I must remind you that the photos that I put up on here are from last year. Pretty soon the photos will catch up with what is happening in real time, because progress really is quite slow.
I’ve learned so much because of this project, not just about how to restore a car (and even then I feel that there is still so much to learn!) but also about myself. My siblings and I laugh and call this a “character-building project” because of the pains and hassles. Tempers have flared between us, actually.
Looking back though, I realize that sour feelings will pass, and that satisfaction (if any) is fleeting. The only thing to do is press on.
In this photo is a rare instance wherein I walk into the shop and somebody is actually working on the wagon. Photos are dated July 2009. Five months have passed since the day dad’s wagon entered the body and paint shop.
I have a feeling that the painter is just posing here. Notice that the bare metal has finally been coated in primer. I do not know what brand it is and if it will last. I am crossing my fingers.
Before the latero vanished he did manage to make some custom bits for me.
This is a steel recreation of the sidings of the rear compartment. The original ones had holes for speakers and were falling apart. A note: If you have original sidings do not destroy or modify them in any way. Interior trim pieces are hard to find.
I will install hinges on this to make a cabinet for tools and spare hoses. The wagon has plenty of space, but no proper storage areas. I don’t like seeing things lying around, you see. I hope this custom touch works out.
Here is a pile of rusted metal that was surgically removed.
The wagon looks in a sad state. Can you see the rust? More updates to come.
If you guys notice things in the photos that appear wrong why not contact me? I am still learning so much and do not claim to be an authority on car restoration. However, being around cars like this makes me want to do some hands-on work on my own. I’m considering taking a course in painting and bodywork so that I can eventually do restoration myself. That way, I won’t be at the mercy of anybody. Let’s see how that goes.
ey pao, all i can say is its gna be a loooong haul to get this car back in shape so dont lose momentum. also, the best thing to do is have someone check up on it daily, is it in baguio? forget the body for now and make sure the engine is back in good working condition, if not done already. you absolutely need a mechanic you can trust to work with you within your budget. always settle on a price before starting any work.
The wagon is in Manila, Lindz. Keep you posted when we hang, brother. Where you at and why can’t I reach you via mobile?
Hi Paulo, your restoration project is doing well. What kind of primer did you have the shop use on your car? Anyway, good luck and I’d like to see it on the road SOON!
Hi Steven! I’m not even sure what brand of primer is on there!
Patience Bro, remember when I had my L- type Lancer painted? took 4 months, and even after painting, it took a while to get it into the condition I wanted it in…
Patience Bro… Remember when I had my L-type Lancer repainted,.. took a while because it was always raining up here in Baguio and there were no decent ovens available in the 80’s…and after it was painted It took a while before I got it into the “state” I wanted it in…. plus the wagon was in really bad condition when you took it down to Manila, I’m surprised it made the trip.. :-D…… @ hey Linden if your’e just around Baguio, gimm’e a call, we “hang” soon…..
Kinda long time table for six months. What was the condition of the car before the restoration? If you don’t have power tools talagang matagal yan… scraping the old paint alone can be mundane without an orbital sander
Hi Pao, I’ve been following your wagon resto job and kudos to your efforts.Cant wait for the final result.
More power man!!
Hi Paulo! Any updates on your wagon restoration project? Sweet deal on those rims! Nice color too!