I’M JOINING YOUR CHANNEL TODAY TO SEE YOU FINISH IT! Just start bracing it up and tack/screw it together. Just keep making adjustments until you get it right. Just remember it’s not always about the money. The experience you are gaining and the pride you will have when it’s done and done right will be priceless.
Don't overthink it man , it's just an old car . I have 3 55 hits. My gasser was bad , I put the back together by leveling the frame , bolting the rear tail pan in place then jacking each quarter to the tail pan . I spot welded and checked the trunk lid fit , when it was ok I checked the door fit on each side then spot welded everything. After checking fitment I welded solid seamsealed and if it's off a little bit I don't care , in the end I did the best I could and drive it with a smile !just fix your car .
Thanks John, I appreciate that. I just like to think you folks are asking for the ride, might as well ask what you think. I usually have my own idea, but it's nice to hear what others think. Hopefully it stays positive. Thanks for following along.
@John Freeman I always say that you don't even own a car until you pull the engine out. My Corsa is an example, thought I could get away without pulling the engine because it was new, then it blew up.
No shame in getting help. Sometimes another eye is good and someone with some experience. You are keeping this very honest with the hurdles, pitfalls. Take a break, do some research, get help and come back to it.
I had a friend look with me, I have been reading all the feedback on here, which is great. I have a few things I might try. I'm trying to be as honest as I can be, not everything is a quick job if you want to do it the best you can. Thanks for watching.
Ed, In my humble opinion quitting is not in your DNA. You have had to go in many different directions in this build and if getting another shell is the answer. Then this isn't a compromise on you but rather another direction in achieving your end goal. Whatever it takes Sheree and I know you'll reach your goal. We will follow you thru each video till the end. Good luck, fingers crossed and a prayer for you.
I just went through this with my 55. Mine had nothing when I got it. The only body mounts were the two in the very front coming down from the firewall. The key is to repair that rotted out area in the trunk at the rear where the inner quarters connect to that last 10 inches. I didn't even fix mine yet I just screwed some braces into the inner quarters going down to that rear body mount brace nothing fancy just used self drilling screws. The frame is very flexible if you jack it in front of the wheels it'll flex down and once you got that last 10 inches secured to the body you'll be fine the frame and spring mounts will clear the trunk pan just fine after that. I'm making it sound easy because it really is so don't sweat it.
I really enjoy your videos and your thought process. Resolving a tough situation is never easy. A day or two away from a project is always beneficial. It sounds like to me that your wife has a lot of confidence in your abilities. I am not sure what I would do but one thing for sure you can't look back. When your do make your decision It will be the right one.
I'm really glad you're enjoying the videos. My wife has seen me pull off some crazy projects in the past, but this one is worse in my opinion. Thanks for the support and thanks for following along.
I would level the frame, put the body mounts in, bolt the body down. Mark the centre of the rear frame cross member and centre of rear panel with body mounts, bolt it down. Get trunk floor leveled up to where you like it and heavy tack it in place. Then work on getting both quarters at the same height so trunk lid fits them correctly then work from there. You can do it!
Hey Ed you got this brother. I think I read all the comments and there are some good ones. Think I would put all the body mounts in and bolt the floor down and the new trunk piece you got then find center of frame and body then line them up. Then jack those quarter panels up to the right hight make sure you door gaps are good to. You got this what I always say is what one man can do so can another. Just remember it's just metal if it's not right just cut it and do it again. Don't get rid of her you can fix it she's a good old 55 just needs some more love. Best of luck to you And Merry Christmas to you and yours. And remember to where gear heads we don't give up😁
Thanks very much! We finally got a load of snow here, so I'm working through that, but hope to get to have a look at the '55 again this weekend and decide what I'm doing. I appreciate your support and Merry Christmas to you and yours as well.
