Expert: Kim Smith - 3/29/2009

Question
I have a 68 camaro that we have recently taken the inner and outer wheel wells out of. We want to replace the rockers also. My question is should i change the rockers first then put in the wells to fit them correctly.

Answer
Hi Brad.I will take it that the camaro is a coupe and not a convertable. Since you have the inner and outer wheelwells out I would loose fit using self tapping screws to fit wells and also your 1/4 panels to make sure you have a good door to 1/4 panel fit. Once you have this achieved a good gap-you can dissasemble and proceed with the rockerpanels...Take note that these are the backbone so to speak of the lower portion of the car..Measure and remeasure 1/4 to A pillars upper and lower. Blocking your car will help with the sagging of the floor before you have removed the rockerpanels,, I would also reccommend doing only one side at a time. loose fit everthing and be sure everything is fitting proper before you do any mig welding.....Check everything even your trunkgaps,doorgaps and fender gaps.... Best of luck with your restoration and always remember that doing it safely is first........Kim