Body

We had a hard decision to make with the body.  After sandblasting, it was revealed that Bobs 3A body was just too far gone to be saved.  I would have needed to replace both quarter panels, the rear panels, both steps, the front floor, one wheel house, and all the hat channel, not to mention a lot of small patch panels.  So we ordered a replacement body and will graft in the original toolbox and several of the original brackets that don't come on the replacement bodies.

The first thing I did was test fit the body.  I noticed immediately that none of the body mount holes, steering column, brake/clutch, and gas tank holes were drilled.  It was also missing the top bow and gas tank brackets.

Setting the bodies side by side I was able to compare the two.  Actually, most of the hat channel lined up.  I was also able to see what holes need to be drilled.

Here you can see the hat channels are actually correct (this was notoriously messed up with repro bodies a few years ago).

Gas tank holes drilled.

Steering column, brake & clutch, and high beam holes drilled.

Here are the gas tank and parking brake return spring brackets, along with a sketch on where they go.  Nevermind my chicken scratch!

The top bow brackets removed, along with a sketch.

And the toolbox removed awaiting its new home.

It is never a good day when an original body gets cut up.  At least we were able to transfer over a few original pieces.

Here are the brackets all cleaned up and ready for install.  The holes are for the spot welds I will mimic so they look original.

The top bow brackets installed.

Gas tank strap brackets.

Front frame brackets welded on.

And the parking brake return spring bracket insalled.

The body is back from the paint shop.  Bob chose Hummer Yellow.

The paint looks great!