Frame-Head

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think the frame-head is supposed to look like this? I removed a couple of the 'repair patches' to find, well, nothing. I really can't believe someone thought this was a safe repair. It certainly echoes what Mike Pie was talking about in his Volksworld column this month...

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Floorpan Strip Down

With the body gone I can now turn my attention to the floorpan. Made quite a bit of progress today, stripping the floorpan down. First off was the engine, then pulled the gearbox out leaving the wheels on to make it easier to move about. Front beam came off nice and easy too.

Now I can easily flip the pan over for inspection. The left pan isn't to bad, although the rear cross member end could do with some work. The right pan however is pretty shot at both ends along with the rear cross member. Frame head isn't in the best of conditions and the support panel has far to many patches for my liking. Looks like I'll be doing a lot of welding  soon.

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A change of direction

Over the summer a few things got in the way of me updating my build thread, but now it’s time for an update. As I previously mentioned I had located another body shell to replace the 66’s. After checking it out in person I decided to go for it. Well it’s not often a RHD 54 shell lands at you’re feet is it? OK I know the 66 would probably be an easier and quicker project, but I couldn’t turn down this opportunity.

The new shell does need a lot of work, it’s had some hefty patching over it’s life, but still retains it’s original heater channels - although heavily modified. Someone has also cut a darn great hole in the roof too, guess I’m going to have to fine a rag-top to fill it with? It’s all home safely tucked up beside the 66 ready for me to start work on.

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