I have been contemplating the best way to repair these. I did think about making bespoke panels section by section. The reason for this was because I was really worried about keeping everything aligned. There is so much anchored to this part that if I made a mistake the consequences are massive in terms of the overall finish of the car, especially gaps.
But the damage was extensive...
So I just decided to buy the replacement sections and cut the old ones off.
Which was very daunting I have so stay. There was a moment when I looked down and thought what have I done.
But I did take as many measurements as I could.
and then started to offer up the new part.
It became very apparent that there are many different variables that you have to get right. I think I counted 10 in the end and the only way to check if I had got them all correct was when both of them were done and the radiator and front valance were in place.
Next was to weld on the radiator mount and that had to be cut off the old part, cleaned up and prepared for welding. I then had an idea about how to get this as close to perfect as I could.
When I moved into the garage I designed a tilting mechanism and part of that used the radiator mounts.
I realised I could bolt this back on and that would help me get this part back, with the help of the measurements.
All seems good and so on to the other chassis leg.
Although this one wasn't as damaged I felt it was better to do them both. It also gave me a chance to clean out the box section and painted rust converter down there for added protection.
Then it was just repeat the process and work off the measurements. I hoped I had got the other one correct. Only a few more welds and we'd find out.
So now with that complete would the front valance fit?
It did! I was so relieved. And this meant that all of the welding on the main chassis was complete. Just the boot, bonnet, wings and one of the doors to tidy up and we're good to go to the blasters.
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