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Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 9 2012, 12:05 AM

Hi, i'm currently converting this 914 to a GT for a customer and thought i'd post the metal work progress as i go along.
Thanks for looking !









www.themetalsurgeon.com

Posted by: kg6dxn Sep 9 2012, 12:09 AM

You should keep the luggage rack. It will set your car apart from the other GT clones...

Posted by: jimkelly Sep 9 2012, 06:16 AM

if you have time - pls post pics of the tools - and tools in action - if you have time

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 9 2012, 11:23 AM

The rear LH side had been in an accident in the past taking damage to the front fender,door and rear quarter.Before we graft the flare in, the door was metal finished and the front section of the rear quarter panel replaced with freshly made metal along with the door handle depression fixed and grafted into the new quarter.



















my metal work blog www.themetalsurgeon.com
.......know whats under your paint....

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 9 2012, 11:47 AM

Posted by: Todd Enlund Sep 9 2012, 12:09 PM

Thanks for taking the time to post this, Jon. I'll definitely be watching.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 9 2012, 01:03 PM

Thanks for the welcome and checking out the thread.

Posted by: 396 Sep 9 2012, 05:32 PM

Very nice, keep them coming! Clean surgical work

Posted by: ldsgeek Sep 9 2012, 05:51 PM

Just clear coat the thing when you finish, that work is too nice to cover with paint.

Posted by: bill pierce Sep 9 2012, 05:58 PM

Beautiful workmanship

Posted by: rdauenhauer Sep 9 2012, 06:13 PM

I presume that is all TIG welding?

Posted by: scotty b Sep 9 2012, 06:29 PM

I would guess oxy acetelyne

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 9 2012, 07:45 PM

rdauenhauer your right TIG welding.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 9 2012, 07:46 PM

that would be awesome to clear coat.Finished colour will be orange.

Posted by: Woody Sep 9 2012, 08:01 PM

Posted by: Trekkor Sep 9 2012, 08:08 PM

Nice work.


KT

Posted by: kg6dxn Sep 9 2012, 09:13 PM

I spent some time on your web site... Wow! You are very talented. Amazing work.

Posted by: shuie Sep 9 2012, 09:38 PM

Awesome work. Very, very first class. I thought was looking at an early 356 resto. It took me a minute to remember what site I was on. Im excited to see someone do work at this level on a 914.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 9 2012, 11:06 PM

Thanks all ,im really enjoying working on this car.

Posted by: bulitt Sep 10 2012, 03:57 AM

Wow. Are you lead-ing over the welds?
So how many hours on this build? I see you have 320hrs on a 356 in your blog.
Roughly 100$/hour this is going to be an expensive build???
Also, how do you keep the surface rust off all this bare metal?

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 10 2012, 08:51 AM

No lead over the welds ,just bare metal.

I'm $60 per hour plus materials used.

To graft the flare,time taken 14 hrs from setting position,cutting in,TiG welding to metal finishing to completion.

If you guys would like ,i can give you a build sheet/cost break down to restore/customize this body?

thanks all.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 10 2012, 01:42 PM

Are you lead-ing over the welds? So how many hours on this build? I see you have 320hrs on a 356 in your blog. Roughly 100$/hour this is going to be an expensive build??? Also, how do you keep the surface rust off all this bare metal


Dry climate in Colorado, there won't be any surface rust issues.all cars are kept inside the workshop .

On the 356 ,this car was basket case to begin with.

Posted by: Ferg Sep 10 2012, 03:40 PM

Nice work!

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 10 2012, 07:23 PM

Metal finishing right hand door

Posted by: 396 Sep 10 2012, 10:44 PM

If you guys would like ,i can give you a build sheet/cost break down to restore/customize this body?


Yes build sheet would be fantastic! That way we / I have an idea on what if cost.



Thanks!

Posted by: infraredcalvin Sep 11 2012, 12:10 AM

Yes please

Posted by: watsonrx13 Sep 11 2012, 12:15 PM

Excellent work. BTW, I've been following some of your work on FerrariChat also.

Can you describe the steps and tools you use to clean up the butt welds?

--- Rob

Posted by: jimkelly Sep 11 2012, 12:45 PM

mr metal surgeon - pls tell us about the benefits of tig over mig and when you switched over from mig to tig.

i thought for sure that was leaded too.

Posted by: 396 Sep 12 2012, 11:03 PM

Any additional updates?

