7 replies to this topic

[robert.hedges]

Hello, I am fitting a sunroof and need to know the thickness of the roof as I'm going to hire a nubbler rather than using the trusty angle grinder, as I'm trying to save the roof lining from sparks.

Anyone have any idea of the roof metal thickness? I don't want to hire an ineffective nibbler and warp the metal.

All comments (except 'don't do it') welcome.

Thanks.

[cal844]

Remove the headlining and sound deadening. Also gives you a chance to check for corrosion around the windows

Edited by cal844, 12 July 2023 - 05:54 PM.

[stuart bowes]

I know it doesn't answer the original question but I would agree

Personally I find it easier to get a good neat straight cut with a grinder than with either a nibbler or a buzz saw both of which take ages, make loads of noise and can wander off line real easy. Not to say it isn't possible with care and attention obviously

Edited by stuart bowes, 12 July 2023 - 06:23 PM.

[sonikk4]

0.9mm is your answer. 

[weef]

If cutting the roof and you do not want to damage any "soft trim" I would use either air or electric metal shears, they are a cold cut tool, easy to use and will cope cutting the roof panel with no problem. They are more controllable in use compared to a nibbler and the swarf generated by a shear is more easilly cleaned up compared with the thousands of chips a nibbler will produce .

These cutters leave a clean cut and dressing the cut edge is minimal.

[robert.hedges]

Thanks for the comments guys. I've assessed and I think i agree that it is probably best removing the headline and replacing it after. I was trying to avoid having to do the headlining as its such an aweful job.

Anyone got any ideas how to fix the headlining support rods after installing a sunroof as one of them will need to be cut and I'm scratching my head on how best to fix it in place (to the sun roof) after.

Edited by robert.hedges, 14 July 2023 - 07:19 AM.

[weef]

I am fairly certain that if using the metal shears method of cutting the roof you could leave the lining in whilst cutting.  There is very little intrusion into the roof space when using these shears.

[Gaz66]

The air shears I've got leave a "finished" finish if you know what I mean.