The panels were / are made with a flange bent 90 degrees on the joining faces, they just butt together and spot-welded, as per usual methods. That`s why it better if you can to just drop in a new panel up to the seam lines, so it`s all as it was from new. Buy the new panel you need and you`ll see how it`s done, it`s obvious to see when you`ve got it in your hands.
If you`re just going to let in a smaller piece of the panel as a repair then I`d joggle the edge of the repair plate as you suggest and weld through the original skin to "puddle" similar to how a spot-weld would be. Then fill, prime and paint as before.
Panel repairs and suppliers?
Moderators: User administrators, Moderators
-
Westy.Club.Joker
- Registered user
- Posts: 484
- Joined: 18 Sep 2006, 19:37
- 80-90 Mem No: 2863
- Location: Sunny Lancs. 1988 1.6TD Westfalia Club Joker pop-top
-
Chrissyt
- Registered user
- Posts: 116
- Joined: 06 Jun 2008, 22:30
- 80-90 Mem No: 5738
- Location: Plymouth- Get on ya Janner!
ahhh!!! thats what i needed to know, sounds much easier to replace a panel, less likely to distort too i bet.
what happens with the seam on the outside, does it get filled or silicon etc??
I'm sorry for being impatient, i get my van home tonight so will be sure it will be obvious when i get a chance to look for myself.
Cheers
what happens with the seam on the outside, does it get filled or silicon etc??
I'm sorry for being impatient, i get my van home tonight so will be sure it will be obvious when i get a chance to look for myself.
Cheers