Classic car restoration projects – especially Corvette restorations – require the owner and shop to make the critical decision between blasting the car and using a chemical dip service. Comprehensive classic car restoration services will make this determination based on the particular car and the type of body materials it is comprised of. In order to understand which process will work for your restoration project, it’s important to comprehend the basic differences between blasting and a chemical or acid dip.

Classic Car Restoration Services: Blasting
When it comes to classic car restorations, blasting refers to the process of stripping paint, enamel, finish and other coatings from the body, frame and other areas of the vehicle. This is accomplished by literally blasting particulates at the car at high velocity and intensity. These particulates are referred to as the blasting media, and can consist of different grades of sand, glass beads, crush walnut shells and other media. This process strips the paint and other surface materials off the body and leaves a workable surface that is generally ready to prime.

However, there are a number of things to consider when working on your Corvette restoration, antique Chevy pickup or other project. The most significant problem is that despite the best blasting efforts, it’s impossible to get the media into every space on your body and frame. Weld points, joints and inside the rails of the frame are all areas that cannot be reached with sodablasting, sandblasting or other blasting techniques. In some cases this issue can be corrected by filling these spaces with a waxy filler substance, but even this material will not be able to penetrate all areas where rust may be developing.