Cruiser/ back from the dead

[turbomangt]

Finally got one of our own in my shop today. A black GT Turbo. It was nice meeting Dave and always like a fresh challenge. Dave lives in Chicago and his car has to stay outside. This is one problem for outside cars. They get all that mother nature offers. I actually used about 6 steps to improve the finish on this one. Yes, Dave snapped a pic of me in my shop working on his car. I was looking for improvement and I think we suceeded.

[Mike-in-Orange]

You've done it again, Gary!

What do you recommend as far as covers go for a car that has to sit outside all the time? My car is garage kept, as is my wife's, but I'm seriously thinking about picking up a used Miata because I'm just dying for a rear wheel drive, 5spd convertible that I can toss around the local mountain roads. Unfortuntely, this one would have to sit outside and it would not be a daily driver. Can a good cover be left on all week, even if it rains (which it hasn't done here for almost 7 months by the way!)?

[azptcruiser]

Okay...I have said it before and so have many others. VIDEO! OR if nothing else a picture overview with descriptions of the process. Especially useful for those that do not live in the Chicago area.

Great job!!! Once again you have been able to bring back to life a car that sees everyday living.

So how long did it take you from start to finish?

[turbomangt]

Took around 4 hours or so. Keep in mind that removing swilrs is like performing an operation. You must use the correct machine/speed/pad/product and ultimately technique. I just started an advance detailing class which will be held at my shop. 4 person min. everyone will get to use all the buffers, and experiment (on an old car)on how to use them. My classes are becoming popular, I hope the advanced one will do as well.
Mike, the covers differ in terms of durability which is the difference for outdoor and indoor. UV protection, and protection from the elements are the things to look for. Indoor covers are made much cheaper, for obvious reasons. Gary

[JPMS GT]

Great job Gary!
Mike, I got my cover from UnderCoverAuto.com. The material is by Kimberly-Clark and I think it reclaimed tissu paper. It has ripped at the antena and two of the corners. It cost $150.00 so wasn't cheap. I would go with the better fabric that is also smaller when folded.
What mountain roads? 38? That is my favorite up to Big Bear.

John [8)]

[Mike-in-Orange]

Thanks for the info on the cover, John. Plenty of fun local mountain roads - Glendora Mountain & Glendora Ridge, Latigo Canyon up by Malibu, Angeles Crest Highway.....mostly stuff I used to train on when I was racing bicycles. Rode a bike up Hwy 38, around the back side of Big Bear Lake, up to Onyx Summit, down through Angeles Oaks, and back to the college in Redlands. 100 miles, 9000' of elevation gain, in about 6 hours, including stopping for lunch by the lake. Fun day!

[JPMS GT]

Mike, my ass hurts just thinking about riding a bike! Of course Gary may hurt after a day of riding that "scooter" around a PT all day. Gary, I'll bet it feels good when you see the look on the face of the owners of your 're-creations'. Nice work (but is it really work?) The Lord made Chicago weather so you could make people happy in the spring!

You must come to Arizona in Jan/Feb for a masters display of your art. I'll bring my friend Berry McG from Orange County.....you are Car Crazy!

John