Basically....everything in red has been replaced/repaired.
Next job is drivers side step panel and then we can think about fitting the valence.
I have some aquasteel now...is it suitable for the front panel or just underneath hidden bits? Can you get a decent finish over it?
I've only mainly Aquasteel in hard to get at places (with a radiator brush) or where I could just paint over it with a brush (underneath, inside doors) Not actually used it direct to bodywork unless a skim of filler went over the top:I
Have to admit, it does look a little surprised now! However, full marks for carrying on in such weather.
I don't know if Aquasteel has the same properties as Bilt Hamber Hydrate 80, but advice in this months Practical Classics is that it is better to brush it as helps wet the surface and penetrate into pores.
I must confess. The tarpaulin is working well at keeping me dry, though it has been cold, sunny and dry for the last couple of weekends. My secret is longjohns, padded overalls and a warm hat. Am glad we haven't had any snow......just lots of filler dust everywhere. Am going to do the same every winter, so that the van is ready for summer. We are planning a longer trip this time.
Huzzaahhhh and happy christmas!
I thought I would whip off the old step panel to see how the new GRP one would fit....the answer is it will fit great....a little bit of welding to do first.....time for a few steps back.
Time to decide whether it's worth trying to repair it or order me a late prezzie from Mr M.
Today I have had flashbacks to working on minis...you know where oversills have been fitted and the old rusty ones have just been hidden. I had a rusty patch on the edge of the floor and lo and behold a new patch has been welded over the rust. I have given up being surprised with the van!
I have welded in a nice stout piece of box section in lieu of missing metal and am tempted to fully weld this up and leave it in place...good idea or not?
I then knocked a replacement floor panel taking into consideration the box section:
THe outer sill fits well with this in place. I am then planning on beefing up the rear half of the door aperture in a similar fashion.....once again...can any one see any issues with this. THe van is by no means going to be a "show van" but one that is used, so originality isn't high up my priority list...sturdiness is.
As long as the box section is welded securely to the rest of the inner cill It should be strong enough. Remember this is the structural bit - the outer step is just for show
LOL...my outer sill is fibreglass, so defo not structural. I am hopefully adding enough rigidity.
I am adding new metal so that the box section is secure. It's 3-4mm thick so should be up to the job
