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[an error occurred while processing this directive] [an error occurred while processing this directive] [an error occurred while processing this directive] [an error occurred while processing this directive] | 21 July 2014 # 3076
1952 Chevrolet 3100
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From David : Back in 2010, I purchased a very rusty (mostly surface rust) 1952 Chevy 1/2-ton. The truck was 100% complete and original. It even had the windshield eyebrow, or whatever you call it. So, first off, I had to clean out my work space and finish up other projects so I could get started on the truck. Plus, I figured in a few months time, the weather would be a bit cooler here in central Texas. So, some time passes ... When I started the project, I had the intention to media blast all the metal myself. Well, I did the grille, bumper, bumper apron, splash pan, radiator shroud and support, inner fenders and front fenders before I had enough. The rest of the sheet metal, including the frame, went out for media blasting. One of many good choices I (eventually) made. The parts were immediately primed in epoxy upon arriving back to my driveway. A little wet sanding / polishing and the run was completely gone. The paint was not perfect as I did it in my small garage -- a few imperfections from dust, but generally acceptable. For those who have asked, the color is Mariner Blue, by Dupont Ful-Thane single stage (color code C63203). Mariner Blue is the original color for the truck. And yes, there is some orange peel ... but I am not the type that needs a glass smooth surface on a vintage vehicle. Still needs to polishing here and there, but I will get to that eventually. After the painting, my next adventure was to find insurance but the fellows in the forums were a big help with that! I also came to the conclusion that I needed to add a rear bumper. I was afraid the other kids in the school parking lot would run into the back of the truck while parking -- the bumper should add just a bit of protection in this regard. By the first of July, 2014, I was happy to say: "It's finished!" I found I was a little sad at the same time. Doing this kind of stuff is therapy for me and a way to get out of the house and doing something. After it was over, for a few days, I found myself pacing inside wondering what to do. In case anyone is interested, the total cost to me for the truck after restoration is right at $20,000. Of that, $900 was purchase price and $2200 in paint materials. I did a 90% rebuild, meaning I reused the cam and lifters, everything else new / re-machined. I stayed with the original babbit bearing surfaces as I was able to get clearances within smallest spec of .002".
I am already looking at what my next project will be. I will need to leave a few years of sunshine between projects first. I'm thinking of a '72 Chevy Blazer. A heartfelt thanks to everyone on the forums that shared their wisdom and made the restoration so much easier in the end. I could not have been so successful without everyone's help.
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