I'm a body/rust repair n00b, is this Datsun 510 out of my league?
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From: Fairfax, VA, USA
I'm a body/rust repair n00b, is this Datsun 510 out of my league?
I don't know much about body and rust repair and I'm considdering restoring a Datsun 510. My goal is do all the prep work myself and then have a shop paint the shell.
The rust and body damage doesn't look that bad at all. The worst thing I think are are the floor pannels which will need to be replaced. Please take a look at these pictures and tell me if this is something I could learn on and ultimately complete. In my father's garage I have a nice sandblaster, welder, and an air compressor, so I think I have the tools, just lack the skill.
Additionally, does anyone know if there are any good websites or books that would help me learn rust repair?
Thanks!
Modified by .jacob at 3:07 PM 11/22/2005
Modified by .jacob at 3:08 PM 11/22/2005
The rust and body damage doesn't look that bad at all. The worst thing I think are are the floor pannels which will need to be replaced. Please take a look at these pictures and tell me if this is something I could learn on and ultimately complete. In my father's garage I have a nice sandblaster, welder, and an air compressor, so I think I have the tools, just lack the skill.
Additionally, does anyone know if there are any good websites or books that would help me learn rust repair?
Thanks!
Modified by .jacob at 3:07 PM 11/22/2005
Modified by .jacob at 3:08 PM 11/22/2005
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From: Englishtown Raceway NJ
Re: (common_cents)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by common_cents »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">thats a whole lotta rust. </TD></TR></TABLE>
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From: Big Canada, Minnesota
Re: I'm a body/rust repair n00b, is this Datsun 510 out of my league? (HATCHingMN)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by HATCHingMN »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">requires alot of work/time/love 
</TD></TR></TABLE>
</TD></TR></TABLE>
the son and the heir
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From: dreaming of the Gulf Coast, USA
Re: (.jacob)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by .jacob »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Compared to most of the 510s I've seen it's really not that bad.</TD></TR></TABLE>
that really is quite a bit of rust. you should really look for either a CA or AZ 510. there are alot of 510s in the Pacific Northwest, but the climate is so wet that the pre-galavnized metal on 510s rust easily.
the floorpans, a common rust are on the 510 will have to be cut out and replaced.
the fenders you don't have to worry about because they make fibergalss reproductions as well as the front lower trim.
but as far as the lower panel behind the wheel wheels, a common rust area, you're gonna have to cut and replace those areas.
all in all, it looks like quite a bit of work for a novice, but definitely salvagable.
that really is quite a bit of rust. you should really look for either a CA or AZ 510. there are alot of 510s in the Pacific Northwest, but the climate is so wet that the pre-galavnized metal on 510s rust easily.
the floorpans, a common rust are on the 510 will have to be cut out and replaced.
the fenders you don't have to worry about because they make fibergalss reproductions as well as the front lower trim.
but as far as the lower panel behind the wheel wheels, a common rust area, you're gonna have to cut and replace those areas.
all in all, it looks like quite a bit of work for a novice, but definitely salvagable.
B*a*n*n*e*d
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From: BAWLSTON
Re: I'm a body/rust repair n00b, is this Datsun 510 out of my league? (Vtaaak y0)
That's not too bad, don't let the floor pans scare you off. The ones in my GN were way worse than that. You can order all new floor pans and just cut and weld to your hearts content. Good luck
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From: ARE YOU EXPERIENCED, PURPLE HAZE, STONE FREE
Re: I'm a body/rust repair n00b, is this Datsun 510 out of my league? (Vtaaak y0)
you will need to replace the floor, using a welder body work can easily be done as well, try practicing with metal scraps before you start welding on the car. To complete the body of this car your looking at about 5k. Try to do as much as you can and you ll save some money. but remember the more you dont know and the more you make mistakes will be expensive. Good luck i love 510's
i love 510's
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From: ATL WHAT, GA
Re: I'm a body/rust repair n00b, is this Datsun 510 out of my league? (QUESTOYZ by RHanDy)
^^^What he said... just practice, you have to start somewhere. Honestly its not as bad as it could be. Good luck, keep us posted on your decisions and progress if you decide to go ahead with it.
