1938 Cadillac V16 - GM Heritage Center

Running boards are separated from the fenders at
both ends. This prevents the accumulation of water and
dirt which dampens and soils shoes and floor carpeting.
In fact, every attention has been given the new
LaSalle to make it soundproof and weatherproof.
Bonderizing and Finishing
The enduring lustre of Cadillac-LaSaile's beautiful
finish is due in large measure to the chemical process of
bonderizing. By treating all sheet metal and fenders
with this bath a primer is provided to the clean, bare
metal which prevents chipping, cracking and peeling
of the Duco from shock and vibration. Bonderized protection
is many times more rust resisting than finish
applied directly to the metal surface, yet this process is
rarely used by even other fine car makers.
Extreme care is taken in the finishing process to
avoid thin spots and fading of any of the new Cadillac
and LaSalle color combinations. Six coats are each
applied separately both up and down and across the
surface for thorough, even thickness and coverage.
After each coat the finish is allowed to bake thoroughly
in specially designed air tight rooms under even
temperature. It is then oil sanded and polished. Each
of these four steps is taken before one coat is completed.
Skilled inspectors measure paint thickness with special
gauges as an additional precaution for uniformity.
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