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 18 2012, 10:29 PM

The rear show evidence of being lightly hit.Rear inner brackets had to be relieved to gain access to straighten out the drip rail flange.Once straightened the lower section was removed as been previously badly repaired,and upper section pushed up,where rule displays a non straight line.Also this will make ease on replacing rear trunk floor inner right corner panel.
Last photos show the rear panel being filed up and metal finished.

my weekly metal work blog www.themetalsurgeon.com














working on build sheet for you guys.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 19 2012, 11:22 PM

Hours update; 103.5 hours to date

includes;

Hood channel restoration
wiper arm recess area restoration
right hand foot well restoration
interior vertical panel between seat restoration
Metal finish/restore RH / LH doors
Remove battery tray
Metal finish trunk lid
Metal finish hood and repair inner structure
Rebuild LH 'A' Post and replace rear section of fender with new metal
Remove rear LH quarter panel,make new and graft in.
Graft in LH rear fender flare
Fit LH/RH rocker panels [new]
clico into position 3 remaining fender flares ready to graft in
Rear end tail light panel restoration.

Shop rate $60 per hr plus materials used.

i will continue to update as we make progress.thanks


....know whats under your paint..... www.themetalsurgeon.com

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 19 2012, 11:27 PM

Parts ordered and received to date

Source; Restoration Design

P345-914 Each 1 Floor Pan - rear half - Made in Canada 185.00 US$185.00
P316 Each 1 Battery Tray - Made in Denmark 58.00 US$58.00
P335 Each 1 Trunk Floor - Made in Canada 195.00 US$195.00
P315 Each 1 Battery Clamp - Made in Canada 8.00 US$8.00
P300L Each 1 Outer Rocker Panel , left- Made in Canada 155.00 US$155.00
P300R Each 1 Outer Rocker Panel, rightMade in Canada 155.00 US$155.00
5001 Each 1 MPF (US orders only) 2.00 US$2.00
5002 Each 1 Duty 2.5% 1.45 US$1.45


total US$860.68

Freight US$101.23


www.themetalsurgeon.com

Posted by: scotty b Sep 20 2012, 01:18 PM

Pay attention, and watch the numbers folks. This is why cars end up sitting at shops. Just as Jon says in his tag line. " Know what's under your paint " ( and undercoat )

This work is neither quick, cheap nor easy if you want any kind of quality. Right now I am putting quarters on a 73 911S. Tigging and metal finishing just as Jon is doing on this 914. By the time I'm done, I will have as much time in those 2 panels as I normally have migging and mudding 4 flares on a 914


Beautiful work Jon

Posted by: MDG Sep 20 2012, 01:37 PM

You get for which you pay. Quality costs.

Very nice work!

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Sep 20 2012, 08:45 PM

thanks guys!

Posted by: westtexass2k Sep 23 2012, 04:19 PM

Amazing work. What are you using to file down the weld on the curved section of the fender. Round rasp file? I went to Ron Fournier school a few years ago and have been dabbling a bit in aluminum I just cant get the nice final finish you pros get. Not sure what I am doing wrong. Do ever use a shrinking disc?

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Oct 21 2012, 10:55 PM

yes i use a 12" machine file.I do use a shrinking disc.

Posted by: Cairo94507 Oct 22 2012, 06:46 AM

Absolutely terrific. THat car is fortunate to come under your care.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Nov 30 2012, 01:14 AM

Thank you! i will be posting more pics tomorrow.

Posted by: ww914 Nov 30 2012, 09:11 AM

Awesome skills. Keep the photos coming. If you have the time, a short caption on each photo would be cool. Not that any of us could do that kind of work, but I think many of us are interested in the process.

Posted by: jbyron Nov 30 2012, 09:46 AM

Breathtaking craftsmanship, Jon. Just wow.

Posted by: Socalandy Nov 30 2012, 10:40 AM

Excellent work

it's true about knowing whats under the paint. This is the reason my car is still waiting on color, you constantly find areas the need work. we've had a few hot spots that kept popping up and you don't want those festering under your paint.

I'd rather add a month to the build than be unhappy with the final product.

Posted by: pete000 Nov 30 2012, 10:47 AM

Impressive !

Want to do mine next !

Posted by: ChrisNPDrider Nov 30 2012, 10:48 AM

Posted by: cary Nov 30 2012, 07:25 PM

Beautiful workmanship. Thanks for sharing.

Posted by: charliew Dec 1 2012, 08:48 AM

Really nice work. This car will be too nice to drive. I know how to draw file and I have done it a little. I also am pretty good with a two inch rotary air sander. I am guessing to filing is not much just showing the high spots. Also it doesn't make heat. Do you think the tigging is softer than easy grind mig wire. I'm guessing you are trying to not get the weld too brittle. I can tig and thats the main reason I bought a tig other than aluminum and ss work but I was hopeing I could do as well with easy grind.

I did a 42 ford jeep and had 370 hours in it for my friend but he only paid me 10.00 a hour using my tools. Course the jeep had filler wiped everywhere.

I'm gonna follow this thread for sure. I like the way you squared the flare on the body. Really interested in the front flare placement front to rear for fat wheels and the rocker fit up.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 2 2012, 01:47 PM

I would love to do yours next!. the transformation of shape with the GT flares is just awesome.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 2 2012, 02:07 PM

continuation of grafting....
Front LH fender to get the real feel of the conversion.

