1941 Buick Super 4-Door Convertible Sedan

Body

Substantial work was performed on the 1941 Buick’s body. The rear fenders were removed and restored to correct poor workmanship as was the trunk lid. The correct rear splash panels were restored and a replacement fabricated for a missing unit. The restored rear fenders were properly aligned and installed along with new gravel guards and stone shields. All doors were removed and restored to correct faulty metal work, paint, and weather stripping. Similarly, the front fenders and front splash panels also required a complete do over to correct damage and flaws not addressed by the prior restorer. The beltline moldings, headlights, front parking lights, and taillights were restored to correct numerous flaws. The underside of the hood was thoroughly cleaned and painted semi-gloss black.

[Click on photos to enlarge]
Right rear fender after stripping paint revealing many flaws	Right rear fender after welding in patch metal and smoothing dents	1941 Buick front shield after shrinking to remove dents	Hidden front end damage
Sagging body caused vent window to hit windshield frame	Straightening the cowl and aligning door openings

A typical sequence of fender and door restoration is illustrated with the following pictures. Because the existing finish had been applied over bare metal, it was block sanded extensively to identify flaws and perfect the surface.

Unrestored damage on front fender	Back side of fender after cleaning	Back side with authentic semi-gloss black paint	Block sanded existing finish & filler
Block sanding primer-surfacer in process, one of multiple coats	Restored fender

The windows and door components on this 1941 Buick Convertible Sedan were particularly challenging as many components were missing, in poor condition, or “butchered” by the prior restorer. The weatherstripping was not covered with fabric or properly installed. Because several of these components are unique to this style and not obtainable, it was necessary to specially fabricate several missing parts.

Inner rear door opening cover for1941 Buick convertible sedan as fabricated	Inner front door opening cover for1941 Buick convertible sedan as fabricated	Fabricated special pieces to trim top of window channels on 1941 Buick convertibles	Special window channel liners fabricated from stainless steel and fabric lined typical for 1941 Buick convertibles
Fabricated lock operating rod	Correct weatherstripping (typical)

Overview | Chassis Restoration | Engine & Driveline | Interior | Convertible Top