Hey everyone,


Im a complete noob to cars all around. My name is Luke and Im 24, from Illinois. Ive been interested in cars( mainly classic muscle cars...GTO's, roadrunners, etc...) for well over 10 years, but have never had the opportunity to own one, drive one, take care of one, etc.... So here I am, I received a 1978 Trans Am as a gift. Its completely original(6.6L 400/4 speed tranny). The body is in great shape with one or two SMALL rust spots. Its Cameo white and the hood bird is worn a lil. The interior is immaculate(except for the cover on the center console/cubby hole). Ive been to several T/A specific sites and have ordered 3 catalogs to order parts/decals from................. Now here comes the bombshell lololololol .

The first thing I want to do is get this thing painted and replace the decals, so I figured Id strip the lights, chrome, etc. to save me some money when I take it to the paint/body shop........ Well I thought I was halfway mechanically inclined but I cant even get the HOOD open.. Yes, the HOOD..... There is a T-bar underneath the grill, that much I figured out. But my hands are too big or something else, I guess, because I cant find the lever that releases the hood. If anyone could at least throw me a bone on that I would greatly appreciate it. The other thing that worries me is the chrome seals around the windshield, back window, and door windows. Oh yea, I guess taking off the door panels to remove the door handles and keyhole worries me somewhat too.....

If anyone can help me out somewhat I would appreciate it........ Or you could flame me if you want, I wont mind......

Could anyone list exactly what I should strip before I take it to the paint shop???


Thanks everyone