Rear Wheel Well Rust

[Robin]

Was able to get out to the garage today and continue on with the project. Looks like I will be replacing the outer rear wheel housing and arch.... driver side. Chipped away on the undercoating using an air chisel... (thats the right tool for that job) to see the extent of the damage. Uncovered po fiberglass work. Enclosed are a couple pics of the damage, any input would be appreciated on how you all would go about fixing this, or if there is another write up on this to point me that way... thanks

[psdenno]

How long do you think the previous fiberglass repair lasted? It's kind of discouraging to start knocking out rust and then realize that the paint was the only thing holding the fender together. I've been there.

Dennis

[Robin]

Not sure how long thats been there, I have had the car for about 3 years now sitting in the garage. I do know that the po did car body work for a living... who would of figured . His job has held up pretty good though, found this batch job when sanding. Another shot of the outer fender.. blew a hole through the fender when I was removing the undercoating.

[psdenno]

Certainly, metal replacement panels would be the best way to go. However, fiberglass and a little filler can do wonders and last for years. It all depends on your skills, budget, local climate, and plans for the Z. Here in the desert, a good fiberglass patch can last for a decade or longer. I'm guessing you get a little more rain and humidity that I do.

Dennis

[Robin]

My plans are to replace the rusted metal with new metal. I have searched for write ups on this particular spot, just have not found the info I am looking for. I do have a good donor car for the outer wheel well arch, and guess I will order the outer wheel well house from Tabco, or maybe other suggestion on where to get this part?? I do live in Washington St... but on the dry side of the mountains;) Hobart is ready to go!