Battery tray area rust question..

[mally002]

Got a quick question for the rust experts.....

I have found a very straight 1973 240Z with no rust issues except at the battery tray area. When you pull the battery out there is basically a big hole that allows you to look right at the right front fender. The firewall looks fine, but that huge hole has me worried.

Is that an expensive fix? Is it structural in any way or was that just some light sheet metal thats now gone.

I would post a picture but I didn't have my camera. If you can just imagine standing in front of the car and looking to the left of the battery and seeing a huge cantelope size hole, thats where the problem is.

Thanks for any input.

[geezer]

Randy, You have been around the block a few times now and know exactly where to look for rust, so I'm assuming you just need help with this large hole. Other than having someone cut out the corresponding piece from a solid donor, there is no other source for a replacement panel that I'm aware of. I would suggest bringing the car to a local tin knocker who would be able to custom form a replacement piece. It is a tricky panel to form in one piece because the metal has to be worked in opposing directions, but can be done.

[mally002]

Thanks Ron,

Yes, I have no problem finding the rust or looking in the most prone areas.......my weekness is after finding it figuring out the severity and cost. I wasn't sure if this battery area near the fender would be a "run away" sign or if even a "patch" could be fashioned in that hole.

[geezer]

Can you draw the hole to be repaired on this pic? It may be easier to form in more than one piece and you could possibly do it yourself. The metal is stretched thinner in this area left of the battery tray because of the stamping process. When I removed the haphazard repair made by a previous owner mine looked like swiss cheese and what was left was paper thin.

Is this a car you are considering buying, or did buy?

[26th-Z]

I agree with Ron, Randy. When I dipped 26th, she came home with Swiss cheese in that area. After taking the battery tray out I cut out a rather large void in the inner fender well and bent new metal to weld in place. It most certainly can be done!

Eastwood has some "In the Shop" videos we should all watch for insirational metal repair and fabrication. I have a very nice demonstration video about rolling fenders for a custom car and another instructional video about welding metal patches and fabricating new sections. They use a Morgan 3-wheeler as an example.

Of course, the main problem is finding someone who has experience and is able.

[mally002]

Thanks guys,

Yes, it is a car I'm considering buying, it's basically rust free except for the battery spot.

Here's a photo of mine, I circled the area in question in red. On the Z I'm considering imagine where I circled that the whole area there is basically gone. I didn't think it was a structural issue, but wanted to be sure. My idea was just welding in a patch or getting something fabbed to match close.

The car is a 1973 original owner with no stories, except it has been repainted about three times, it even still has the wonderful 73 carbs. I'm thinking of purchasing and spending all Winter on it. Floors, rockers, fenders, doglegs are in great shape, no rust. Needs interior, minor engine work, paint, etc, etc.....wait, what am I thinking......

Am truly considering just because it's rust free.

[geezer]

Randy, I thought the damage would have been much lower than that. If that is the extent of it, you should not have a problem fabricating a single piece to repair this. You will probably find that the battery tray will need to be removed. All other spot welds on the piece being replaced must be seperated also. Plan it out and make a template out of stiff cardboard or bristol board from a craftshop, allowing you to test fit until perfect. It would be best to replace the metal all the way to the cowl, so to not have a seam to hide on that end. You should be able to form a piece that is virtually invisible after being welded in if planned out properly.

Edited August 12, 2008 by geezer

[mally002]

Thanks Ron,

I just have so little experience with body work that I wanted some expert advice. I didn't think it was a major issue but you never know, always best to get those with more experience to have a look.

I'll let you know if I purchase the car.

Randy