If that's the extent of the damage, I'd just repair it. Cut out the rust, hammer the bent up sides roughly back into shape, and then weld in your patch. Should be a pretty simple piece to make.

That's a really easy fix and won't take long. Cut out the rust, hammer the dents out and weld in the new metal.

Chuck

 

I agree with the collisions shops probably won't want to touch it. I've had that experience also.  I found a welder from the custom paint guy that did my car.  Since paint was his primary business, he knew welders and such that had no fear of rusty stuff on older cars. Kind of a "I know a guy" that can do that sort of thing. Won't hurt to ask collisions shops either if they don't do it.

Thanks for all the suggestions and advice. You are motivating me to tackle this job myself. I feel a little better about the situation and you all are giving me the confidence to do it. Truthfully, I thought is going to be much worse then it is. 

Edited January 23, 20187 yr by rcb280z

It's not too hard to do. But you need the tools - jack, jack stands, air compressor, cut off tool, sander, grinder, welder, mask, primer, paint and undercoating.

Chuck

 

And SKILL. Don't forget about that part.

That's the missing ingredient that would be standing in MY way. 

Also, enough protective gear (leather) to protect you from sparks when you're welding overhead.

4 hours ago, Captain Obvious said:

And SKILL. Don't forget about that part.

That's the missing ingredient that would be standing in MY way. 

Mine too CO. I'll practice before I attempt it. Sometime in the near future, hopefully.

yea go for it, never know until you try. I am so glad I decided to do the trans swap and clutch myself. Often times you find its not all that hard after all, besides 1/2 the fun is doing the work yourself. Tools are not that expensive anymore and should pay for themselves quickly.

 

 

 

 

 

16 hours ago, Zed Head said:

Could also be a good reason to buy a MIG welder.

Is there a particular one I should purchase? The cheaper the better.

8 minutes ago, Dave WM said:

yea go for it, never know until you try. I am so glad I decided to do the trans swap and clutch myself. Often times you find its not all that hard after all, besides 1/2 the fun is doing the work yourself. Tools are not that expensive anymore and should pay for themselves quickly.

 

 

 

 

 

I'm getting there Dave. Gotta build the confidence level to do it. That's why I'll practice a little first.

6 hours ago, Mark Maras said:

Also, enough protective gear (leather) to protect you from sparks when you're welding overhead.

Come on, all those little burns on your arms and chest are badges of honour .

2 hours ago, rcb280z said:

Is there a particular one I should purchase? The cheaper the better.

Don't buy it from Harbour Freight, at least get an entry level Lincoln Mig, Craigslist is a good place to start. Once you get one you'll be surprised how often you use it.