In this episode, Classic Car Restoration host Mark Lambert focuses on the cosmetics of the 1962 Corvette as he begins work on the interior- and exterior-trim disassembly, fiberglass repair and stripping of the old paint. The major work on the car's platform has already been done, and the engine has been pulled. In this first segment, Mark gets started with the interior (figure A), removing the seats, carpeting and interior trim pieces. Note: This is a summary of steps included in the automotive 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 upgraded 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 when working with power tools or pneumatic tools. Interior Disassembly Materials: Standard automotive tools (socket-wrenches, screwdrivers, nut-drivers, etc.)
Panel tool
Handle-crank puller In addition to standard automotive tools, two items that are especially helpful in interior disassembly are a panel tool (figure B ) and a specialized handle-crank puller (figure C) for removing handle-cranks for manual windows (figure D). This tool is useful for working on GM cars between the model years 1940 and 1986. Tip: As with other major phases of this automotive restoration, document the steps in the body and trim-work by taking before-and-after pictures, preferably with a digital camera. Tip : Be sure to bag and label small fasteners and parts in labeled zip-locks to avoid losing track of small parts.
Steps:
- Begin by removing the seats. With the convertible-top deck is lifted, the seats can be lifted out easily (figure E).
- Some of the panels need to be removed first in order to gain access to some of the trim fasteners. With the seats removed, work can begin on the door panels. Use the crank-handle puller to work the window cranks free and remove them (figure F), and remove the doorknobs.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the door-panel screws (figure G) and the arm-rests. Bag and label parts as you remove them.
- Once the door-panel is removed (figure H), inspect it carefully. In our case, the door panels were in good shape, and just needed some cleaning up. Replacement door-panels for a '62 Corvette cost around $580.
- Unscrew and remove the under-dash kick-panels.
- To remove a broken side-window, an access plate is removed from the door. With the access plate off, remove the windowsill moldings (figure I), and carefully work the window-glass up and out. The damaged window (figure J) will be sent to a glass shop for repair.
- Unscrew and remove the door-threshold plates (figure K).
- With the plates removed, you can take out the old carpeting. Replacement carpet for this car costs around $140, and is well worth the investment. It will help give the restored car a completely different feel in the interior.
- Continue removing the interior items: shifter, console trim, ashtray and console carpet (figure L).
In the segment that follows, work begins on the body and trim disassembly.
RESOURCES :
Corvette Black Book : 1953-2001
Model: 0933534477
Author: Michael Antonick
Corvette: The American Legend
Model: 0785343741
Author: Consumer Guide Editors
Classic Car Restorer's Handbook: Restoration Tips and Techniques for Owners ...
Model: 1557881944
Author: Jim Richardson
Order this book from Amazon.com
H.P. Books
Classic Car Restoration Guide: The Complete Illustrated Step-By-Step Manual
Model: 1850108900
Author: Lindsay Porter
Order this book from Amazon.com
Haynes Publishing
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