Thanks for all the support and commiserating.
I just got back from seeing two PDR guys......one young and one older.
The younger guy ddint feel comfortable......he said the stripe would definately have to come off and even then he wasnt sure...."older , thicker metal"......"not good leverage"....etc. Nice enough guy and I am glad he was honest that he didnt feel comfortable.
The second guy is who the first guy recommended...LOL....fellow around my age and put me very much at ease in a good way.
Was confident with me....discussed the stripe, said he could do it without removing the stripe but would prefer it off....
He suggested maybe the stripe could just be peeled back enough for access then reapply....neither of us were sure that would work well since its vinyl.....
So I have to look into seeing what my options are stripe -wise....I am sure that if I go to Year One etc they only sell the stripes as a kit......wondering if anyone makes them and could make me just one side maybe?
We also discussed how well the paint will hold up to manipulation….said that if he starts to see any crazing he will heat the paint up and that usually works…said that even if there is a skim coat under the paint we should be ok….he was pretty confident sounding.
I also was thinking about whether there will be an issue with paint fade --- the paint is 7 or 8 years old.....if the paint not covered by the stripe is faded , I will see that when the stripe is peeled back....and what are the chances of getting a new strip this many years later to match perfectly?
The good part is the guy quoted me a very reasonable $125, he comes to my garage. He hit me as a true craftsman...just had that vibe. He also said he could easily handle the small "whoopsie" tha tpopped up on my left rear quarter when something in the trunk tried getting out....small nipple poking out on the side of the car....LOL
So, advice/thoughts would be welcome.....
Anyone know who makes the best stripes for 72 Cudas? I googled it and there are many listings.....