Date:         Sat, 7 Oct 2000 18:49:23 EDT
Reply-To:     TSmith5041@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Tom Smith <TSmith5041@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Body Work Suggestions (metal cutting)
Comments: To: jgorfine@vt.edu
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

In a message dated 10/7/00 4:24:31 PM, jgorfine@VT.EDU writes:

<<well, it's mine now.  so onto the questions:

1. are the replacement body panels that are available (west coast metric,
bus depot, etc.) of high quality/worth purchasing new or should i have the
same piece cut off an unharmed junker?

2. what sort of cutting/welding work needs to be done (specifically if
anyone knows) and what qualifications should i look for in the person doing
it?

3. does anyone know where i could find an undamaged, rust-free Assuan Brown
(the prettiest color ever) sliding door?  if worst comes to worst, i'll
settle for a good door that's a different color.

thanks in advance
jason
>>

Jason-You're probable better off with the new aftermarket panels than trying
to reuse old panels. Main reason for this is the panels will get warped and
damaged trying to remove them. Your old panels will be trimmed off with an
air chisel and the spot welds drilled out at the flanges. They will have to
take out some of the camping interior for access to weld the new flanges to
the ribs (post), paint the welded edges and restore corrosion protection.
Look for a shop whose Technicians are I-Car trained and ASE certified. Wish I
could help with the Assuan Brown (great color) Door but I'm still using mine.