1973 Mach 1 Restoration Project Photos

This is a collection of photos, and some videos, taken from early October, 2019 through mid-October, 2020, of the 1973 Mach 1 as it progress from being a decent looking driver with a few visible "just spots in the usual areas" to deeply restored vehicle after the multitude of elusive corrosion problems were uncovered one at a time and corrected as fully as possible. In some cases new metal parts were spiced onto the original metal locations, where we saved as much of the original metal as we could. In other cases some parts had to be fabricated as some parts needed to be replaced are no longer available on the market.

No expense was spared during this project. We wanted the work to be to the highest standards, no short cuts, no cheap solutions. We wanted the best possible solution to every issue we came across - and there were quite a few issues when it came to how invasive the corrosion issue proved to have been. In the end the Mach 1 is in no less an excellent condition as compared to when it was initially built.

The original color of the paint was Saddle Bronze Metallic. There are a few photos where the rear shelf behind the back seat area shows the original, when the paint color change to Valspar Sunset was not applied to that one hidden area. In this project the color was changes once again, to PPF Sunset Orange - a fine particle translucent metallic that was shot over a solid base white to get its candy-ish appearance to show so nicely. There are no less than 3 layers each of printer, base white, color, and clear applied. And between each coat the surface was thoroughly wet sanded in order to get the nest possible liquid surface look.

The Blackout Shema on the hood, spoilers, louver slats, and engine compartment were shot with PPG Hot Rod Black Matte. The Matte Black paint was applied to the Sunset Orange color hood with a stancil used for the "351 RAM AIR" Vallout, as opposed to using the traditional white decals.

It is apparent that this Mach 1 is well prepared to go forward in time in excellent condition. We have no doubt it will last no less than its next 50 years. It is a shame we will likely not be present to witness that in its entirety. But, we will enjoy the years ahead with it in our "little corral."