Body Panels

[Ashley S.]

I have some fairly significant repairs that need to be done to my 57 body. I was wondering if donor body sections were something I should pursue. If not, I would love to have any other ideas anyone could offer.

There are 3 main areas that need repair. I'm not sure how to link multiple photos in one post, so I'm going to follow this with 3 additional posts.

The areas are:
1) Right Front Quarter Panel
2) Right Rear Quarter Panel
3) Left Front Quarter Panel

Thanks in advance.

[Ashley S.]

Re: Body Panels (Right Front Quarter)

This is the right front quarter area. The story is that someone tried to steal the tire and got as far as the lug nuts and stopped. The owner then got in and drove off, only to have the tire come off and take out this section of the body.

[Ashley S.]

Re: Body Panels (Right Rear Quarter)

The story here is that the original owner backed into a fire hydrant. I'm not sure the photo does this justice really. There is some significant damage to the underside of this area. Hopefully you can get the idea.

[Ashley S.]

Re: Body Panels (Left Front Quarter)

This one is pretty much as you see it. I don't know what the story is on this one. I'm less concerned about the repair here than I am the other 2. But I still would like any thoughts and ideas that anyone can offer.

[Don Y.]

Re: Body Panels (Left Front Quarter)

Ashley,
There are several suppliers of replacement panels out there. It depends on the degree of originality you are looking to achieve. My '57 is in the shop right now getting a complete front end to replace some substandard glass work done in the early 60's. Original type hand laid press molded parts are available as are some patch panels. If you are not going to replace the panels yourself it may be wise to locate a shop in your area that is familar with this type of repairs on older fiberglass bodies.
Don Yesacavage

[Ashley S.]

Re: Body Panels (Left Front Quarter)

Hi Don,

Do you have a recommended supplier of the original type parts?

Thanks,

Ashley

[Don Y.]

Re: Body Panels (Left Front Quarter)

One supplier is Corvette Image, there are others out there that another member could supply information on. There may be a substantial wait for any parts ordered now. My front end took about 12 weeks from order to arrive.

[Patrick H.]

Re: Body Panels (Left Front Quarter)

Another option is a complete reproduction 1957 body, if you're so inclined (see link):




Concept 57