ROB'S RESTORATION

When I started the restoration of my Coupe, back in May of 87, the first part of the job was to strip the car down to the bone. Every component was removed and itemized for reference. Aside from the accessible and easily removable metal pieces, the strip down also included all glass, plastic, chrome trim, electrical components and wiring. The first sheet metal to go was in the rear ¼ panels. As you can see, removing the right quarter panel revealed a lot of hidden rust. This was a clear indication of what I had in store with the rest of the car. Admittedly, seeing such quantities of rust was discouraging at first. In fact it’s enough to rip the heart out of the most avid Fiat enthusiast, especially if one does not possess a lot of skills in metal fabrication or body work. The one thing that helped me see this job through, besides my obvious fanaticism, is my hard headed determination. I guess my friend Joey has always had a point in referring to me as a “Testardo” (pig headed) Bottom line though, keep your enthusiasm and be patient. You can’t complete a restoration in a few weekends even with an unlimited budget. Take your time, do it right. As you read on, you may get a bit better perspective.

Fig. 1-1

Fig 1-1 (left and right image) You may notice the small evenly distributed spots were the old ¼ panels were welded. The best way to remove them is simply drilling out each spot weld. This way you don’t distort and bend any of the thin body structure when using an air chisel. It will make it so much easier when aligning up the new panels straight before welding.

                                                             Fig 1-2a

                                                                Fig 1-2b

                                                                 Fig 1-2c

Fig. 1-2 a, b and c: Right rear ¼ panel repair. All porous and surface rust has been cut out. The new ¼ panel can now bit lined up and welded on.

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