Innovative Detailing

The Last Stretch!

Final steps to completetion on this 1980 Ford Shay Model A Pickup Truck.

Running boards recieved some much needed TLC, using Solution Finish which is a carbon based black plastic restorer on these 46yr old pads. After several applications, the product set in and gave the results I was looking for.

Vinyl convertible was thoroughly cleaned, scrubbed and treated with Nanoskin Blue Dress to restore, hydrate and protect the top from the elements. Interior also recieved some TLC, vinyl seating, door panels, dash was cleaned and conditioned along with the carpets, mats, steering wheel and column. Final touches on the glass inside and out for clarity. Some final hardware also installed and this project is completed!

Diver Down!

Cosmetic surface restoration on this 1980 Ford Shay Model A continues...

Undercarriage preservation process included steam cleaning, degreasing, scraping, scuffing, and coating as many components as possible with a 2-in-1 rust converter. From the frame rails, rear differential, brake drums, crossmembers, and driveshaft to the front suspension and fuel cell, every accessible area was refreshed and treated.

The objective was to slow the progression of corrosion without completely disassembling the vehicle. At the same time, the process restored a cleaner, more presentable appearance underneath and brought back much of its overall curb appeal at Innovative Detailing

Final paint enhancement step completed to further elevate the gloss, depth, and clarity of this original 1980 Ford Shay Model A Pickup.

After color sanding, the finish received three stages of machine polishing using a rotary, 21mm,15mm and 12mm Rupes dual-action polishers — and the results speak for themselves. A far more cost-effective alternative to a complete respray, while still preserving the original factory finish this rare vehicle left production with.

Have to give credit to the crew after this one — all lined up on the table for a well-earned rest after a demanding job. No single polisher or pad combination could have achieved this level of refinement alone at Innovative Detailing

5yr Ceramic Coating to be applied next to further preserve what has been acomplished on this 46yr old truck.

Further exterior cosmetic refinement on the 1980 Ford Shay Model A. Rupes Bigfoot 21mm next up with a MF pad to further refine the depth, gloss and clarity achieved from the rotary polisher on the Gelcoat and painted steel surfaces. The red single stage bled out from age and oxidation which is common for older neglected paints of this type.

Lots of surfaces being tackled after a thorough pressure washing and steam cleaning on this old Shay at Innovative Detailing

*First to go, the ugly vinyl pinstripes from the 80's that where cracking and peeling.

* Next was the dissasembly of the radiator stone guard, uncovering years of verdigris, light rust blooming and corrosion.

*Using various metal polishes, 4-0000 steel wool, my die grinder and foam pads, I went to town trying to recover every ounce of shine. Once completed the stone guard was reassembled with new stainless hardware.

*Removal of the spare tire, the bracket in which the carriage bolts were rusted out, the attrocious cover and extra side view mirror.

*Black gelcoat surfaces colorsand to remove all the solvent pop, decades of scratches, oxidation and just pure foulness that had accumulated over the years.

*Oak bed wood strips sanitized and degreased from years of mold, dirt, rat/mice f***s and urine. Wood strips sanded down, and 2 new coats of varathane applied with a sanding inbetween coats.

*Brake master resprayed black along with several brackets that just looked nasty.

Cosmetic Surface Restoration begins on this reproduction 1980 Shay Ford Model A Pickup. Follow along as I document in depth all of the preservation work to be provided on this 46yr old Ford Shay Motors Model A Pickup Truck

After sitting for 15yrs, here is where I begin, meticulously cleaning, correcting, perfecting and protecting this rare time capsule.

The exterior body was composed of various surfaces, gelcoat fenders, running boards and cab. The hood and sides along with the bed was a painted steel substrate. The gel coat itself was completely engulfed in solvent pop, it looked like someone poked all the surfaces with a needle. Tree sap had hardened and turned to amber requiring a razor blade to shave it off and level it from the righr fender. All the black gelcoat was thoroughly color sanded to level out all the surface imperfections.

The engine bay begins with degreasing and steaming of all components including the older frail wires and connectors. Looking to bring back some freshness, clean up the firewall and painted metal surfaces.

The rear bed wood that was dirty, moldy and had rat f***s and urine will also be restored, all this begins with a thorough wash and degreasing.