With the bracket cut from the pan I started blasting it clean. Promising start:
Drilled the spot welds out to free the piece I needed. Its not actually in bad condition:
Bottom of retaining bolt blasted revealing the original factory spot welds (faintly visible in this photo):
Blasted clean and those spot welds drilled out:
To be honest, I do not know why I am compelled to salvage these particular parts as the 12V battery that the car now has is too big for the original strap and bracket (which was designed to accommodate a 6V battery). However, I personally think its good that those original features have been considered and incorporated into the rebuild. It will ultimately help to retain some that original 60's stock character - even if the purpose is redundant. Further down the line I may try and create a new strap system to suit a 12V battery and that works with this stock bracket and resembles the look of the original. We will see.
With the exact placement worked out, I drilled a hole in the floorpan ready for locating the retaining bolt:
I plug welded it into place on the underside of the pan:
Ground the welds down for a smooth 'factory' finish:
Plugs added and good signs of penetration could be seen on the underside of the pan:
Finished up and given the customary lick of zinc primer:
All done and looking stock fresh:
Looking fresh. Its those little details that set a really good restoration apart.
ReplyDeleteThanks Todd! There are a few more details still to do, but the chassis is starting to take shape now
DeleteI have read your blog cover to cover thus far. Totally inspiring! I have just embarked on a chassis up rebuild and I've spent all day cutting the floor pans out, only to find the rust is far worse... I too shall have to rebuild Napoleaon's hat, amongst other bit! Still, you have shown me that nothing is impossible! I look forward to your updates!!
ReplyDeleteHi Duncan! Thank you - I'm thrilled to hear that my blog has helped inspire and teach. Makes writing up my experience all worthwhile. I wish you the best of luck with your restoration. Yep, the rust is ALWAYS far worse than you think its going to be, but you do get used to it ;-)
Delete