I also forgot to mention the amount of fading this kit has and how rough the finish is. It's so filthy and hazy. The sun has taken it's toll on it. You know how plastic can get foggy when it's sun dried? Plus there's a lot of little rough spots to deal with. Here's what they look like wet sanded. This is a process i've used for years and I don't need to hear anyones opinion on it. I've worked with 150 to 200,000$ cars in the past so i've got a good hand for the process. I know some people will be squawking in their head as they read this.Hurting

This is the process i use to push the buldges back in place. Requires some moisture and slow incremental adjustments. Works perfectly.

I once brought a wood hoop back to true and round using a "steam bath" and a knitting hoop.......

I'd say you have a good handle on what you want to accomplish and how you're going to go about it.

Eagerly awaiting the finished product!

:)

Ya, thanks for sharing the pics. Gives me the guts to try it for myself.

Look at all that green under the lugs and brackets eh? I think they still look pretty damn awesome, glad you're keeping that wrap. Where does the air in the bulges escape?

And now for my opinion on the wet sanding process....:)

Mitch

Where does the air in the bulges escape?

And now for my opinion on the wet sanding process....:)

Mitch[/QUOTE]

The bulges are in the shell itself. I've seen on a few occasions where ludwig shells get these bulges where the lugs are located. Most likely because the lugs themselves are large and hollow inside. The screw pulls the shell into the inside of the casing creating a bulge in the shell. So there's no air bubble to deal with. However, bubbles in wrap might present a problem like that. But in my encounters, the bubbles always form by the lugs. So getting those out are never an issue. And man, i'm always catching hell for the sanding/buffing process. But some shells require a more thorough approach.

Jason

Ah, I get it. Makes sense now...was thinkin you'd make a little slit in the wrap or the air would escape from the nearest lug holes...but it's the wood of the shell itself.

I'm certain I have seen other threads with the wet sand/buff process. I mean hey, if it works and the results are good it's basically unassailable right? I have faith! :)

Mitch

Couple of after shots of the 14x14. since it had the least to deal with..

I got another good pic of the 14, but it keeps failing. I'll try again later. I'm also finishing the extra 13, so i'll get some pics of that too.

Jason