Author Topic: restoration sheetmetal  (Read 3341 times)

crobjones2

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restoration sheetmetal
« on: January 24, 2008, 02:10:01 AM »
What are the differences between imported vs. domestic sheetmetal panels?
For judging would it be better to repair damaged original sheetmetal or replace it?
Chris
Chris
69 SS 350

rich69rs

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Re: restoration sheetmetal
« Reply #1 on: January 24, 2008, 09:18:20 PM »
Usually original GM parts are a better solution if you can get them. 

Repro stuff is made from thinner gage steel which has a tendency to not hold its shape within tolerances once the stamping process is finished.  GM used certain gage steels for a reason.  Pacific rim repro stuff is made from thinner material to cut corners, save money, which usually translates into more time spent on fit and alignment of body panels. 

Original pieces may be more costly but could easily save you time by aligning properly without having to evoke the old adage, "Beat to fit, paint to match".
« Last Edit: January 24, 2008, 09:24:48 PM by rich69rs »
Richard Thomas
1969 RS

hihorse

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Re: restoration sheetmetal
« Reply #2 on: February 01, 2008, 12:08:16 AM »
What are the differences between imported vs. domestic sheetmetal panels?
For judging would it be better to repair damaged original sheetmetal or replace it?
Chris
Original patch panels are best because I bought a repro trunk pan to repair  the original pan and the depressions do not line up. Poor stamping quality.