Rust - How Much Trouble am I in?
Thread Starter
7th Gear
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Rust - How Much Trouble am I in?
Project is a 1971 coupe. If you open the driver's side door, you can see lots of rust at the base of the windshiled pillar. 
I figure anything is able to be repaired (with unlimited time and budget) but I was wondering if anyone who has tackled this kind of thing how bad a job it is. Thanks.
I figure anything is able to be repaired (with unlimited time and budget) but I was wondering if anyone who has tackled this kind of thing how bad a job it is. Thanks.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 2,635
Likes: 0
From: Union Ontario
Sounds like a good portion of your front birdcage is rotten. Your rocker channels-- at least where the door pillar is are probably rotten too.
I am fixing this right now along with many others on the forum.... Its not an easy job but it can be done. I picked up a good condition birdcage from a person I know for $250 CA and replaced it as part of a frame off resoration (frame was rotten too)
The best way to do it is to:
1) remove the windshield
2) remove the dash and all front trim
3) assess the situation( all you have to do is post pictures on here we'll help you decide if its saveable
If the door pillars require replacement
4)remove the front clip from the firewall
5) remove the firewall.
6) remove and replace the front birdcage
7) reverse procedure for install
Thats a pretty general way to explain it as there are many tasks contained withing most of those items.
If its only the windshield frame it should be a much easier job--- you won't have to remove the front clip.
I did it without removing the front clip..... and would not suggest it.... as I will probably end up taking the clip off to get it aligned right.
I am fixing this right now along with many others on the forum.... Its not an easy job but it can be done. I picked up a good condition birdcage from a person I know for $250 CA and replaced it as part of a frame off resoration (frame was rotten too)
The best way to do it is to:
1) remove the windshield
2) remove the dash and all front trim
3) assess the situation( all you have to do is post pictures on here we'll help you decide if its saveable
If the door pillars require replacement
4)remove the front clip from the firewall
5) remove the firewall.
6) remove and replace the front birdcage
7) reverse procedure for install
Thats a pretty general way to explain it as there are many tasks contained withing most of those items.
If its only the windshield frame it should be a much easier job--- you won't have to remove the front clip.
I did it without removing the front clip..... and would not suggest it.... as I will probably end up taking the clip off to get it aligned right.
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 200
Likes: 0
From: Manahawkin NJ
If I were in your situation, and you have no rush or deadline to get this car on the road, I would pull the frame completely off the chassis and check EVERYTHING for rust. If there's rust somewhere visible, it's likely the concealed parts are rusted over as well. Replace anything that is rusted through before dropping the frame back on.
Racer
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 281
Likes: 0
From: Altoona pa
Well not to freak you out but. thats what my 72 had. after pulling the windshield out and lifting the body. if had to buy another frame. and after more poking and prading at the birdcage. i just bought a whole rear clip it was that bad. pull the body and take out the windshield then you'll see what you really have. good luck
