C2 - Painting of Suspension/Drivetrain Parts

[Rory Riedy]

First attempt at a body off restoration of a 1966 BB convertible. Where can I find information about which suspension/drivetrain parts get painted & which parts are left bare. Also any suggestions as to the type of paint & should the bare metal parts be coated with anything. Just a beginner so I would appreciate any help I can get in the form of suggestions, reference books, materials etc.

Thanks
Triple R

[Eugene B.]

Re: C2 - Painting of Suspension/Drivetrain Parts

Triple R,
Having gone through this on my '65, the first thing that you must determine is are you going to restore your car to "factory original" per the NCRS Judging Guide (and have it judged eventually) or are you going to build a Corvette to drive a lot?

The answer will determine what finishes you use. For instance, Your '66 will have many drive train and suspension parts that are naturally finished (read no finish). It is nearly impossible to keep these parts from rusting in the future. I use a product called Prelube 6, but it will probably not keep parts from rusting on a "driver". This is just one example of things that you should consider.

Ponder question one carefully because once you decide, you can't go back without respending a lot of money and labor.

If you decide to restore the car to NCRS judging standards, purchase a copy of the '66 Technical Information and Judging Guide. Also check your public library for Corvette restoration books. What they have will surprise you.

Good luck with your car. Once you decide upon the direction, there are many folks on this board who will be happy to coach you along.

Regards,
Gene

[Rory Riedy]

Re: C2 - Painting of Suspension/Drivetrain Parts

Gene,

Thanks for the quick response. I have owned the car since 1985. About a year ago I decided to change out some of the wear parts. Once I got I to it, I decided why not take it down to the frame & give it a real make over. I have no intentions on ever having it judged. So I guess the answer to your question is I want a nice driver when I'm finished. However I would like to restore the vehicle to original as much as possible within reason. I am looking for suggestions on exactly what "within reason" means. I have ordered the book you suggested along with several others. Maybe when these arrive I will have a better idea of what I need to do.

Thanks,

Triple R

[Eugene B.]

Re: C2 - Painting of Suspension/Drivetrain Parts

Rory,
It's good that you have the goal firmly fixed in your mind. If you are building a nice driver, you want to avoid high maintenance finishes, etc.

A couple of examples: The rear differential is natural cast finish from the factory and will rust. You may want to give it a nice coat of cast blast paint. It will look reasonably authenic and will not rust. Same goes for the front spindles. Coil springs are also not painted. You may choose to paint them to avoid rusting. Rear spring will probably wind up with Quanta grey paint. You'll have to make a decision regarding half-shafts and propeller shaft. Some Corvette guys paint them black. Shocks should be correct color blue-grey.

If you are building for the long haul, also consider epoxy paints and powder coating where it makes sense. A lot of guys like to powder coat the rear trailing arms.

My advice is to determine how it should be and then replicate the original finish the best you can without creating a maintenance head ache.

Also remember to save all of your old original parts. I've saved every item that I have replaced on my '65.

Good luck with your '66.

Regards,
Gene