factory finish question

[fireguyfire]

Hi guys; I am in the process of putting new AMD quarters on my '68, and I noticed that where the quarter joins the rear deck panel (between the trunk top and the lower window) the seam actually shows from the factory ( meaning in was not skimmed or "filled in"). I noticed the same thing where the lower rear of the quarter joins the curved part of the rear lower valence (does that make sense?).
Anyway, my question is for you guys that have already restored your car, did you skim these seams and make them disappear, or did you leave them as they seemed to be from the factory?

[Patronus]

I used 2 coats of seam sealer for mine, then tooled with a rag and lacquer thinner. Most cars I've seen have a larger seam (1/8") at the dutchmen, sail panel seam. (mine had a penny used for a shim on the dr. side) At the valence corners I matched the others, like most. But some have a really nice tighter radius on both the valence and corner pieces. The new metal will always be slightly different and in some cases, need a lot of work to be really nice.

[Drop Top]

A word of caution. If you fill over the seams with plastic filler it will crack. You need to weld the seams solid first to do that right. Otherwise for a factory aperance skim over it with seam sealer before painting. This will keep mosture from seaping through that area.

[fireguyfire]

Good tips guys; thanks! I am definately going with the factory seam look.

[Troy]

The seams are visible - although the vinyl top trim will sit right next to the seam on the dutchman panel which will make it less noticeable. There are several threads on the valance corners. The front/side seam (to the quarter) gets sealer but the rear seam (to the valance) is left open for drainage.


Troy