Rear trunk rust repair

[johnvan8]

Hi all'
I looked at a 74 today and found rust in the rear trunk toward the rear edge (right over the muffler area). The owner says it's possible to cut out the existing sheet metal (right up to the transmission mount area) and weld in new one. Is this right? And if so, is it something that would be financially reasonable to do? (I was planning to buy sheet metal from a parts car and then pay a professional welder to do it). What if I just left it there and drove the car?
Any response would be appreciated.

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Yes, it can be cut out and new metal welded in. I, of course, recommend that you buy new metal from Pelican. Metal from a parts car may or may not already have some rust on it--don't weld in rusty metal.

If you ignore rust, it will only get worse.

--DD

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Pelican Parts 914 Tech Support

A few pics of my car: http://www.pelicanparts.com/gallery/Dave_Darling

[efeinsmith]

Pretty much any rust is repairable, given enough time and $$$$$$. Since 914's have a "problem" with tin worms, I would check the car over very carefully, especially by both jack receivers, around the battery, and the right rear suspension console. Also check behind the seats (not as easy to see though). The trunk rust might have been from a bad trunk or tail light seal, but look carefully before buying. Repair costs can increase geometrically!