TheSamba.com :: View topic

Sat Nov 09, 2002 11:13 pm

I need to repair a heater channel what metal should i use? Please help if you have any info on this. thanks
MARK

Wed Nov 13, 2002 3:30 pm

Surface rusty steel from an old running board. That's what I used and it worked great.

If you have entire panels that are crusty, cut 'em out and replace with new ones. If there is rust-through all over the channels, you are likely to find more later and you might find it best to simply have someone replace the channels entirely...or find a more economically feasible candidate for restoration. I say "have someone replace" becuase I presume from the nature of your question that you are not an experienced welder--which you would need to be.

Wed Nov 13, 2002 8:06 pm

well i am not a welder by anymeans but the area doesnt seem to big but you might be right about finding some later on. How much would it be to have one replaced?
MARK

Fri Nov 15, 2002 5:06 pm

Most of the online sites have entire channels and partial pieces for sale. Check there for parts prices. Replacement of the entire channel is challenging because it is welded to the car in a lot of places and if you do have to remove it you run the chance of ending up with your doors out of alignment. A good welder will not make these mistakes but you might if you get in over your head.

You didn't say where your rust is. One small hole the size of a dime? Bunch of pinholes? Twisted out running board bolts? If I knew where the rust was, I could give you a better idea what you are faced with. Remember that these things rust from the inside out and the inside probably looks like the surface of Mars. You need to make an educated guess about what the inside of the channels looks like and how long you plan to keep the car because you really ought to be thinking about stopping that rust somehow. That will help you decide how much is enough when considering this repair.

I'm not watching this old thread anymore but you can email me at christraciandclaire@attbi.com and I will continue to try and help you.

Chris