Securing replacement body panel

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Dec 18, 2006 | 11:31 PM

77vettejeff

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Joined: May 2005

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Securing replacement body panel

I'm replacing the front half of my right fender. My GM manual says to secure the panel with sheet metal screws where it cannot be clamped. My concern is this, if I use panel adhesive and sheet metal screws, will the screws come out without cracking any of the fiberglass? I'm to remove the screws after the adhesive cures.
Thanks,
Jeff

Dec 19, 2006 | 12:27 AM

wombvette

Le Mans Master

Joined: Jan 2000

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From: New Hill NC

It will be no problem removing the screws, but it is not the best way to install panels. The screw holes are difficult to repair and not show up later.

Dec 19, 2006 | 07:26 AM

Jud Chapin

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From: Wellington, FL

St. Jude Donor '11 thru '25

I would recommend not using any screws.

Dec 19, 2006 | 09:04 AM

Easy Mike

Team Owner

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From: Southbound

Cruise-In II Veteran

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jud Chapin

I would recommend not using any screws....

Not using screws is great provided you can get the panel alignment you want without them. It's a heckuva lot easier to patch and repair a screw hole than it is trying to build up two misaligned panels.

Dec 19, 2006 | 10:25 AM

Artsvette73

Drifting

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From: Piscataway NJ

My preferance is duct tape

Dec 19, 2006 | 10:55 AM

halfmoontrail

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From: Melrose Florida

Quote:

Originally Posted by 77vettejeff

I'm using drywall screws, but drilling a pilot hole through the panel and bonding strip first, no cracking in or out. These tiny holes will be easy to fix with fiber-reinforced filler (gasp).