Fiat 500 Restoration Series: Underbody Protection
Welcome to the first installment of our Fiat 500 restoration series! We’re thrilled to take you along on this journey as we breathe new life into this classic beauty. In this post, we’ll be diving into the crucial first steps: underbody protection. This is essential for ensuring the longevity and durability of our beloved Fiat 500.
To start, we meticulously scraped off all the old color and protection from the underbody. This step was vital to reveal any hidden issues and prepare the surface for the restoration process. As expected with a vintage car, we encountered several rusted areas that required attention. We welded all the holes caused by rust, ensuring the structural integrity of the underbody.
With the welding complete, we applied an anti-rust material to the bare metal. This is a crucial step to prevent any future rusting and protect the underbody from the elements. Once the anti-rust treatment was thoroughly applied, we moved on to the next stage: applying an epoxy primer. This primer acts as a robust barrier against moisture and further corrosion.
After the primer had set, we carefully sanded it to create a smooth surface. This step ensures that subsequent layers adhere properly and look flawless. Attention to detail is key, so we took our time to ensure the primer was perfectly prepped.
Next, we applied sealings in all the corner places. These sealings are essential for preventing water and debris from accumulating in hard-to-reach areas, which can lead to future rusting. With the corners sealed, we moved on to the final step of this underbody restoration.
To complete the process, we applied a rubber-based underbody protection. This coating provides a durable, flexible layer that protects against road debris, water, and other environmental factors. It’s the finishing touch that ensures our Fiat 500’s underbody is well-protected for years to come.
Stay tuned for the next part of our restoration series, where we’ll continue transforming this classic car into a true masterpiece. Thanks for joining us on this exciting journey!
Check out quick video of this process: