"After applying the fourth coat of clear paint, the final stage of painting is complete, allowing the vehicle to progress to the mechanical refitting phase.
I was fortunate enough to receive support from
VOLKSWAGEN WORKSHOP AUTOMOTIVE in Thrissur, where the owner, a friend, generously offered the use of their space and facilities.
Although their specialization lies in new-generation cars, they graciously provided me with access to their equipment, including a lift, tools, crane, and more.
Transporting my car via flatbed, I relocated it to their facilities situated approximately 12 kilometres away from the painting shop. The following day, my mechanic initiated the meticulous task of disassembling the suspension, differential, axles etc.
Ideally, this disassembly should have preceded the painting process. However, due to logistical constraints with the location of the painting booth, it became a necessary post-painting step.
It demanded 6 to 7 hours of exhaustive effort to fully dismantle the suspension, leaving only the car shell intact.
Now, each component will be carefully loaded into my EcoSport—the poor thing has borne quite a load—and transported back to Cochin.
There, every part will receive individual attention: powder coating, fitting with new seals and bushes, ensuring readiness for installation in Cochin itself. Choosing Cochin for this comprehensive process seemed logical, given its superior infrastructure and wider availability of parts, minimizing the need for multiple visits to Thrissur.
Once all the components are primed, I'll return them to Thrissur for final fitting. I'll keep you updated as this process unfolds."