I tack with the MIG, but TIG weld the panel in as i can control the heat source.Mig is more of a brittle weld on sheet metal in comparison to TIG.


















'know what's under your paint'

www.themetalsurgeon.com

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 2 2012, 04:45 PM

Front RH fender/arch removal





'know whats under your paint'.....

www.themetalsurgeon.com

Posted by: nathansnathan Dec 7 2012, 02:47 PM

This is better than porn. I want bigger pics 800x600!

Posted by: pete000 Dec 7 2012, 03:19 PM

Looks like they don't call him the"metal surgeon" for nothin !!

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 9 2012, 11:35 PM

RH side continued.

metal finishing ,stage finished with a bench file







to completion

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 9 2012, 11:39 PM

Rear right under way.




original arches in pretty good shape.




total time for all the metal work in the project so far 133.5 hrs

Posted by: rdauenhauer Dec 9 2012, 11:43 PM

I like!

Posted by: Dasnowman Dec 10 2012, 03:25 AM

This looks like a walk in the park compared to building those corner windows on that 59 panel van to 15 window you did...


For the rear 1/4's where did you get the metal or is it just flat stock? Did you have to do some shaping and forming?






If I won the lotto I would have you do some work for me for sure! but for now I'll just and the work ...lol

Posted by: Gint Dec 10 2012, 01:56 PM

WOW! That is nice work. Where are you? I'd like to drop by the shop Wednesday. In fact, I have a small job for you.

Posted by: Scott S Dec 10 2012, 02:37 PM

Is this the car that Mark from Autoworks in Littleton is having built? He was down at the shop two weeks ago and I think he showed me these pics. Neat stuff.

Posted by: pete000 Dec 10 2012, 03:20 PM

You rarely see a 914 getting this type of quality metal work done. Nice to see a 914 looking like a vintage Ferrari under the paint !


I know where I want my 914 to go for its "some day" restoration of the body !

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 10 2012, 09:56 PM

Yes it's Mark's.Thanks for checking out the thread!

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 10 2012, 10:00 PM

Come on down, 3852 S Kalamath St, Englewood, CO. Will be there from 11am onwards. Thanks for checking out the thread!

EDITED for our new shop address!

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 10 2012, 10:13 PM

Posted by: Gint Dec 10 2012, 11:03 PM

Thanks for posting it! Englewood?

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 10 2012, 11:10 PM

Here's a quick run down of transforming your 914 to a 914 with GT arches.Painted area must be stripped back to bare metal prior to surgery.

Position all 4 arches in car line 7.5 hrs
Removal of 2 original rear arches to 2 grafted in GT arches 28 hrs
Removal of 2 original front arches to 2 grafted in GT arches 18hrs

total time 53.5 hrs


x $60 per hour =$3210


4 GT arches from Restoration Design $995



total cost $4205

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 10 2012, 11:14 PM

3852 S. Kalamath St. Englewood, CO 80110

EDITED for our new shop address (moved in July 2013)

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 14 2012, 08:43 PM

If you new the quality of a vintage Ferrari build you'd be horrified,namely Pininfarina coach builds.

Posted by: nathansnathan Dec 14 2012, 09:08 PM

Posted by: Gint Dec 15 2012, 02:04 AM

Sorry, I couldn't make it this week. I'll have to give you call or PM about this little project. Easy job for you probably. I want to have a right side exhaust outlet made in a 914 rear valance to match the factory outlet in the left side. Interested in doing something like that?

Posted by: 396 Dec 15 2012, 06:08 AM

Ya your correct... Quality Does Cost $

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Dec 15 2012, 10:20 AM

that's ok ,yeah sure .You can also send pics with any details to jon@themetalsurgeon.com

Posted by: nathansnathan Dec 15 2012, 12:36 PM

I was commenting more on the coincidence of the 420 word, a bit more like fatalistic planetary alignment,Beavis and Butthead, everything in its right place. You can never undervalue numerological significance. They do look very good. I want to see photos like large and shot with an expensive slr camera .

Posted by: Ferg Apr 4 2013, 09:57 PM

Met Jon aka The Metal Surgeon tonight at a PCA event, so I figured it was a good time to this thread.

Posted by: bulitt Apr 5 2013, 05:40 AM

This is true art. One question, the bottom rear of this flare doesn't appear to be lined up properly, but I'm sure you did this for a reason. Is it just the picture, my imagination, or do you need profile this section? Is it due to the design of the flare?

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Apr 5 2013, 07:36 AM

Your right,still work in progress.I have to flare out the tips of the rocker panel to match the bottom of the fender flare.This will then complete the 'flow'.I'm excited to see the look when completed.

Good eye!

Posted by: rick 918-S Apr 5 2013, 08:10 AM

Nice work!

