Question: I’m interested in buying a 1972 Maserati Ghibli Coupe. The one that I’m interested in is in very good condition and still has the original paint. The issue is that the paint is cracking at the lower rear corners of the rear side windows. There is no bubbling and there does not appear to be any rust. What could be causing this, and how hard would it be to repair?
Answer: This is an area where body panels are joined and the joints were “smoothed” with lead. Over the past few decades the lead has become unstable and the joint has cracked. Although the repair itself is not difficult, keeping the repair localized and blending the color is. Unless someone assures you that they can accomplish this repair without the possibility of having to repaint entire panels, I would leave it alone. Just call it “patina” and people will nod knowingly instead of cringing.
Answer: This is an area where body panels are joined and the joints were “smoothed” with lead. Over the past few decades the lead has become unstable and the joint has cracked. Although the repair itself is not difficult, keeping the repair localized and blending the color is. Unless someone assures you that they can accomplish this repair without the possibility of having to repaint entire panels, I would leave it alone. Just call it “patina” and people will nod knowingly instead of cringing.
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