Topic: Need Some Input

[koski19]

Yesterday I installed the passenger side quarter panel, installed the trunk lid, the passenger side door and the rear valance. I have a problem with the driver side quarter panel and the rear valance. The driver side clearance is 1/2" between the panel and the valance and is off set. This gap needs to be at least 1/4".  The passenger side clearance is 1/4". I have attached photos to show. The last photo shows the old rear valance and the damage there. However the valance was installed using filler to make the gap. A little history. The driver side quarter panel is an OEM part bought thru Ford in 1981 and installed based on the sticker that was still attached to the inside of the quarter panel. I think the maybe the driver side quarter panel is sticking out 1/4" to 1/2".  Here's my question: How do I fix/repair this gap?
I really don't want to install a new driver side quarter panel. I've run out of ideas and none seem to give the answer I'm looking for.

Jeff

[cobrajetchris]

This is a fairly common problem as the reproduction valances are sometimes short causing this however in your case it looks like they fit the replacement driver side quarter to a severely damaged valance that should have been replaced. I think your only option is to break loose the welds on the lower part of the quarter panel at the rear body panel until you can move it in. You may need a friction jack to do it but it will move. Be careful not to buckle the quarter panel at the wheelhouse area. Once it's fit to your satisfaction weld it back up.

 Looks like your project is progressing very nice.    Chris

[koski19]

Chris...What's a Friction Jack?I never heard this term. Thanks for the suggestion...I'll work on it today.........


Jeff

[cobrajetchris]

A friction jack, also nick named "monkey on a stick" is a pole jack that can be reversed so it's able to push out or in. If you don't have one a simple come along will do the job as well. You just need something to pull that quarter panel in an hold it in position with screws to check the fit of the valance before welding.

http://www.wayfair.com/ALC-Friction-Jack-Set-Monkey-On-A-Stick-77043-TCZ1112.html#

[koski19]

Learn something new each and every day. Thanks for the explanation. I do have a come along.


Jeff

[koski19]

I spent yesterday afternoon attempting to move the rear quarter panel in 1/4" to align with the rear valance, no go. I then decided to remove the quarter panel to install a new one. Have the new Dynacorn panels ordered. I'll be replacing the outer wheel well, the quarter panel, the taillight panel and the "B" pillar. These pieces where rusted (lots of rust) and filled with fillers and sound deadners to cover it up. The drain hole in the rear quarter panel was plugged with a rubber material that no water was allowed to drain. The "B" Pillar has two 1/2" holes drilled thru at the top and bottom, can't figure what that was for. I'll be posting photos under a new thread later.

Jeff

[koski19]

Since Nov 22, my last post I've been busy with the coupe. I removed the tail light panel and driver's side quarter panel and ordered new Dynacorn parts.
After the parts where received I did a test fit of the panels to include:  tail light panel, trunk filler panels, driver's side and passenger quarter panels and the rear valance. There is an alignment problem with the passenger side holes where the tail light housing attaches. Either the tail light panel needs to be moved down or the quarter panel needs to be moved up and I have figured it out yet. All and all I'm happy with the initial fit. Looks better than the first photos posted in this thread. Now for the tweeking part. I also worked on painting the rust preserver/preventative after the metal prep and finished up the hood, front fenders, engine bay and the rear of the coup.
I also finished up the front seat upholstery. Back to the coupe tomorrow.

[suskeenwiske]

I saved some of your pictures on my memory stick...will come in useful later. I also like the simple front and rear dollies you made; I'm going to borrow your design for my car.

Thanks

Ray

[koski19]

I have the info for making the dolly's. Let's get together and talk more.
I'll look into the Gallery later today. Get some before and after photos
posted.

Jeff

[CW4macret]

I have the info for making the dolly's. Let's get together and talk more.
I'll look into the Gallery later today. Get some before and after photos
posted.

Jeff

Could you post the info on making the dolly's ?  Thanks

[suskeenwiske]

Good deal Jeff...would enjoy seeing some before and after photos...and yeah, the info on the Dolly Construction would be great.

Thanks

Ray