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Aug 11 2013, 03:15 PM

Work in progress continues.Finished right hand side rocker ends custom build including housing that bolts to the body front and rear.


















view more work and projects www.themetalsurgeon.com

Posted by: tscrihfield Aug 11 2013, 04:24 PM

This is some great work. I wish I were closer. I would love to see that in person.

Thomas

Posted by: Maltese Falcon Aug 11 2013, 07:12 PM

Excellent craftsmanship, and fair priced as well. I paid my bodyshop those prices in 1990, all steel, tig welded and leaded-in.
Off topic, is that a Model A in the background?
Marty

Posted by: Rleog Aug 11 2013, 07:41 PM

$60.00 / hr is an incredible bargain for this quality workmanship.

Metal Surgeon / Metal Magician !

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Aug 12 2013, 08:22 PM

Thank you all.If we're busy i'm happy,restoring cars isn't cheap as i'm sure you all know.I used to work for the company 2 doors down from my shop,Classic Restoration,they used to charge me out at $125 per hr.Now that's obscene!

Posted by: scotty b Aug 12 2013, 08:28 PM

So you quit, moved 2 doors down, and charge half what they do ? They've gotta love that

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Aug 12 2013, 09:13 PM

Well i left in July 2011 ,set up in my home workshop,only 650sqft.Then May 2012 moved into 2000sqft commercial building and just recently July 1st 2013 moved to a 4000sqft stand alone building 2 doors down from Classic Restoration.

I would be lying if i said i wasn't excited in raising a couple of eye brows over there!

Posted by: Rleog Aug 12 2013, 09:31 PM

Here's to integrity and artistry. I admire your style.

Posted by: speed metal army Aug 12 2013, 09:41 PM

Damn.. Now I have to have those rockers when I flare my car.
That is some kickass work. If you were closer,my car would already be there.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Aug 24 2013, 12:23 AM

couple more angles.....







like 356's?

http://www.porsche356registry.org/356talk/4/33777.html

Posted by: GeorgeRud Aug 24 2013, 03:01 PM

Truly beautiful work! Thanks for sharing all the pics!

Posted by: Nine_14 Aug 24 2013, 03:35 PM

state of the art in bodywork .... needs a good paintjob to finish this.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jan 11 2014, 11:40 PM

Right hand rocker build.next body in primer...

Posted by: JRust Jan 12 2014, 12:26 AM

Holy crap that is beautiful work. Some day I want to learn to shape metal. Keep this pics coming

Posted by: Chris H. Jan 12 2014, 07:40 AM

Why even paint over work like that? This might be the second thread of his I said this on.

Posted by: Cairo94507 Jan 12 2014, 08:54 AM

Crazy beautiful work.

Posted by: kid914 Jan 12 2014, 08:55 AM

if you decide to use those rockers as molds, and make fg ones I would be in for a set.
I am sure MANY others would be too.
you have mad skills.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jan 12 2014, 01:16 PM

Aren't they companies producing these GT rockers already?

Thank you all for taking the time to read the thread.

Posted by: 914_8 Jan 12 2014, 01:29 PM

yes, but none are this nice imo….

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jan 12 2014, 01:29 PM

and in first stage primer......

Posted by: 914_8 Jan 12 2014, 01:37 PM

DOH!!!

Posted by: r_towle Jan 12 2014, 01:40 PM

Really high quality work.
Almost ready for paint with no bondo.....

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jan 12 2014, 01:46 PM

i don't understand?

Posted by: GeorgeRud Jan 12 2014, 03:47 PM

Flared rockers are available, and the fit is comparable to other fiberglass parts. Seeing your metal-work is really seeing an artist do his work!

Ever since I read Ron Fournier's book on metalworking, I've always been in awe of the craftsmen that work in metal. It truly is an art form, and I appreciate you sharing the project with us.

Now, when a good shop gives you an estimate that shocks you, this shows what your money buys.

Posted by: rick 918-S Jan 12 2014, 07:20 PM

Nice work!

Posted by: 914_8 Jan 12 2014, 07:44 PM

double post…. first was post 93

Posted by: CptTripps Jan 12 2014, 08:03 PM

I keep thinking that no matter what I do to my car...it'll look like shit compared to this.

Absolutely amazing. Bravo sir.

Posted by: Chris H. Jan 12 2014, 08:11 PM

It's the "high bar" for sure. Can't even tell if ANY body filler was used ..

Posted by: raw1298 Jan 12 2014, 09:40 PM

Absolutely amazing. Keep the pictures coming.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jan 19 2014, 12:56 PM

interior in primer....

Posted by: sixnotfour Jan 19 2014, 01:44 PM

Looks Great
That front trunk floor is so smooth

except for ----


Attached image(s)

Posted by: ConeDodger Jan 19 2014, 01:48 PM

Nice...

