DIY Network

1965 Mustang Restoration: Matching Paint; Install Doors and Fender When it comes to fine wine and paint colors, not all reds are the same. From "Classic Car Restoration" episode DCR-507

Kevin Tetz demonstrates how the spectrophotometer enables exact paint matches even without paint codes.

So far in this Classic Car Restoration series on the "resto-modification" of a '65 Mustang, we've performed upgrades on the suspension, chassis, brakes and engine. Now we turn our attention to the exterior of the car.

Host Steve Magnante and auto paint-and-body expert Kevin Tetz discuss how to match old paint colors to avoid having to repaint the whole car. Kevin demonstrates the spectrophotometer color-scanner which calculates the exact color formula needed for repair paint. Kevin and Steve then reinstall the doors and the new fender which Kevin painted using the paint formula.

Some of the tips and techniques demonstrated in this episode of Classic Car Restoration are summarized below. Lists of tools and materials are also provided.

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	The Mustang front fender, before restoration began.
	The newly painted door
	The new-reproduction replacement fender

Tools and materials for all projects:

color spectrophotometer
ultra fine steel wool
good metal polish
polishing cloth
decal remover
buffing tools
windows
rocker panels
spring steel clips
pop rivet gun
pop rivets
shop towels
tape
wave washers
new bumper with mounting bolts
reproduction gas cap
stock rearview mirror
stock "tear drop" mirrors
rear light bezels
reproduction emblems
barrel clips

Note: This is a summary of steps included in the restoration procedures shown in this episode of Classic Car Restoration. These are general guidelines for restoration procedures on this particular make and model of vehicle, and for the level of restoration selected for this project. There may be variations in procedures depending model, condition of vehicle, level of restoration undertaken and the types of replacement parts or upgrade kits selected. Always follow proper safety precautions, and read and follow manufacturer's guidelines, diagrams and safety notices that come with any replacement parts or kit that you select.

Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection and follow proper safety precautions when working with power tools or pneumatic tools. Also wear eye protection any time you are working underneath a vehicle.

Exterior-Finish Restoration Tips

Kevin Tetz, of auto-paint specialty company Paintucation, offers some sound general advice when it comes to restoring the exterior of an antique car like our Mustang.

"A really good place is start is by choosing a project vehicle very carefully," says Tetz. "Choose one where the paint can be refurbished rather than refinished. Refinishing a vintage car can start at about 10,000 bucks and go up from there."

As for our project car, other than a layer of dirt and a fender that needs replacing, our exterior is in pretty good shape. "It may never be a show winner," says Tetz, "but it's gonna be a really nice daily driver."

It's important to note that, if not done properly, cleaning off the dirt and grit that's built up on an antique car while it sat in storage can do more harm than good. If you're not careful, you may badly damage the paint. Kevin advises that using warm soapy water and mild soap specifically formulated for washing cars and a soft cleaning cloth. Soak the car down, let the water activate everything, then carefully wash it off.

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