TheSamba.com :: View topic

Sat Jul 05, 2008 7:57 am

Hey guys:)
I have an extreme rust situation in the rear passenger arch.
Well it has 4 layers of metal patched on top, so im in the process of removing
Is there any spotwelds that need drilling ? any specific order or method I should use?
Whats the best too for cutting removing PHAT welds on previous repair jobs?
How many skins should there be in the arches, should there be an inner and outer skin?
Thanks guys
Alex

Sat Jul 05, 2008 9:27 am

can you post a pic of what your doing?

Sat Jul 05, 2008 9:36 am

Yeh sure will go take a photo :)
Alex

Sat Jul 05, 2008 9:43 am

Ok, well the general jist is, I have a 1970 1300 (UK) I am in the process of replacing both heater channels and floorpan halves.
The rear of the bug to the left and right of the crossmembers are patched to hell, also so are both the arches.
So far I have come across 4 skins of patches, with some really rotten metal right in the middle which caused me to investigate firstly.
After a little clean up with a wirebrush attachment I have this:

This is very bent and doesnt fit correctly

I plan on removing the arch as its condition at the moment is terrible especially outside, and replacing it with a complete new panel.
also sorting out these patches.

Thanks
Alex

Sat Jul 05, 2008 11:05 am

Wow, that is an utterly aborted mess. Check out my Gallery (Ghia submissions) and you'll see what I went through to remove the rear luggage area on a Ghia. If you're using new sheet metal then I would start with the outermost area, look for spot welds, and start drilling them out. You may end up with three (to use the term loosely) panels coming out at once. I take it your train of thought is to remove all of the patch panels and formerly rotted sections and replace with new?

Sat Jul 05, 2008 12:20 pm

Yep :)
Want to have a nice clean rear.
Thanks for the info
Alex