I finally took the aluminum diamond plating from the P.O. off the body a few weeks ago and of course there was a lot of rust and holes underneath. Really I need a 3/4 body tub because a lot of the inside tub and wheel wells are "custom," but I don't think I have the means or space to get that done yet. I'm wondering if I can get y'all's advice on how to patch things up.
Here's what I'm working with. 1974 FJ40
Things that the photos may not be clear about:
-I'm pretty sure most of the rocker panel is bondo and filler, but haven't gotten around to grinding that down yet.
-The rear sill is "custom" and the ends of it that remain are rotten.
-The only good original steel in the tub is the dash and firewall
I think here are my 3 options, in increasing immediate skill required, original steel removal, and cost (or let me know if there's another option you advise):
1. Bondo/paint and drive it until I can get a 3/4 body tub (at least 2-3 years)
2. These 3 patches I think would cover most of it, and weld the other pokeholes shut
-Quarter Patch
-Wheel Well Patch
-Outside Rocker Panel
3. Quarter Panel and Outside Rocker Panel
Any advice for a beginner welder would be appreciated. Let me know if there's something else I need to take photos of for better info. Thanks in advance.
Here's what I'm working with. 1974 FJ40
Things that the photos may not be clear about:
-I'm pretty sure most of the rocker panel is bondo and filler, but haven't gotten around to grinding that down yet.
-The rear sill is "custom" and the ends of it that remain are rotten.
-The only good original steel in the tub is the dash and firewall
I think here are my 3 options, in increasing immediate skill required, original steel removal, and cost (or let me know if there's another option you advise):
1. Bondo/paint and drive it until I can get a 3/4 body tub (at least 2-3 years)
2. These 3 patches I think would cover most of it, and weld the other pokeholes shut
-Quarter Patch
-Wheel Well Patch
-Outside Rocker Panel
3. Quarter Panel and Outside Rocker Panel
Any advice for a beginner welder would be appreciated. Let me know if there's something else I need to take photos of for better info. Thanks in advance.
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