I have recently started frame up restoration on my Grandpa's 1960 F 100 Styleside truck. My grandparents purchased this truck new and used it for 30 years. My dad then used it for 12 years and then it set in a field for about 12 years. The paint has faded and it has lots of rust.



I am trying to determine what needs to be done to prep for body work and painting. One body shop rep told me that sand blasting would/could warp the metal. This shop recommended soda blasting. I can get sand blasting done at a good price, but I don't want to create additional body problems.

I would appreciate any recommendations concerning preparing for body work and paint.

Robert Varner

 

There are people that would kill for a truck with that patina. I am one of them. I think it looks great. However, if you want to blast the truck, sand isn't a good way to go. The soda is easier on the sheet metal. Sand is ok for frames and wheels but sheet metal is very susceptible to warping due to the heat generated by the sand. Good luck with your project. Jim

 

Yeah sand blast quality is highly dependent on the operator. A really skilled guy would do a good job but you're taking chances because its more likely the guy behind the gun isn't usually hired for their I.Q. score. Also a freshly blasted surface begins rusting immediately, but the soda blasting process coats the metal with a slightly pH neutral residue and can give you a day or so breathing room to prep and seal the metal. Go with the soda blasting.

 

I had my truck done with plastic beads and water. Sand will warp and there isn't a paint company that will warranty the paint if you soda blast.

 

I had mine soda blasted in 2005 and it worked great without warping the metal. The paint prep needs to include an acid spray to neutralize. My paint still looks brand new.

 

I sad clear it and lower it. what a cool look. If you must soda. I just sanded.

 

If you use soda the metal must be cleaned before any paint is applied. I used a blasting nossal that u put on a pressure washer that siphoned the sand up and water blast the metal with out warping. You are so lucky to be the third generation to own such a fine truck. Good luck with your journey.

 

Cool truck! I'd cover it with a satin clear and enjoy. I shy away from soda blasting as you really need to neutralize all of it. It can be a headache down the road if the blaster didn't neutralize it properly and there's a paint issue... the fight as to who's fault it is (blaster or painter) gets ugly and goes no where. However, if you'd like to restore it, see if there's a wet blaster in your area. It basically uses water and ground glass. Safe for use on most panels.

 

66 - Where can I find a nozzle like that? Sounds like the way to go for sheet metal.

 

Thanks for all the comments. I have considered them all and I have decided to have the truck sand blasted and primed. At least I now understand more about the prep work and the potential problems associated with either sand or soda blasting. I also have to consider the cost. Did anyone every said that one should count the cost?

Thanks,

Robert

 

Like I said I had mine done with plastic beads and water. Complete bed inside and out including tailgate and underside of hood. $300 and the guy came to my house and no mess when he was done.