My first Astra in thirteen years

[Gteman]

Hi guys. Great site. Thanks to "Its not a merit" not only for telling me about it but also for selling me a Gte interior for my project. I will post picks of my 89 gte 16v to this thread as soon as i've sussed out how to shrink them or upload to my hompages or if you all send me your address i will post them to you. Probably quicker lol :o
Anyway a genuine 54,000 miles in red and still in original trim except for parts of the interior missing. The running gear is spot on althought the sill,arches and rear corners are all shot suprise suprise.
The only mods i can see are the addition of front & rear i2000 sticker i cant find any referance to anywhere maybe some of the expert here can through sum light on.

cheers

Graham
Here she is as i got her
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00060.jpg
The oily bits
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00049.jpg
From the rear
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00047.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00046.jpg

Graham

[astrasteve23]

how much did you pay for it? will look good when it has had a bloody good polish and wax! its still got the towing eye cover! it need clear front and side indicators! didnt they come with clear front ones as standard? not too keen on the i2000 stickers. i noticed that your rear quater vents are missing! i have some GTE ones you can buy off of me if you want?

[Gteman]

Thanks astrateve. Paid £300 for car sold front bumper for £40 :( as i was taking the engine out for my locost kit car. My heart was ripped apart for weeks and i gave in and bought a rover V8 for the locost. :) and have decided to restore the astra.
AFAIK they came with clear ind which i have now curtsy of Its not a merit ;)
A full respray is on the cards after all the bodywork is done. I'll post picks of the sills being removed as soon as my technology lets me.
I've already bought vents of off ebay :mad: Althought im looking for a 16v front bumper :mad: also the sunroof winder handle is missing.

Cheers

Graham

[astrasteve23]

£300 was a good price. the engine and box is worth that! do you plan to keep it standard or modify it?

[astrayorkie]

very cheap i paid that for a damaged fronted one

[astrasteve23]

i paid £330 for a mint! GTE 16v with 121k. the shell is solid!

[Gteman]

Think its too original to mod and at my age classics prob the way to go :eek:
anyway hopefully here the photo's i promised.

Floor repair
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00061.jpg
Not much left of the sill
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00062.jpg
inner wing and bumper carrier
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00063.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00064.jpg

[astrayorkie]

find them hard to get as shell rots easy as only needs slam crossmember
250 car
300 repair
40 mot

600 mid range

gteman respect to you for restoring it. are you doing it or in shop?

[Gteman]

i paid £330 for a mint! GTE 16v with 121k. the shell is solid!

that sounds a good buy considering the state of my bodywork although once done with 54,000 on the clock it will be worth it.

ps the car was bought from a friend in the trade who got it to strip and sell for mere $$$$ bad man until i stepped in and saved the day :) :)


graham

[Gteman]

gteman respect to you for restoring it. are you doing it or in shop?

Doing it in my own shop im a mechanic rather than bodyworker though.
Should turn out fine fingers crossed.

[astrayorkie]

would do the rusty footwell mod if i was you as had same prob on my old one and going to do it on mine

what have you got planned for engine?

[astrasteve23]

do you know if it is a genuine 54k? if it is then it will be worth quite a lot when it is finnished!

[Gteman]

I dont have any proof of mileage so far; the car was a third car in one family for more than 10 years and with a good eye have no reason to think any different. Car drives great feels nice and tight a bit of tappet rattle which i think will clear with use.
Just sent for log books that should reveal some more info
The footwells are like new but i will look into the mod to save any grief in the future. The passenger rear floor was holed due to bad jacking up in its life opening the seal up and letting the rust gremlins in.
I will take more photo's at work now that the passenger sill is removed.
Their is a rear curtain between the inner and outer sill that is badly rotted does anyone no its function can it be cut out and covered over with outer sill or should i be sheeting it.

cheers Graham

[Kris]

Whoo hoo ,glad to see you found the site mate .I thought you may have given up .
I can see what you mean about the floor in the rear ,but you did a top job .is the panel a pattern or did you have to fabricate it like you said ?

[Gteman]

Whoo hoo ,glad to see you found the site mate .I thought you may have given up .
I can see what you mean about the floor in the rear ,but you did a top job .is the panel a pattern or did you have to fabricate it like you said ?

I found the site that night cheers just been reading. Through this site l found out that Hadrians panels still supplied the panels and managed to source them through A panels in Glasgow.

Feeling slightly downheartened at all the new rust pockets i am finding trying not to think about it to much. Glad i got rear inner arches just in case. :(
Anyway here's some photo's of todays progress.
Sill cut out
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00065.jpg
More grot
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00066.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00067.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00068.jpg
rear arch
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00069.jpg

[_Steven_]

I would have a poke about with the door posts.. these rot from the inside out.. bit of a bugger of a panel to remove, but for £11 each (Hadrian panels) it's worth doing..

[Gteman]

Do you mean the heavy plate strenghthing the hinges if so what i can see has heavy surface rust which ive cleaned back to shiny. Any advise most welcome.
cheers

Graham

[Gteman]

Update Victory. I have finally found and delt with all the rust pockets on the passenger side of my baby (were back on talking terms) :) I have made 4 patch panels and welded 1 in place finalising the floor repair into inner sill. 2 more patches to make and weld them all in then i can start fitting the panels.
I took photo's today but left camera in the work. I'll try and get them tommorow.

Graham

[Ian T]

Good news.

Those rear quarter plates just ahead of the wheel arch are stiffeners, designed to keep that section the same shape. Could be related to the jacking point but I didn't think so - they are in the right place to serve that purpose.

Prod at the ex-rusty bits on the A-post between the hinges, just to make sure that it's not rusting from the inside out anywhere. I know what causes that - it's the sealant around the hinges, which goes hard with age and cracks, letting water in. If your hinges are still tightly sealed (waterproof) then this shouldn't be a problem, but while you've got the door off I'd go round and knife the sealant out and replace it - it'll pay dividends in the long run. Do that after waxoyling up the inside of the post, but remember the many holes on the inside that could let all your waxoyl into the car!

Ian.

[GTE16v]

great find there fella, give it a good hard buffing she will look lovley,

[Gteman]

Thanks Ian for advise there's no sealer left on the two hinges, good point about leave them open for access for waxoyling.
I have finished patching the inner sill and boot section and now getting there with the fitting of the outer panels.
Here's some photo's of how she looked when i left work tonight.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00070.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00071.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00072.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00073.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00074.jpg

[Sipo]

Some steady progress there matey, good to see! Looking forward to seeing this done, fair play for getting it done! Only thing i just noticed, although you may have a legit 54k, you need to change those clocks dont you? :eek:

[Gteman]

Some steady progress there matey, good to see! Looking forward to seeing this done, fair play for getting it done! Only thing i just noticed, although you may have a legit 54k, you need to change those clocks dont you? :eek:

Cheers Sipo I can change the digital bit without changing the mileage as i found out on this Forum. Although i have now got the original passenger seat from the previous owner i have not got any further proof of mileage :(
The car was stored for 4 years witch certainly would have helped keep it down.

Graham

[MK2-JOHN]

looking really good m8, i've just started doing my sxi & its heading the same way as yours with all the new panel work,

keep up the good work & keep us all upto date with the progress

[rhydgte]

That's gonna look good when finished, I wish I had the money/skills/etc to do that sort of bodywork, as mine is also rusting away.

Although I am skilled with bodyfiller and fiberglass and have recently been attacking the rusty bits it's never as good or as permanent as replacing panels, so you're doing the best thing.

Keep up the good work

[Kris]

Looks like its coming along nicley Graham .Have you got any further towards paint yet mate ?.

[Gteman]

Well guys thanks for the interest i've being going backwards to go forwards. The outer arch in the photo's above is in the bin and another new panel is now cut to size and self tappered into place hurrah.
The panel wasn't folded properly were it meets the inner arch giving me all sorts of grief trying to fit the inner repair panel.
FYI first panel was Hadrians second panel i think is a Europanel and fits great.
Btw the o/s panels are Hadrians and fit perfect.
Was cleaning the paint back ready for welding today.
Finding the time recently has been hard between holidays and the missis working most weekends.

