Rusty 80sc

[Ron.G]

I was looking at a 80 sc this weekend that is for sale. When I opened the drivers door there is a spot that is rusted through on the door strike side up near the top.
it's a fairly good size rot hole. about 3 inchs across and about 2 1/2" wide.

Is this a commond spot for rust on a SC? Seems like a wierd spot to me. It also has rust bubbles on the driver side front fender. otherwise the body looks to be in very good shape.

Were would I find a fender for this car if I end up buying it?
I looked on Pelican but did not see any.

i'll give more details on the car when I get more info myself.

Thanks.

[dickster]

ron,

that is a common place for rust. all the debri from the rear wheel collects around that area (under the fender), and if it isn't cleaned out periodically rust is the result.

[Ron.G]

This is in the door jamb. up at the top on the side were the VIN# and door strike are located. About 2" down from the window frame for the side window.

[dickster]

exactly - behind that is the wheel well.

[dickster]

what is the rest of the car like for rust? how about the jacking points? wheel arches etc?

i would avoid cars with rust problems. if you find one spot there is almost certainly more somewhere else.

[Ron.G]

So far only the drivers front fender which should be replaced. This car has original paint and was a daily driver. Jack points do not have any rust at all. I have not looked at it yet on a lift because they are doing a top end re-build on the engine in there shop and the car itself is in a cramped cage area.

just looking at the under carrage laying on the ground, There are no signs of rust at all so far.

Where can I find a fender if I go this route?

[dickster]

i believe they show up on ebay....

[Ron.G]

Thanks guys. So they do not have remanufactured fenders and used is the only way to go?

[Ron.G]

Has anyone ever fixed the rot hole as mentioned? The outer portion would be easy, but what about the metal behind it? Iis this something that can be accessed from the interior of the car?

Can I purchase a new fender or is this soley a used parts find thing?

[banjomike]

You've found rust in two locations. I would give very generous odds that there is rust in other locations on that car. I would thank the owner and run don't walk away! Why buy a rust bucket when SC's are so plentiful and cheap?

[Craig 930 RS]

Rhode Island? 1980 Iron OxideSC. Look for more rust......then move onto another.

[Ron.G]

Gotcha.