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GlenC Member
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I've finished unpacking the parts from the car and inventoried them so at least I know what I've got. I did notice that the replacement rocker panels that came with the car were stainless steel. I can't find any reference to stainless rockers and the PO has told me he's had them for a few years and that they were made by a guy in England and that they are no longer available. On the surface it would seem to be a great material for rust prone areas but are there any potential installation issues with stainless in this area? Thanks, Glen |
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gmgiltd Member
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Hi Glen, Not sure if would a solution to one problem that causes others. Depending on the grade of stainless - if it's 304 it's pretty close to carbon steel but tougher (not stronger) and more corrosion resistant - it's used mainly for exhaust systems. When you go up to 316 or the 22 and 25 percent chrome duplexes then you start to get real issues with preferential corrosion - it will eat the carbon steel that you weld the sills to. If you have ever examined steel U bolts that have been on a stainless exhaust for a couple of years you will know what I mean. Gordon |
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GlenC Member
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Gordon, Thanks. I've worked in a shop before that built stainless steel fabrication for the foodservice industry as a designer (not a welder unfortunately). I'm thinking to your point this material may not be the easiest thing to weld to regular steel without creating problems. Thanks for the insight and have a great weekend. Glen |
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Screenplay Member
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Hi Glen, After tearing apart my own '74 and cutting out some of that rocker rust, I'd have to say keep it simple. Or as a friend of mine likes to say, "Don't overthink it." Figure it took maybe 20 years or more (depending where you live and if the car is garaged) for the rust to get to the point that it needed attention. Replace the rotted panels with similar steel, properly treated and and/or painted and you'll avoid creating new problems. With the car covered or garaged, you may not see any issues for many years (if even in your lifetime). Clinton Last edited on 12-07-2014 07:45 pm by Screenplay |
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