We didnt show it before, but the trunk lid, doors, and quarter extensions were all test fitted before the quarter panel welding was done. Here, the passenger quarter panel is being fitted and installed after many test fittings.
OK, Figured it out. I use a Google doc to write these, and it was inserting code in the image links that V8 Buick didn't like. Pasting the text into a notepad and then copying that to V8 Buick did the trick. Good to know, more updates will follow, we've got some reeeeeealy neat stuff coming on this one!
Ha, it's all good man, no worries! Just glad you found the pics on our site! I'll keep posting more here this week. Thanks for diggin' the car!
The next panel requiring some attention was the rear window / deck lid filler panel. This piece had rusted along the lower rear window edge, so the welds in the original were drilled out and the rusty panel removed. One of the strengthening holes had deteriorated, so a new patch was formed with a Mittler flared die punch and welded in place. The substructure was cleaned with a wire wheel, roloc discs, and other abrasive tools to remove the rusty scale.
The replacement panel was test fitted several times, including fitment with the deck lid in place to ensure the trunk seal would be in the proper location. The weatherstrip channel was also set in place to be welded to the new quarter panels.
When the fit was satisfactory, the parts primed with an HTP Weld Through primer, and were MIG, resistance spot welded, and TIG welded together with HTP welders. http://www.usaweld.com
By the way Curtis, your Silver Mist car is one of my all-time favorites! Looks fantastic, man. Love that car.
Next, the crew moved to the front of the Buick's body shell. As is common with GM A body cars, the bottom of the cowl boxes had rusted away due to debris, leaves and moisture rotting the panel from the inside out. We fabricated some repair panels and TIG welded them in. This included repairing the cowl on the inside as well. Numerous repairs were made to the Buicks floor and body mount areas.
Of course, the bottom of the fender was also affected by the rust, so metal repairs were necessary. The inner support had also rusted at the bottom half. This would have to be repaired as well. Repair panels were made and welded to the bottom half of the fender skin. The repaired fender waiting for epoxy primer in the paint booth.
