May 30, 2013

horn cap emblem

FK2A0330

May 24, 2013

Teak iron on

I decided to go with Teak laminate rather than Walnut. Teak has a nicer grain, and smells good too. However, it does seem a little more difficult to work with. I’ve ironed on the laminate and will cut out the switch holes and sand.

May 12, 2013

Wood test #1 – does it work?

The original wood trim for the control switches is essentially a picture of wood on thin contact paper. Over the years this paper can become damaged and begin to peel. This was one of the projects I was really looking forward to. I got a short roll of pre-gummed real walnut wood laminate and cut a test piece to mount on a spare center control plate. I measure the gap and cut the wood using a pair of shears and then trimmed it using a paper cutter. I then used a banding iron on medium high to activate the glue. I do not know the exact temperature where the glue becomes active, however I know that it is higher than a locked up car on a summer day.

After the glue cooled, I sanded the wood and applied a thin coat of linseed oil. When I do this for the real deal, I’ll likely sand from 600 to 1800 grit and use linseed oil and wax to finish. I was concerned that the linseed oil may affect the glue, but it does not seem to affect the bond.

Before:

Saab 060

The test piece:

May 6, 2013

Going back to the 1960s …

The first plastic grille in the 99 was around 1973 and it was a beefy piece of plastic. At some point someone at SAAB thought that was unreasonable and that all 99’s should have a cheap plastic grille that has made them very rare in recent history. I have 3 plastic grilles, no make that 4, all of which have varying degrees of broken to them. When a 1969 all metal setup was made available, I could not pass it up. However, I was skeptical at first until I fitted on. I quite like it.

Before (as found):
Saab 010

Now:

olsaab99

May 1, 2013

front alignment done

No pictures, but had the front alignment adjusted as it was out quite a bit. This was done by Foster’s Frame and Axle in Georgetown (recommended by Troll Motors). Drove the car about 60 miles afterwards .. it keeps getting better and better.

caster: (L)1 3/4, (R)-2 adj (L)1/2, (R)1
camber: (L)-1/4, (R)-3/4 adj (L)1/4, (R)-1/4
toe-in: 1/8 adj 1/16