Started on the bodywork. Pleased so far.

[meggles]

Well, I decided to touch a couple of bits in





Look at this seam, not a hole in sight or even a dent. Now, why was it originally covered in about 10mm (no exaggeration) of body filler when I first bought it?


I really did expect to find a lot of welding jobs to do so a pleasant surprise really. Couldn't believe how easily the window came out. Hope the other 3 are as easy. Need to locate a lacing tool for replacing the seal insert. Oh, and a decent seam sealer gun. Looks like thats all my birthday money gone.

[steve8090]

Bloomin eck Keith, I dont remember your van having that much to do on the body, its always been tidy, best of luck with it

[meggles]

I'd always tried to keep on top of the rust/stone chips but I decided enough was enough Steve. I'm going to spray it or get my brother to do it (he retires in December - hee hee). He's a qualified paint sprayer and a damn good one, or he was til he went driving buses!!! Maybe I've decided to overdo the repairs but I'm hoping it'll be a few years before it needs anything again. And there's always Rustoleum of course. I think the van is worth it anyway.

E D I T: Should have said: There's no really deep rust, only surface but I thought it better to get all the crap off before I paint it. And I needed the windows out so I could sort the rust staining from under the rubbers.

[dumbo]

good luck with it its half the fun cheers simon

[Mark Foss]

Bloody hell Keith you have been busy fella. Did you try out your spot blaster tool on the seams and if so how good was it? Might start on mine this winter as it's not looking as nice as it was.

Good luck Mark

[meggles]

Bloody hell Keith you have been busy fella. Did you try out your spot blaster tool on the seams and if so how good was it? Might start on mine this winter as it's not looking as nice as it was.

Good luck Mark

No, didn't need to use spot blaster. Couldn't use it without blasting neighbours car too. I'll be using it on the other seams though. You're welcome to pop over and have a close inspection any time Mark. Kettle always ready, as is a spare pair of overalls

[meggles]

Couple of questions please: Should I use automotive sealer when refitting windows? The seals are in very good condition. Also, where can I get the seal/runner/channel for the sliding windows. The felt stuff I mean which the glass sits in.

[Mark Foss]

Try here for your sliding window felt stuff Keith... http://www.woolies-trim.co.uk/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Other site recommendations would be useful as would like to do mine.

[scottbott]

I get moss growing in the channels of my slider,keep hoiking it out but could do with replacing though

[meggles]

Thanks Mark. I knew someone had mentioned somewhere but I couldn't remember who, or where they said. Non alcohol befuddled memory

[LittleMissSunshine]

Are you keeping it to the same colour? Looks like great progress

[meggles]

Are you keeping it to the same colour? Looks like great progress

Oh yes, virginal white. Like me I think it would be too much trouble changing the colour and having to paint all the inside bits. I've tried to keep it all original where possible and practical. The hardest part was first putting the sander to the paintwork and then SORNING it!
(Not long now!!)

[meggles]

I've been thinking (ouch). I might just go the rustoleum route. I've used it before and I was quite pleased with the result. (If I can't get a decent result rollering and flatting I can always spray the stuff afterwards). Less mess, less hassle from the neighbours too! More resistance to rust as well. As long as I can get L90D I have a feeling thats the way I'll go. I'll be able to get the paint on before winter sets in then flat and polish over winter, ready for the Tickled Pickering meet (if I'm invited).
Decisions decisions.

[meggles]

Not as exciting as some topics, and thankfully not needing Metal Mickey metalworking, but I am becoming more and more pleased with the condition of my van. I have had to weld one very small patch on the rear lower panel of my van but: No repairs needed to either window apertures or seams.


or around the fuel filler.


I do need to replace to rubber seal at the top of the filler neck, as well as the metal ring and I suppose the plastic surround as well. JK here I come
An appreciable amount of surface rust has been dealt with and then primed (brushed on to help smooth out and surface blemishes), and I'll flat it all tomorrow.

[hakuna matata]

You are doing a grand job , i will have to come and see ya for some tips !!!!

neil.