Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

fuff66uk · Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2011 7:59 pm Post subject: Sill replacement costs

I realise this question depends on what is found but can anyone give me a rough price guide for the replacement of an inner and outer sill on a classic ford please.I can get the panels but not sure my welding is up to standard to do the job myself

Thanks
Al

RobMoore · Joined: 16 Jan 2011 Posts: 105 Location: Peterlee

for the weling alone your looking at anything upwards of £200 a side, depends on the complexity (inners outers etc) tbh if you can grind have a go yourself, brace your door gaps to add strength before cutting out, even pird poos can grind smooth Smile

fuff66uk · Posted: Sun Jul 10, 2011 10:23 pm Post subject:

MikeEdwards · Joined: 25 May 2011 Posts: 2711 Location: South Cheshire

Basically if you weld some sturdy metal across the bottom of the gaps that should do it - the idea is to make sure nothing moves when you cut out the sill section that holds it all in place. You really want to take the doors off as well so there isn't so much weight on the pillars.

Don't put the bracing too far down, remember you need access for cutting and welding the new bits in. And use something that won't easily bend, too, bit of old Dexion upright (other makes of shelving are available).

fuff66uk · Posted: Mon Jul 11, 2011 2:42 pm Post subject:

Thanks Mike,that's a great help,i think i'll have a go myself when i get the panels then,plus when the weather is nice enough,i wish i had a garage it's a pain doing everything on the front drive lol

fuff66uk · Posted: Mon Jul 11, 2011 7:36 pm Post subject:

Would a spot weld attatchment for an arc welder such as the one below be a good way to go ?

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/New-Spot-Welder-connects-arc-welder-spot-weld-/250852718060?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item3a67fcb5ec

MikeEdwards · Joined: 25 May 2011 Posts: 2711 Location: South Cheshire

I haven't used one of those, I read a lot on the mig-welding forum and reports are not good. For replicating spot welds I tend to use a plug technique, so drill a suitable hole in the top panel, clamp it up and weld through to the other side, then clean off afterwards. Arc welders aren't really suitable for welding car bodywork because the steel is too thing, you need a MIG and some practice.

If you want some inspiration (and have plenty of time to spare) have a look through this thread: http://retrorides.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=usetharch&action=display&thread=70135 - the quality of work on there is amazing.

fuff66uk · Posted: Tue Jul 12, 2011 5:34 pm Post subject: