Windhshield frame and rear fender repair

[tdskip]

Hi guys - came across a very cheap Spider but with rust repair required on the rear fenders. Rockers/sills appear good and I couldn't find any filler.



This is also a bit terrifying - does the whole windshield frame release from inside the car for replacement?



Thanks!

[seabeelt]

Windshield frame has two bolts each side of the car. Open the doors and you can see the attachment point. Fender arch replacements are available from most of the usual venders.

[tdskip]

Windshield frame has two bolts each side of the car. Open the doors and you can see the attachment point. Fender arch replacements are available from most of the usual venders.

OK - so that is an easy bit then. Thanks Seebeelt

Anyone been there/done that on that section of the rear fender?

[seabeelt]

Yup, you need to get the section from which ever supplier to use as your cutting template. You will need a welder and be able to weld thin sheet metal. Plenty of posts here on that topic. Use the new section, overlay on the old, mark it with a sharpie, cut about a half inch less. Use a flange tool to to flange the existing fender. Weld in the new section, bondo and paint. Obviously a little more involve in the steps, but you get the idea. If you cannot weld, get the piece and take it to a body shop.
R/

[Exit98]

I'd look that car over very carefully. With that extensive rust on the windshield there's probably more lurking below. Under the cowl for instance. Be sure to check the front shock towers very carefully, which isn't easy but if they are bad the car isn't cheap enough. Another spot is the lower bulkhead behind the seats. The real trailing arms attach to the body there and that's another safety issue.

Good luck.

[tdskip]

Indeed!

With that extensive rust on the windshield there's probably more lurking below.

It appears the windshield post was compromised at some point and left alone for 15+ years.

Excellent advice, thanks.

[spidernut]

I'll be in Anaheim in a few weeks and have a good rust free windshield frame that I can bring with me. PM me if interested and make any fair offer.

[tdskip]

I'll be in Anaheim in a few weeks and have a good rust free windshield frame that I can bring with me. PM me if interested and make any fair offer.

Thanks for the offer - if the deal comes together I will take you up on that.

[mscafide]

This car is in California? Where did it come from?

I have never seen a windshield frame rusted like that even in Chicago so I would probably pass on this one even if it was free.

[tdskip]

This car is in California? Where did it come from?

I have never seen a windshield frame rusted like that even in Chicago so I would probably pass on this one even if it was free.

In California from 1979 at least, not sure of history before that. I hear you and the other responses on this, good coaching I think.

[bradartigue]

This is what happens when leaves pile up on a car for a season or two. The actual windshield frame is one of the most durable parts on a Spider, in terms of rust avoidance. It is heavy, chromed (and heavily chromed) and just seems to hold up on most cars. This is evidence that the car was very neglected.