This motor trade expression (which the author picked up from Terry Ball) basically describes putting the collection of largely trim components back into and onto the completed bodyshell, and it can be a time of great frustration or equally ofjoy, depending on whether you can remember where you placed each item for storage and how it fits!
Do remember that freshly-applied paint stays relatively soft for some time — and that it can easily be damaged until it hardens in perhaps two week's or so time. When you are leaning over the front wings and working in the luggage compartment, for instance, remove any sharp objects such as keys from your pockets to prevent damaging the paintwork; if you wear a belt, then be aware that the buckle could dent or scratch the paint surface. You can obtain specially made padded protectors for wings to prevent this damage from occurring.
Although the restoration is almost at an end, don't rush boxing up. Apart from the risk of damaging paintwork, you could also risk damaging the items of trim.
Carefully ex*Amine every component which is to be fitted for signs of your own or previous over-spray. This can be removed with a rag wetted with thinners, mild cutting compound or, alternatively, it may be gently scraped off. A resprayed car looks so much better if all of the external chrome and rubber is free from paint that you cannot be too careful when cleaning these components. Pay especial attention to the chrome strips and badges. and to the wing beading.
Do remember that freshly-applied paint stays relatively soft for some time — and that it can easily be damaged until it hardens in perhaps two week's or so time. When you are leaning over the front wings and working in the luggage compartment, for instance, remove any sharp objects such as keys from your pockets to prevent damaging the paintwork; if you wear a belt, then be aware that the buckle could dent or scratch the paint surface. You can obtain specially made padded protectors for wings to prevent this damage from occurring.
Although the restoration is almost at an end, don't rush boxing up. Apart from the risk of damaging paintwork, you could also risk damaging the items of trim.
Carefully ex*Amine every component which is to be fitted for signs of your own or previous over-spray. This can be removed with a rag wetted with thinners, mild cutting compound or, alternatively, it may be gently scraped off. A resprayed car looks so much better if all of the external chrome and rubber is free from paint that you cannot be too careful when cleaning these components. Pay especial attention to the chrome strips and badges. and to the wing beading.
