hand laminated, or press molded?

[patrick #38840]

I have a 69 coupe that I am going to have the rear quarter panels replaced before I have the car painted; I need some advice as to purchasing the after market parts. Should I use press molded quarters or hand laminated?
I'm planning on driving the car, not showing it. are the press molded thicker?
Will the paint develop less cracks, over time, with the press molded?
Thanks for any help.

[Gerry Proctor]

Re: hand laminated, or press molded?

Price reflects quality when it comes to Corvette body panels (not always since you can find overpriced crap no matter where you look. You have to know who the quality manufacturers are in both SMC, PM, and hand-layed) and you'll find the factory PM panels are generally going to cost more. This stands to reason since there are more expensive tools involved in the manufacturing of SMC and PM fiberglass.

Some of the hand-layed stuff is really pretty good as far as fit, strength, and cosmetic quality but, again, it depends on who is making it. I've seen some stuff I wouldn't find suitable as a temporary shelter for stray dogs. Most hand-layed fiberglass is going to be thicker, but not always. Again, it depends on who's making it.

If you have a choice and price isn't a primary concern you're generally better off as far as most like factory with the PM panels.

[Craig S.]

Re: hand laminated, or press molded?

Patrick - this is a hands down no brainer in my mind...press molded is the way to go. The quiality is better, a controlled uniform product that is ligher, thinner, and can flex better like the original glass. Hand laid glass varies in thickness, is far thicker, and shouts that the car is repaired. The big glass suppliers for press molded are Corvette Image and Semersheims, and they have bonding adhesives to match the original as well. They also offer the glass in the correct colors to match your car. Given you are driving the car versus showing, I would go with a BC/CC paint system, a good applier can do wonders to imitate the origninal finsh of the lacquer. Good luck!...Craig