Hey everyone,

I am doing (at least trying) a complete restoration of 88 camaro. Few summers ago I tried media blasting which worked great where I just needed to take off paint. But in places which had rust and pits, rust ended up coming back even after it was coated with zink/phosporic acid solution and Zero Rust paint.

So now I am thinking I need professional help and seeing how I have my doubts about media blasting, I am considering having entire car acid dipped. Has anyone here done that? If yes, how did it work out? Is it worth it? Any tips for someone who is about to do it? How did you find the place?

 

I'm trying to remember the process--my dad and I did this about 10 years ago on a 1963 MGB. Needless to say, it worked GREAT. The car had rust in the rockers and multiple coats of poorly applied paint. It allowed for very good paint prep and the car has looked good since we put it back together (mid 1998).

I think your biggest concern would be completely disassembling the vehicle. There can't be any rubber/plastic bushings, seals, etc--The car literally has to be stripped down to the unibody with all trim removed.

The other concern is re-application of a good rust-inhibitor and corrosion protection. The acid dip will strip to bare metal, so all factory corrosion protection will be GONE. You'll have to find a way to get in the nooks and crannies to protect the vehicle against future moisture/weathering.

A good paint/body/resto shop should know where to get the car dipped and may offer add'l pointers.

 

My restoration used the traditional sandlbasting & replacing body pannels method. Being in NY and having a 10 year old car, I would think both of these are unavoidable.

How elaborate is this restoration going to be? I would recomend looking into and buying parts before considering an acid bath (assuming the process will be costly). I think a successful restoration is also knowing what and what not to do. A nice set of wheels & ties may be more rewarding then an acid bath.

Good Luck.

Nick

 

I too would think a nice set of wheels and tires would benefit an '88 Camaro more than an acid bath, especially on a limited budget. Or perhaps a paint job and some upholstery work.

Then again, there is that illogical side of me that wants to restore a medium gray metallic 2.8L/5speed 1989 Camaro (t-tops, please) to 0-mile condition. Who cares that they're still losing value and aren't collectible. If I was rich and had lots of time, I'd probably do it just for fun.