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This past summer, I told my wife that I would like another project. With a smirk, she immediately handed me a list of household chores that needed to be done. Joking aside, she truly understood what I meant and she placed a WTB ad on our club’s FB page. It didn’t take too long before I was inspecting a great candidate for restoration. The M38 even included a restored trailer. It was a non runner but I was told that it had recently although not very well. So, I loaded them on the trailer with the help of some friends, and thus began my new project.
I spent the first few months getting the M38 just to run and move, thus evaluating what would be needed for a resto. Finally began the disassembly shortly after Christmas. I am very grateful to my wife for letting me use her side of the garage! With all of the major components removed, I began with the frame.
Knowing that the paint was probably lead based, contamination and disposal were my primary concerns. I initially decided to use a liquid paint stripper. Initial tests were quite favorable but I quickly found that it was way too slow and very messy. I then opted for a needle scaler with plenty of plastic sheeting to catch the residue. And of course, protective clothing and a full face respirator were used.
I am now beginning to follow up with a die grinder fitted with a sanding pad. The frame has turned out to be in great shape with the only significant structural rust being at the battery box plate. I have also found a few “W” or “M” stamps under the paint. Ideas on their significance would be greatly appreciated.
More to follow in the days, weeks, months to come.
I spent the first few months getting the M38 just to run and move, thus evaluating what would be needed for a resto. Finally began the disassembly shortly after Christmas. I am very grateful to my wife for letting me use her side of the garage! With all of the major components removed, I began with the frame.
Knowing that the paint was probably lead based, contamination and disposal were my primary concerns. I initially decided to use a liquid paint stripper. Initial tests were quite favorable but I quickly found that it was way too slow and very messy. I then opted for a needle scaler with plenty of plastic sheeting to catch the residue. And of course, protective clothing and a full face respirator were used.
I am now beginning to follow up with a die grinder fitted with a sanding pad. The frame has turned out to be in great shape with the only significant structural rust being at the battery box plate. I have also found a few “W” or “M” stamps under the paint. Ideas on their significance would be greatly appreciated.
More to follow in the days, weeks, months to come.
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