Posted by: mepstein Jan 19 2014, 01:53 PM

And the holes for the oil tank and, ect.

I'm sure there is a plan for this stuff in the near future. Never hurts to get primer on bare metal.

Posted by: gothspeed Jan 19 2014, 03:14 PM

Wow ........ great work!!!

Posted by: CptTripps Jan 19 2014, 06:04 PM

Impressive as hell. Wow.

Posted by: PanelBilly Jan 19 2014, 09:50 PM

Are you adding the front oil cooler? Now would be the time to cut it out

Posted by: Loser_Cruiser Jan 19 2014, 10:09 PM

I would like to subscribe to this thread. Thank you

Posted by: db9146 Jan 19 2014, 10:56 PM

I have a couple of questions for the Metal Surgeon.....

How long have you had the 914 in the shop?

Are original Porsche flares any better or worse (quality-wise) than the AA repros?

Thanks....great work.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Mar 4 2014, 11:29 PM

Off to the paint shop for wet sand,paint and undercoat before final delivery to the customer for assembly.

Undecided on final colors.Choosing between signal orange and tangerine orange.Samples from the painter coming this Thursday and a final decision will be made by the owner and his son.

Posted by: Jeff Hail Mar 5 2014, 12:15 AM

Skilled craftsman. My compliments.

Any reason the sill triangle reinforcements were omitted during the metal work? I suppose the owner could have "no step" decals made up after paint.

Jeff

Posted by: CptTripps Mar 5 2014, 03:58 AM

Simply unreal.

Bravo sir. Bravo.

Posted by: Rleog Mar 5 2014, 05:43 AM

Beautifully done. It's great to see one of these cars treated with such care and respect.

Posted by: Ferg Mar 5 2014, 10:46 AM

Very Nice!

No fair that soon Mark is going to have the two nicest 914's in the land

Posted by: bandjoey Mar 5 2014, 10:55 AM

Super work! And a suggestion. On such a nice car why not peal off before paint the vin sticker and order a new one. The scratchy old one really detracts from nre paint. Otherwise it looks like a new body. Great work.

Posted by: jfort Mar 5 2014, 10:57 AM

Awesome to see true craftsmanship in such a wonderful format. Can't wait to see more as the project progresses.

Posted by: stephenaki Mar 5 2014, 11:35 AM

Technical question, what heat settings are you using on the TIG? I am hoping to get the flares I have on this summer and will have access to a TIG welder but was curious to the settings you used. I'm actually in a TIG welding class now so getting plenty of practice.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Mar 5 2014, 01:03 PM

yes we need a new vin tag,we were discussing the same thing.Which vendor will take care of this?

I like suggestions and improvements.Thank you all

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Mar 5 2014, 01:06 PM

50 amps setting is a good average for 18 gauge

Posted by: bandjoey Mar 5 2014, 01:18 PM

Search for compliance decal. And you'll find the thread to order one

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Mar 5 2014, 01:24 PM

.....its a car for a 914 Porsche owner ....not a clumsy overweight Corvette owner!


thanks you all for your comments

Posted by: boogie_man Mar 5 2014, 01:34 PM

Wow, just wow. I haven't seen all metal work like that in a long time, very very fair price too, almost too fair lol. That's what it takes folks and why it costs that much as THAT is a lot of work. Awesome !!!!!

Posted by: MoveQik Mar 5 2014, 04:33 PM

It is bordering on criminal that you covered that metal work with paint.

Posted by: 76-914 Mar 5 2014, 04:51 PM

Well shit. After looking at yours I want to wad mine up and throw it in the trash.

Posted by: Chris H. Mar 5 2014, 04:54 PM

Wait I think I see something....yyyyyeeaaa... no sorry that was on my screen. No its literally &^&^*$ing perfect.

Posted by: r_towle Mar 5 2014, 05:13 PM

what price?

Posted by: Mike Bellis Mar 5 2014, 09:00 PM

Is perfect OK?


Someone should use it as a plug so we can make carbon fiber bodies...

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Mar 6 2014, 08:07 PM

Thank you everyone for your comments,very much appreciated.As for carbon fiber we are making the spoiler below the front bumper out of carbon fiber.

Posted by: Mike Bellis Mar 6 2014, 08:13 PM

Laser scan the body and we can CNC a plug.

Posted by: Eric_Shea Mar 6 2014, 10:40 PM

Stunning work and your reputation precedes you.

Andy Thonet (socalandy member here) makes absolutely "spot on" door vin tags. I'd scrap that and get a new one made.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Mar 7 2014, 10:07 AM

Awesome ,thank you!

Posted by: rsrguy3 Mar 7 2014, 11:02 AM

Sorry for the question. When is it best to apply seam sealer, before or after primer?-Guy

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Mar 7 2014, 11:58 AM

no worries,after primer.make sure its paintable seam sealer.

