Topic: 1969 rocker molding install

[69machjet]

 Hi I'm brand new to this forum and I love what I see! So I think I will be asking many question, but today I'm asking about the rocker moldings. First was this an option? Was it standard for a Mach 1? Also I have an 69 in primer and I'm thinking I want t put these on, so should I be doing something now before I paint? What is the procedure on the install for these thanks

[69RavenConv]

The bright rocker molding was standard on the Mach I but they didn't get wheel well moldings. They're attached by a set of clips riveted to the rocker panel.

[rharlan]

Not all rocker moldings are equal.The originals were tapered at the front end to fit were the fender flares out for the wheel well. A lot of the reproduction pieces do not have this taper. See circled area in photo. agreed they were standard on Mach 1s.

[69RavenConv]

The clips are on welded studs like the window clips.

Thanks, Mike, I stand corrected.

[69machjet]

So should I put the studs on now? How do they go on?

[cobrajetchris]

69 rocker moldings have a 1/8th inch hole and plasitc  clips are secured with pop rivits on the rocker panels and a t-bolt that secures it to the fender and a self taping stainless screw that attaches it to the very rear of the panel. I have never seen the welded on type pins used on a 69 rocker molding. If you are going to install these on a car that did not originally come with them it can be a little tricky. I would suggest find a car that has the moldings originally and make a template out of tape if the molding is removed to mark the holes. These moldings tend to pop loose in the middle or hard to clip in if not in perfect alignment. 

[69machjet]

Well a quick story behind this car, the prior owner was going to turn this car into a Shelby clone, he also had to replace the rockers because of rust. I'm just not sure also if I should get the car painted or get these studs in now while the car is in primer thanks

[cobrajetchris]

There are no studs to weld in, the holes for the rocker clips should be drilled and the molding  pre-fit before any painting is done.

[69machjet]

Ok thanks so much guy

[69machjet]

So which is better? For rust prevention and durability? Any visor f this done or more pics?

[cobrajetchris]

I know cars are different from plant to plant, however if they used 2 completely different methods of attaching these moldings than there would have to be 2 different type clips to install the moldings. The stud type way would need a larger hole next to a smaller hole so the clip can slid into position. The rivet type would only need one hole for the clip. Anyone else want to weigh in on this one?
As far as rust prevention, that would be a toss up, you weld a stud in and there is really no way to treat the backside of the rocker and if you drill a hole and the paint chips when the rivet expands it can cause corrosion. I myself would prefer the rivet type, however I don't think either one would be a problem. 

[J_Speegle]

The January SJ Mach I had had holes not pins

[ninedrvr]

Not all rocker moldings are equal.The originals were tapered at the front end to fit were the fender flares out for the wheel well. A lot of the reproduction pieces do not have this taper. See circled area in photo. agreed they were standard on Mach 1s.

Do any reproduction rocker moldings fit or is used/NOS the only way to go?

[7Lscjracer]

Another vote for rivets here.
Use aluminum mandrel rivets, steel is tougher to snap so the rivet gun likes to jump more which is danger, danger for your new repaint.
All body panels to be perfectly aligned and door hinges/pins all good before deciding where to drill the fenders.

[jim69mach1]

Currently restoring my 69 Mach 1, unmolested, untouched all original. Here are some photos of the clips and moldings.  The last attachment point is screwed in. Hope this helps.
Jim