Jeff,
I used Redi-Strip on my TR-3 several years ago. SUPER JOB!! The only way to
go as far as I'm concerned. If you can get it done for those prices, you're
doing very well. Cost me about $450 for the body. They used to put a
phosphate coating after dipping to retard rust, but I heard they can't perform
the service anymore because of EPA. Only a few things to consider after
dipping. 1. Will remove all rust, filler, etc.,(everything not steel) and
LEAD. You will have to have your headlight buckets and other lead work on the
body redone. 2. Will get into every crevice and strip all rust preventive.
You have to get back into those spots and get some rustproofing, paint on to
prevent rust from reoccurring. If you only drive on dry days, the process may
take longer, but it WILL rust without protection. 3. You or the painter has
to use a self-etching primer to properly prepare the metal for paint. Don't
take a shortcut here or the paint will not adhere. The only other problem I
had was that they used a chain hoist on the dash area to raise and lower the
body into the tank. When they finished, that part of the body was distorted
and took some work to get the contour back. Also, be sure to fit the
windshield, body panels, doors. (all) before painting to ensure proper
fitting. I had the car painted in pieces then put it together. Should have
spent a little more time on fitting, could have saved some damaged paint. Best
to leave the doors on for the paint, the rest I would leave off. I would also
recommend two paintings, one for the bottom/backsides/edges and one for the
final exterior. Anyway the bottom line is that it is the best way to go for a
thorough and painless job.
Good Luck
Pete
-----Original Message-----
From: Jeff A Williamson [SMTP:Jeff.A.Williamson@jci.com]
Sent: Monday, May 10, 1999 3:38 PM
To: triumphs@autox.team.net
Subject: TR3 Body Dip
I've almost finished removing everything that bolts on to my TR3A body and
frame. Rather than spend countless hours with grinders, sanders, wire brushes,
etc., to remove all the grime and paint, I'm thinking of having both the body
and frame "dipped" (or washed with acid, treated with chemicals, or whatever
they do).
I have heard that this process will eat up rust, but also anything that's not
iron or steel, i.e., Bondo, fibreglass, aluminium, rubber, and some alloys. Is
this true? Are there any parts of the frame or body that will not survive the
acid or chemicals that are used? For those of you who've done this before, are
there any ill side effects to having the body "dipped"?
Although I have not asked for any quotes yet, I've heard that this process on a
car this size should run around $300 for the body, and $50 for the frame. Does
this sound about right?
Thanks for any info.
Jeff Williamson
Belleville, MI
'58 TR3A
'60 TR3A
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