 87-88 Thunderbird it doesn't look right to me :hick:
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: BCA on May 27, 2017, 04:49:30 PM
Post by: BCA on May 27, 2017, 04:49:30 PM
It's coming along very nicely. Looking forward to seeing the end result.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 31, 2017, 02:34:49 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 31, 2017, 02:34:49 PM
Almost done! The 30 year old NOS tape stripes went on great. Just needs trim installed and it can go home. I should have it back home tomorrow or Friday. Then I have to put the emblems and moldings on.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104912_zpsx71jbml6.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104912_zpsx71jbml6.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104904_zpshrkghopc.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104904_zpshrkghopc.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104849_zpsq3octyan.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104849_zpsq3octyan.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104912_zpsx71jbml6.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104912_zpsx71jbml6.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104904_zpshrkghopc.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104904_zpshrkghopc.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104849_zpsq3octyan.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170531_104849_zpsq3octyan.jpg.html)
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: bodyman on May 31, 2017, 02:51:52 PM
Post by: bodyman on May 31, 2017, 02:51:52 PM
Looking great! Would have not liked being the guy that had to put the stripe on, not that it is all that difficult, just knowing that it's not as easy as ordering up another one if there is an issue.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 31, 2017, 03:03:48 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on May 31, 2017, 03:03:48 PM
Quote from: bodyman;461050
Looking great! Would have not liked being the guy that had to put the stripe on, not that it is all that difficult, just knowing that it's not as easy as ordering up another one if there is an issue.
Well there's only one more NOS stripe kit out there so he was careful. The guy who put it on noted that it was very fragile and he had to be careful not to bent it too much or it would crack. The new stripe kit is straighter than the factory installed one. Makes it look like the guy who put it on at the factory was cross eyed and drunk :mullet:.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: tommym on June 01, 2017, 02:08:04 AM
Post by: tommym on June 01, 2017, 02:08:04 AM
Turned out looking great. Ready for another 30yrs?
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 01, 2017, 12:10:52 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 01, 2017, 12:10:52 PM
Quote from: tommym;461066
Turned out looking great. Ready for another 30yrs?
I hope the paint lasts that long :hick:
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 06, 2017, 01:40:58 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 06, 2017, 01:40:58 PM
Got it home late Friday afternoon. It's back in one piece again and detailed. Better pictures to come.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091727_zpsyysqfcn5.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091727_zpsyysqfcn5.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091758_zpsgwtbt6oz.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091758_zpsgwtbt6oz.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091815_zpshnkdqatg.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091815_zpshnkdqatg.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170605_173120_zpskq8qcr7m.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170605_173120_zpskq8qcr7m.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170605_173140_zpsphyrt5sc.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170605_173140_zpsphyrt5sc.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091727_zpsyysqfcn5.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091727_zpsyysqfcn5.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091758_zpsgwtbt6oz.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091758_zpsgwtbt6oz.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091815_zpshnkdqatg.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170606_091815_zpshnkdqatg.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170605_173120_zpskq8qcr7m.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170605_173120_zpskq8qcr7m.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170605_173140_zpsphyrt5sc.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170605_173140_zpsphyrt5sc.jpg.html)
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: 50RACER on June 06, 2017, 02:55:57 PM
Post by: 50RACER on June 06, 2017, 02:55:57 PM
It looks great!
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: BCA on June 06, 2017, 03:01:38 PM
Post by: BCA on June 06, 2017, 03:01:38 PM
Suddenly it's 1988 again. :D
Looks awesome! Those snowflakes compliment it nicely and look perfect on it too. You should be proud.
Now comes the hardest part. Driving it and parking it in the wild without being a Nervous Nelly.
Looks awesome! Those snowflakes compliment it nicely and look perfect on it too. You should be proud.
Now comes the hardest part. Driving it and parking it in the wild without being a Nervous Nelly.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 06, 2017, 03:47:01 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 06, 2017, 03:47:01 PM
It hasn't been out in the wild except for the drive home from the body shop. I plan on taking it out tomorrow morning. Parking, well, it's not a grocery getter. I'll only be parking in places with a very low chance of damage being inflicted.
I still want to get some Mustang GT tail pipes. That way I can tuck them up like the factory style Thunderbird tail pipes. The Mustang LX pipes are too visible and ruin the "stock" appearance.
I still want to get some Mustang GT tail pipes. That way I can tuck them up like the factory style Thunderbird tail pipes. The Mustang LX pipes are too visible and ruin the "stock" appearance.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: BCA on June 06, 2017, 05:03:02 PM
Post by: BCA on June 06, 2017, 05:03:02 PM
Quote from: thunderjet302;461183
I still want to get some Mustang GT tail pipes. That way I can tuck them up like the factory style Thunderbird tail pipes. The Mustang LX pipes are too visible and ruin the "stock" appearance.
I know they are popular, but I never thought that the Mustang LX tailpipes looked right on our cars. To each his own though.
I put factory '87-'88 Turbo Coupe lers & tailpipes on my car and they are a bit too subtle, but with the way the rear bodywork is, it's a bit difficult to do much back there that looks "proper" without going overboard too. The GT pipes should give a very similar look.
