C1-C2 rear quarter panel repair

[Ron R.]

Good Morning,
I'm finally getting around to attaching my right rear quarter panel on my 61 project. I'm having a hard time finding an area to clamp the panel and hold it in place. I've tried using a series of bungee cords attached from inside the trunk to the body dolly. Problem is that when mixing and applying Ecklers bonding adhesive it set up too fast. The next time I must not have had enough hardener since it never set. I've purchased SEM 39747 and thought I had all problems solved by not worrying about the correct mixture. When I talked to their tech support, who told me to apply pressure to the panel to get proper adhesion. HELP!!!
What is the best way for a novice to attach my rear quarter panel. I'm too stubborn to take it to a shop (Live in Canton Ohio where there aren’t any corvette shops around) and have prided myself in restoring this basket case by myself so far.
Thanks to all who reply.
Ron

[Wayne W.]

Re: C1-C2 rear quarter panel repair

Ever seen those Duct Tape calendars? You have just found another use.

[Ron R.]

Re: C1-C2 rear quarter panel repair

Never seen a duct tape calendar, but I have a feeling I'll be making one of my own.
Thanks for the tip Wayne.

[Jim T.]

Re: C1-C2 rear quarter panel repair

In the July 2004 issue of Corvette Fever there is an article on replacing the front left fender using paint sticks and masking tape a a couple of big clamps. Interesting technique. I replaced a front fender about twenty years ago, my first attempt. The local Corvette body repairman that worked at the Chev body shop and also at his own shop guided me information on how to do it. I used big washers on each side of a small bolt using winged nuts to secure the panel and filled in the holes later. My first attempt to install the panel I like you had mixed the adhesive where it was setting up to quick. I quickly removed it and began removing the adhesive. Next time was perfect. I am still amazed today when I look at the repair and it is still a perfect repair, nothing visble after all these years.

[Dennis A.]

Re: C1-C2 rear quarter panel repair

Jim...

I used the big washer method about two years ago with success. Came across the method insome book, I'll see if I can refind it...

[Scott Marzahl]

Re: C1-C2 rear quarter panel repair

It's also recommended to contersink that hole you used for the #10 machine screw and washer to help prevent the filler from shrinking and ending up with noticeable sink marks.

[Mike M.]

The holes are not needed and they always return...

There are videos showing how-to without holes. Briefly, place "puts" along the joints, a spot of bonding adhesive the thickness of the final bond, so you can apply pressure without squeezing all of the bonding agent out of the joint. Tape, clamps and several sets of hands help. The stuff sets up quickly enough that your friends shouldn't get to torqued.
Good Luck
H. a. N. D.