Tools

Much like woodworking, restoring an old car is all about tools. As a lifelong gearhead I'm obviously a big fan. There's nothing like using a quality tool that's made for a specific job. When you don't have the necessary tool for a certain task it's frustrating, when you do, it's pure bliss. Some tools have only one use, while others, multi-taskers can accomplish a variety of things. Right now I'm deep in stripping the paint from the body, and for that task I'm using two specific tools; a Dynabrade electric angle grinder, and a small Ingersoll Rand pneumatic angle grinder. I'm using 3M Scotchbrite purple pads to remove the paint, and while they work well doing that, they do tend to get torn up pretty quickly on Bondo. Of course it's very important to wear safety glasses when using these kinds of tools.

This is a set of body hammers and dollies that Chel bought

me for Christmas a few years back. I think she got them for

me specifically for the Alfa, and now I'm finally getting to use them. In fact last night we used them to remove a dent

that was in the front fender, and they work pretty well. I've got tons to learn about bodywork, but so far I'm having fun with it.

One of my favorite tools that I've acquired over the past couple of years is my plasma cutter. I bought it specifically for doing the Alfa, and last night I used it for the first time. It's fantastic to use and is so much better than using a cutoff wheel. This one is a Miller and while I'm still learning to use it, so far it's been great.

Tonight I spent more time on the right side of the car with the 3M discs in the Dynabrade. I got most of what you see here done with one disc before I needed to change it. I found some more areas of damage that had been buttered (Bondo) up pretty well but again, it's not terrible. The nice thing about the 3M discs is that they don't scratch the metal, but they're pretty tough on body filler and paint. Again, eye protection and a respirator are imperative for this kind of work.