Classic/Antique Car Repair/Engine Restore

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Expert: - 8/19/2010


Question
Hi, I'm currently in the process of restoring a 1955 ford f100. I'm working on the engine currently, that has a straight six, My goal with this truck is to keep as much original as i can. Recently i have removed the manifold, and want to keep that original manifold on the truck, the problem is the manifold is completely rusted, and i was told i should not have it sand blasted due to warping problems. What are my options to keep this original manifold, and restore it back a shiny beauty.

Answer
The is sand blasting and then there is sand blasting. I have used a small home built sand blasting cabinet for years and the difference between sand blasting damage and no damage is the skill and care of the operator. The manifolds are heavy castings on this vehicle and should stand up to light sandblasting. Remember that the exhaust portions of the manifold were never bright and shiny but a dull cast iron grey and then after the engine had run a bit, rust colored. I use an exhaust manifold coating for Bill Hirsch at http://www.hirschauto.com/departments.asp?dept=1 to pretty up the manifolds on my 8N Ford tractor as the engine and manifolds are exposed.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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