Posted by Dan in TN [108.162.238.71] on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 15:23:17 :
I don't post a lot because between the PIF and the archives you guys have pretty much answered all my questions already, but I've been working on this truck for years now as a way to teach my self about automotive repair. I've enjoyed learning and can confidently say my skills and confidence have improved greatly since I started!
I've reached the point where I'm ready to start learning some body repair. My front sheet metal is solid, with a nice patina. The cab needs a new floor on passenger side (not just the removable floor panel) and has a fair amount of rust along the header behind the visors where the mice used to live, but otherwise looks pretty solid too. I don't have anything for the bed, so when the time comes I plan to get all those pieces new from Matt Tisdale.
To get started with what I've got, my plan is to use a surface conditioning tool to strip the paint and surface rust in the good areas and a wire wheel to clean up around the rusted through areas. Then I'll hit everything with some primer and get to work cutting and patching where I need to. I picked up a MIG welder late last year and have been practicing, but predict this will still be an adventure! I'll worry about paint down the road when I've got everything patched up.
Does this sound like a good general plan? Any suggestions on YouTube videos or books I should check out to help me learn?
I'd appreciate any tips, tricks, advice, or suggestions you have. I've got all the time in the world to get this done, so I plan to take my time and learn as much as I can.
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