Quote:
Originally Posted by BLS07
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Generally I'm not keen on rejuvenating a dented panel ; weakened / stress metal doesn't provide maximum assurance.
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There is more to it - advice from the person you've entrusted to do the job for example - but I wouldn't be in any haste what so ever to be replacing body panels with new ones.
Even "new" old-stock original parts will need a whole load of expensive extra effort to fit and finish. In my experience pattern parts are more often than not a nightmare to fit. I've seen some finishes from large pattern part suppliers that make you look at twisted rusted original remains and think "well it isn't as bad as this so called new one"!
I would like to try and encourage you to not think of dented metal as being something that is intrinsically weak or unsafe =>
Metal - in particular steel - is very resilient stuff. Simple heat treating can alieviate stress if necessary - proper decent repairs with minimal surface finish filler is the best solution to the problem (assuming the rest of the panel is in good condition)
For the record: The monocoque construction is sometimes referred to as a "stressed steel" chassis - the work hardening process of pressing steel into shapes gives the structure strength. Stress in this case is a good if not necessary and crucial thing. (A floppy chassis would not only be alarming...)
I advocate an approach of trying to preserve what already exists - if you like, you might even say: 9 times out of 10 it is a case of "better the devil you know"