Upholstery removal from fender wells and struts-78 280 2+2

[One Way]

Slowly dismantling this resurrection project that has been sitting 19 years and getting considerable rust. Aiming toward media blasting or dipping way down the road in this long term project. The rear upholstery is in great condition except for some fiber board backing that appears to have gotten wet on the side interior panels. The fenderwell covers and strut covers seemed to be attached with some type of adhesive. Any helpful tips on removal or are there some clips holding them on? All the vinyl is in great shape and a good cleaning would have them looking almost as good as new if and when we get to the reassembly process. I do not want to damage them in the removal process if possible. Enjoying the project and the great replies on this website. Thanks again, John-Lugoff, SC

[One Way]

Success with minimal damage! Some of the thin foam on the fenderwells tore in a few spots. The fiberboard backers near the strut towers have some water damage near the bottom edges. Upholstery came off nicely with some gentle persuasion on the adhesive with a small putty knife. Towers and fenderwells look almost factory fresh but there is rust on the flat sections along the fenderwells. I think this car took in quite a bit of water sitting for 19 years and settled into the rear floor and trunk sections. I will continue the dismantling on this RUSTORATION project. Thanks again, John-Lugoff, SC

[Patcon]

If it was leaking in the flat areas of the car, be sure and check the flat bottom areas inside the quarter panels.

[One Way]

There is obvious rust in the lower quarter panels. One side worse than the other. The other typical spots-battery box and frame rail- are obviously bad too. Quite a project ahead of me. Looking forward to the challenge. Thanks, John-Lugoff, SC

[Patcon]

If you need patch panels. I may have some. I am not that far away from you.

[One Way]

Thanks for the offer. Our son attends Clemson and works in Greenville, so we do get out that way ocassionally. I will continue the tear down and evaluation. I am considering a blasting or dipping on the bare shell when I get that far. There is a stripping business out in Fountain Inn, SC. Not sure if is best to blast or strip before or after removing the rusted out portions. Probably a question that needs to go in the body and paint section. Thanks again' John-Lugoff, SC

[grannyknot]

The nice thing about taking the car, rust and all to the sand blasters is when it comes back you can see exactly what needs to be cut out and what can be saved.

Chris

[Patcon]

I agree with Grannyknot, blast first then patch what you find. I have a good blaster here in Spartanburg. I can get you his number if you're interested.