Rusted Roof

RoyLovezSublime · 04-01-2005

My problem is this, i have a 67 coupe, vinyl top. When we first got the car, there were strange bumps underneath the vinyl... so we stripped it off, and it turns out, that the majority of the center part of the roof is rusted, perhaps not severly, but after sand blasting, there would be nothing left. Its pretty much a very very thin layer of crust. However this is located almost completely in the center. So iam thinking that it would be rather easy to just get a compatible roof from a donor car, and weld it into place on my car. Tell me what you think... because im rather new to this, and perhaps there is a better way to approach this. The "pillars"? that support the roof, are not rusted at all neither are the edges around the roof of the car.

fastbck65 · 04-01-2005

I would use 18 gauge sheet metal and fabricate a panel to repair if the support brackets (under the main roof sheet) are still intact.

However, since you say you are new to this a donor car roof would be great to use to get the same flow of the body lines without too much headache. Just cut out the part of the roof that's gone on your car + 1.5 inches (approximately)on each side, and weld it in place. You wouldn't have to use the whole roof according to what I gather from your message.

If you use sheet metal, it would be a good idea to pull the back glass and windsheild and use the glass support rails to tack weld the end tabs of your sheet to on each end to help put tension on the metal as you work back with your weld beads. Then grind 'em down and your done.

fine89lx · 04-01-2005

HMMM that is a really tough call.....how is the rest of the condition of the car? I personally feel (and this is my opinion) that there is a point where you do not want to spend any more money an a car when you could possibly find one in better shape. If memory serves me correct most of the cars into 60's the roof seams were "leaded in"
I think the best way to tackle this is to find out alot of information regarding roof replacement on a vintage Mustang. Do you home work...ask reputable shops. The task is not easy as once you "cut the roof " off the car no longer is tied together especially since its a uni-body type car. So it would have to solid stucturally in the floor boards rocker panels cowl area etc. You might need a unibody jig to keep the car body straight. I certainly do not want to discourage you..Just do some research before you tackle it. Get alot of info. Again only my opionion and suggestions.