Graham

[Ian T]

Interesting.

I found the SEL Imperial arch repair panel needed some adjustment to mate up with the inner arch, plus the lip was far too deep, but that soon trimmed down after welding.

Keep it up, and let's see the pics. :)

Ian.

[Gteman]

Your right about the lips mine are the same but they will grind done ok.
The corner repair lip is huge as well.

[Ian T]

LOL yeah!

I forgot about that. In fact I left some of it in for strangth, tapering the skin out a little, as it wasn't going to chafe anything back there.

I nibbled my arch lip out, then used a hand file to tidy it up.

Ian.

[MK2-JOHN]

Back To The Top

[Gteman]

No pictures yet but that is the n/s inner and outer arch welded in today and the rear corner repair panel is ready for welding next only leaving a small patch on the inner arch then the onto the sill.
Thats me got the buzz back again so hopefully get finished fitting the nearside panels and a patch n/s/f wheel arch by the weekend.g

Graham

[Gteman]

Well Chaps finally got the photo,s downloaded to computer. Progress over the last week has just about finished the n/s :D Still got all the filler work not sure whether to wait until the o/s panels are sorted or do it now.
Anyway heres the pics
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00078.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00077.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00076.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00086.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00082.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00094.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00096.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00098.jpg
n/s inner wing
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00099.jpg

Graham

[Ian T]

Good work there.

I'd suggest doing the filler and top coat as soon as you can if there's any chance of it getting left outside in the rain.

Also get the inner cavities thoroughly waxoyled too, and the job should last muuch longer.

Keep it up!

Ian.

[astrayorkie]

should be rust free for long time lookin good

[Gteman]

heres a couple of pics missed
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00081.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00084.jpg
Seems like their was a lot of grey primer overspray that day :D
Cheers Ian the amount of waxoyl im planning on the car will be lucky to get to 90mph :rolleyes:
Im champing at the bit now to get the car on the road, it's taken much longer than it should have. The drivers side is slightly better and should hopefully be done in 2-3 weeks.
My big mate Hutchy is going to cataloy for me as i'm hopeless, it's just a case of pinning him done. :confused:

Graham

[astrasteve23]

good tidy bit of welding there graham! its looking good, keep up the good work. cant wait to see it finnished!

[Gteman]

Well fellow mk2ers i've had a busy few days getting to grips with the astra.
My mate appeared on thursday to give me cataloy lessons and left me to it said he will pop in and check up on me.
Heres the results so far
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00103.jpg
and another
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/2cc90532.jpg

Thats as much as im going to do until my mentor comes back. :p
So Saturday i went in and tackled the inner wing and bumper carrier finishing another bit.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/80efe623.jpg
" Mental note to oneself must check cars more thoroughly before i buy them " :(

And now the final bit of bodywork on the nearside as usual turns out worse than expected
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/d68ef8d4.jpg
Rust has crept up the join between the three panel that join vertically at the bulkhead but the photo hasn't turned out so needless to say that is cut out as well. The edge of the sound proofing will be hard to avoid burning when welding unless i move the steering rack which i can't be bothered with.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00104.jpg
This is all the rust cleaned out but it left the metal to thin for my liking so in goes a plate.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00105.jpg

Had a double check on the drivers side and its much less work than this side Phew!!
Still needs a sill, rear arch and rear corner panel tho

[Ian T]

Graham,

Great attention to detail there, your filler looks spot on in the pics of the arch and it's good to see all the plating going into the front rail like that. I'm going to have to get some more practice at welding, or some lessons!

Ian.

[Gteman]

Finished the welding on the n/s
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00107.jpg

Or so i thought :eek:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00108.jpg

So after a lot of cursing,swearing and throwing my rattle out of my pram i dug out the grinder again!!
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00106.jpg

More more more :confused: :( :eek:
How much is it for a brand new astra again :rolleyes:

[Gteman]

Grinder time again argh :mad:


After sand blasting the heavy surface rust the sheet metal and welders out again

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00120.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00121.jpg
until i run out of gas :(

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00122.jpg

Mentioned in another thread about getting aloan of a media blaster. What a great bit of kit.

Heres a before

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00123.jpg

and after

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00124.jpg

Its been a bit tempremental tho, it needs a shake to keep the media flowing. Probably need to clean the valves.

Top tip for easy rust busting
Buy an Umpa Lumpa




http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00118.jpg

[astrasteve23]

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00118.jpg


LMFAO! is the umpa lumpa photo shopped or is it a youngun? looks well funny! mother walked buy as i was reading it a burst out laughing too!
coming on nicely tho, my new van has nearly as much rust! had it welded up today.

[Gteman]

Thats the main man himself my youngest Ross.

Graham

[Dan Gliballs]

Just noticed this thread Graham.

Lots of excellent work and restoration going on here :)

I admire your dedication and motivation to do it all yourself ;)

Another MK2 saved!!!!

[Gteman]

Just noticed this thread Graham.

Lots of excellent work and restoration going on here :)





Thanks there Paul (sunday name :p ). I actually fell into this project by accident really. I bought the Astra for the engine to put into my locost project then had a change of heart. Now i'm trying to finish the Astra for christmas so i can get back to building the locost.
The idea really is to have something to turn to if things are quiet. Saying that the bug has certainly bitten and more and more spare time is going into it.

I admire your dedication and motivation to do it all yourself ;)
Another MK2 saved!!!!

If i paid someone else to do it it would be much quicker but not as thorough i fear. At least this way i can only blame myself for anything going wrong a few months down the line.
Anyway if it look half as good as yours m8 i'll be happy. I'm only sad i'm keeping it standard cause i canny then put a Let in it :(

Graham

[Dan Gliballs]

I'm only sad i'm keeping it standard cause i canny then put a Let in it :(

You never know what's round the corner and what financial position you'll be in in the future :)

You could do what I did...................whack it on the mortgage when you renew LOL!!

[Gteman]

Managed to finish weldeing the floor before i left work tonight

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/PIC00127.jpg

I really need to get the car back up on the ramp and finish sand blasting underneath then it's the o/s sill and arch and rear corner to hopefully finish the metalwork.
I've been offered a 2 pack underseal that is used on buses has anyone any experience with this stuff ? sounds pretty good.

[Kris]

Hows it coming along Graham ?

[Gteman]

:o
Hello remember me :rolleyes:

Well it looks as if the Christmas schedule is on ice.

I'ts been busy at work so i've not had a lot of time to work on gertrude :(

Saying that all the cleaning up on the offside is finished the rear quarter is welded in only leaving the sill to fit and then a patch on the floor about and 1"x1".

That should leave the cataloying and prep and painting to do. phew

Is the 2007 shows calender listed yet :rolleyes:

any way heres some pics

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image020.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image021.jpg

poor shot from phone :o

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image022.jpg

[GazJevs84]

any progress on this mate looking very good indeed

[Gteman]

any progress on this mate looking very good indeed

Spooky i've not posted since 21/9 and we post within 3 mins :eek:

did you see my post first

[richie00boy]

Just seen this thread, thanks Gaz for bumping it! Looks like a great project. Nice to see some decent welding and proper attention to detail, I agree that had a bodyshop done it it wouldn't be anywhere near that good or long life. It's going to be great when finished and I'm sure you'll be smiling when you're behind the wheel again :)

[Gteman]

:eek: :eek:
F*ck we posted at the same time again

I bumped it myself with a new post at the same time gaz bumped it

eery :D

[GazJevs84]

nope never seen your post that is very spooky indeed i was just looking thru the diary section when i came along this one and a few others just trying to grab a few ideas lol

[GazJevs84]

omg!!! what is going on this is well spooky we have just posted at identical times again

[Gteman]

:confused:

I'm scared to type anything now :eek:

Wheres the webcam :D

[Kris]

See its all coming together mate one piece at a time .I think you may be the man to do my welding in the new year givin time of course :D :p

[Gteman]

See its all coming together mate one piece at a time .I think you may be the man to do my welding in the new year givin time of course :D :p

:D
You must have the patience of a saint :p

[Kris]

Rome was not built in a day ,besides if i tryed it i would set fire to the car i could put money on it

[Gteman]

Good welding is all about preperation if you've things there to burn you've not prepared it right. ;)

If you think i can weld u should see the blacksmith next unit to me:( guy builds artistic furniture to footbridges its like looking in a teaching manual.

