need advice on lower windshield frame repair

[Larry Syrnyk]

I would appreciate some tips on trying to repair a badly rusted out lower windshield to dash frame.it is on the drivers side lower corner of a 69 coupe.the trick is to repair it with out damaging the fresh paint or removing the fender.I realize a proper repair may not be able to be done without removeing a part of the fender,but I would like to know if anybody else has run into this problem.The upper door hinge pillar area, as far as I can see,is still solid with no flexing in it at all.The kick panel body mount is not bad either.The door to fender fit is very good .I am thankful for any help,hints or advise.Larry.

[Jack H.]

Re: need advice on lower windshield frame repair

Rust typically results from water getting in and pooling. I suggest you have more homework to do before you begin thinking of fixing the damage you see....

What caused this frame rot? Water got there either from the windshield above or from the side corner in. Since water follows gravity, you won't know for certain the source(s) until you investigate. This means pulling all the windshield surround moldings and checking 'upstairs'....

Finding the source(s) might dictate different approaches to repairing the result(s). Plus, without seeing what you see, it's VERY hard to advise beyond generics. BUT, it IS possible to 'graft' on healthy pieces of birdcage steel without pulling attached fiberglass IF one is skilled, careful and patient.

[Jack H.]

Re: need advice on lower windshield frame repair

Rust typically results from water getting in and pooling. I suggest you have more homework to do before you begin thinking of fixing the damage you see....

What caused this frame rot? Water got there either from the windshield above or from the side corner in. Since water follows gravity, you won't know for certain the source(s) until you investigate. This means pulling all the windshield surround moldings and checking 'upstairs'....

Finding the source(s) might dictate different approaches to repairing the result(s). Plus, without seeing what you see, it's VERY hard to advise beyond generics. BUT, it IS possible to 'graft' on healthy pieces of birdcage steel without pulling attached fiberglass IF one is skilled, careful and patient.