The Rust Belt Fallacy
Posted by my_old_skeleton@reddit | projectcar | View on Reddit | 8 comments
The idea that if I keep digging I have to find SOMETHING solid in there!
I'm going to keep moving forward. Logically I should probably cut my losses, but logic was never the point of a project car was it?
My theory is that there's only two potential outcomes. One is that I end up with a Trans Am. The other is that I gain a whole lot of experience on a car that was probably destined for a crusher anyways.
Which_Ad8594@reddit
Cut the VIN stamp out of the body panels (firewall, radiator brace, wherever) and just rebuild from aftermarket sheet metal. This is the way. :)
my_old_skeleton@reddit (OP)
I just hit "complete order" on Summit for panel seam busting tools, 1/8" Clecos, and a can of self etch primer (to bump me up to free shipping, and I already have the weld-thru primer on hand).
thisislikemyfifthalt@reddit
There’s a freeing feeling knowing you can’t make it any worse
my_old_skeleton@reddit (OP)
For sure. Felt weird hitting body metal with a cutoff wheel at first, but before I even finished cutting out this piece, I was over that feeling and just ready to make some progress!
Careless_Steak9668@reddit
I went through the same thing on both sides. Cut out each layer and make a template from the old rusted metal out of tape or tin foil then use that to help make your new layers and weld it all back up.
my_old_skeleton@reddit (OP)
That's exactly the plan at the moment. I'll get the other side opened up tonight and see if it's much worse.
disappointed_sausage@reddit
Some days you win. Some days you learn.
Sea-Monk549@reddit
Good quote, I’m going to start implementing that one with the kids as they try new things in the shop/yard/outings.