John's Vet Shop

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   Assembly  /Before-After / Project 58

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Disassembly

  I start by simply taking the car apart, and cataloging all the parts.  By inspecting the parts as I remove them and making notes I can outline how I plan to attack the project and anticipate any unexpected expenses required to restore the car.  I note part condition and disassembly details which help me reassemble the car in the proper order.  By keeping a wish list of any parts I think I will need to replace, I can prioritize their purchase and anticipate their need.

  This is not rocket science and it does not require a degree in Automobile Building, it simply takes patience, forethought, a little ingenuity and a good list of support venues (NCRS).  I use it to relax - I enjoy studying how simplistic solutions are applied in the early autos. 

CAUTION

  This can be habit forming.  You can spend BIG BUCKS  and become a stranger in your own home before you know it.  Before I start - I draft a budget of expected expenses how many evenings I plan to spend in my garage.  I don't start until I think I can complete the project - or get to a predetermined stopping point.

  
  The cars undercarriage is dirty but in good shape (minimal rust).  I never clean a chassis until I am ready to restore it.  Exposing the frame to the elements only exposes it to deterioration.  I use a lot of liquid wrench - bolts which have not been loosened for 50 years are stubborn (patience is money here - you break it you buy it).

 

 
  I have place the chassis on jack stands - this gives me better access to the entire car and frame.  You must be careful here, don't use makeshift stands and constantly check the stability and positioning of your stands.  I will replace the wheels once I'm through with the major disassembly of the car.
  The hubcaps and wheels are original and in good condition.  The flippers are intact and there are no dents to speak of.  This is a real benefit - hubcaps are usually one of the first things to suffer abuse.

  The rims are rust free and hold the tires which are severely weather cracked.  The tires are budgeted to be replaced.  I will maintain the original wide whitewall tire characteristic but I may replace the bias tire with a radial.

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