READERS' PROJECTS
1956 Chevy BelAir Restoration - Part 12
We knew at the beginning of this project that there had been some repairs to the front of both quarter panels. This is a commonly rusted area on the tri-five cars. Once we sanded the old paint and body filler off of the left side we were able to see where it had been replaced before. The old patch panel had been brazed on. There was also evidence that a section of the inner panel had been cut out, most likely to access the outer patch panel for some reason.
Here you can clearly see the previous patch panel. The damage on the quarter panel started at the patch panel and went clear up above the trim holes.
The previous repairs were cut out, along with the rusty left rocker panel.
We waited to replace the rear under seat brace until we had the quarter panel removed. We knew that the inner rocker panel would need repairs where it welded to the brace. It would be easier to access and make the repairs with the quarter panels off.
The end of the old floor brace compared to the replacement.
There was also a small rust hole under the rear seat just above the brace.
If you look closely you can see the area on the inner panel that was cut out and re-welded back in. Also note the round "pockets" which someone had added for interior courtesy lights.
