So in a previous post I was asking for input and photos and man, did I look at a lot. I've decided against using the US Car Tool kit - I just don't think its worth the money. I've also formulated some thoughts and plans and spent a lot of time measuring.
It seems the biggest mistake anyone makes is not cutting the tubs a) square and b) on a flat part of the tub. This means that if you shear a straight filler piece it just won't fit, resulting in having to use multiple pieces.
So I spent a lot of time with a digital level to ensure where my cut is is flat around the whole tub and is straight and square all the way around. I guess we'll see! Here are some shots. All the spot welds are drilled out and I'm ready to cut the tubs. If you see any issues, PLEASE TELL ME NOW.
I started at the top of the tub and determined I wanted to be 3/4" from the seam. I marked that then used an old bandsaw blade as my guide. Pushing it up into the tub and clamping the ends at the bottom held it tight to the tub but still allowed me to move it as necessary. It also gave me an edge to hold my level against. When I figured I was close I clamped a rod at the bottom two points then checked for level again. As long as I can stay on the line when I cut I should be good to go. I'm going to step over at the lower fronts to avoid going into the rocker reinforcements.
It seems the biggest mistake anyone makes is not cutting the tubs a) square and b) on a flat part of the tub. This means that if you shear a straight filler piece it just won't fit, resulting in having to use multiple pieces.
So I spent a lot of time with a digital level to ensure where my cut is is flat around the whole tub and is straight and square all the way around. I guess we'll see! Here are some shots. All the spot welds are drilled out and I'm ready to cut the tubs. If you see any issues, PLEASE TELL ME NOW.
I started at the top of the tub and determined I wanted to be 3/4" from the seam. I marked that then used an old bandsaw blade as my guide. Pushing it up into the tub and clamping the ends at the bottom held it tight to the tub but still allowed me to move it as necessary. It also gave me an edge to hold my level against. When I figured I was close I clamped a rod at the bottom two points then checked for level again. As long as I can stay on the line when I cut I should be good to go. I'm going to step over at the lower fronts to avoid going into the rocker reinforcements.
