Greetings Pakwheelers!
I'd like to start off with the fact that I haven't been an active pakwheeler. Going through the forums, especially particular threads inspired me to start one of my own. I'd also like to appraise Pakwheels for providing car enthusiasts in Pakistan a playground to interact and promote a positive image of our beautiful country worldwide.
Having said that, this particular car has beenin the family since it was brought to Pakistan back in the 80's therefore making it a single owner car. It underwent a beautiful restoration in 2005 or 2006 maybe but since 2009 it was parked in the driveway under direct sunlight & dew and the neglect started from there. It turned from an automobile into a store where we dumped old car parts of the other cars. We as kids were distracted by new cars and our education. Recently my friend whose grand dad actually owns this car and I took notice of its deteriorating condition and took a stand. It was about time this legacy needed attention and mutually, we agreed to restore it.
We as beginners did not know where to start off with as a complete restoration is time consuming and stressful. We agreed on the fact that we need to keep it as genuine as possible and restore it to its original condition.
We started off with the engine, the engine has a fairly low mileage for its age and was rebuilt once earlier in 2002. The engine is a 1.8L stock and the transmission is 4 forward. The piston rings, valve sets, valve seals, water body, oil pump, gaskets and other relevant bits were changed. We replaced these parts with brand new ones including rear shocks, engine mounts, radiator, alternator,starter, fuel tank, fuel gauge & pump, plug wires & plugs, filters etc.
Let's cut to the chase. At the moment the car is stripped to its bare minimum. The dent work has been done and the paint job is in progress, the previous paint was removed completely with a paint remover, the base/ground has been prepared and final cosmetic irregularities are being corrected which were made visible after a cover coat was applied, majorly the door lines were uneven. We're hoping for a ripple-free paint job which is reliant on how well the base has been prepared - fingers crossed. The color we've chosen is coral silver which in other words is recognized as gun metallic. Previously the color of the car was sky blue metallic. Tomorrow we go to buy the paint material.
Alongside the interior work is underway. The interior was two tones, blue mainly which complemented the exterior of the car. We've changed the color now. The seats have been re-cushioned and the shape hasbeen slightly changed, new door cards are being prepared, new carpet will be installed black prefrably and the trunk will receive special attention.
I'll try to keep this post as updated aspossible.
Please allow some latitude for errors as it is our first project car and we are inexperienced.
I look forward to your input and suggestions.
Respect.
P.S. The first three images are from 2006 when it was restored and the latter are two months old.
