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molding rear arches rather than piping

Posted: Fri Jan 26, 2024 12:05 pm
by Gunner
hi all, new to the forum but after some advice please. I am thinking of smoothing the arches to the body with bondo / filler but concerned about cracking - especially after painting. Has anyone any advice as to what is needed to do the job properly to avoid the chances of cracks appearing?

Grahame

Re: molding rear arches rather than piping

Posted: Fri Jan 26, 2024 1:57 pm
by geoberni
Such bodywork matters are not my forte, however I would sat that it's not going to be easy with bolted on wings and more likely to move in my view.

I know (pre-55), the Front wings started with piping but then went to filler, but being hidden in the bonnet trough is a lot different to being exposed bodywork.

Re: molding rear arches rather than piping

Posted: Sat Jan 27, 2024 11:04 am
by myoldjalopy
Well, someone may have done this successfully but, until they pop up on here and tell us, I would advise against it.

Re: molding rear arches rather than piping

Posted: Sat Jan 27, 2024 11:39 am
by ManyMinors
What do you hope to gain from doing it?
I've always felt that having bolt-on panels is an advantage as it means repairs are so much more simple.
The filler used to fill the gap along the front wing joint is simply a caulking sealant which doesn't fully harden and can be painted over.
You could try something like that along the rear wing joint as well but I'm not sure you'll gain anything over the piping :wink:

Re: molding rear arches rather than piping

Posted: Sat Jan 27, 2024 4:04 pm
by Gunner
Thanks all for your comments. My rationale was to tidy up some work by previous owner. Maybe I need to reconsider as I agree that removable wings does make life easier especially when repairs are needed.

Grahame