TR2/3/3A Metal question TR3

[Tr3aguy]

This is the current state of my project. The floor pans are shot and I have the metal to replace. Is it best to replace the pans first and then media blast to find other weak spots? The other way is to pull the body off and media blast first then put it back on the frame to cut out and replace the metal?


Any advise is greatly appreciated

 

[HerronScott]

TR3aguy,

You didn't happen to buy that car recently from someone near Charlottesville (Crozet?) did you?

Scott

 

[Tr3aguy]

No.....it has been in the Family since 1958.....

 

[GreenOne]

I find it easier to start with something clean as it gives you a truer picture of what's going on. I had my TR6 tub soda blasted last January before commencing the body work.

 

[tdskip]

Just make sure to brace the doors before pulling the tub! Putting some strength back in the shell via new floors isn't a bad way to go.

 

[HerronScott]

No.....it has been in the Family since 1958.....

Nice! The paint on it looked a lot like a shell someone was selling on Craigslist here a few months ago is why I asked.

Scott

 

[Tr3aguy]

Well maybe whoever picked it up can share how to rebuild the body because they will have as much work ahead of them as I do!

 

[Don Elliott]

In January 1988, I had a local sandblaster do everything for every separate part for my 1958 TR3A. The solid parts - springs, wishbones, frame, wheels, rear axle, drums, brackets, calipers etc. all when to the paintshop while I carefully cut out all the rot that was now so visible on the body. My tub was in two parts. Completely separate front clip and separate rear clip. This made it easier to repair each clip alone before putting it back on the painted frame . I used the frame as the final "jig" to make sure everything was correctly aligned, then welded it all back together into one tub.

 

[Tr3aguy]

Thanks for all the information....I am having trouble finding a reasonable price for getting the body media blasted. I may have to go further south where I still have friends in the business.