TheSamba.com :: View topic

Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:17 pm

Hi,

I'm looking at purchasing a mid 70s bug that has some rust and I'm wondering how bad it is - from someone who knows these cars. It has a rolls Royce fiberglass kit but the drivers channel does have some rust and I am worried I am overestimating the "ease" of fixing it.

Thanks for looking and for any advice,
J

Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:20 pm

The question is, is there enough metal to weld the new panels to?

It looks like the rust goes up the body.

If you get it for free, give it a try. If you have to buy the car... run away.

Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:30 pm

I forgot to add, $400 for it

Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:33 pm

What are your intentions?

Even if you do all the work it's gonna take thousands to buy mechanical and interior parts.

Thu Oct 10, 2024 10:26 pm

My goal would be to restore it enough to have it as a fun weekender/car show car - by no means a show car. I've never had an issue driving without some interior.

It is missing the motor so I'm aware of at least $1500 has to be thrown at it if not more just for the motor.

I was/am aware the heater channels and pans can be issues. I'm also aware that on the sides of the rear window are bad spots to have rust too but you definitely point out a concern. The B pillar rot as well as in front of the rear wheel fender, into the lower body - haven't seen many rot there (at least of the photos I've seen online)

Fri Oct 11, 2024 1:14 pm

I'm north of Charloot. I have parted out cars with better bodies. You could part that out for probably $100, maybe $150 if someone really wants the fiberglass fenders and hood. You would be money ahead to get a complete car that isn't rusted out. I do metal work and engine building but I wouldn't even drag that thing out into my field for storage.