All,
my restoration of my '67 SV has finally turned the corner (after 7
long years of slow progress) and is beginning to actually look like a
car. I am now in need of a reputable plating shop in the LA area. Can
anyone refer me to one? This is my last major expense, except for the
engine, and I want it done right since I'll be showing the car.
I must say that I am rather proud if my project at this point. This
is my first restoration and at times I wondered if it would ever get
done. But through patience and the help of many people (not to mention
$$$$$$$) it is finally looking as if the car will be complete by spring
'98.
The body, a beautiful Forest Green (96), was done by a friend for
what I consider to be a very good price. It has been color sanded to
the nth degree and looks incredible, except for the few inevitable
chips and scratches acquired during the project. The paint is so clear
you could use it as a mirror for shaving. All of the suspension has
been powder coated and completely rebuilt. The servo, which will
hopefully last more than a few years, has been resleeved with SS and
looks new. All of the brake lines have been replaced. The seat kits I
purchased from Sunbeam Specialties fit great and look fantastic. For
never having done upholstery work before they look made to fit, though
not perfect. I have just completed the wiring of the car today and am
very pleased with the look of the dash. I was worried as to how it
would turn out (especially the wiring) since I made poor documentation
during disassembly. But everything seems to be ok, of course I won't
know for sure until the battery is in and everything is ready to test.
Also replaced the lower dash roll with the padding and vinyl from SS.
Looks awesome and fits very well. Had a hard time getting the glove
box surround and the box itself to fit. Took me nearly an hour to get
them in. my crash pad is original so it has that shiny patina that
comes with age. So while the grain matches the lower dash roll, the
finish does not. Hopefully it won't matter to judges. Maybe a little
Armor All will hide it.
So, here I am with only the chrome and engine left to do. It's been
so long that I've almost forgotten how much fun it was to drive my car.
Almost. I am getting very excited at the prospect of driving this
spring and I just wanted to share that with you all. To those of you
who are where I was, keep plugging at it. It will happen and it will
feel great. The anticipation is almost as good as the realization of
the dream (I literally lay in bed at night fantasizing about my car).
So hang in there and keep on 'Beaming.
Christopher Albers
'67 SV od BRG
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