In Over My Head Restoration, No More Excuses - Just Start Cutting... Options

[BeatNavy]

Ok, here goes. I picked up this '75 last April in lower Maryland. It was advertised as a 2.0, it has a 2.0 badge on the back, and it looked pretty good from a distance (or with beer goggles).

[BeatNavy]

Ok, I’m also taking assessment of the suspension console and the long inside that runs up to it. Here’s what I see (that I don’t like):



And, slightly closer view:



Between that, and this below, I think there’s little doubt that I’m going to need to remove the suspension console and the rest of that outer section (and don't worry, that orange milk crate is not actually supporting the car):



Second stupid question(s) for today (#5 overall): what’s the best way to remove that suspension console? From other people’s example I see the spot welds can be removed, but what other recommendations can you provide (e.g. measuring location, easiest way to separate, etc.)? Also, can/should this one be repaired? I saw someone had one FS the other day…

TIA

[SirAndy]

what other recommendations can you provide (e.g. measuring location, easiest way to separate, etc.)?

I would build a jig that covers both consoles and the motor mounts.

That way, you can position your replacements exactly where they need to be.
(IMG:style_emoticons/default/welder.gif)

[scotty b]

what other recommendations can you provide (e.g. measuring location, easiest way to separate, etc.)?

I would build a jig that covers both consoles and the motor mounts.

That way, you can position your replacements exactly where they need to be.
(IMG:style_emoticons/default/welder.gif)

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/agree.gif) 100% Also This " patch and brace " behind the heater tube is NOT factory. Someone has already been in there with a feeble attempt to keep the car in one piece.

Yes there are several areas in there that are 2 and 3 layers of metal overlapping. A VERY poor design IMHO. I posted a picture here several years ago of the area just behind the jack post that was 3 layers of metal and had rusted in between each layer to the point the " metal " had stretched out to where it was close to 3/8" thick