Posted by: Kirmizi Mar 7 2014, 12:06 PM

You mean this Mark?



Attached image(s)

Posted by: stephenaki Mar 8 2014, 07:52 AM

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Mar 24 2014, 11:05 PM

Question for you guys on behalf of myself and the owner.

Advise/ recommendations to paint body color or black the following;

Rockers
bumpers
underbody


thanks so far for all your input.

Posted by: ruby914 Mar 25 2014, 01:08 AM

Signal orange or tangerine orange?
To paint body color looks fat to me.
I think Black rockers.
Bumpers either with black rubber.
Underbody flip a coin.


Attached image(s)

Posted by: bulitt Mar 25 2014, 03:36 AM

I even like your dolly!

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Mar 25 2014, 07:54 AM

undecided on signal or tangerine.

painting body,i agree looks fat,need accents

Posted by: iamchappy Mar 25 2014, 08:32 AM

Signal Yellow is a great color that really stands out even against Signal Orange.

Black accents looks the best to me.

Posted by: CptTripps Mar 25 2014, 08:40 AM

Black accents is a more "70's" look. All depends on what you're going for here.

Posted by: ben*james Mar 25 2014, 09:03 AM

Accents are best, rockers and bumper tops and valances and factory mirrors a big must....oh I just described my narrow body .

Awesome work. I was having a HO HUM morning until I read this thread, now I'm ready to attack the day! Keep it up. Thanks for posting.

Posted by: LaneS Mar 25 2014, 04:07 PM

Great job! I can't wait to see the finished product.

Posted by: Eric_Shea Mar 26 2014, 06:56 AM

In a sea of Signal, Tangerine really stands out. Did Mark ever get over to Gints house to see his Tangerine -6?

Posted by: Eric_Shea Mar 26 2014, 06:58 AM

Black makes it "pop"

Posted by: Johny Blackstain Mar 26 2014, 12:13 PM

I think this color combo rocks...


Attached image(s)

Posted by: 396 Apr 29 2014, 05:09 PM

Any further updates?

Posted by: Phil Plummer Apr 30 2014, 06:39 PM

Hi I have mechanically completed my 914/6 conversion and have just installed the metal flares.
The issue is with the 916 front and rear my bodyman tells me the quality is very poor and the fit up the worst he has seen in a while I think these are from QRS .
Does anybody know where GOOD quality 916 front and rear bumpers can be had?
Phil

Posted by: Chris H. May 1 2014, 07:12 AM

Phil,

I'm not a fiberglass expert but have seen many people on the board re-shape fiberglass bumpers significantly to get them to fit right. Seems to be somewhat rare that they bolt right up and the 916 is apparently one of the hardest to fit. You might want to post a separate thread question so everyone sees it and can comment. There are several professional/capable of professional quality body and paint guys here. I've heard good things overall about QRS but nothing specific about the 916 bumpers. Only a couple of companies actually make them.

Posted by: Moneypit May 1 2014, 08:24 AM

Tangerine! My dad's '72 was Tangerine, so I'm biased. It's the 914 that led to us getting a neglected '74 1.8 for $600 and started my 914 addiction!

If only you did charity work, the 1.8 is in a pasture out in west Texas right now with a rusted out control arm mount area. She deserves better!

Regarding your technique, from what I read you generally MIG to tack the panels in place, then use TIG to lay the bead and blend the two together? I realized I will have to learn to weld in order to get our current 914 in shape to last a long time. I will probably have to replace the floorpan, and am curious what technique you would use to accomplish that?

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon May 30 2014, 10:15 PM

bumpers and custom metal GT rockers now in paint.

Posted by: mepstein May 31 2014, 07:34 AM

Scotty b spent many hours reshaping the 916 front on evils car. Many, many hours. It turned him in to a grumpy old man. I would go oem steel.

Posted by: scotty b May 31 2014, 08:41 AM

Front AND rear

Posted by: Emmel May 31 2014, 02:43 PM

Best in the Business.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jul 1 2014, 10:41 PM

now in paint

Posted by: Mike Bellis Jul 1 2014, 10:46 PM

Looks great!

I never would have painted that car. The metal work was so nice, I would have just clear coated it.

Posted by: CptTripps Jul 2 2014, 05:22 AM

I thought the same thing. Shame to cover all of that up. I'd hazard a guess that there is less than 2oz of filler on that thing.

Posted by: pete000 Jul 2 2014, 07:18 AM

Looks like candy!

Posted by: Sleepin Jul 2 2014, 09:33 AM

I now know who is getting a 914 sent over the mountain to him if I win the lotto...

Posted by: Scott S Jul 2 2014, 10:34 AM

Awesome. If I ever pull the trigger and flare the ass dragger, you are getting a call. You are an artist.

