The Restoration of SRL311-0275

[jamesw]

Hi gang,

Have a great update for today - the powdercoating is going really well! I'm using Westside Powdercoating here in Houston and they have really gone above and beyond. I got a lump sum price for everything, but I didn't know that included them blasting the frame, then ZINCING it before they powdercoated. How cool is that? This car is going to last a long time now...

A few pix I received today.

The frame should start going back together late this week, complete w/ Dean's comp suspension package. Comp springs up front, and stock stiffness lowering leafs in the rear.

I also dropped the engine off at G and G performance here in town (http://gg-performance.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;) I really like these guys - it gives me good vibes when they have a Dinan-S BMW parked out in front. They are going to break it down, assess it, then I'll order what I need and they will machine, balance, and reassemble.

Cheers
James

[zippy67roadster]

It looks fantastic! Keep the pictures coming.

[Alvin]

sooooo pretty
they actually zinc plate the entire frame? any pics?

[pebbles]

Very nice!!!,,,It will be fun assembling clean parts to it!!

[jamesw]

Alvin: yeah. I'll see if Jorge the shop owner has any pics. He also zinc plated my original steel wheels before powder coating those too.

He is a HUGE Z-car fan and has a 240 and a 280. I found a shop that loves Datsuns!

Cheers
James

[muck]

James... that frame looks sooooooooooo nice.
I need to brainstorm ideas now on how to convince the wife I need to fund a frame off resto as well.

[jamesw]

Got a photo yesterday of some of the parts after blasting and coating. Looking good.

Yes, he powdercoated the parking brake cables, lol - but that's OK.

Cheers
James

[pebbles]

Looking very good.

[notoptoy]

I really like the PC drive shaft!!!

[Alvin]

stupid question: is powdercoating the transmission a bad idea?

[notoptoy]

stupid question: is powdercoating the transmission a bad idea?

I don't see how PC'ing the outer housing could hurt a thing - I think it would be fine - I have painted my 4 and 5 speed with no issues to date.

[jamesw]

I don't think it would be an issue either Alvin, it's durable, good for high temps, and good on aluminum.

Cheers
James

[pebbles]

stupid question: is powdercoating the transmission a bad idea?

It may add a little weight, and in a racing application, limit cooling/ heat exchange. The air flowing over the Case helps cool the trans, applying a thick coating like powder, may hold in a little heat. IMO

[jamesw]

Paid a stop by Westside Coatings today and they are ALMOST done re-assembling my frame. I was hoping to pick it up today but alas - THIS close I don't want to rush them at the end since they are doing such a killer job. Some highlights:

Everything is well coated and came out great
No damage to anything that I can see
All new grade 8 fasteners
All new rubber, boots and seals
Brake and fuel lines were sent out for plating but not back yet.
Original 15" Panasports have been blasted and ready for hyper-black powder-coating

The body has been blasted and the shop wants to drop it onto the frame so they will have a "roller" to work on. I haven't seen the body "naked" yet but hope to soon.

Oh, I forgot to mention - I measured the front sway bar and it is 23mm. COMP bar baby!

Cheers
James

[Gregs672000]

Looks really freakin incredible man... I would almost not want to drive it, especially in the rain! Keep em coming!