Auto Body students rebuilding and refinishing a pickup
by Bob Nolan
October 24, 2011
The auto body students have started a project that has been challenging, educational and fun all at the same time. Scales Mound student Zach Wills has brought in an older Chevy pickup that was rusted out just about everywhere. Zach has decided to replace a lot of the sheet metal with new, including building the new box from replacement parts. Mr Wurster has helped the students work with Zach to hopefully have a close to show quality truck when done.
The students started by stripping the interior out, taking off the front fenders, doors, hood and front panels. They took off the old box and junked it. Then the work started, the cab was repaired, rocker panels welded in. Replacement panels for the doors glued on. Then the dents were repaired, body filler put on and the sanding started. Zach picked out the color he liked and painted the inside of the doors, fenders, hood and interior getting ready to put them back on for the final exterior painting later this year.
One of the more challenging parts has been installing the new carpeting. Zach purchased some bulk carpet he liked, but it was not cut or form fitted for the cab. So Mr. Wurster and Zach have been working on this challenge. Zach has found out that it is a slow process with a lot of wait time for the glue to dry but taking it slow has given nice results. Zach also repaired his wore out headliner with the same carpet and glue process with very nice results.
Work on the box should begin shortly then with more finish sanding the truck should be ready for the complete exterior paint job. When it is done Zach should have a very nice truck for many years to come.