Posted by: Scott S Jul 2 2014, 10:37 AM

I just noticed something - the change in the body line where the rocker sits. Was this done for a specific reason, or for looks/by customer request?


Attached image(s)

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jul 2 2014, 10:43 AM

just artistic license..... good eye!

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jul 2 2014, 12:33 PM

haha ! thank you! we are very affordable.... our work just looks expensive!

Posted by: relentless Jul 2 2014, 01:35 PM

Impressive and very inspirational!

Posted by: mepstein Jul 2 2014, 03:46 PM

Iconic

Posted by: Emmel Jul 2 2014, 08:52 PM

I'm sure glad someone had my back with a real camera taking the pictures. I guess camera phones are still lacking real technology. Thanks again , the craftsmanship on this project sure was one of a kind . Don't tell the painter but hes getting spoiled

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jul 2 2014, 09:37 PM

and more pics.....

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Nov 15 2014, 10:35 PM

Part assembling the body,hood,trunk ,doors,rockers etc to take to the Rocky Mountain Auto Show over Thanks Giving weekend at the downtown convention center Denver,Co









Come and see The Metal Surgeon booth!

Posted by: r_towle Nov 15 2014, 10:37 PM

A few long days ahead of you, good luck with the show, post up some pictures

Posted by: Socalandy Nov 15 2014, 11:17 PM

Amazing work

I second the need for assembly pictures!!!

Posted by: Cairo94507 Nov 16 2014, 08:32 AM

Just simply outstanding work. I wish I could see it in person. Keep posting and building these cars.

Posted by: altitude411 Nov 16 2014, 10:40 AM

Absolutely beautiful. Thank you for posting. I will stop by the booth and say hello if I get a chance. Nice work Doc.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Nov 16 2014, 12:52 PM

thanks all for your comments !

Posted by: Johny Blackstain Nov 16 2014, 01:00 PM

however I should point out this is upside down. Keep up the awesome work


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Posted by: SirAndy Nov 16 2014, 01:34 PM

Somehow i looked right past the awesomeness of the car and went straight to the upside down turn signal lenses.


What the hell is wrong with me?

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Nov 16 2014, 01:53 PM

that's funny and good eye thanks! ......if the customer was in upside side down under Australia,would that make a difference?!

Posted by: Johny Blackstain Nov 16 2014, 03:29 PM

I'm just a little too anal for my own good, but @ least I know it

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Nov 19 2014, 11:40 PM

Posted by: StratPlayer Nov 20 2014, 01:58 PM

Beautiful

Posted by: Rleog Nov 20 2014, 08:53 PM

The bar moves higher.

Thanks, Jon

Posted by: Steve Pratel Nov 20 2014, 09:00 PM

Wow.....

Posted by: 914Sixer Nov 20 2014, 09:02 PM

Bad Ass job !

Posted by: Spoke Nov 20 2014, 09:25 PM

Beautiful.

Love the color.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Nov 20 2014, 09:43 PM

Attached image(s)

Posted by: bigkensteele Nov 20 2014, 11:04 PM

Stellar work.

I won't ask. I know that I can't afford it...

Posted by: jd74914 Nov 21 2014, 07:27 AM

Fantastic! I really like the rocker treatment!

Posted by: Rleog Nov 21 2014, 07:47 AM

His shop website says $67/hr. That may be an outdated listing, but it's an incredible bargain for this caliber of work.

Posted by: cary Nov 21 2014, 10:50 AM

Stunning workmanship.

Posted by: Gudhjem Nov 21 2014, 12:31 PM

/sigh

This thread made me cry, it's just so damn beautiful. What an inspiration it is - can't wait to make progress on my car this weekend.

$67/hour just makes no sense for talent like this. Wow.

The work on the rocker panels is especially impressive. I figure I'm an okay welder (learned from my journeyman Dad), but fabricating those pieces is probably beyond me. I may give it a try anyway. It would be aweesome to see more detail on how you accomplished that work, how you made the curves, what tools you used, etc.


Great stuff, thanks for posting.

Posted by: tdgray Nov 21 2014, 03:34 PM

Not sure how I ever missed this thread... simply incredible.

True artist... completely.

WOW

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Nov 21 2014, 10:12 PM

thanks guys for the kind words.Yes we are $67 per hour plus materials.

We are cheaper than most and some people say we are too cheap (hope that doesn't put people off).However i am grateful people /customers are in a position to have cars restored because as we know its not cheap,so im happy at a our lower rate.

Posted by: RobW Nov 22 2014, 07:17 AM

What are you doing for a front valence? Can you make 2 ?

Posted by: SixerJ Nov 23 2014, 03:20 AM

It's difficult to know where to pitch rates and the resulting trajectory. Yours is comparable to the guy that did my 911 who was equally skilled (a rare talent and beautiful thing to behold BTW). He was constantly busy with only restoration work, not too stressed and had 2 skilled guys helping (one of whom was principally a painter) and a part time trainee who was also in technical college doing basic stuff.