Makes me sick :D

[GazJevs84]

:confused:

I'm scared to type anything now :eek:

Wheres the webcam :D

lmfao
i logged off for few hours i was that spooked lol

[Gteman]

Got the sill tacked on today

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image024.jpg

Things are a bit quieter in the run up to Christmas so hopefully get the welding finished soon.

[GazJevs84]

good to see things are coming along

[johnl]

Seeing all this has given me the motivation to pull my finger out and get on top of the body work on mine

[Gteman]

Seeing all this has given me the motivation to pull my finger out and get on top of the body work on mine

Good stuff m8

Finished the welding now and starting to cataloy some bits now.

I'll take some pics in the morning. Just checked my camera and can't find them :confused:

[GazJevs84]

just the luck lol

[Gteman]

Got some pic with my phone today

The front of the sill all welded

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image014.jpg

Some cataloy slapped on :o :D

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/cataloy.jpg

Sill spot welded before dressing

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image010.jpg

Welds dressed cr*ppy pic

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image011.jpg

More spot welds dressed

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image015.jpg

The arch to sill seam welded

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image012.jpg

And finally for now my first bit of cataloy rubbbed down with 80 grit, in the corner above my finger lol
It'll need another coat, need to tie my m8 down now to cat everything up for me.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image009.jpg

[Kris]

So you have put the catty on then ,you dont hang about mate i thought you would be at least another week ,lol

[Gteman]

Good job i wasn't born Noah or we wouldn't have any animals left lol

[Kris]

Good job i wasn't born Noah or we wouldn't have any animals left lol


lmao :D

[GazJevs84]

good work mate bet you cannot wait until it is finished

[Gteman]

Cataloyed up the corner again

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/morecat.jpg

Must be Christmas Finally pin down my m8 Big H

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/bigHgrinder.jpg

Cataloy going on

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Image013.jpg

And left for me to sand :( :(

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Fullcat.jpg

[mking]

are you getting a full respray on her?

[Gteman]

are you getting a full respray on her?

Full respray in Carmine red. Hutchie and myself are going to do it in a booth hired from a local body shop. I'll have it fully prepped ready for the top coat before we take it to the booth.

[mking]

i just noticed the filler over that line in the body work and wondered if you were maybe going to smooth it all in and be smooth :cool: or stay original and keep them?

[Gteman]

Just the photo m8 Bodywork should be pretty standard except for an Aerial hole. :)

[Gteman]

and bee sting Aerial

[mking]

are you taking all the rubber strips off aswell?

ariel debate, where have i seen that thread before.........................:rolleyes: ;)

looks miles better with a bee sting in my opinion.

[Gteman]

The rubbers will go back on although i think i prefer it without. Don't know about the black strips whether they will get masked or removed and replaced.

[GazJevs84]

looking good and i agree i have started to like them better without the strips lol

[astrasteve23]

keep the bump strips, looks to plain otherwise.

[sean champturbo]

coming together nicely there, who supplied the rear lower corner panels?how much they set you back?

[mking]

do you mean the black vinyl strips? i think they make the gte stand out just that little bit from a non gte mk2.
are you gonna colour code the plastic trim bits i.e. side skirts and bits in the bumpers?

[Gteman]

do you mean the black vinyl strips? i think they make the gte stand out just that little bit from a non gte mk2.
are you gonna colour code the plastic trim bits i.e. side skirts and bits in the bumpers?

Sorry guys the black vinyl strips i meant. Don't know whether to mask them or try to get replacements.

Noticed that the Peugot 406 uses black Vinyl strips as well, which seem larger than the Astra's strip in most directions on the door. A small piece would need to be fitted at the rounded corner's of the windows to finish it off.

Going to keep the plastic's in there original colour.

[mking]

i'd mask the vinyl up mate. i had to get a new driver's door for mine, and i had it masked up. i then toke the passenger side off cos it needed replacing, it was a twat to take off, and a twat to put back on!

maybe get the side skirts etc lacquered or sprayed black? looks good all colour coded though!

[Gteman]

Some pics of the cataloy blocked by hand :grumpy:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Catrub1.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Catrub2.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Catrub3.jpg

Nearly ready for a finishing skim maybe two on the drivers sides, back to waiting on Big Hutchie. :hissyfit:

[Gteman]

coming together nicely there, who supplied the rear lower corner panels?how much they set you back?

All the panels came from Hadrian's except the wings they are from Vauxhall.
I think the corner panel was about a £10.

[richie00boy]

How have you found the fit of Hadrian panels? I'm looking at getting them for some of mine.

[Gteman]

How have you found the fit of Hadrian panels? I'm looking at getting them for some of mine.

Mixed feelings really O/s rear arch, both sills and both rear corners were fine.

The n/s rear arch and inner arch didn't meet properly and i gave up after a week and bought another make(still thinking about it) outer arch and all fitted great.

A body shop guy would probably have worked with the arch but it was to much for poor me. :hissyfit:

[CraigGreen]

Wicked stuff in this thread Graham.

Good luck with spraying & all the rest of it... CG

[Gteman]

Well past time for an update so here we go.....

At the moment things have been quieter at the garage so i have finally got the bug again and the Astra has been up on the ramp for two days. :)

I think i can safely say this time that this is the last patch done :Banane44:

O/S/R floorpan welded up just to be dressed.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Osrfloor.jpg

Most of the underneath is now seam sealered and shutzed(sp) with 3M gear. Just the above floorpan and 4 corners on the sills where i cant reach because of the ramp legs. LOL Who said having all the right tools made the job easy.

Fitted new brake pipes down both sides amazingly the rest are ok and are original :confused:

Still to do list....

Waxoyl everything in sight
Finish cataloy on rear arches. (no change as previous pics)
Prep paintwork
Spray car
Refit interior and exterior trims
Mot time
Party time

Had to take the driver seat out so i finally got the front carpet out so i could get a good look at the bulkhead and everything is as clean as a whistle on the inside :applause:

[Ian T]

Good to hear, I think I'll be having a go again shortly.

I hope I get to see this one, looks good. I also wish I could weld that reliably, maybe with a bit more practice.

Ian.

[richie00boy]

Hope to see this one and yourself at some shows/events Graham.

[Gteman]

Woo hoo!!!!

Got some shiney red paint onto the front crossmember and in the headlamp holes.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Fspray.jpg

We had a family outing to our first car boot sale of the year and came across a stall selling car paint. Had a rumage and came up with a couple of cans of LV93 Carmine red and found a good use for it today. The visible paintwork will all be done in 2 pack once it's all sanded down.:yuck:

All the welding is now finished and underneath is now shutzed and looking great.

[Ian T]

Nice to see a lower rad support beam in that condition. Maybe I'll replace mine, maybe I'll build something different to shift the rad for the V6.

Keep it up, how much is left before you'll consider it's done?

Ian.

[Gteman]

The Rad support had a fair bit of surface rust Ian, no welding needed, just blasted it with the media blaster rust treated and primed then a coat of underseal.


Keep it up, how much is left before you'll consider it's done?

The million dollar question LOL

It's a catch 22 if I've time to do the Astra I'm not making money at work.
The last week or so has seen a lot of fiddly time consuming bits finished.
Not being a painter I dragged my feet as much as possible but now the summer weather is threating to arrive I just can't hold myself back.

