Rusty Window Pillars.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 278
Likes: 14
Rusty Window Pillars.
I got a 69 when I look into the window pillars from outside the car I see rust, and what appears to be rotten rust. When I drive down the street pieces of broken rust fall into my lap. I know I don't have a perfect car, But I'm wondering in this can be repaired? If so how would I begin this project this winter?
Thanks in advance.
Thanks in advance.
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 38,923
Likes: 1,482
From: Southbound
Cruise-In II Veteran
Windshield post rust indicates there may be further birdcage issues. The posts are repairable; several of the aftermarket provides carry repair pieces, but it is expensive. Windshield will have to come out and welding skills will be required.
Before you begin repairs, purchase the assembly instruction manual (AIM) for our year and study the birdcage assembly diagrams. The AIM will show the various pieces you will be needing, the factory spot welds, reinstallation of the windshield, etc.
Good luck.
Before you begin repairs, purchase the assembly instruction manual (AIM) for our year and study the birdcage assembly diagrams. The AIM will show the various pieces you will be needing, the factory spot welds, reinstallation of the windshield, etc.
Good luck.
Last edited by Easy Mike; Oct 5, 2009 at 01:18 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 9,192
Likes: 27
From: Boca Raton Florida
If you have rust falling on the inside there will almost definately be more problems. Pull the kick panels and take a look at the #2 body mounts, thats where the water gathers when it gets past the windshield and causes rust in the pocket.
What your up against:
You know the side pillars are toast
Odds are good that the top frame and upper corners will have problems
The lower WS frame corners are notorious for rusting out
#2 mount pockets and rocker channels rusted out
This stuff can be fixed
Its a LOT of work
Co$t a paycheck or 2 if you do it yourself, several if you farm it out
Lower WS frame corners require removing the front clip or cutting the rear corners of the fenders
Good odds that the windshield will break while being removed
The good thing is there are a couple guys that make all the parts you need.
Pull the kick panels, pillar covers and WS trim, post some pics
What your up against:
You know the side pillars are toast
Odds are good that the top frame and upper corners will have problems
The lower WS frame corners are notorious for rusting out
#2 mount pockets and rocker channels rusted out
This stuff can be fixed
Its a LOT of work
Co$t a paycheck or 2 if you do it yourself, several if you farm it out
Lower WS frame corners require removing the front clip or cutting the rear corners of the fenders
Good odds that the windshield will break while being removed
The good thing is there are a couple guys that make all the parts you need.
Pull the kick panels, pillar covers and WS trim, post some pics
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 31,285
Likes: 4,374
From: Westminster Maryland
Hi MMH,
There are some pretty extensive threads on this Forum about assessing and dealing with birdcage rust. If you do a 'search' you'll see a lot of pictures and information about what's involved.
Good Luck!
Regards,
Alan
PS: Take a look at "BIRDCAGE" on today's posts on this Forum.
There are some pretty extensive threads on this Forum about assessing and dealing with birdcage rust. If you do a 'search' you'll see a lot of pictures and information about what's involved.
Good Luck!
Regards,
Alan
PS: Take a look at "BIRDCAGE" on today's posts on this Forum.
Last edited by Alan 71; Oct 5, 2009 at 04:47 PM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 3,246
Likes: 4
From: Bay Area CA
Sometimes, all is not lost if you have a rusty windshield surround. The top bar on my '73 is totally 'gone', really really bad, but the side posts are very good, and cage mounts are all perfectly fine. check the birdcage feet. It is what it is.. 
C.
C.
