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I have a 1970 BB convertible. The body is off and completely disassembled. The front of the bird cage looks OK, but I have some pretty heavy rust at the base of the rear door pillars. Given the amount of rust, I'm sure that there's more that I can't see. I understand that there is alot of load in this area when the door gets closed, even more so in a convertible. I would like to get the bird cage out, sandblasted and repaired. Does anyone know of any book, web site, etc. that would give some tips on removing the front and rear clips, floor boards, etc. I attached a picture, it looks worse in person. The rusted area is deformed and is swollen out by about 1/2". Thanks.
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Re: Removal of birdcage question
Tom,
I have just started the re-installation process of the cage in my '74 coupe. I couldn't find any detailed information, so it was a slow process. The front clip was fairly simple, but there is a LOT of cutting and prying to be done (floorboards, sills, door pillar glass). The rear section will lift off of the cage. I do have lots of pictures, but the key is to take your time and be patient (not my greatest virtue) -
Re: Removal of birdcage question
Hi Tom,
I haven't seen or heard of any type of detailed bird cage restoration book or documents to use for this process other than reading the war stories from those on this board who have taken the challenge on themselves.
It's not fun and it will be VERY time consuming and tedious at the least.
When I get my project finished, I'm going to bring the old body back into the shop and slowly disect it to create proceedures for other's future use.
I hope you find the assistance you need Tom,
ChuckComment
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Re: Removal of birdcage question
Tom
As others have said removing the bird cage is a big job. I would try to make a repair in the area that needs it without removing the complete birdcage if it can be saved. Chip off the heavy rust back to solid metal and make patches to fit and weld them in. The less you take apart the better.
LyleLyle
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Re: Removal of birdcage question
If you see that much rust on the rear kickup, you 'could' find additional 'challenges' in terms of the windshield surround and lower sill plates....
Often, these problems stem from prior owner windshield replacment(s) where inadequate sealer was used. When the car is in motion, water flows over the glass to the upper/outer corners of the glass and is driven to 'invade' the bird cage.
Once water has penetrated the bird cage, the members represent 'straws' allowing the water to flow down the forward uprights as well as back along the T-top center member on coupes. The final exit path for water inside the bird cage is at the bottom where the sill plates connect front and rear portions of the cage.
You wouldn't be the first to find the sill plates have rotted through from the top side down... So, test/check them and as you replace damaged componets with those from a donor car, take the opportunity to shoot the INSIDE of various bird cage members with 'stop-rust'....Comment
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Re: Removal of birdcage question
Tom, I cannot offer any advise except this. Just recently I remember reading an article on removing and installing a bird cage. I only get a few Corvette mags anymore. Current issue of "Corvette Enthusiast" Aug 07 C3 Birdcage rust exam. Very timely and informative article for you. JohnComment
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