About Kim Smith Expertise Any questions related to autobody and refinishing. I do not proclaim to know it all but have alot of professional experience in my trade.
Experience 30 years.
Organizations Own business
Publications None as of yet.
Education/Credentials Journeyman certificates in Alberta and BC, also I have my Interprovincial Red Seal standards of Canada.
Awards and Honors World of wheels - Peoples choice award on a 1930 model A coupe customized into a Roadster
Question QUESTION: hi kim, i hv a 1993 sedan deville that has a lg amount of rust behind the top hinges, only, of both front doors. i am being told by the local body shops that they will need to remove the door, 1/4 panel, and dash to weld and fix this problem.... i hv NO PROBLEM operating either door at this time and i am puzzled that the repair will be so extensive...any & all help would greatly be appreciated....thanks,billy
ANSWER: Hi Billy , The doors for sure will have to be removed.Front fenders would be questionable and I see no need to remove the entire dash to do the welding.......hope this helps you out .....always question why and have the shops explain the reasons .........Thanks.....Kim
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QUESTION: i am being told that the reason for removing the dash is to prevent any fire damage or wiring damage...is this necessary ???? thanks,billy
ANSWER: Hi Billy, If they remove the kick pad and move the wiring harness out of the way they should be fine with that, The computor module may also have to be removed, person must be grounded when handling this piece of equipment or possible static discharge may occur and damage the unit...The bodyshop will have the proper training to do this if alocated.Hope this helps. If the doors are not giving any problems with sag a;alignment or opening and closing.Why the extensive welding? Is the rust surface or caused by metal fatique? Let me know and thankyou .................Kim
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QUESTION: hi kim, i am being told that since the rust is so bad, they must cut it out and replace it with a plate, to which they will reattach the hinge ????? that is why i am so concerned about damage to the dash, etc...thanks for your interest,billy
Answer Hi Billy, If it is the cost factor that is bothering you Then ask them if they can fab up a plate and bolt it to the A Pillar with captive nuts. This method will not require welding and therefore removal of the dash..Hope this helps you out .......Kim
