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September 18, 2003
Those who have checked out my bugeye bonnet restoration photos may have
noticed that I chose to form the missing sections of end flange and sheet
metal with fiberglass. I realize that many have advised me to cut back and
replace with new formed metal pieces . . . that is not within my expertise
nor budget, lots of time I have. I might as well buy a new fiberglass bonnet
for the cost involved for new metal work and welding so I sought the advice
of some folks at TAP Plastics and went with fiberglass. My logic with
leaving as much metal as possible, not cutting the rusted out sections back
past the jagged edges, was that when cleaned of rust they serve as a locking
tabs for the transition from metal to fiberglass. There are three layers of
glass mat and rosin across the whole eight inches of the underside end that
now form missing flange and areas of missing sheet metal. The bonnet is now
hinged from the front to reduce need for structural strength for hinges on
the damaged end. It is sort of an experiment and should it fail . . . well a
lesson learned, should it hold I am ahead a bonnet. If it works or fails
after the rigors of road use I will keep you posted.
Don
"Don May" < may.d@... > 25363
Posted on September 18, 2003 06:26 AM
Posted to category(s) Body | Exterior | Interior | Miscellaneous | Restoration | Technical Info
