Just doing a little surfing on line, and thought I would get some opinions. I just took the vinyl roof of the "73" Comet. Found a few holes in the roof, where the top was ripped (been sitting outside). No biggy on repairing them, but opinions wanted. Should I go ahead and replace with some sheet metal, or use my expert fiberglass repair knowledge? Not going to replace the vinyl top right now, just going to paint the car one color, or maybe the top to match the interior (dark blue int., outside is that robin egg blue). Thanks. John"73"
I'am not a big fan of fiberglass . You need to stop the rust from duing any more damage. If you have the experties in working with metal fix it once and fix it right . just my 2 cts . JAY
Roof is tough.All curves,Metal patches can be done.(gotta know your stuff though)As for fiberglass.Nah,fiberglass is for boats and vettes.Either way.if your gonna do it so it lasts you really should remove the head liner,make sure you get all the rot or it will come back in short order.Pulling the head liner is a real pain in the tukuss.Gotta pull the windshield and backlight(rear glass) at the least.If you dont pull it youll start the car on fire when you burn patches into it.Some guys just have a good roof put on the car.($$$$)Easyest thing I can tell you is weld plug patches on from inside,then fill from outside and be done with it.Filler isnt meant to fill holes.and fiber glass(see above comment)Good luck.
The best way is to cut out all the rust and weld in new metal. If it is a bunch of pinholes, you can braze it. Either way, it requires removing the headliner. If you dont want to do that, You might try some JB Weld or Metal to Metal as a base filler. Not too sure how it would hold up over a period of years, but it would work for awhile.
Appreciate all the tips and opinions. Headliner has to come out anyway, it was somewhat damaged due to the ripped vinyl/holes and water. So, I just may tack some metal onto the bad spots, prep and paint. Other than buying a parts car, and cutting off good roof (curved) sections, anybody have a good sheet metal provider. I have them here in town, and I know there are providers and web sites for quarter panels and fenders etc., but just wondering if anybody out there sells "roof sections", you know with the bends and curves, any thing to cut down on fabricating saves time. And probably like alot of you, I love working on cars, but I also, fish, golf, ride motor cycle and play poker..so any "time saving" tips are welcomed. Ok, thanks again.
Sorrry but no patch panels available. Maybe you could find one in a local junkyard and cut out some patch panels. Or post some pictures of the problem areas. With all the parts cars on this sight alone, someone would be able to help you.
I agree., and with the swap meets beginning, around here anyway, should be able to find something. Have a big one starting next week (Canfield, Ohio Fair Grounds), so I will be looking. Again, just always worth asking, and I have received some great tips, suggestions and opinions off this site. I do all my work myself, but have learned not to be to proud, and when you ask, you may find out something (even at my age) that you didn't know, or wasn't aware of., thanks again.
I definitely wouldn't go as far as considering replacing the whole roof over a few rust/rot spots. Trust me, I replaced 1/4 of the roof on my 65 Mustang and it's not a fun job even for somebody relatively experienced with metal work. But then again it depends how big the affected area is. Assuming the holes are small you don't have to worry about the crown too much. You can get a peice of sheet metal at your local hardware store (Leows or Home Depot), they usually carry small peices. If you can't find them try an autobody supply store, they will have them. Just rough out the crown in the metal by running the whole piece over your knee while sitting. Apply light pressure to the ends to form a gradual crown and place it on the roof to see how close you are. You don't need it perfect. The following picture is an example This is from John Kelly's Custom Metal Bodywork DVD. He is using much too much pressure here for what you want, since he is making custom fenders which have much more crown to them. But you get the idea. http://allshops.org/community/CommunityAlbum/9970246149487.jpg By the way I highly recommend that DVD if anybody wants to get more involved with metal work and metal forming, it can be had at www.ghiaspecialties.com. Jason
Again, I agree, and will have no problem getting the sheet metal around here. Small holes, I would guess the largest is no more the 2", and they are where it is actually pretty flat, so shouldn't be a big thing. Other than the roof, as far as I can see, not much more on the body. Back lid was rusted on the outside, mini lip (spoiler) flat spot, and hood was good, but inside front lip was rusted. I picked up a nice hood and trunk lid from the Maverickconnection.com (Chuck) and a little rear quarter detailing and I should be ready to go. Haven't even got into the engine and drive train yet, but I drove it, and it did smoke the tire (one, not posi). So we will see.
Well, let me ask: How much for the roof? Can you send me pics, send to: jpleseganich@msn.com ? Where at in Indiana? Thanks.