Due to the quality of the workmanship he built a fantastic reputation. 6 years down the line he's taken on more staff, has a bigger shop and has a bigger overheads / more mouths to kept fed. From what I hear and seen in the shop the rates are top dollar to keep stoking the boiler. Quality is still good, but not what it once was, there are more complaints & Terry is much much less hands on due to managing the business, staff etc

The way I see it is they are now trading partly on the past glories and sooner or later it's going to catch him out. I have already decided my -6 will not be going there, principally because I think the quality of workmanship is not worth the rate they are now charging.

I want it done right and as you say that takes 100's of hours. Personally I would rather take it somewhere where I know that when I get the call saying we have found X, do you want to do Y or Z? My 1st thought is what is the right thing to do and not that Y is 8 hours less than the other. As we all know its rare that you don't get lots of those calls and all those hours add up

If you are happy with the quantity of work coming through the door & it's the kind of work that keeps you interested every day, not totally stressed out with managing the business and the family well feed then stick with it. I think lot of highly skilled people start like you and without realise it end up in the position above, they are not really earning that much more personally & have much more hassle in their life

Posted by: altitude411 Nov 23 2014, 09:57 AM

These things are all true^ but at some point in everyones career they get burned out. Small business is hard work and even doing what you truly love gets tiring at some point. I ran my business for twenty five years after five year apprenticeship from my uncle. There comes a time when doing all the work becomes less gratifying and at that point teaching is the motivating factor. Then, if the teacher has done his job and the student has paid attention and the talented is there, then the student's work is elevated to the level (hopefully even beyond) the level of the teacher. This is what keeps trades like metal work and the like advancing forward. Talented tradesmen need to teach the up and comers the secrets of the trade. Most, if not all great artist have had a great mentor who has taking the time to teach his craft. The trick is making sure the student(s) have the ability to do good work before the teacher gives them full reign of the studio/shop... This is what separates the good shops from the average.

Anyway, it's fantastic to see such a talented artist (thanks for posting your work) and please take the time at some point in your career to teach the kid who shows interest and talent for the trade.... Keep posting photo's please.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Nov 23 2014, 09:47 PM

i totally agree with you,the hard part is hiring 'skilled' staff.I have recently gone through 4 metal workers that didn't meet the standard.I wont settle for mediocre so hopefully i wont fall into the trap as you state.
Its something i am aware of and in the pursuit to find quality metal workers we are in the process of sponsoring a guy from England.The working visa takes time and he'll be with us in 11 months time out of a total 17 month process.

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Nov 26 2014, 09:24 PM

setting up for the car show @ our vendor spot.

Posted by: altitude411 Nov 26 2014, 10:18 PM

I really wanted to make this show and stop by your booth to see this beautiful car & visit w/you but as fate would have it.....

Enjoy the show, I hope there is a great turnout. The car looks fantastic under the lights!

Posted by: The Metal Surgeon Jul 28 2015, 09:38 PM

Need to add to our body work team @themetalsurgeon

Our classic/custom car restoration company is looking for a skilled body guy that has minimum 5-10 years experience in the car restoration business (collision doesn't count).
We are a high end finish company that requires highly skilled and motivated applicants.

Duties include

-body work/skim coat using filler after metal work is completed.
-be able to block down applied fillers on various panel shapes in an acceptable amount of time of which will be discussed prior to beginning of each project.
-Spray and block sand applied primers.
-Compensation depending on experience
-this is a full time position

email resumes and pictures of your work to valerie@themetalsurgeon.com

thank you!


My Metal Work blog www.themetalsurgeon.com

Posted by: Rav914 Jul 29 2015, 01:19 PM

I think this is the kind of job we'd all like to be able to apply for. One, to have the experience, and two, to work in such a place with exacting standards. I'll just go back and re-read "Shop Class as Soul Craft".

Beautiful work.

Posted by: iwanta914-6 Jul 29 2015, 01:47 PM

This is the first time I've read through this thread, simply amazing!

The build seemed to end with the paint, is there another thread with the assembly and final product? Also in the thread I saw mentions of number of hours, what was the final tally? It sounds like just the labor (while an amazing deal at your rates) cost maybe $12K plus materials and parts!

Posted by: 914 Ranch Jan 9 2018, 01:05 AM

No Kent, you would be wading up the wrong material and throwing it in ​the wrong place. Wad up your money and throw it in the passenger seat and take the car to Colorado.

Posted by: JOEPROPER Jan 9 2018, 07:51 AM

This car look GREAT! If I was still in Denver, I'd be calling you. I used to work a few minute from your shop in Sheridan Co. S+A Transmissions on W Hampden.

Posted by: Mayne Feb 11 2019, 12:05 PM

Just bumping this thread because the workmanship is so amazing to see.