It is really just the rear quarters to finish cataloying and prepping the rest of the car for paint.

Defo this year that's as far as I'm committing myself LOL

[richie00boy]

Graham do you weld MIG or oxy-acetylene? I was thinking about going on a welding course this year.

[Gteman]

Graham do you weld MIG or oxy-acetylene? I was thinking about going on a welding course this year.

Started life welding oxy and avoided mig for a few years, better the devil you know I thought..

Living in Glasgow surrounded with fabrication company's and a mate who is a welder in the ship yards i got pushed into mig and to be honest, now I can't remember the last time I used the gas for anything other than heat.

Gas's main advantage is being able to weld rusty cr*ppy metal with minimal cleaning. Great for mot patches on older cars but not what you are looking for when restoring a car. A gas weld is also soft and can be panel beaten if need be. Good gap filling in fact my first gas welding lesson was to weld closed the end of a tailpipe on a scrap back box.

Mig's advantages are speed of weld, by a big margin, and localized heating saving distortion. Main drawback is the need for very clean surfaces and tight joins.
My advise would be to learn mig and buy an electric helmet and lots and lots of practice.

[richie00boy]

I keep trying to get my dad to try MIG (well he has tried it on a course) but he won't budge from gas, mostly for the pluses you mention. He's into (much) older cars really.

Maybe if I learnt MIG I could convince him and we could buy a welder to share!

On that last floor pan patch, did you make the patch overlap the hole slightly? We would have made a flush patch and welded the edges and the gas welding copes with the inevitable slight gaps OK.

[Gteman]

Sorry Mr OOboy it's surprising how many post u miss if you use new posts to often.

Anyway to answer your question u can butt weld but it takes a hell of a lot of experience on thin metal.
I'm not saying i can't, lol but it is much easier to joggle the section in as long as the other side is hidden

like so

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Joggled.jpg

on the underneath once dressed it disappears

Poor pic it is their honest

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Floor.jpg

and here somewhere

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Orsfloorp.jpg

[richie00boy]

Thanks for the reply. My only experience of welding is gas where we always use butt joints, so I am just looking how MIG compares. I guess the issue is the lack of gap-filling ability of MIG?

[DarrenH]

hell of allot of work gone in there, ive owned my astra 7 years now and would say i was quite big on mk2's, but if i was faced with that much, i know i would have scrapped it immediately, so top marks there.

[Gteman]

hell of allot of work gone in there, Ive owned my Astra 7 years now and would say i was quite big on mk2's, but if i was faced with that much, i know i would have scrapped it immediately, so top marks there.

Lol It's hard to give up when you have already done so much work. As mentioned earlier i bought it for the engine for a Locost and my heart was ripped apart deciding to keep it in the end. Anyway I have a rover v8 for the Locost now :Banane42:

The main thing that has kept me at it is the mileage 54,000 and the untouched originality of the shell.

anyway got the wings prepped inside before fitting the white stuff is stonechip applied in the area's that were rusty on the original.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Wings.jpg

Was sick of finding small stone chips everywhere so off with the paint :duh:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Bonnet.jpg

[DarrenH]

as for the i2000 thing. pretty sure thats off a manta or ascona. irmscher special

good idea on the underside of the wings. ive got 2 relatively new wings on mine, one had a whisp of underseal at the bodyshop, the other i gave 2 coats of hammerite before giving to the bodyshop. guess which one is already rusting on the lip 2 years later ?

[Gteman]

as for the i2000 thing. pretty sure thats off a manta or ascona. irmscher special


It is an odd one. Were the manta's not i200's :confused: The car is perfectly standard so i don't think I've any special edition :grumpy:


Finished treating the inside's of the wings today Shutzed all over and some hand brushed underseal in all the corners and around the wing lip.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Wingfini.jpg

If these wings rust again I'll eat my hat :yuck:

Steam jennyed the car today to try get rid of as much grease/oil/dirt from lying about the garage. Still some stubborn bit's like the roof were the apprentice decided to line up a set of hydraulic lifters out of another car :duh:

[Gteman]

Noticed today that the strut top mount's are starting to split. I read that Oddball is using 1.7td top mounts. What the advantage and should i get a set instead of standard ?

[rodg98133]

Looking Good mate. I'm gonna make a start on my bodywork soon.

[richie00boy]

Perhaps the diesel mounts are a little stronger to take the extra weight of the engine?

[Gteman]

Finally got a wing on today. I had a go last week when i had Astrachamp car in the garage so I could compare the gaps. It just wasn't playing fair, the gap between wing and bonnet would close up and the gap at the door was to big as well.

Had a go today and got it bang on at the second attempt.

Nice bonnet to wing gap

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Wing2.jpg

and the door gap

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Wing3.jpg


If I get the finger out I might just make Retro

[Ian T]

Very nice. You have a head start here, as yours appears to be completely straight from the outset. I think one of my bonnet hinges is a little bent, so my bonnet wants to sit crooked.

Great fit though, even if it might be better than it was new.

Where did the wing come from, pattern or genuine?

Ian.

[Gteman]

They are genuine panels Ian.
The only slight problem I can see and it was the same on Astrachamp's is the height of the bonnet compared to the wing is slightly lower in the middle and spot on at the headlight and windscreen ends. Almost as if it needs a rubber bung were the top row of bolts go.

[Ian T]

That makes sense. My wing is a pattern one, took me ages to get it to fit correctly at the bottom, as they have a tendency to hang out a bit and look odd against the door. Was the bonnet new as well? If not, you might be able to vandalise it a bit by bending it into a slightly more round shape to match before any paint goes on.


The biggest difference I can see between the pattern and genuine wings is in the quality of the bends along the top - the genuine one is very smooth and precise, whereas the pattern one shows some small ripples inside the shut, plus a few straighter folds where a curve was intended. Very passable, but I notice it now I know it's there. ;)

When's Retro?? I ought to see if I can get mine sorted.

Ian.

[Gteman]

The wings are a great fit, well worth the extra money tho I'm still disappointed their is no indicator holes pre-drilled.

The bonnet is original just stripped of paint. I deliberately left the bonnet on to save lining all the panels at once. I'll fit the other wing tomorrow and then decide whether to tweak the bonnet.



Retro details here Ian..

http://www.astra-mk2.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4962

[bigdrifter]

Excellent thread, keep up the good work

[GazJevs84]

looking good gteman keep up the good work

[Ian T]

Retro details here Ian..

http://www.astra-mk2.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4962

Booked... see you there :)

Ian.

[Gteman]

By jings sanding is hard work.

my new Avatar

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Shiny.jpg

hopefully the last skim of cat on the n/s maybe a little more just at the rear.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Lastcat.jpg

Definetly lesson learned with warping caused by excess heat from welding causing more work than should have been necessary.

Really want to rip the rear quarters off and change the full panel but I'm skint :grumpy:

[Ian T]

Agreed on the full panel, I had the same problem.

There seems to be no shortcut to getting a good sanding job - some people swear by machines but I don't seem to be able to get the same degree of control, so that leaves me agreeing with you on that point as well - sanding just seems to have to be hard work!

Nice to see the pics, don't give up. :)

Ian.

[BazW]

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Shiny.jpg



I see what you're doing there ;)

http://cache.jalopnik.com/cars/images/audi_mtm_silver_1.jpg

[Gteman]

I see what you're doing there ;)

http://cache.jalopnik.com/cars/images/audi_mtm_silver_1.jpg


LoL

Exactly what we were thinking.

Don't no if anyone has done a full steel car. It would look the dogs dangly's.
Pity the rear arches are full of cataloy :hissyfit:

[richie00boy]

Do a Goole on DeLorean...

[Gteman]

N/S just about finished

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Catns2.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Catns.jpg

O/S no pics yet second cat layer is half sanded and the shape is nearly there.

I'll give myself to next weekend to finish the cataloy that should be more than enough time even for me lol

[Kris]

Getting there mate ,ive still ahd no joy with a media blaster ,grrr

[richie00boy]

Looking a lot better now Graham.

