72 camaro header panel

[rustover]

Kevin, hows it going? Here is a pic of my header panel for a 72 camaro. This is an nos piece that the factory did a poor job lining up the two pieces of metal from the headlights and park lights.





I separated them so I could re-spot weld it.



I was thinking about welding the gap solid for a more clean look. The one thing that concerns me is that its such a tight small space to work in. how would this kit work to grind down the welds?

http://www.eastwood.com/8pc-dual-cut...nch-shank.html

Also what about fillers/sanding in such a small area? I was thinking about maybe a small dowel wrapped in sand paper. Seems like it would be a tough area to work.

I think the factory just used a swipe of seam sealer in the joint. Maybe that is what I should do. What do you think? Thanks, Russ

[Kevin Tetz]

Sorry to take so long in responding..... yes that set is similar to what I use for that type of crevace. Becareful of the non-welded steet metal though.. it's very thin! I also use a angle grinder for easy to reach areas, and a combination of burrs and grinders for inset areas like yours. I agree, the clean look will the better than the factory seam.


Hope this helps!

KT.

[rustover]

Thanks Kevin, I will let you know how it turns out.

[rustover]

Kevin, One more question. After I weld it solid, would you recommend laying a coat of fiberglass filler first like on the video? I plan to use evercoat rage gold as my filler of choice. As far as fiberglass filler I have looked at evercoats, everglass. What do you suggest?

http://www.eastwood.com/evercoat-eve...er-gallon.html

Thanks, Russ

[Kevin Tetz]

Russ, it's never a bad idea to give your filler and primer a solid foundation. IF it was my Camaro, I'd just do it from habit, since it's a tried formula that works for me. The 'glass just gives a more solid foundation for the other fillers and eliminates back bleeding for the most part. Keep in mind that I use the "short strand" just because it's easier to work.

I saw alot of 70, 71, and 72 Camaros at SEMA.... I think that's my favorite style of Camaro.... good luck on your project! Let me know if I can help.


KT.

[rustover]

Thanks Kevin. I'm sure I will have plenty more questions as I get deeper in body work. I will keep you posted.

[neenee12]

I know this post has been existing for more than three years. I have a similar problem as my header panel is broken and I also needed to do some spot welding. As much as possible, I don't want it to take to a shop because I am saving money. I am wondering if the original poster successfully did what he wanted to do.

[rustover]

Its sad to say that the part is still as pictured. Hopefully soon. This winter weather is killing me.

[Kevin Tetz]

Winter is killing all of us! LOL! Im so looking foreword to warmer temps. actually, the join date of Russ is from 2006, not this thread. When you're fixing the header, ( if it's stamped steel like Russ's) you can make a backing panel and bridge the crack or break.... then wend all three parts together for more integrity than spot welds.