Keith, why/how was this done on the assembly line?

[weider1717]

Anyone know why they come partially painted black like this? I am curious on the line whats done to cause this? is it over spray? or what just being curious.

Like to hear what the guy who used to supervise on the assembly line of these trucks has to say think his name is Keith.

[enaberif]

If I was guess because that area is more exposed to the elements they do that to protect that area where the other spots are under the truck and not so exposed.

But 40 years ago who knows what they thought then.

[weider1717]

I thought the same thing since the tanks were exposed there.

On the fence with just replacing them both with new tanks while they're out new tanks I was surprised to see aren't nearly as high as I would have thought roughly $100 each.

[kelsfine69]

I just did both tanks on my 87 and I did not have any black on mine.

[Keith Seymore]

Yes - it is a lame attempt at corrosion protection.

Immediately before body drop the completed chassis would go through a spray booth where "chassis black" would be "painted" on the hubs, down the side of the frame rails, on the tank, and the top of the axle tubes and housing.

"Painted" is a bit optimistic, as the chassis black was a super thin, cheap black watery paint that was sort of "drizzled" in the general direction of the chassis.

This photo is from an Oldsmobile assembly plant but gives you the idea.

K

[Keith Seymore]

Originally Posted by enaberif

But 40 years ago who knows what they thought then.

I do.

















(usually)


K

[MalibuSSwagon]

I can attest to the lameness of that coating, as it wasn't present when I pulled my old tank out, just rust. I was changing to an EFI tank.