[Gteman]

Howszatt :applause:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Catns3.jpg

Who said I can't cataloy ?

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Catns4.jpg

one side left :grumpy:

did i say the cataloy would be finished by the weekend :rotfl:

[GazJevs84]

looking very good mate

[Gteman]

One pic of the o/s getting there.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Catos.jpg

Noticed the n/s cv joint clicking yesterday when I went for a spin around the estate. Along with the 2 strut top mounts that are starting to split should finish the stuff needed for the MOT.

[astrachamp]

its coming along, as soon as its done we got to get a scotland meet going

[Gteman]

its coming along, as soon as its done we got to get a scotland meet going

I really can't wait TBH

I don't have the urge for meets when I don't have an Astra to bring along, tho that should change shortly :Banane42:

[astrachamp]

im working in blackpool for the next few weeks so if im going by the office i will pop in with the vents and clock for u

[Gteman]

im working in blackpool for the next few weeks so if im going by the office i will pop in with the vents and clock for u

Anytime Colin :cool:

[Ian T]

Still loving your work Graham...

Want to do mine next, now you've had some practice etc? ;)

Ian.

[Gteman]

Well chaps Retro has come and gone and Gerty is not much further on in fact she has taken a step backwards.

I wasn't happy with the straight line above the lip in the cataloy here..

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Again.jpg

and also at the bottom it was a bit low so more cataloy :(

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Again2.jpg

Took my time and rubbed it down and gave it a quick prime now I feel fairly happy with the result. Their is one slightly high bit of metal I'm not sure if high build primer will cover or whether I am going to have to shrink the metal. It won't chap down. I will hopefully get a second opinion tomorrow and another look myself.

Plus the o/s was low all over so I have put a full skim over the hole panel which hasn't been touched yet.

Hopefully the next pic's will be of the panels primed for paint :dizzy:

[Gteman]

Had an OOPPS moment today.
We were removing an engine from a Daewoo Matiz. Things were getting in my way and I pushed my gearbox prop out of the way with a little to much haste and bumped the rear quarter with the handle :hissyfit: Am I glad it's not sprayed yet or what :action: .

Then at lunch Stuart noticed a chip in the middle of the windscreen were some low flying god knows what has ricochet right off of it :wasntme:

I guess that has made my mind up to remove the screen for the respray.

My mate quoted £70 with and new rubber that he has had for umpteen years which don't sound to bad.

[Gteman]

As my cataloying skills(or lack off) improve i have redone areas i was happy with before. Now i am finally happy with the N/S so i stripped the door ready to rub down

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Door1.jpg

I have already cataloyed up a couple of dings on the door, so i sanded the door down with 240 then 400 paper.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Door2.jpg

That leaves the door lock hole to be repaired as it is bashed in. My friendly Snap on Dealer has a tool for repairing it and is bringing it with him on Wednesday.

That really only leaves the sill and the door checks to be rubbed down and the N/S is ready for paint.

[johnl]

looks like you getting there.

[astrachamp]

i was hoping to see pics of fresh paint filling my screen :D

coming along nicely, has she got lonley since its buddy left her?

[richie00boy]

What's this lock hole repair tool? More details please :)

[Gteman]

i was hoping to see pics of fresh paint filling my screen :D

coming along nicely, has she got lonley since its buddy left her?

Its ok i've got this pic on the dash lol

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Be4after.jpg


Richie AFAIK its a die with a bolt through the middle which when tightened pulls the lock hole back into place. I'll get a pic if he remembers to bring it on wednesday.

[Kris]

http://www.sptools.co.uk/assets/userfiles/product_images/small/05960000_small.jpg (http://www.sptools.co.uk/catalogue/index.html?product=944&sid=X74yEeOUmNGDs01ssRCk1nV2BLMnUqxp&keyword=lock)

Looks like that mate ,handy as hell for old mk2s http://www.sptools.co.uk/catalogue

[astrachamp]

mmm i like that one, :D

[Ian T]

Good to see you're still at it Graham, and I bet it looks better than mine when I do finally get to see yours. :)

Ian.

[GazJevs84]

Good to see you're still at it Graham, and I bet it looks better than mine when I do finally get to see yours. :)

Ian.

Ian both yours and gteman's gte's are stunning i have followed this and your thread with great detail and love the way you have saved both cars so to speak and turned them into stunning vehicles

i have just bought one as you 2 have give me the inspiration to have a go at it myself as the one i have purchased needs new sills and arches

http://www.astra-mk2.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9175,

now i won't be able to produce what you 2 have for a good few years but am hoping one day i can

looking good btw way gteman

[Gteman]

Thanks chaps a little encouragement goes a long way.

Don't you worry gaz I'm keeping a close http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/spezial/Sarge/Eye_anim.gif on you.

When is the grinder getting fired up ?

[GazJevs84]

Thanks chaps a little encouragement goes a long way.

Don't you worry gaz I'm keeping a close http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/spezial/Sarge/Eye_anim.gif on you.

When is the grinder getting fired up ?

next couple of weeks hopefully bud

[Gteman]

Had a go at removing the vinyl today with a heat gun. It seems to do the trick just need to watch i don't burn my wee fingers lol

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Vynl.jpg

[Kev Read]

Stunning mate!!

I love seeing a GTE being restored. There are not many people who would have stuck at it like you have, I must admit I would have give up when I see all that rot! But with a bit of hard work anything is possible and what you have done has proved that its never too far gone. Cant wait to see it finished.

:applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause:

[Sipo]

Ive been slacking on this thread Graham, and not kept upto date with it at all. Been flicking through and thought I'd better put some encouragement in! Your doing a great job matey and VERY thorough. Great stuff :thumbsup:

[CavHopper]

Its taken me 2 hours to get through this thread!!!

Respect mate for putting in so much work to get it sorted good and proper!

[bigdrifter]

You come over here to the dark side now Hopper?
Good work, superb thread

[Gteman]

Stunning mate!!

I love seeing a GTE being restored. There are not many people who would have stuck at it like you have, I must admit I would have give up when I see all that rot! But with a bit of hard work anything is possible and what you have done has proved that its never too far gone. Cant wait to see it finished.

:applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause:

Cheers Kev, boy could I have done with a loan of you for a weekend to save me months of cataloying http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/musik/music-smiley-019.gif


Its taken me 2 hours to get through this thread!!!


2 Hours!!!!!! http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sprachlos/speechless-smiley-040.gif :wasntme:
Hope you enjoyed it, there are a lot of similar threads in here if you delve deep. Plenty of inspiration :thumbsup:

Anyway Sticky stuff :yuck:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Windout.jpg

Nightmare to come off until I discovered my tin of wurth multi-purpose cleaner took it off in seconds :duh:

I didn't realise that the rubber trim around the quarter window was P.U.'ed in. After about a days worth of slicing and sanding I have got it nice and clean, only one side to go :grumpy:

I tried my best to get the rubber trim off without damage but no luck the aluminum backing got bent in a couple of places.

So what is the answer are the trims still available from Vauxhall or maybe Daewoo ?

[BazW]

have you got a rough idea when it'll be ready or is it best not to ask :)

[Gteman]

have you got a rough idea when it'll be ready or is it best not to ask :)

http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sauer/angry-smiley-055.gifhttp://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sauer/angry-smiley-055.gifhttp://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sauer/angry-smiley-055.gifhttp://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sauer/angry-smiley-055.gif

Rome wasn't built in a day you know !!!! Lol

I'm not setting any dates anymore :( saying that the paint will be getting purchased in about a fortnight so....

[astrachamp]

there was a group buy not so long ago on here for front door seals from daewoo after kev read put a thread up when he did it on his, chances are the rear window seals from daewoo might fight too.

[CavHopper]

You come over here to the dark side now Hopper?
Good work, superb thread
Aye, I been getting a bit bored of VxON of late tbh, so been spreading myself about a bit!