I actually gave up on one of my long term projects today. I have barely touched my '69 VW fastback in seven years due to the fact it had some tricky to repair structural rust. My welding and fab skills are no where near yours, so this helped in the decision to finally let it go to someone who has wanted it for years, and is itching to dive right in with the needed repairs. People like me would have to go without a '55 Chevy, because I could not afford a good one, and could never fix a bad one. Only you can decide if it is worth the additional time and moola to get it to the level you are ok with. In times like that I get my buddies over and see what they think...
Sorry to hear about your fastback, I love those cars. I really like the wagons too. I had my buddy Kyle over to look at it with me on Saturday. It is nice to have a sounding board.
@@SlowCarFix It is not all bad news. Selling this car allowed the space and money to get my hands on a low mileage '65 Monza that might just be my new summer driver! I am finding Corvairs to be highly addictive...
@Volktales they certainly are. I've owned over 35 of them and the most I've had at once and on the road at one time is 7. We presently have 4. crazy stuff.
Hi Ed i think if you put two long braces angle iron or square tubing on the trunk floor front to back nut and bolt the two floor pan halfs to the braces to make the floor level and flat this should help make the floor stronger and help you to get things lined up EZR . then i would try to get both quarters lined up with the trunk lid and try fitting the three new rear parts. the two next to the trunk lid and the panel below the trunk lid. you may need to put a couple tack welds from the trunk lid to the quarters first so it can't move. then fit the new parts and tack them in place when everything lines up then tack the center part in. just make shore to put the tack weld where they are EZ to cut out. this is just my thought . the 55 convertibile im building was way worse than your car. it was broke in half when i got it. it looks pretty good now when i have it all clamped together with some new and a lot of used parts. i know you can do this just take your time. i just thought of something else that may be causing problems too . the trunk torsion rods may be pulling the back of the car down ??
Thanks very much for the vote of confidence! I was thinking the same about some bracing on the floor where the new and old join. Tacking the trunk lid to the quarters, that's an interesting idea. I've seen guys mud them closed in a couple spots during body work to make their gaps. Tacking it might be what I need to hold things straight. Thanks for the comment.
You have gone this far see it through. I'm in kind of the same position with a 1969 Dodge D100 truck. Rusty, I decided to extend the cab and I guarantee no one else would have taken on the project but I'm now 60% along the way so it's going to get done and it will be correct and fully driveable. I'll enjoy every minute of it when it's on the road.
Same deal with my '57, currently working on my trunk section, went the full trunk floor. I'm thinking once it's attached to the floor at the front and the body mounts in the rear, then i can align the quarters with the trunk edges and once welded will give it the support and the correct height. Right now it looks like my quarters are sagging a few inches as well, i have the rear of the body supported with an engine stand to keep it from getting worse. Good luck and keep driving on, videos like yours give others the motivation to keep going on their projects!
It really seems like this is a common problem. I looked at pictures of a potential replacement shell and it was sagging on one side and the trunk wouldn't close, same issue. One piece floor is the better option for sure, but I have what I have and this car was never going to be "correct" anyway. I'll figure it out one way or another. I'm glad folks can find inspiration from my work. That really makes it all worth while. Thanks for watching!
I’ve been going through a very similar situation with my dream car ‘57 bel air. It’s a 4 door that I’m converting to a 2 door as well. And the back end has kicked my butt as well. But I’m refusing to give up on the old girl. Now granted, I am making a lot of the sheet metal parts, along with some Danchuck parts so I’m not in it as much as you. But these tri fives deserves a second chance at life, and you can improve upon them so they don’t rust out again as the did from the factory. Keep it up Ed you’ll get there!
Hi Ed it seems that the majority of comments wants you to keep going, but like John F. said the final answer lies with you. I certainly would like to see what comes of it and it seems like you are back on track. Good luck with the decision.
your going in the right direction mate ! your exactly where I was on my video i did on the blue 57 mate go check it out mate !! Now that you have the body up off the frame but attacked to the cowl panel concentrate on put Ting the tailpan on the the tail light section ends and making sure the trunk closes it’s not as bad as you think mate !!