I ended up painting the tailpipes black and leaving the end where the factory turndowns unpainted and then just went over them with some fine grit sandpaper. The material isn't good enough that they can be polished and you really have to look to see them, but it dressed them up just enough.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: ZondaC12 on June 06, 2017, 08:31:14 PM
Post by: ZondaC12 on June 06, 2017, 08:31:14 PM
Quote from: thunderjet302;460694
All those white circles are dents and dings. I could look down the door at certain angles and see them all. It used to drive me nuts :hick:
Wow I just looked at that. Nothing like some good old-fashioned perspective. It never changes, and you just assume even though you know it's irrational......that EVERYONE sees all of it too.
Is that a dealership? Looks like one hell of an outfit. Confidence-inspiring.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on June 06, 2017, 08:55:51 PM
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on June 06, 2017, 08:55:51 PM
Quote from: BCA;461182
Suddenly it's 1988 again. :D
Does that mean I have to get married again?? I sure hope not, as I won't do it again... :hick:
Seriously car looks great, far better detailed than anything I own...
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: tommym on June 06, 2017, 09:26:32 PM
Post by: tommym on June 06, 2017, 09:26:32 PM
Very nice looking TBird.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 07, 2017, 12:03:34 AM
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 07, 2017, 12:03:34 AM
Quote from: ZondaC12;461189
Wow I just looked at that. Nothing like some good old-fashioned perspective. It never changes, and you just assume even though you know it's irrational......that EVERYONE sees all of it too.
Is that a dealership? Looks like one hell of an outfit. Confidence-inspiring.
I always assumed that people saw the dents but, really, they probably didn't. I did and that's all that mattered, to me.
That's just the body shop about a mile from my house. My family has been going there for over 20 years. They do good work so I gave them the job. They only have one location but it's decently sized, as you noticed.
Quote from: TurboCoupe50;461190
Does that mean I have to get married again?? I sure hope not, as I won't do it again... :hick:
Seriously car looks great, far better detailed than anything I own...
I was 3 years old in 1988.....
I still have to clean the chassis. There is sanding dust under the car still. It's clean enough to drive though, I guess.
Quote from: tommym;461192
Very nice looking TBird.
Thanks.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 07, 2017, 02:58:24 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 07, 2017, 02:58:24 PM
Took it out for a drive this morning and took some pictures. Morning sun angle isn't the best.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100552_zpsvrjtzrnj.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100552_zpsvrjtzrnj.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100621_zpssfe2yhdt.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100621_zpssfe2yhdt.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100711_zpsoeahfyus.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100711_zpsoeahfyus.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100804_zpsqmttwxln.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100804_zpsqmttwxln.jpg.html)
At some point I need to get some NOS headlamp housings. I've polished the bejesus out of the ones on the car and they still have a yellow tinge in certain light.
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100552_zpsvrjtzrnj.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100552_zpsvrjtzrnj.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100621_zpssfe2yhdt.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100621_zpssfe2yhdt.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100711_zpsoeahfyus.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100711_zpsoeahfyus.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100804_zpsqmttwxln.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170607_100804_zpsqmttwxln.jpg.html)
At some point I need to get some NOS headlamp housings. I've polished the bejesus out of the ones on the car and they still have a yellow tinge in certain light.
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: My10-80 on June 10, 2017, 10:24:20 PM
Post by: My10-80 on June 10, 2017, 10:24:20 PM
Car looks great man. BEAUTIFUL!!!!
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 11, 2017, 01:29:04 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 11, 2017, 01:29:04 PM
Now I'm just worried about the first ding or scratch, like a new car :hick:
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 26, 2017, 03:42:17 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 26, 2017, 03:42:17 PM
Not in the shade pictures :hick:
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095800_zpssyksbmvp.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095800_zpssyksbmvp.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095748_zpsdrvalc54.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095748_zpsdrvalc54.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095846_zps17neanht.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095846_zps17neanht.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095859_zpssw0bcrhg.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095859_zpssw0bcrhg.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095924_zpsyjgxirkd.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095924_zpsyjgxirkd.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095800_zpssyksbmvp.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095800_zpssyksbmvp.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095748_zpsdrvalc54.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095748_zpsdrvalc54.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095846_zps17neanht.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095846_zps17neanht.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095859_zpssw0bcrhg.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095859_zpssw0bcrhg.jpg.html)
(http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa33/thunderjet302/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095924_zpsyjgxirkd.jpg) (http://s198.photobucket.com/user/thunderjet302/media/T-bird%20paint/20170626_095924_zpsyjgxirkd.jpg.html)
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: gtbird on June 26, 2017, 08:16:38 PM
Post by: gtbird on June 26, 2017, 08:16:38 PM
Car looks great. You should be very proud with all you've done!
Rick
Rick
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: Chuck W on June 26, 2017, 11:15:17 PM
Post by: Chuck W on June 26, 2017, 11:15:17 PM
It looks great!
Title: After 29 years it's time for some paint
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 26, 2017, 11:31:20 PM
Post by: thunderjet302 on June 26, 2017, 11:31:20 PM
I still have to wax the car. The body shop said to wait 60 days to make sure the paint fully cures. I can wax it after the 1st week of August. I'll stop posting pictures till then ;).