The days just seem to roll by, don’t they? We’re now up to part 5 of this Firebird restoration project, presented by Harbor Freight Tools.

In the last episode, we got to see the guys tackle the tedious task of getting the car ready for its paint job, which they did by sanding down the old factory coat and then using a Central Pneumatic Professional HVLP Gravity Feed Spray Gun to apply the primer. Part 4 awaits your viewing pleasure here.

But now is time for one of the more fun aspects of car restoration: the underbody. The guys have the body hitched up to a rotisserie, awaiting deep cleaning. Let’s not forget the fact that this car is 45 years old, and has probably never seen the local steam cleaning facility before its deliverance unto Jeff and company.

Fortunately, a Pacific Hydrostar 4 HP 2000 PSI Gas Pressure Washer with some degreaser makes quick work of the hardened, gunky crap stuck to the undercarriage. Jeff applies the fluid liberally, getting it into all the nooks and crannies.

He then swaps out nozzles for the next step, where he’ll need all the power he can get to thoroughly rinse everything out. Time passes, and the underbody is now dry and more work-friendly as the guys can see where the rust spots are. 

Jeff grabs the Central Pneumatic Portable Abrasive Blaster Kit and, using medium grade Armex soda blast media and an abrasive blasting hood, proceeds to sandblast the now-visible surface rust from the car. Against the vast, unending horde of crystals, the rust stands no chance.

Jeff concludes his work by applying a coat of undercoating spray to prevent future rust. This is a great idea, as it’s not only going to protect the car, but the team will be thanking themselves later if they want to repaint the underside.

No matter what it takes, this car will come out shining when the time is right. Check back soon to see part 6 of the restoration, when the guys tackle the engine rebuild.