Rust repair: Trapezoid panel behind strut assembly

[Cutlass372]

Hey everyone, I am looking to replace the trapezoid shaped panel that is located behind the front strut assembly. This is on a 72' 240z. This piece seems to be fairly important and holes have been slowly growing in both the passenger and driver's side. I was wondering if anyone had any pictures of the panel that they made to replace this piece. I have been trying for a few days to design the panel out of one piece of metal, but I cant seem to get it just right. I have also tried making a few angled cuts but im not sure if they will be strong enough. Does this panel need to be one piece (It would be easier if it was)? I have some proper thickness 5X10" rectangles cut out to make this, so any help would be greatly appreciated.

Elliot

[Patcon]

The piece can probably be made in multiple pieces if they get welded togethor properly. You are likely to find when you remove the plate there is a big hole in the frame rail underneath. That area between the plates is not galvanized or painted from the factory and rust in these areas is a problem. I might have a plate I can hook you up with if you are interested, send me a PM

Charles

[jepherz]

Which piece are you talking about? Pics? Is it the one in the wheel well? If so, there's a how-to on it.

[Cutlass372]

http://www.betamotorsports.com/services/images/projectcarimages/73240ZRB/FrontStruts-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v288/stony7/z%20front%20suspension/DSC01980.jpg

Not my car, but those are the pieces I'm talking about. The piece directly behind the strut assembly where the front crossmember bolts through the frame. It has a 90 degree bend and then sinks in for the bolts. It's about 9" long, 3 1/4" plus the bend tall and approx 1 1/8" deep in the center. Could you provide me with a link to the how-to?

Edited July 9, 2011 by Cutlass372

[Cutlass372]

PM sent Patcon