Plus you know me, always looking for a new project lol!!! Your red one got me thinking again about whats next once I've finished the mk3 estate........

Seeing what you lads on here get up to(:grinning-smiley-043 ), plus my fetish for Vauxhalls, I do believe I may well be restoring a mk2 next :Banane44:

Possibly a convertable????

Time to dust off the mig set and buy a new bottle of gas methinks!

Gteman you have a lot to answer for lol!!!:thumbsup:

[johnl]

The seals are still available from Vauxhall last time I checked but were not cheap. Can't remember if I was quoted £60 in total or £60 a side

[BazW]

http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sauer/angry-smiley-055.gifhttp://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sauer/angry-smiley-055.gifhttp://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sauer/angry-smiley-055.gifhttp://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sauer/angry-smiley-055.gif

Rome wasn't built in a day you know !!!! Lol

I'm not setting any dates anymore :( saying that the paint will be getting purchased in about a fortnight so....

ready for retro 07? :)

looking forward to seeing it all done, it's been said before but there aren't many that'd restore as much as you have :grinning-smiley-043

[Gteman]

ready for retro 07? :)


Lol I remember joking a few month before retro 06 that it would be retro 07 before it was done :banghead:

Finished prepping the Passenger side for primer today.

Sprayed the sill and the join between sill and quarter..

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Primer.jpg

My cataloying has disappeared which is a relief which leaves me a small list :bananajump:

Driver side
1. remove quarter window
2. strip door
3. remove vinyl
4. finish sanding cataloy on quarter
5. prep rest of side for primer
6. fix 2 x door lock holes
7. strip and prep hatch inc glass out
8. remove front glass
9. prep roof
10. prep bumpers and mirrors and tailgate
11. remove doors
12. prime car

retro 08 ? hmm lol

[GroupB]

Looking like a very thorough resto, keep up the good work. Good things come to those who wait afterall.

Dave

[Gteman]

Driver side
1. remove quarter window Done
2. strip door Done
3. remove vinyl Done
4. finish sanding cataloy on quarter
5. prep rest of side for primer Nearly Done
6. fix 2 x door lock holes
7. strip and prep hatch inc glass out Done just to remove
8. remove front glass Done
9. prep roof
10. prep bumpers and mirrors and tailgate
11. remove doors Passenger door off
12. prime car

Stuart stripped the spoiler off for me today so my mate could take out the windows. There is a bit of rust under the spoiler mounts which will need dealt with.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Hatchstrip.jpg

and the front window out to

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Windsout.jpg

A builder friend of mine has offered to let me use his spray booth. It wont take the full car so I'll spray the wings, doors, bonnet and hatch in the booth.
The rest of the car will need to be sprayed next to the booth.

[astrachamp]

your almost on the home run!:applause:

[BrightSpark]

doing a good and proper job there, keep it up :thumbsup:

[GazJevs84]

:grinning-smiley-043 nice work there mate i cannot wait to see it finished bud .

[Sipo]

And it goes on! Great work Graham :D :D :D :D

[Squig]

just read through this thread... GTEman I have to say I'm well impressed...

















...and can you do mine too?!? :D

[Gteman]

Finally got the primer today, a 2k high build primer.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Tinprimer.jpg

I have been dremelling out half a dozen rust scabs including the 2 found under the rear spoiler. Now they are nice and clean i have painted them with Kurust and will finish with a skim of cataloy.

I still need to get some supply's including tack rags, tar and silicone remover, paint filters, mixing cups and probably a roll of brown paper for masking.

I'm desperate to paint something now but I'll just have to be a bit more patient and get the prep right first.

[Ian T]

You're right, be patient.

I think you're saying the same thing above, but just in case... I'd recommend getting some panel wipe (probably only available in 5L cans, but it's great for getting rid of oils, silicones and other contaminants from your prepared bodywork. I hadn't bothered with it before, but it made a HUGE difference to the quality of my paintwork, compared with before I started using it - no retreat areas where the paint got away from the centre of the impurity.

Also the patience bit comes in after the high build primer, mainly in making sure it's well flatted before the colour coat goes on. It's more a problem for metallics really, as the texture of the primer finish shows through the clear coat if left un-flatted. You'll be able to get over any imperections by putting plenty of colour on and then flatting and polishing that back if any areas remain.

Keep it up, looks like it WILL be ready for Retro Cars / Billing 2007! :D

Ian.

[Gteman]

Progress is still slow. I have purchased all the above goodies needed for prep.

The wings and bonnet are now etch primed..

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Wingetch.jpg

and new updated Avatar :applause:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Avatar2.jpg

also prepped the A post and etched any bare metal left showing.

Started on the roof and what i thought was a dirty line right along were the window seal rubber sat, is the dreaded rust gremlin :(

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Roofedge.jpg

So it's now just the rest of the roof and the tailgate. My biggest problem now is the air temp is to cold for spraying effectively :hissyfit:

[mick g]

Wow,
All that hard work is paying off now, its looking good:thumbsup: . You are slightly in front of me as mine is getting its bottom painted first!

[KEV]

Whats the benefit of painting your car in bits with etch primer mate, isn't normal primer all thats needed. I have always been led to believe that you only needed to use it for hard to paint surfaces where you literally need the primer to eat or etch in to the surface in order to get a good finish from the top-coat. Stuff like aluminium, plastics or galvanized steel I thought. Or have I got it wrong, is it anti-corrosive or something else special?

Projects looking good mate, well worth all the effort.

[Gteman]

Whats the benefit of painting your car in bits with etch primer mate, isn't normal primer all thats needed. I have always been led to believe that you only needed to use it for hard to paint surfaces where you literally need the primer to eat or etch in to the surface in order to get a good finish from the top-coat. Stuff like aluminium, plastics or galvanized steel I thought. Or have I got it wrong, is it anti-corrosive or something else special?

Projects looking good mate, well worth all the effort.

Not that I'm any expert and having been told that 2k primer should prime the bare metal ok, for the sake of a couple of quid I thought I would go by the book and etch prime all the bare metal surfaces. It should help with paint adhesion and save any problems.
All the rest of the car including the etched surfaces will be covered in a good few coats of high build primer, more coats on any repaired area.

[Ian T]

I think it does help, but admit to being no expert. Steve Heley is currently part way through an auto refinishing course and has been learning all of this stuff.

My rationale was that any etching of the bare metal had to be a good thing - how many times have you seen ordinary primer flake off when damaged by stone chips etc? Also in theory the surface should then end up with a less reactive layer on top that should be less resistant to corrosion.

Might be hogwash though, of course!

Ian.

[bigdrifter]

Its very true - all bare metal should be etch primed first. Its a bit more expensive but worth it in the long run

[Simon]

come on Gteman time is ticking for billing 07 not 08:thumbsup:

[Gteman]

come on Gteman time is ticking for billing 07 not 08:thumbsup:

Yip show season is coming fast, need to get my finger out :)

[braders]

Some 2k high build primer has etching abilities, others dont. Its quite cheap to buy aerosol etch primer for small areas before highbuild goes on or you can get it in tins to go through the gun. If you apply high build without any etching abillities on to a bare metal then when you sand it back it will peel/flake off. Always check 1st or be on the safe side and apply etch.

[Gteman]

I've got the bug again.

Prepped and etched the rear bare metal area's

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/27022007013.jpg

I spent a couple of hours rubbing the last of the cataloying only to find a couple of high bits that needed chapping down and a bit more cataloy.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/27022007012.jpg

I found a dremmel was ideal for sorting the bump strip line out, sadly after too long sanding by hand http://www.easysmileys.com/img/imwithstupid_sign.gif

I hope to finish the prep..... No I not opening my big gob again lol

[astrachamp]

starting to look like yer cake!

