rear quarter panel seams

I recently replaced my rear quarter panels (the full panel).

there is a seam where the rear quarter panel and the roof post/column whatever you want to call it.

the old seams just have seam sealer in it, and i was thinking of just bondo-ing these seams and eliminating them all together.

any thoughts on this? has anyone done this before?

my fear is that this is a flex-point, and the bondo would crack the first time the quarters flex.

i attached a picture of the seam.

Hey Moj,

I have filled those seams in other projects.  I used a filler with short strand fiberglass for extra strength and had no problems. 

That is not a seam that get much vibration or expansion, but it is a bit of a problem filling a straight seam. I use a bodyhammer and actually dimple each side of the seam very slightly, so the filler isn't trying to hold on in a straight line.   

Even better if you have a mig welder, weld and grind the seam, then a light coat of polyester filler, and it will never crack.

Good luck

thanks for the info Ron.

i think welding it and filling it sounds like the way to go.

Hey Moj,

YW....get us some pics while you do it...could be a good "How To" post for others.

roger that.  will do !

yo,

For Posterity;

Sail Panel (Extension Panel) Info, Image and Sources;

That's the Sail Panel as Ford describes it in Roof Cracks Repair Procedure TSB 96-20-11 by Ford for 80-96;

Roof & Pillar Cracks TSB 96-20-11 for 80-96; Cracks may appear on the roof panel or on the corner panel sheet metal near the end of the drip rail at the B pillar
Source: by Ford via Chilton

http://content.chiltonsonline.com/TSB/displayTSBHandler.ashx?assetID=37453&key=6kAUBD5BruOJf%2f3tgozUqjXM3RdbjcQqW4sVWiE%2fp2IojfpfKqM07dr61%2bQAWHtTKXFhtULpGqBYl5IK3ydFT6pv9lTd1Z6LpffJ5Ym%2fKMbfpAtCWV4OThlN53IByHI1Dkgl8wZaGWUoB1Y%2f4dX0wg%3d%3d

altho Ford doesn't list a PN for it; it is just described as "Reinforcement – Body Side Inner Panel LH & RH (Sail)

Ford also describes it as an "Extension Panel" as shown in this diagram & listing
Source: by Ford via miesk5

see it here;


http://www.partswebsite.com//stores/...sM/MC92260.gif
3. Extension panel Right
4. Lock pillar Right

Extension panel, Extension panel Left
List Price : $43.76
Your Price : $34.57

3. Extension panel Right List Price : $43.76
Your Price : $34.57

 

Roof & Pillar Cracks Damage



This is why the body cracks;

front of the frame is resting on the ground, and the #3 crossmember is suspended by a single point in the center. This shows just how flexy a Bronco frame in perfect condition actually is.

by Steve

Drip Rail/Roof Ditch Seam Sealing Procedure using LORD Fusor® Adhesives

Source: by LORD Corporation

http://www.lordfulfillment.com/upload/RP3000.pdf

excerpt, "

LORD Fusor® Automotive Repair Systems has developed

this repair procedure in conjunction with Ford

Motor Company and the major aftermarket refi nish

paint companies. Ford Motor Company has a Technical

Service Bulletin outlining their specifi c repair procedure

"

here are some pics.

almost forgot to snap one before i starrted welding.

Hey Moj,

result looks good.

Thanks Ron,

its best i could do what i had and my lack of knowledge with body work.

but it will work for what i need it to do!

Looks good.  Never did like that seam.  I did mine as part of a 1/4 panel replacement. 

>-

well you just put mine to shame..haha

i should have bent that lip up and spot welded it like you did.