79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

[illtww]

Here she is. A 79' Formula Thunderbird that I got for 0$.
http://s373.photobucket.com/albums/oo171/illtww/79 Thunderbird/

What has been done so far:
Top end motor rebuild with NEW Chevy 350 Heads. (Runs Good!)

What i plan on doing very soon: (full boat paint outside)

Questions.
1. I just want to DA the boat down and do a single stage paint job
because I only have to booth for a SHORT time and cost. Color (Gunmetal or Gloss Black) Thoughts?

2. What girtt DA paper have people used before. I was thinking 320 and
possibly some 200 gritt) Dont want the scratch too deep!

Lotta work ahead of me!

 

[illtww]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

Also is the wood accents on the 79' Thunderbirds teak? It looks very weathered and I want to try and save it if possible...

 

[danond]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

Have you thought about waiting until you've sanded it to see if it needs paint? Sometimes fiberglass comes right back with a good sand/buff.

 

[illtww]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

I have...

It pretty bad shape. The stickers are all peeling off.

Going fro the custom look.

Any suggestions on the single stage paint?

 

[danond]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

Peeling stickers don't mean anything...but regardless!

Interlux and Rustoleum both make topside single-stage paint that goes on with a roll-and-tip method. Some people skip the tip method and it looks fantastic anyway.

 

[illtww]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

I want to do the single-stage automotive paint method. (dark grey or black)

Any recommendations on that side of the fence for paint?

 

[rngale]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

The wood accents are most likely teak, to try and save them, sand with 180-220. Once smooth again you should coat with teak oil several times before installing them. Depending on how weathered they are will depend on if they need to be replaced.

If you are able to salvage them, oil them frequently to maintian the color.

Try to stay away from the teak cleaners as they tend to dry the natural oils out of the wood which is what gives it its desired use and resistance to rot.

 

[illtww]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

looks like im gonna go with NASON single stage black paint.

1.5 gallons should do it

 

[illtww]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

Boat was all powerwashed today and most of the hardware stripped and the teak cleaned!

i ordered/..

2 gallons of...

http://www.kirkerautomotive.com/images/PDF/HOT_ROD_BLACK.pdf

pics soon.

 

[Rickairmedic]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

illtww check with http://www.smartshoppersinc.com/ They sell Kirker paints and have pretty good prices on full kits ( one stop shopping ) .


Rick

 

[MikDee]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

A Black boat huh? You'd never see it, or find it in the dark or if it sinks

I run Fast electric R/C model boats, and we never paint them black, because you'd never find it if it sinks been there, done that, usually red, or bright colors, are the norm. Here take a look:

 

[dlngr]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

a black boat will be very uncomfy on a hot summer day. No, Untouchable!

 

[illtww]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

i hear ya. I plan on staying on the inside of the boat. Should be a one-of-a kind look though. Many pics to follow!

 

[Scottydawg]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

Is this gonna be a salt water or fresh water ride? The reason I ask is because I know nothing about boat finishing and have two projects that I will learn on. Will this Kirker paint work well for both? Mine will be used in salt water. I have sprayed it on cars and motorcycles, but like I said, I have no experience with boats.

 

[ringmaster72]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

My boat is black, inside and out. I wanted something different as well. It gets hot, but not so bad that I cant stand it. There are millions of white boats out there so it is boring to follow the crowd.

As far as paint is concerned you get what you pay for. Kirker is some cheap, cheap stuff. I usually use House of Kolor or Dupont and occasionally Crossfire (Martin Senour). However, I actually just used Kirker Eurothane Clear coat from the rub rail and above on my boat. It looks good, but it is too soon to tell its durability.

I am assuming you know that Hot Rod black is a "flat" color and will not have a shine.....

 

[rngale]

Re: 79' Formula Thunderbird FULL Restoration (pics!!)

The old formula's are a very sweet boat, fast and handle rough sea's well. They are one of the better built boats out there, you definatly stole that deal. Grats on your aqusition