[Gteman]

Finished http://www.easysmileys.com/img/other_thankyou.gif

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/05032007016.jpg

I wish :( Like the wheels tho :thumbsup:

[Gteman]

Repaired door locks with a combination of washers, nuts, a long bolt and a bit of gentle persuasion with a slide hammer :wasntme:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21032007027.jpg

A thin skim and rub done followed with a little etch primer had them looking good.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21032007029.jpg

Finally finished the cataloy :Banane44: A little etch primer on the bare metal.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21032007028.jpg

Its only taken about a year lol

Primered and guide coated.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/23032007032.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/23032007031.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/23032007030.jpg

Finished the Passenger side arch cataloy so going in over the weekend to get some cleaning up done and primer the n/s arch and more guide coat.

[Ian T]

Graham,

So happy to see you at it again, I almost bumped this thread last night to see where you were up to with the old girl.

Looks like you've got your eye in, that arch looks spot on and I'm really impressed that the swage line is preserved at its proper length, I know how difficult that is.

:)

Ian.

[Gteman]

Looks like you've got your eye in, that arch looks spot on and I'm really impressed that the swage line is preserved at its proper length, I know how difficult that is.

:)

Ian.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/23032007030.jpg

I gave up with the swage line as it took me into high bits of metal further up the panel, so both sides are smooth im afraid http://www.clicksmilies.com/s1106/sprachlos/speechless-smiley-004.gif

[Gteman]

Got the guide coat rubbed down and a couple of nicks sorted

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/24032007036.jpg

Ready for paint

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/24032007035.jpg

Primer filled and guide coated passenger side.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/24032007034.jpg

Almost ready for the full car to be primered. Cleared out the inside of 2 years rubbish and dirt, Ross hoovered it out for me :thumbsup:

[Ian T]

Looking good :)

Have you decided how much of the paint you will do for yourself yet?

Ian.

[Gteman]

Looking good :)

Have you decided how much of the paint you will do for yourself yet?

Ian.

I have Craig the painter doing his homers(sp) next door to me again after a 6 months absence. I think I'll shoot the primer and base if he lets me lol leaving the lacquer to Craig. He has also been a great help pushing me on this last week since he's been back plus the weather is now in my favour.

[Ian T]

I would certainly put the primer on. You might be able to get him to do colour and lacquer (do you need lacquer?).

My logic would be that he can check over the primer really carefully for you before putting the colour on, and as you'll know the lacquer will want to go on pretty much immediately the colour has gon touch dry.

Ian.

[Gteman]

I would certainly put the primer on. You might be able to get him to do colour and lacquer (do you need lacquer?).

Ian.

I asked the painter what to use and he said after all the effort i've been to i would be daft to paint it in anything other than base and lacquer, so im following his advice. :wasntme:

[Ian T]

Sounds reasonable, would certainly save it from going pink later on. :)

Ian.

[GazJevs84]

More good work fella :grinning-smiley-043

[Gteman]

Spent a long shift today masking and primering.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/31032007041.jpg

Not as easy as it looks LoL

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/31032007042.jpg

Spent half the day cleaning and masking, a lot longer than I expected.

Finally got painting with a devilbliss pressure pot style gun I borrowed then disaster just as I started it gave 2 or 3 splutters and it dumped half of the paint onto the arch aargghh

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/31032007044.jpg

Major runs down the arch I thought the needle was bent when I was cleaning the gun so I had to spray the rest of the car with a spot gun aargghh again.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/31032007045.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/31032007043.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/31032007046.jpg

Just to add to my misery I knocked over a tub with ready mixed paint and also tipped the gun to far when distracted and managed to pour half the guns contents down the rear light cluster Triple aargghh

Apart from my disasters I managed to primer the shell and wings I just hope the runs aren't to hard to rub out. I now need to find a better spray gun and get the doors and hatch sprayed.

[bigdrifter]

Bad luck but its all part of the game l guess. lts coming along well now

[Ian T]

Definately all part of life's rich tapestry, Graham.

If you're careful and wait for the primer to dry properly, it'll sand out without any bother, you will of course have to be pretty careful about how and where you rub, and also re-prime over the top.

Still looking like a very good job is being done there though. :)

Ian.

[GazJevs84]

good work mate

[richie00boy]

Why would you need to re-prime over the top of rubbed down areas, if you haven't rubbed through the primer?

Coming along now Graham. Will this be at Billing?

[Gteman]

Coming along now Graham. Will this be at Billing?

Billing is my goal that is pushing me on.

If not see For Sale section for a burnt out shell :)

[astrachamp]

i have faith! you can do it!

[Simon]

i have faith! you can do it!

He needs to fix mine first lol :thumbsup:

[astrachamp]

He needs to fix mine first lol :thumbsup:



grahams garage has magical healing powers with that car! i think because the astras like sitting beside each other :)

[Gteman]

grahams garage has magical healing powers with that car! i think because the astras like sitting beside each other :)


Gertrude's very shy just now, she only has her underwear on at the mo http://www.easysmileys.com/img/other_blush.gif

[Ian T]

Why would you need to re-prime over the top of rubbed down areas, if you haven't rubbed through the primer?


For peace of mind really. I've had occasions where I've done the same and the sanded back primer behaved differently when the colour coat went onto it than the surrounding area.

I might not have waited long enough before sanding it after painting though.

I really hope we do see the old girl at Billing. :)

Ian.

[richie00boy]

Don't you flat primer before topcoating Ian?

[Ian T]

LOL... I didn't used to, but I do now.

The other thing I didn't do before was use panel wipe before any coat, but it makes a massive difference to the consistency of the new paint in terms of adhesion and level.

I see your point, it was more that there was an area of paint that had a different consistency to the rest next to it, sanding through the harder outer layer, leaving softer, less exposed paint behind, which livened up too easily when the colour went on.

Ian.

[Gteman]

Felt really dumb today, after craig the painter stopped laughing at my primer he asked me why I didn't take a thinners soaked rag to the o/s quarter, fix the gun and start the panel again :duh: instead now I had to rub the full panel down again.

I got the runs out eventually and will need to reprimer over them as sanding them out took me through the primer at bits. The roof and bonnet need another coat as the paint is not thick enough, mostly due to a poorly set up gun giving too narrow a spread, it wasn't any better than a can at the time.

I have now sorted out a decent gun that I've had a practise with and I'm pretty happy that I can redeem myself, I just need to rub it all down again :hissyfit:

[Kris]

Some paint my man, show how long ive been away lol.

[Dale]

looking good mate! i wish i could spray!

[Gteman]

I got everything primed execpt the plastics and the hatch.

A before..

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21042007047.jpg

and after..

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21042007052.jpg

Doors....

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21042007055.jpg

This one we had problems with silicon which must have happened by acident with it sitting around the garage, so it had to be wiped down and re-sprayed..

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21042007054.jpg

Wings..

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21042007051.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21042007057.jpg

and the shell...

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21042007048.jpg

not a good pic.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21042007050.jpg

and prepped the bumpers..

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21042007060.jpg

[Ian T]

You've been motoring Graham. :D

Really impressed with this, there'll be no excuses now. See you at Billing, WITH Gerty.

Ian.

[astrachamp]

looks like you have had a good day! did you have better luck with the gun this time round?

[Gteman]

Craig done most of the priming while I played apprentice for the day sanding and cleaning everything in site. The gun is Craigs a Devilbliss GTI about £300 worth I think.

I did paint a door which came out fine so I'm happy to prime anything else tho Craig is going to spray the base and lacquer just to be sure it's right first time and no more rubbing down lol :thumbsup:

[GazJevs84]

Looking good fella

[Dale]

great wrok there fella!

[Gteman]

I have serious doubts about making Billing :( The painter has had a couple of unfortunate incident's the last couple of weekends leaving myself to pick up the reigns(sp) http://www.easysmileys.com/img/surp_noidea.gif

I have primed everything except the hatch and have filled most of the nicks and rubbed most of them down.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/04062007070.jpg

I got the bumper trim cleaned and sprayed since the parts that are supposed to be coming from Germany 6 weeks ago haven't arrived.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/01062007069.jpg

I still have a bit of priming to do which is within my capabilities tho the base and lacquer if I need to do myself will require a bit more practice http://www.easysmileys.com/img/sad_aaaww.gif

[richie00boy]

Bad luck Graham. I notice the can, can you get Wurth stuff? I'm after a couple of small items...

