The first month for our project car at Dauphin Tech.

 

This is our first chance to see what has been happening with the 1967 GTO
As you can see the car is still basically intact. This has allowed everyone to measure and observe the original alignment of all body panels, moldings, bumpers, etc. Door jambs, trunk and hood body lines received special attention since the only panel previously repaired had been the left rear quarter. As each piece was removed, the students noted its original position, how it was attached, surface finish and any special details. Both notes and photos were used during this reference work.
All of us associated with this project, Ames Performance, Carlisle Automotive Classroom Foundation and Dauphin County Technical School are proud to be involved with this great group of students.
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After only two weeks all external chrome and bumpers had been removed. Although the car had some severe areas of rust the doors were a pleasant surprise. After completely removing the glass, latches and regulators, the door shells were found to be excellent and devoid of any rust

 
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With the interior removed, everyone inspected the floor area for rust and "soft" areas. The only large problems were a portion of the driver's side floor and a hole next to the lefthand inner wheelhouse. The rest of the floor was scraped and were brushed as the students looked for surface rust and pitted areas both inside and under the car. This area was better than expected, needing only a left front patch panel and one piece of sheet metal in the rear.

 
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Front and rear rust is being addressed as we find the deck lid being ground and wire brushed looking for problems. The deck lid proved to be very solid. The base of the windshield is not good since rust was found from one side to the other. The students were relieved to find we are sending an excellent reproduction steel panel for this area, greatly simplifying this project.

 
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Obviously much time and planning revolved around the previously repaired left rear quarter panel. Since the replacement quarter panel had been a GM original panel, everyone agreed it must be retained but were unhappy with the way it was installed (braised every two inches or so without spot welds). Joe was happy with the front so the students mig welded between the braise, then removed the brass and finished welding the panel (a neat way to retain a good panel but remove incorrect body work).


Well, that is it for the first month or so. Everyone thinks this project is great - stay tuned for another update in about six weeks.


Remember: the youth of today are the future of our hobby - "Take a kid to a car show."