Paint question regarding C3 roadster

[Nick L.]

I am starting to restore a 72 roadster. I am going to do a body off and want a points car. Is it OK to powder coat parts or do they have to be painted with conventional paints. ?? Can anyone suggest the best restoration book for a 72 roadster ?

[Alan S.]

Re: Paint question regarding C3 roadster

Hi Nick,
WELCOME!
Having a 72 convertible to restore is pretty NICE!
I think a good book to begin with is the 70-72 NCRS Technical Information Manual & Judging Guide. This will offer lots of information.
Next, I think looking at your car as you take it apart is a wonderful source of restoration information. There will be lots of clues about how the car was assembled and what various finishes were. So take things a part carefully, take LOTS of pictures, and make LOTS of notes. I think you'll find you really can't have too many pictures or notes.
Having a system to control the zillion parts you'll end up with is critical. So tag and/or bag, or box everything.
I also think that finding a member in your area with a BowTie car similar to yours is a real asset. The owner could well allow you to look at things on his car and talk to him about what he knows about his car which may clarify some things you're seeing on your car.
I think once you get started on the dis-assembly you'll begin to have some specific questions about what you're finding, and how to do things, that this board may be able to help you with.
I'm sure you'll be getting other suggestions about books and procedures from other members.
GOOD LUCK as you get started!
Regards,
Alan

PS: I stayed away from the powder coating question. Lot's of opinions on it. Personally I don't think there are very many places on a restored car where it's appropriate.

[Bill L.]

Re: Paint question regarding C3 roadster

If you have any aspirations for Top Flite just standard paint is the way to go.

I decided when I had mine painted that it would never pass judging standards. It is waaay too shiny.

Original corvette paint was very poorly done from the factory with some exceptions.

You may want to attend a few NCRS judging meets to see what is considered a TOP Flite paint job.

I have seen two very low mileage survivors and the paint coverage was pathetic from the factory.

A good understanding of what the judges are looking for is critical.

Sounds like a fun project!



Bill

[Don L.]

Re: Paint question regarding C3 roadster

Welcome to NCRS Nick! From one fellow '72 roadster owner to another, you are in a great place to learn lots and share your experiences through restoration.

As Alan rightly notes, pay attention to details when dis-assembling your car. Look at the underside of bolt heads to see the original finish. Research everything and see multiple examples, not just one, before making a decision. Ask questions and consult through chapter members in addition to this board. Other references include M. F. Dobbins Vette Vues Fact Book of the 1968-1972 Stingray, Tripoli's Corvette Chassis Restoration Guide 1953-1972 and Richard Prince's CORVETTE Restoration Guide 1968-1972.

Good luck and keep us informed.

Tell us a bit about you and your car. Photos?

[Nick L.]

Re: Paint question regarding C3 roadster

Thanks for replys, I am the second owner of this 72. I bought it when I was 18 yrs old, 56 now. I just want to see it "NEW" again. Thanks for the replies

[Michael W.]

Re: Paint question regarding C3 roadster

Nick,

Powder coat is by and large complete overkill for a car that will not see the ravages of weather and exposure that they once did back when they were merely cars. Judging is all about restoring to orignal factory appearance- very difficult to do with powder coat.

[Paul J.]

Re: Paint question regarding C3 roadster

Nick,

There's pros and cons to powder coat. It is an extremly durable coating and will look good for many years.

However, it is a thicker coating than paint and will not do well in judging. It also will eventually chip and the repair for this is to fill the chips with paint. If you ever try to restore a powder coated piece you will cuss youself up one side and down the other because it is a bear to get all of it off.

It can also potentially affect the marketability of your car in the future, i.e your ability to sell a "points" car to knowledgeable buyers.

Paul

[Alan S.]

Re: Paint question regarding C3 roadster

Hi Nick,
Since you've had the car for so many years and are just the second owner, is there any chance that it might be a possible BowTie candidate?
Perhaps you'd like to look at the BowTie Award information on the Home Page, NCRS AWARDS INFORMATION section, before you do anything to your car.
Just a suggestion before you get started.
I certainly understand your comment about wanting "to see it "NEW" again"!
Regards,
Alan