Classic Reflections Coachworks specializes in completely transforming a new Corvette into a classic, retro Corvette. As you can imagine, this is quite a labor-intensive process (the first “retro” car took 6 years and 5000 hours). Working with our friend Ron Marsden, General Manager at CRC, we’re able to show you some insight into this innovative process.
So how are these unbelievable retro Corvette’s made?
Step 1: All fiberglass panels are removed. A computerized measuring system checks the understructure and frame alignment to make sure its within its factory specs.
Step 2: The composite shop handles the lay up process for each composite “retro” body panel. Each panel is vacuum bagged and cured at controlled temperature cycles. Precision Board Plus HDU is used as a master mold to manufacture composite tools, which are used to create the carbon fiber body panels.
Step 3: Individual panels are attached to backing structures using vacuum assisted gluing jigs to ensure accuracy.
Step 4: Each car is placed on its own cart and moved to the fitting room where all exterior panels are aligned and attached.
Step 5: The car is then moved to the paint room for a coating of special primer.
Step 6: Several blockings produce a quality surface, then its back to the paint room for the final color matched primer.
Step 7: Final sanding before painting.
Step 8: Finish painting. Each car is then hand sanded and buffed before delivery.
Step 9: Interior assembly. Carpet matched to interior color is added to trunk, new matching extensions are added to the top of the door panels and a new soft top is installed. CRC also offers custom seats and color trade-outs.
Be sure to visit http://www.crcoachworks.com for more pictures and info.
Coming up next Wednesday we will offer an inside look at the newest addition to the CRC lineup, the infamous 1967 Stingray conversion. Be sure to check back in!
Some of the fabulous completed Corvette’s:
Here are some pics of CNC machined Precision Board Plus PBLT-4 prior to being used as a mold for body panels on a retro Corvette:
