Hole in floor RUST!

[D@vid]

Hi guys,

It has been a while since I've posted an update. About a year ago, I got hold of my new1973 T (imported from California in 1999)
Overall I'm very happy with the car, although I must say that I'm still getting to know the car.
After driving it for a summer, it's now parked in the garage. It failed the mot because there's a large rust hole in the bottom due to the fact that de air conditioning system had been leaking water inside the car (probably for a while)
I'm trying to find out what's the best course of action here.
Here's my question: is there a pre formed repair panel that I can use to replace the rusted part and how complex is the repair for someone with some technical skills?

Thanks,

D@vid

[kkinzli]

Hi David,

Overall rust repair is not that bad if you have some technical skills. All you will need is a welder and the correct tools. Oh yeah, you also need metal. I have some pictures and a list of tools posted near the beginning of "Saving the Rat". I don't think that your rust repair is that difficult but it will take some time. You will need to remove the carpet and sound deading in the passenger seat area and scrape off all of the undercoating surrounding the area to be repaired. Showing us pictures of the damage from the inside will help us assess your situation.

Cheers,
Kristoph aka Ratman

[D@vid]

Hi Kristoph,

Thanks for your reply, I've been following your thread from day one, very nice job indeed!
You're right, I also think it can be done with the right tools. Most of them I've already got. Wasn't really sure if I should fabricate the piece myself but I probably will. It will however be a bit tricky to get to the other side of the repair. It's hidden behind the remains of the air conditioning. I will remove the entire unit an patch the hole in the firewall.


Cheers,

D@vid

[tharbert]

Look for Restoration Design. They have floor panels as well as a pedal area panel. One of their representatives is a member here. He recently was asking for pictures of their panels being installed. I have a set of their rockers I'm putting on my 72 and they seem to fit great. I think the company hails from Canada.

[D@vid]

Will do, thanks, tharbert

[irl]

I would not buy the part from restoration design unless you are going to replace a big part of your panel. They have great stuff but you will spend more time trying to get the small piece cut out of it that you need, trying to match up the exact section when all you need is a s small patch will drive you crazy. Also remember its a complex little area there and you dont need to replace it with one piece. It will most likely be a lot easier to think of it in 3 small patches that you configure each one after you weld a piece in. Good luck.