24 replies to this topic

[Shifty]

Hang on!!!

Are you trying to fit the front end without a subframe???

Thats just asking for trouble and could be the source of your problems.

[PaulColeman]

Aha - no I haven't got the subframe fitted. I can't really remember but I thought it only bolted to the cross member inside the engine bay with a couple of big bolts. Is that going to make that much of a difference?

I haven't welded the wings so it's not too late.

Cheers, Paul.

[sonikk4]

As Shifty says the front subframe does need to be in place. I got lucky with Erm but thats only because i overdosed on measurements. Fitting the subframe will help without a doubt especially to position the front panel.. It still looks like your right hand wing could have a tad more trimmed off the flange.

With the door gaps especially at the top you do need to make sure the door frame compresses the rubber seal so some more adjustment will be needed. I would give that a go to make sure all is good. When the car is painted the gaps do not stand out quite as much.

[PaulColeman]

Okay, I can refit the front subframe. Obviously I need the 2 big bolts but do I need to fit the rubber seals between the body and the subframe as well or do I need to fit it with metal to metal? Also, do I need to fit the rear rubber mounts between the subframe and the body? I can't remember how the subframe fixes to the front panel, or even if it does?

I'll spend a bit more time with the doors and refit the rubber seals to check.

Cheers, paul.

[Neildanks]

did you have the subframe in when you fitted front panel

[sonikk4]

I think from what Neil is saying that if the front panel is already welded in place then there's not much that can be done. Do fit all of the mounts as they should be including all of the rubber pieces. Then at least then you will know if it will fit correctly without having to resort to any brute force.

[PaulColeman]

I should have said - the front panel is the original. Basically, if it's red it's original and if it's grey it's new.

Paul.

[sonikk4]

If as you say its the original panel then there should not be a problem with the subframe fit. If the wings are pattern then thats where the problem lies plus the door skins have been changed as well so that will also affect things.

I think its going to be a case of making things fit as well as possible with what you have got.

[PaulColeman]

Does the subframe fix to the front panel - I can't remember (that'll be my age!).

I can take a bit more off the middle bit of the inner flange of the outer wing but I'm conscious about taking so much off I don't have enough left to plug weld it. If I could get another couple of millimetres out of the middle I'd be quite happy.

As far as the doors go, I'll fit the rubber seals and make sure it squashes them down all over.

Cheers, Paul.

[sonikk4]

The subframe has two tear drop mounts that connect to the front panel either the rubber and metal type or you can have solid mounts