Expert: Brad Sears - 10/4/2008

Question
    Hi I was wondering if you could help me.  I just bought a 1971 el camino for restore.  it has a solid body to work with, however I noticed that it looks like the top has been cut and replaced.  at the top of the windshield it looks to be a odd weld and some body filler.  I have been doing some picture recherche and have found one picture that has the same look to it,  is it a factory weld, did the factory use a form of filler.  plus I have a odd piece of chrome molding running down the side of the bed that I have never seen on another.  Could that be stock too?  it would be a load of help if you could help me, thanks.  
Jonathan

Answer
Prior to the late 80's auto companies used to weld the panels together on the assembly line and then lead or fill and grind the welds to form a supposedly smooth surface. But as manufacturing techniques improved they were able to do larger body stampings. Before I retired from the auto writing scene we were invited to the opening of a new stamping plant in Hofu City Japan, where the entire side of a car was stamped in one piece. Then it was discovered that people would by cars with the weld joints covered in plastic mouldings and other things. So, yes this is probably a factory weld joint. As to the chrome mouldings on the side of your car I do not remember the factory installing such an item, but there were a number of after market makers making and installing door rub mouldings.
Brad