Turbo Odyssey Part 18 -- Bumpers

July 22, 2005

I have been getting a few more odds and ends done on the turbo.  One task that just makes a huge difference visually is getting the bumpers back on the car.  Ok, getting the different, replated bumpers on the car that I bought from Wall's Corvair Underground.

As I have already mentioned a couple of times, I have had bumper brackets refinished so they look nice (I know, too compulsive).  Yesterday my new bumper bolts from Wall's came in, so I installed my brackets.  They look great on the shiny new bumpers.  Since they can barely be seen once the bumpers are mounted, I took some pictures to show them off:

 

I learned a new thing about convertibles.  It is a mistake to install the "cocktail shakers" in the engine compartment until after the rear bumper is installed.  I know this now.

Front bumper:

Despite some grumbling I've read on Virtual Vairs, I have never had too much trouble installing Corvair bumpers.  Compared to some other cars, they seem pretty easy to me.  I use the "two towel" method, wrapping the ends with towels and bolting the bumper on from the middle out.  On the front bumper I had to use a drift to get one of the brackets to line up but otherwise it was no big deal.

 The replated bumpers from Wall's were very nice.  The nuts for the bolts they supplied are locking, so I don't have to worry about my bumpers loosening up later.  I did buff the bolts with some white rouge and a buffing wheel and they shined up quite nicely.

I have also started on putting the exhaust and shrouding together on the motor.  The shroud pieces at the front of the motor need  to go on before the manifolds are attached.  I fitted the inlet pipe in place, but it won't be finally mounted until much of the top shrouding is attached.

Here are some pictures of the exhaust:

I sandblasted and painted the dogs for the manifolds a couple nights ago.

So my little daily driver is starting to shape up.  I'm looking forward to getting her back on the road.

My best wishes go to those on their way to the National Convention in Portland. I wish I could be with you.

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