Replacement Panels/ Metalwork

[GwarnGwarn]

Hi all,

I'm in the process of stripping an '85 FB that sat for a few years in a weed ridden storage yard. On the surface, the car looked fine, as I've removed stuff, I'm finding holes everywhere. Long story short, it needs a new floorpan, firewall (incl. raintray), front and rear arches and sills.

Does anyone by chance know of a place or person who still makes replacement panels? I've gone through US, AUS and JAP ebay and the like to find everything but what I need.

If no one, and forgive me for my lack of knowledge, what metal thickness should I be using to replace the panels myself?

Thanks in advance,
Craig

[DeanRX7]

Sounds like a donor car needed. As far as I know, those loose panels dont exist. Very happy to be proven wrong.....oh and if you do find some Aladdin Cave of RX7 bits, L & R Sills please!

[gt_james]

I don't see the point in donors, you end up cutting up a cleaner car to save a rustier car, better to just create the panels by hand.

[DeanRX7]

better to just create the panels by hand.

Chip Foose over here!

[richrx]

I don't see the point in donors, you end up cutting up a cleaner car to save a rustier car, better to just create the panels by hand.

I agree. If the car is that bad what is there to lose? Time, grinder tools and some sheet metal? See if you can borrow a welder.

Alternatively put an add on Gumtree see if you can get a tradesperson to do a homer if you've don't all the removal and cleaning?

I'm not saying it's easy in any way, but the knowledge and skills are invaluable if you like older cars..

YouTube has alot of tutorials or check migwelding forum out. Retro rides too.


Rich

[richrx]

better to just create the panels by hand.

Chip Foose over here!

Chip foose is amateur next to my bodges

Rich

[rotarypower]

There's a chap on eBay who makes rear arches and sills. Don't remember his name now as you have to message him for them, but I'll try and find it.

[DeanRX7]

There's a chap on eBay who makes rear arches and sills. Don't remember his name now as you have to message him for them, but I'll try and find it.

Go on.......

[ian65]

Steve Brookes

[rotarypower]

https://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/littlebird1303

That's the guy.
I need do some more cutting but I suspect I'll need 2x sills and at least 1 rear arch.