I have a '85 TA that needs some body work. It has some rust that I want to get rid of. It's coming from the inside out. What is the fastest way to fix the rust? Easiest way? Least expensive? How long does body work take? How hard is it? When should body panels just be replaced? How expensive is it to have a body shop do it? Examples of price?

I'd like to get the car in good shape before the summer, definitly before college next fall.
Any input is appreciated. Be aware though, I am a high school senior with a low paying job. My job though is in repairing/restoring antique swords, armor, shields. So I do have some expieriance in rust removal.

Thanks,

Matt

 

Hey man,

I have a little bit of experience with what your talking about.
Be sure that before any body work is done, the paint is sanded off where you need work to be done. Usually some bondo will work where needed, but sometimes that stuff really isnt the most reliable substance.

I have also baught a new fender when the rust had just gone too far. If you have the money, its probably best. You just buy, bolt, and go. Make sure you get someone good with paint to do the coating for you. Cars can really turn out like crap if you are inexperienced and try to do paint.

I know my words are of little help, but I myself would maybe reccomend you try to find someone who knows alot about what they're talking about.

 

Hey, thanks dude.
Yeah, I was considering just ripping off body panels and replacing them.
My GFX are cracked too. How does one go and fix that? Fiberglass resin? How hard is it too take off thee GFX? How hard is it to take off body panels like fenders or 1/4 panels?

Thanks

Matt

 

what are the gfx made of? and how badly are they damaged?

 

Can you get some pics of the damage?

 

Hey,
Just in case you have to get new effects.
Here is a thread that I had a few weeks ago about
ground effects. It has died down, but does kinda show
which effects are what and which ones will fit on what
cars and which ones wont.

https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...hreadid=162328

 

The gfx are made of fiberglass or plastic, its the stock '85 TA style. There are just cracks at the corners of the rear 1/4 panel ones and cracks on the door sill ones right at the corner were the doors close. Its like the car bent too much and the fx cracked at the bend. Unfortunatly I don't own a camera to take pix.

Thanks

Matt

 

It really sounds to me like all you really need is some sanding, a little bit of bondo, and some new paint.

I think with some good effort and time put in, you'r effects will look good as new.

 

if they are plastic bondo doesn't hold you need to a body supp;ie shop and by some plastic\polypropylene epoxy that is what i had to when i had my monte if they are fiberglass then fiberglass resin and some sanding should do. btw you need to buy a glazing compound made specifically for plastic if they are plastic cause the sandpaper will leave little scratches in the epoxy. hope that helps