I got a sandblaster to use for few days. I had never used one before but it wasn't difficult. Cleaned the A-pillar area and some more. It was a warm sunny day and I sweated liters in a protective clothing.
I also removed the heater which had been always disconnected from the coolant system. Opening the cover revealed the core had obviously leaked at some point.
I found interesting sticker from the core. The Smith Bros Radiator Specialists had already worked with the core in June 1976. The Falcon have been three years old then.
Back to the pillar. After the sandblasting the whole damaged area is revealed. Easier to work with after the cleaning.
I made some support rods to hold the pillar in place during the operation. Then started to remove the layers one by one.
Drilled out the weld spots and pried the layer off.
The layers at the upper hinge attach area are all rusted through.
Cutting the last layer.
Cleaned the pillar inside while I got the top open and an opportunity to do so.
And at last sandblasted the hinge support brackets. These were in good condition.
I have to admit the progress is painfully slow. I'm working outside with a limited set of tools and able to work only few hours now and then. I'm also trying to do the repair as it should be done, no matter if there could be an easier and faster way to get the same effective result.
No comments:
Post a Comment