Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

The side trim on my 70 SPL had 30+ years of dings and dents...just couldn't install that on my newly painted car.

Researched & found some good info here...http://www.hotrodders.com/forum/basics- ... 49012.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Here's the repair process I utilized...
Cut a piece of 1.5" diameter PVC in half, the inside curvature of the PVC pipe is a similar radius as the convex outer trim surface, bolted the pipe section to the benchtop.
Layed the trim outer face down on to the pipe section.
Carefully worked the dings & dents out with punches and rounded tip wooden dowels.
Sanded the outer surface with 320 paper & DA sander to find the high & low spots, then more wooden dowel work...then more 320 sanding...then rework...etc.
Finally when all looked straight, wet sanded w/400, then 800, then 1000, then 1500 (getting very shiny now) and finally 2000 wet/dry sandpaper.
Final polish with a Dremel polishing wheel and trusty ProHonda Metal polish!
Approx. 8 hours invested.

Very good information and a great looking finished product. Thanks for sharing as I am sure others will find this very useful.

Steve

Very nice!

Great info! Been wondering if I had to send my side trim to a specialist, but now I am inspired to have a go my self

Thanks!

Very nice looking job on the trim. Did you use a cotton polishing Dremel attchment with the metal polish as the final step?

Linda
68 1600

Lars,
Proceed cautiously with the punch and dowels.
It's fairly easy to create an outward bulge in the trim from applying too much pressure.

Linda,
A Dremel #429 1" Felt Polishing Wheel & ProHonda Metal Polish were indeed the final step.

Have Fun!