spyder cracks
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 16
Likes: 0
spyder cracks
I am about to take a look at a 71 vette with what the owner describes as spyder cracks in the paint. I am new to fiberglass bodies and don't know if this is a serious problem requiring lots of work or will a new paint job with proper sanding and primer do it? I am not looking for a show car just a good driver after the paint job. Thanks for any advice.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 2,709
Likes: 3
From: Savannah GA
Spider cracking is a generic sort of term used to describe paint and body faults which look like spider webs. These cars were originally painted with lacquer which is inherently brittle. If impacted, or sometimes as a result of normal shrinkage over time the paint can develop surface cracking which sanding/stripping will cure. However, the glass bodies on these cars are also somewhat brittle, and impacts and/or shrinkage/outgassing over time can damage the actual panels as well. It requires an experienced eye to differentiate between surface cracking and structural cracking...if there are multiple repaints present the thickness of the topcoats can confuse things even more...if you like the car I suggest finding an expert to look at it before you purchase... the money would be well spent.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 954
Likes: 2
From: San Jose CA
Leaning against the car can crack the paint since fiberglass flexes. See that a lot on the top of the front fenders when people work on their engines. Or maybe just a old paint job wearing out. Live with the patina or pay $$$ for a repaint. You usually can't buff out cracks.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 2,200
Likes: 3
From: Lehigh county Pennsylvania
As was said, the glass flexes but the hard OEM acrylic lacquer paint does not. It would be unusual to find a '71 with original paint that did not have them. A fact of life for these cars.
