[novajohn1968]

While I am waiting for my AMD parts ( quarters, trunk floor etc.) , I started thinking about the order of replacement, to avoid any issues or redo's. If I want to do the trunk pan ( full pan ) , quarters, drop offs, tail light panel, would it make sense to start with the trunk floor and work my way out? I pictured using "spot sell tap screws" to get initial alignments and when all of the proximity panels are close or spot on, then the final welding can proceed. I am just trying to avoid losing any sheet metal "landmarks" that are useful for initial alignments. I had to do this when repairing my Corvette's nose, many years ago and the existing structure was very helpful with the finish alignments : )

This is my first metal car so any advice is gold and I am all ears ; )

 

[62 NovaWagon]

Welcome to Team Nova John!

Well, I am not a body man but I would start with anything that is structural to keep everything in perfect alignment, then go from there. Just my WO though, I"m sure a body man will step in and give ya real advice.

 

[novajohn1968]

Thanks 62. I think I will work my way out. I was reading that some guys like to match up the doors and quarter panels first, then the front fenders are more "fall in line" because of their adjustments. I agree tho', the structural "land marks" are the critical ones.
Take care Bud, stay healthy.

1970 Nova
307, Powerglide, Bench seat, vinyl top, vinyl floor covering, Fathom Blue w/ Dk Blue Vinyl top, bright blue interior
Not staying that way ; )

 

[MMike]

Considering the parts you are replacing, I would start in the trunk. You said you are doing a one-piece floor. I have never done a Nova floor, but I have usually been able to get the trunk floors in through the trunk opening. If you can't, you may have to cut out one quarter (or at least enough to slide the trunk floor in sideways). Then trunk floor extensions (drops). Then quarters and tail panel. The self-tapping screws you are talking about work fine. I like clecos (sp?), but the screws work fine. Line things up as well as you can before attaching with screws or whatever. I use LOTS of vice grips for temporary clamping. Once all those parts you are talking about are temporarily fastened in place, check for proper fitment of trunk lid. Nothing is worse than welding parts in and then finding out you are off a bit, and the trunk doesn't fit. Ask me how I know that! LOL On the other hand, don't ask. Be careful welding. Spread out the welding spots, or you will have unwanted warping. Also, get your car on Jack stands and as LEVEL as possible. If you lived nearby, I'd come over and help.

 

[Fordcragar]

I'll add to the last post, when you put the car on jack stands, make sure they are under the suspension points.

 

[novajohn1968]

Thanks for the input. I did start to cut out the driver side quarter and more will occur when the winter is over. I have never done this before, but I find that proceeding with caution and asking questions has gotten me thru the tough parts. I feel fortunate to be doing this and its something I have wanted to do since I had my 2dr '68 Nova with the PG and 230 six when I was 17. It wasn't perfect but I fell in love with her. It's funny, that little six would always start in our cold NJ Winters but as a teenager I would be out on a frigid morning, jumpstarting my Mom's 68 Olds Cutlass with the Rocket 350 and 10.25 to 1 compression. It was like waking Godzilla from a deep sleep ; ) Man I love the Novas : )