TheSamba.com :: View topic - HELP - 78 bus rear wheel arch replacement question

Tue Oct 11, 2011 6:23 pm

I have a replacement panel for my 78 bus (drivers rear wheel arch) - the old one was rusted through both ends and around the arch itself - so I had to go with the full panel

However, my question is to how I can weld the left side (forward side). The panel has an L shaped bend which matches the stock panel that is connected to a post. But that is located behind the lip of the side panel in front of it.

I don't see how to weld that in without pulling the other panel off - but that's not happening.

so I left a 1/4 in lip on the side of the old panel where that L bend starts -

my questions is - rather than use the L bend, can I cut that end off the panel and just weld it to the 1/4 lip left from the old one?

Tue Oct 11, 2011 6:28 pm

Yes, do what you got to do, buses are built from the outside in as you're discovering and unless you are going to change the long panel too welding to the lip is the only option.

Tue Oct 11, 2011 6:36 pm

God bless you - i wasn't looking forward to the alternative. While I'm waiting for some brake parts I'll get to welding - i have some underneath grinding and patching to do first before the panel. I'll post pics on my main thread

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=464711&highlight=

thx