Weld and grind weld and grind. If you need patches ever weld and grind. Avoid replacing panels or towers as all of these sub assemblies have dates. I has 6x6 holes torched out of the rear aprons on the 68.5 which was common for fender well headers in the late 60’s. I patched them by squaring the hole Nd cutting pieces from 2 original panels. You can literally make it seamless and perfect on both sides with enough time and patience metal working.
The reinforcements were not consistent until the April 1 intro but have seen a couple earlier 390 cars with them
I have a April 10 car and it does not have the reinforced towers, I say replace the towers with nice ones, and you will not have any problems. My 2cts
I am not an experienced welder, but certainly my strong preference would be to keep the original components with the car. Question - with a welded and patched repair, made invisible through grinding, attention to detail and patience, would this tower have the same strength as a unrepaired replacement?
Mike
If it is done properly it will be stronger than the original.
Mike
Heard that it has arrived in Oz. Are you having an unveiling for all the faithful?
Leon,
Yes it has arrived. Took forever to clear Customs, along with some other containers, but I am collecting it on Monday, along with a small mountain of spare parts that I have sourced from many places. I am looking forward to finally getting my hands on the car and getting started!
Mike
Well,
I am working on the shock towers right now. Hammer and dolly to realign the metal around the torched holes and the cracks. I have welded the cracks from both sides, cut metal from an old frame rail to fit exactly into the holes and welded them in from both sides. I used old frame rail steel, which is slightly thicker gauge than the towers. I left the patches slightly proud on the engine bay side and I am then using a flap wheel to grind them back flush.
The amount of time and effort I have put into repairing these cracks and holes is probably many times what a body shop would do, but after using the flap wheel they are basically invisible all-metal repairs. And who cares how long it takes!
So far, I am very happy with the results, and if it means keeping those 27 Feb 68 dated shock towers, it is worth it. Will post some photos later.
Mike