86 Grand Prix well on its way

[86 Grand prix]

Body work has started. I have both doors off prepping them for paint and new hinge pins. I am at a crossroads on the top. I have nice rust free top with a half vinyl top that will need to be replaced but there is a car at a local yard that has a relatively rust free T-top. I have been bouncing back and forth cutting that top off and making my car a T-top car. I have seen threads here where it has been done several times. Decisions, decisions!!!

Also I have the factory wood grain instrument panel and am thinking about covering that with the small engine turned aluminum like a Trans AM. Any thoughts.

 

[86 Grand prix]

Well I tried my first test drive before paint and my "known" good turbo 350 is not shifting into third. I hate buying a used transmission!!! I have a shot at a built 700R4. Will it fit in the transmission tunnel OK? I know I will need a cross member and a new shaft, they are no problem. Just worried about the size of the transmission.

 

[G-Body_Vet]

Where did you find that orange frame plug?

 

[BuickOldsPontiac]

Well I tried my first test drive before paint and my "known" good turbo 350 is not shifting into third. I hate buying a used transmission!!! I have a shot at a built 700R4. Will it fit in the transmission tunnel OK? I know I will need a cross member and a new shaft, they are no problem. Just worried about the size of the transmission.

The 700r4 will fit in the tunnel. However I am fairly sure it will require a different cross-member and cutting the drive shaft. Do a search here for the details, I know its been done many times.

 

[86 Grand prix]

Where did you find that orange frame plug?

They came on the car. It is an extremely low mileage car and has everything including the front license plate kit in the GM package in the trunk.

 

[dirtdooly]

Anyone know where I can get a Dash Bezel? I've searched all over and can not find one for an 86 GP.

 

[86 Grand prix]

Well its painted. I got up at 4:00 AM and started painting. This week I primed the car with epoxy primer and blocked it twice with 320 and then 500 grit. I painted the Azko Nobel Sikkens base clear this morning. Photos to follow tomorrow. I plan to color sand and buff tomorrow morning.

 

[86 Grand prix]

Still taped up but this is the blue I picked out.

 

[86 Grand prix]

Earlier this week...................

 

[86 Grand prix]

Well I took a few weeks off. I buffed the car all week and started putting the new weather stripping in today. Hopefully I can get it out and wash all of the compound off tomorrow and post a photo.