derekf's 69 El Camino build

[derekf]

OPGI was not particularly helpful. They could just tell me that the kit contained front, rear, and middle braces.

I think the unknown "middle" brace is for a Chevelle (see this Chevelles.com thread with a pic).



Regardless - the set got returned. It does not appear that the middle brace I need is being reproduced, nor the equivalent for the longer-roofed vehicles.


So the logical next step is to make my own. It ain't got to be pretty. Cut a sheet of 22ga (I'd have preferred 16 or 18ga but didn't have it big enough). That strip is 3" wide by 27" long.


Cleaned up the edge a little with a file.

Used the flanging tool to put a nice bend on the edges to add some strength.


Test-fit.

Cleco at the back, front wraps around a flange.

This needed to have more of a bow to it.


Used the bow I had in each of the holes to identify the range that was valid for each of these clips.

Paint, too.


Test-fit. Acceptable.


And then the welding starts.



Weld, weld, weld. Skip around so nothing overheats.



Grind the welds.

Also I cut a small bit of metal to match the back edge of the roof to the B-pillar and welded it in. This looks a lot better.



Started grinding the welds in the rear window area. Ran out of daylight, more to come.