[Gteman]

Bad luck Graham. I notice the can, can you get Wurth stuff? I'm after a couple of small items...

I sure can, PM me what your looking for.

[Ian T]

You know, you're still making better progress than I am.

And I'm CONVINCED that you could do a good job of the colour coat and lacquer. Really. As you have opted for lacquer, it would seem logical that you can paint plenty of colour, polish it back to flat and then (after lots of spirit wipe) paint the lacquer. Build up a few coars and leave it for a week or two somewhere warm before polishing it back again.

It'd be a real shame not to see you, the missus and Gerty at Billing this year Graham!

Ian.

[Gteman]

Finished priming the bumpers and spoiler today :applause:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Astra-mk2/27072007092.jpg

Dust seems to be a bit of a problem which is ok in the primer but I will need to sort out something better for base and lacquer.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Astra-mk2/27072007093.jpg

Also primed the last of the plastic tho one of the vents has a rash of silicone eyes :(

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Astra-mk2/27072007091.jpg

And a new compressor should sort out any air supply problems for my new HVLP gun

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/Astra-mk2/27072007090.jpg

Need to reprime the doors and the hatch and then the big test the shell. If all goes well then I'll be painting the top coats if not then a few quotes may be requested.

[johnl]

Glad to see your still making progress.

[Ian T]

Nice compressor. :)

Are you sure you can run HVLP off it though? I thought they were fed from something not too far removed from a reversed vacuum cleaner...

Ian.

[Gteman]

High volume Low pressure.

The gun gets set at 29 psi tho requires a high volume of air so the bigger the tank the better. The new 4hp compressor is the big brother of my old 3hp unit.

The new unit was used by a painter with a Hvlp gun so should work fine.

[Gteman]

Plus the tank is 200 litres compares to 150 litres on the old one

[richie00boy]

Interested how you get on with the HVLP as I'm thinking of going that route and have heard a few conflicting tales.

[Gteman]

Gertrude has left the building :(

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/21082007124.jpg

I need the space she was taking up for another ramp so she has to go.

She didn't leave without a fight, well.... she ran out of petrol at the door :love-smiley-028:

Good news is I've came to a 3 to 4 week deal with a bodyshop around the corner to spray her for me :Banane44:


Looks like she will be ready in time for winter storage http://www.easysmileys.com/img/bangdesk.gif

[Ian T]

Hey...

You had me worried then!

Ian.

[Gteman]

Hey...

You had me worried then!

Ian.

http://www.easysmileys.com/img/haha_sign.gif

Sorry Ian just teasing lol

It won't be long to my name that part picture thread as half the stuff I found today got a what the fukc look or a blank expression http://www.easysmileys.com/img/shithappens.gif

Only thing I didn't find was the bumper carriers that I need first :duh:

[Ian T]

http://www.easysmileys.com/img/haha_sign.gif

Only thing I didn't find was the bumper carriers that I need first :duh:

Rear ones? ;)

[Gteman]

Rear ones? ;)

Yip want to check fit the rear bumper so the holes are drilled before painting saving any risk of scratching the new paint.

[Ian T]

Might have some spares if you get stuck. :)

[Gteman]

Might have some spares if you get stuck. :)

Knowing myself well they will be staring me in the face as usual. I'll have a better look in the morning its good to know you have spares. :thumbsup:

[Gteman]

Popped into the bodyshop today just in time for some pictures.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/04092007134.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/04092007136.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/04092007135.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/04092007137.jpg

http://www.easysmileys.com/img/woohoo.gif

The painter wasn't there so I couldn't ask any time scale questions or why the checks aren't sprayed though I'm sure he has everything under control.

[Simon]

Is that the final finish on the paint graham?It looks dry?

[braders]

Is that the final finish on the paint graham?It looks dry?

it wont be the final finish, hasnt even coloured the insides yet. Looks like the first coat of base coat, a few more coats inside and out then on with the lacquer id imagine.
Looking good mate, bodyshop looks clean and new :grinning-smiley-043

[Gteman]

I gave the painter a litre of Red I acquired just to get a bit of colour onto the panels to save on the amount of carmine red needing bought.

It is dry but isn't the final coat and it's only the base still to be lacquered

[Simon]

it wont be the final finish, hasnt even coloured the insides yet. Looks like the first coat of base coat, a few more coats inside and out then on with the lacquer id imagine.
Looking good mate, bodyshop looks clean and new :grinning-smiley-043

I was thinking that,just wasnt sure

[Gteman]

Looking good mate, bodyshop looks clean and new :grinning-smiley-043

It is new as they had to move from there previous premises due to the M74 extension.

They have just finished a lamborgini that was written off down the passenger side and the front which turned out top notch. They were also respraying a rusty Transit van as well http://www.easysmileys.com/img/huh.gif

[Simon]

Transits never die!

[johnl]

good to see some colour getting put on it bet you can't wait for it to be finished.

[Gteman]

Shiney red now
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/05092007138.jpg
:bananajump:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/05092007139.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/05092007140.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/05092007141.jpg
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/05092007142.jpg

Wings and spoiler were getting painted today which only leaves the shell http://www.easysmileys.com/img/other_bounce.gif

[johnl]

Was going to ask what about the shell lol looking good. Just the fun of putting her all back together again.

[Gteman]

Was going to ask what about the shell lol looking good. Just the fun of putting her all back together again.

Main problem will be finding everything http://www.easysmileys.com/img/surp_noidea.gif and remembering were it goes it's been so long since she was stripped.

[Ian T]

Oh yes...

Now you're talking!

Looking forward to seeing the shell done, and then even more, to seeing the reassembly picture trail. :)

Ian.

[Alex mac]

Main problem will be finding everything http://www.easysmileys.com/img/surp_noidea.gif and remembering were it goes it's been so long since she was stripped.


The Main problem I have at the end of builds are the boxes of bolts I find left over (shock) I wonder how it stays to together at times lol

Looking smart mate, nice new shiney red :thumbsup:

As Ian said looking forward to the rebuild now

[Gteman]

The shell is all prepped and in the spray booth ready for painting tomorrow :bananajump:

There is also 3 small repairs on the roof and 3 on the bonnet that I had missed :fsfsfsfsf150: plus a knick on the side that had happened stored in the garage when the gearbox prop was pushed just a little to close :furious3:


I was so happy I forgot to take pictures :duh:

Lots of red shiny pics tomorrow...

[braders]

i look forward to seeing the pics mate :thumbsup:

[Gteman]

Much redness

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/13092007145.jpg

Last coat of lacquer going on

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/13092007146.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/13092007148.jpg

All finished

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/13092007149.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/13092007151.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/13092007152.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/13092007153.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/13092007154.jpg

Roof nice and shiney

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b209/gteman/13092007155.jpg

She will get a flat and polish tomorrow and then she will be back in my hands :love-smiley-028:

[bigdrifter]

Looking good there, nothing quite like as satisfying as seeing the paint going on

[richie00boy]

Bet you getting excited now!

[Gteman]

Bet you getting excited now!

I've got a big cheeser from ear to ear that I can't get rid of http://www.easysmileys.com/img/happy.gif


I have also painted the brackets for the rear fog lights which were rusty and have painted the door handles and the ring around the locks.

Painted them black but it got me thinking should they not be dark grey on a red Gte ???

[richie00boy]

Yes they should. Same as plastic trim colour.

[Sipo]

Wouldnt worry too much about the black/grey issue, anything that breaks the red up will look good. Some ace progress Graham - loving it :D

[astrachamp]

its no longer a scruffy looking ornament in the corner of your workshop, it looks like all your hard work and years of slaving have begun to pay off!