QuestionMy dad and I recently purchased a 1929 chevy sedan, it has missing and or rotten wood. My question is this, which wood should be used to replace what is bad/missing, and which types of wood working equipment do you recommend having to get the job done right? Both of us have knowledge of woodworking, also is there anywhere where we can get a book that shows correct dimensions for the wood, dad is talking about maybe replacing all the wood, to be safe. Any hep is greatly appreciated.
AnswerRoger, Having done a '28 Chevy sedan myself decades ago, I sympathize with your plight and your desire to make it right.
You should use hard white ash. GM used Arkansas White Ash, which varies greatly these days in terms of hardness--I've seen some lovely pieces that are about as hard as basswood or balsa--definitely not good for structural use.
Your ash pieces should be hand-selected for density and hardness. Do NOT use Oak of any variety--it's too hard to work and way too heavy.
You'll need the following machine tools to do a proper pro job of replacing the wood:
Jointer (6" is fine), Planer (12-14" auto-feed), band saw, circular saw, disc sander (20" if possible!)and a shaper or molder with finger-joint attachment.
In addition, you'll need the usual hand tools and handheld power tools. I'd replace any steel screws with stainless in the final piece. A powder AR glue is preferable to Titebond.
Good luck--this is a large project!
--Paul
