Storing my glass cobra, please help.

[cozmo76]

Hi guys, this is my fist post here, i have been lurking for manny years but i only just got something worth posing about. I have just gotten a body to match my 289/302 mini boss motor and top loader.

My issue is i can't work on it for a few years due to being halfway through building my Mazda Cozmo RX5 as well as having our first child.

I need to store the shell for a few years but want to make sure it will be in as good a condition as it is now when i pull it back out to build the chassis.

Could you guys tell me if the are any big no no's for storing a glass body or anything i can do to keep it as good as possible.

Any help would be hugely appreciated.

If it matters i live just out of Sydney in the blue mountains of Australia, Hot dry summers and damp cool winters but no snow.


Thanks A lot
Corrie Gillett

[Ron61]

Make sure that it is well braced to prevent any war-page and that you have it in a place where there won't be extreme heat or cold. Also I would put a car cover over it to keep dust and dirt from getting on it and then check it every so often to see if any mice or other unwanted things have decided to take up residence in it. I am sure that some of the others will have some more advise.

Ron

[AZ Cobra Mike]

Best also if it's sealed or primed if not painted. Bracing is an excellent tip and obviously no direct sunlight.

[mdross1]

Agree letting the body sit with no stress should keep it in good shape. The heat or what cold you have certainly should not hurt it one bit.

[DanEC]

I assume your question is due to the body being off of the frame currently. Storing the body in place on the fame would be the best solution.

If that isn't possible, rig up a good wooden buck to support it and so that it's weight is well distributed. Point loads on fiberglass will imprint into the surface after time so cross beams, contoured to the body shape in front of the trunk opening and under the fender bulges further back are a good idea. Also, behind the hood opening and in front of the hood opening. Four points of support along the length of the body, tied to a couple heavy wooden frame rails, running front to rear should protect the body from warping and imprinting. Some weathering of the body is actually good to help stabilize it before painting - but I agree with others that I would prefer to keep it out of the weather and sun.

[jhv48]

Check out the factory five forum. Most of those guys make body bucks to store their bodies until needed.

There must be at least one builder ready to get rid of his.

[Donunder]

Did you know there's also an Australian forum? You could check over there. I'm sure there'd be any number of guys in the Sydney area who could help out. Post the type of body you've acquired to give them something to go on.

[cozmo76]

Thanks of the replies guys, i really appreciate it! i guesses most would be common sense but didn't want to make any stupid mistakes.

As far as the type of body i have to that I'm still unsure, think thats another topic though, thanks a lot!

cheers
corrie