63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

[Todd L.]

In my restoration efforts to replicate a correct 63 fulie for judging, I am getting conflicting information on the finish of several parts and what is acceptable with judges regarding leaving parts raw steel or painting them with Cast Blast. I understand there were several suspension parts, (rear end differential, front sway bar, etc.) that were left raw from the factory. I realize we are trying to replicate what the factory did, but also we want to preserve these cars for the future. Can anyone tell me if parts that were raw from the factory will be docked points during judging if they are painted with Cast Blast, or cleared with a satin clear coat to protect them?

Thanks for your wisdom and time,
Todd

[Frank D.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

I've done some judging and had my split window judged, I spray several parts with satin clear, especially bare metal parts prone to quick rusting such as the rear valence exhaust shields, the mid-frame rectangular exhaust shields and the front flywheel cover. A few light coats does the trick and I didn't receive any judging "hits", but not to say on a different day with different judges that might not happen.

[Edward J.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

Todd, My take is its your car and your spending the money. when I restored my 63 i did not want to see a lot of rust so i used satin clear which does not change the look of cast or bare steel parts, just don't go crazy with spraying those parts, a couple of light coats. as for the exhaust manifolds cast blast will be picked up during judging, you can expect a few points deduction. just as a side note if the judge does pick up on spray painted parts they can have a deduct.63 corvettes had a lot of blackout every where, but the current judging guide may not spell it out. so most 63/64 judges will not deduct if you decide to blackout as the factory did. there is going to be a new TJM for 63/64 soon, there ChassisSt.Louis.jpg


is no release date as i have heard. heres a 63 chassis at St Louis.

[Todd L.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

That is great advice Frank, I appreciate the knowledge.

[Todd L.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

Ed, thank you for your perspective and advice. This is the first NCRS build I have ever done, so I am learning a lot and still have A LOT to learn. Thank you for sharing the assembly line chassis picture, that is so cool to see. Really appreciate your feedback and detail.

Todd

[Patrick H.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

This is the first NCRS build I have ever done, so I am learning a lot and still have A LOT to learn.

Todd

When able (given the state of the world) I would recommend finding and inspecting unrestored 1963s so you get an idea what you're trying to mimic. Check in your Chapter if there are any around. I see you're in Indiana; you could also check with Tim Mickey to see if he knows any clients with appropriate cars. Every car has a story to tell, so look at as many as you can find.

[Todd L.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

That is great advice Patrick, I will definitely do lot's of research and hopefully locate an original 63

[Harry S.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

I pondered the same problem when I did my 63. Where I live helped me decide. I live 4 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. Humidity is a problem. You can watch the surface rust grow in the summer. I used high heat cast blast on the rear, painted the spring gray and sprayed everything else with satin clear. I still need to wipe rust inhibitor on the short shafts and driveshaft and use a brass wire brush on other areas.

On my other 63, body has not been off, everything is sprayed black. Ugly but affective.

[Ron G.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

Todd,

I have had great success using Pre-Lube 6. Even though I keep one of my cars in a climate controlled environment, I still re-do it about once a year.

- Ron

[Todd L.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

Thanks Harry,

I am in Southern Indiana and it's extremely humid here in the summers, so I will have the same issues. Thanks for the advice.

[Todd L.]

Re: 63 split window NCRS restoration- cast blast vs raw steel

Thanks for that information Ron, I will do a little research on that product.