Well been a few weeks, been busy on modifying a 59 buick grille to install into the Satin 58 project. Actually takes 2 full buick grilles to build this since the impala opening is much larger. Had to learn to weld pot metal and then I started cutting and welding. The plan for my dream car always included a 59 buick grille. So here it is, next thing is mark holes to bolt in and polish and paint grille. Apron and such will go to powder coater soon. Hope you like it
Ah good question, like my old panel project that Kenny bought and went to England, I prefer the bulb be mounted behind the grille so when they come on you see blinking light emitting from the grille, more sinister in my opinion
The buick grille is 50 inches across stock. To fit the impala I had to extend it to 70 inches across. I also filled in the notched area at the end where the buick would normally have the bumper/turnsignal light. I used the actual end pieces so the grille would have a stock look. I have to cut the mounting tabs off on the center two tabs then lower them so they match the stock impala cross piece, then all the mounting will look as if stock also
Muggyweld makes a low heat rod, its more like soldering really although I use a oxy/ace setup. Works very well I might ad and you can get it chromed afterward too. go to muggyweld.com Real nice guy
I like the grill! It looks like it could have been stock. I have actual experience plating muggy weld. It is a bit fickle, but it is plateable. Good for the DIY guy. Not economical for a plater welding pot metal all the time. Platers will copper strike (a cyanide based thin basecoat of copper plating, usually about 2-5 minute plate) the prepared (stripped, sanded) pot metal and then use a regualr solder to do the welding. I personally use lead-free silver bearing solder with oxy/acetylene torch. It plates easily (silver content helps that point) and has a higher melting point than the lead solder (helps keep solder from melting under the thick copper plating during copper buffing.) The elimination of lead in the shop makes me feel good too.
Hi Hemiferris and sure there is, and good info chrome http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=486436
Great grille idea, just when you thought all the tricks were used up. Is the car called "Satin Impala" because of the suede finish yet to come? Or is it "Satan's Impala" because it's badass ?
Well its Satin as in Satinblack, my original idea was satin black, but tons want it gloss. Ill just say i'm gonna go with my heart and leave it at that. Hopefully all will appreciate it when its done
Damn it dude 1st the Keystones..(i know your a lucky bastard with Radars)....now similar grill treatment...i give up.... lmao...but we both know them are as badass as it gets...My favorite one is that copper/bronze one that was ont the cover of that one old school mag...you prob seen it too...Anyways, looks good man & keep up the good work!! Anyonw interested in a couple buick grills ???
Good question Cruiser, I'll be starting that project next. Don't want to spoil the surprise but I will say it will NOT have the usual 59 caddy tail lights
Looks very nice !!!! In my area finding one 59 Buick grill is very hard BUT finding two is a "No way in Hell" !!!! LOL Tom ( Tired Old man)
hi bud yes i have still got the blinker bulb inside the grill ,yes it is more sinister looking, your ride is looking kool i will follow your build with interest kenny
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