Re: 1956 Packard Clipper

Posted by Brian Wilson On 2019/8/5 2:49:46

Here's a general question for the brains trust. I'm contemplating options for repainting my 1956 Clipper Deluxe. The existing finish (dark blue) was applied about 30 years ago. The top (colour) coat has reacted with the undercoat resulting in extensive crazing on exposed panels - tops of guards etc. Looks like it will have to come off.

I plan to keep the same - or similar - colour. Am hoping to avoid dismantling the body. When the car was repainted, some limited refurbishment was done (eg sills were replaced). The bodywork is generally sound (as best I can tell) with a little bit of suspicious bubbling around the lower left rear guard and wheel cover and some panel damage to one of the sills. Won't know what gives there until the paint is off.

The car is in very good condition mechanically, with everything working as it should. Original black/cream interior which I would like to preserve (with a little renovation). The front and rear chromework is all pretty good, and was obviously refinished at some point.

I'm afraid that if I start dismantling the car mechanically I will encounter problems getting it back into good running condition as it is now. Not to mention the potential cost of this level of work which I would not attempt myself. Also probably a lot more dollars than the car's worth.

My question is: What's involved in removing the stainless body trim and stainless trim around the front and rear windows? What is the best method of removing the existing paint and undercoat (not sure if I'll encounter much filler)?

Professional opinions obviously vary according to what stripping technology the operators have. Some have warned about things like soda blasting because the residue is hard to clean up. Others have suggested the old fashioned routine of remove the trim and scrape or sand it off with/without stripper. I have excluded things like Redi-Strip because it requires removing the whole body and at least partially dismantling the car. But all agree that the trim needs to come off to do the job.

Any advice or personal experience will be appreciated.

Cheers

Brian