What is the current thinking on a correct, meaning acceptable shade, of over the counter black spray paint for a 70 radiator? I really need a brand and code for something readily available like Krylon. Yes-- I know all about Eastwood but if you look they sell gloss, semi gloss, etc for radiators. That is not helpful on the issue of the correct shade of black.
While I would tend to agree with you, Ken Lisk got point taken off his GSX at the BPG nats for a radiator that was "too shiny". I think Rustoleum Satin black mimicks the GM reconditioning black quite nicely. It dries to a nice low gloss. I have a sample I can take a picture of if you so desire Jim
Thanks for the response. I found where this issue has been discussed several times: http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.p...t&highlight=gloss+black+paint+radiator+Krylon http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.p...r&highlight=gloss+black+paint+radiator+Krylon Jason--I think what you said about Lisk's experience tracks what I have seen on concours de elegance cars. When I think of gloss I think of the paint on our 66 442. You can see your face in it. The same is true for your 71 GS 455. A radiator looking like that would really look odd and out of place.
Ok. Duane or Brad....Why are/were points deducted for a Rad painted gloss black? That's how Harrison shipped them.
I used the Eastwwod gloss black radiator paint and did not get any points off. I think it looks just about right. Remember 40+ years can dull the paint. I remember them as fairly glossy. The heat has "mellowed" The gloss on mine a bit.
When I worked in the Framingham GM B-O-P plant in 1972, the consistency of things was inconsistent: 1. Fasteners - They came from multiple sources. Sizes were the same, but head marking were not. A car built at 4 PM could have different fasteners than one built at 9 AM the same day. 2. Painted small parts - They were dipped in a large vat of water with an inch of paint floating on the top. Dip it once, get a certain finish. Drip it twice, a different finish. Drips, runs, and missed spots common. 3. GM Black - A cheap paint that was dusted on to suspension and frames. When I say dusted, I mean the minimum. Just enough to keep the parts from rusting until it was sold. 4. Big parts - See comment #1. GM had many suppliers, and there were variations in surface finishes. 5. TMD - Temporary Mfg. Deviations, signed off by line engineers to make running substitions to keep the line moving. So cars built on different days and shifts can have differences. 6. Amount of Care and Attention - As much as can be given in 60 seconds (assembly cycle time), which is basically ZERO These cars were assembled quickly, and without the love we now give them. When I see a restored car, I think "That is how GM would have built it if they could get Rolls Royce pricing, but they did'nt"
Thanks Paul, I am proud I now have a Rolls Royce? That is good info. I wish I could have seen it done.:kodak:
Paul, Always appreciate reading your posts on assembly line reality. Thanks! The guy who re-cored my radiator has been in the business for over 45 years. Knowing the level of resto I am doing, he suggested that after its recored I paint it myself since the standard paint they use is high gloss black that that would be too shiny to be authentic. I use 7777 Rustoleum Satin black.
Ideally use a high heat paint. On the back of the can it will say if its good for cooling / AC system radiators and/or condensers Regular paint can be an insulator and affect cooling performance. I guess you could paint the side tanks gloss, but for sure, use the a radiator paint on the fins.
Duane is looking into this as I was not the one who judged that area of Ken's car. He will be along shortly. I will say this: The "radiator" section of the judging form includes the radiator itself and items attached to the radiator.
Is this a quiz?o No: I have on occasion talked to vehicle owners regarding the deductions on their Judging sheets. This is usually very soon after the events, and while my recollection is fresh. I also have had people ask me about specific cars years after the events. I can copy a Judging sheet for them if I have them, but there is no way I could remember specifics about every car. There have just been too many over the years, and they all blend together. It appears you guys found the answers. Duane
