TheSamba.com :: View topic - Correct Pan color for 55-58 Deluxe Bus

Thu Jul 03, 2003 9:44 pm

Does any one know the correct factory colors underneath a 55-58 Deluxe Bus (Chestnut Brown / Sealing Wax Red)? I'd like to know the colors of the following:

1) Belly Pan
2) Wheel wels (can't remember how to sp. wels...)
3) Area underneath front
4) Area underneath engine
5) Transmission mounts/Engine cradle
6) Front Splash Pan

I think all the suspension parts, axles etc. were either gloss or semi-gloss paint...depending on what the factory had at the time...?

I am restoring the beast, and want to make sure everything is done right the first time... thanks for any contribution.! Stacey

Mon Jul 14, 2003 8:03 pm

Well, first you need to know that the factory used mollases and pine tar in all of the factory seams. This facilitated a 'super smooth' finish once the 'sealing wax' red was applied. Not many people are aware that these earlier deluxes had all of their suspension parts coated from the factory with a paint call 'dastremcladschwarz'. It's a very sturdy coating that can be touched up with a brush, over and over and over... Hey good to see you're already getting busy with the bus! Chad.

Tue Jul 29, 2003 10:36 pm

'dastremcladschwarz' ... I just looked up the factory ingredients.. It appears to be 1 part liquid paper, 2 parts paper mache, 6 parts vinegar. Instead of pine tar, I may try Roger's syrup as it has the same consistency for half the price.

Wed Jul 30, 2003 7:51 pm

That sound remarkably like the beverages you were serving last time we visited.