The new floor plan is tacked in place in several points and sitting on new body mounts, just not bolted down. I didn't full weld it because it needs more work where it attaches to the floor. I'm glad you're enjoying the videos.
Keep doin what your doin, it will be fine. Been in that spot many times... keep the body lifted off the frame like you have it then do your body panels/work. While you have that body lifted do any frame/body mount work needed. Then set her down on the new body bushings to finish up... dont give up and definitely dont scrap that body...😉
Thanks very much for the support! I intend to remove the frame complete, but I have to get the car strong enough to allow that. Hopefully I can get something sorted.
@@SlowCarFix you can do it, time and patience brother. Just visualize the end product and when you get it done you can look back and say, "I did that"...😉
Think about this well the floor panel where it needs To go Put new body Bush in The areas where they need to be The body bushes will give you the space you need for the trunk It should level the car out✊️😎
The bushings are in, but just no bolts. I had them in for spacing. The car had bent downwards over time of having no rear support under the trunk floor and no vertical support in the inner trunk. I had to jack the body up in the rear. Check out my latest couple of videos on it. Thanks for watching!
I just subscribed to your channel. don't give up there are a lot of good comments here. Take your time to lift and support the body to install your new parts. You may have to repair inner trunk sides at the same time to give more rear quarter support. good luck
You have a gd plan. Get the car level and check the body mounts. Brace the car where you can and start with sheet metal screws or Clecos to get the metal lined up. Time to re-group. You’ll get it.
Boy, I don't know what I would do at this point. If it were me, for my time into it I could walk with a lesson learned. But you have a lot of cash into it and that would be hard to walk from. I guess you need to figure out how much more money it is going to take vs starting over and then decide what's best for you. Either way your subs will stick it out with you. Wishing you the best and Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays to you, your wife and your family. ~Pat
Thanks very much for the support and I'm glad you folks are following along. For better or worse. I'm off for a bit at Christmas, I'll figure out one way or another what I'm doing. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Its become like rebuilding an old house.You have to fix the foundation,and level all the cross beams before you go any farther,or nothing will be square any higher up.Since you have a new floor in it lift the body to the correct height off the frame,and put blocks of wood between the floor,and frame to hold it where it needs to be.Because of the cost of panels,and shipping I would look at making new lower sections of the inner structure,and weld them to the good upper that remains.Instead of trying to make it all look like original I would do like the race car builders who build tubs,and simplify the design as much as possible.Watch a few video"s on tubbing wheel wells to see how much they redesign.This cars no virgin so its no sin to get real creative building a new inner. Once the metal works done install rubber body mounts,and pull the wood blocking out.Sometimes when a project leaves you feeling sick its best to let it sit for a couple months then come back.Good luck either way you chose to go.
Thanks for the comment - this really got me thinking. If I just make things square and straight panels, like an old tubbed drag car, that might be a lot easier. I can always upholster the trunk after. You're right, I need to get creative IF I'm going to save this thing.
Just take your time, you'll get there. Watch some half rod videos on RUclips he's really good on the 55-56 Chevy you can learn a lot from him. Best of luck.
I have polished a few turds in my day as well. Overlooking what it really is, because you wanted that car. It happens all the time. I think you are on the right track elevating the body off the frame. As shitty as it is. You have done so much. Do you quit now?. I have wanted a 55 most of my life. You do not have to rush it. But, maybe as you said get a helping hand to get past this point. Keep the faith. Do not know where you live. But. If i was close i would offer help.Cheers!.
I know every car is a little different my 54s are that way I put @5x7 on 2of my cars and my 2dr. They won't cit its sat I don't know how long and I can't get my tires too clear the body and brake drums the shackle so maybe the bushing are froze I don't want to put disk on the readjust get the tires on UT I don't want to tub the car either.! we are both having our issues.if you can get a solid floor and body mounts on yours that will help slot if your frame is good.
The one thing that looks okay on this car is the frame. At least I have that going for me. I didn't really want to tub mine either, but a mini tub might be an option to fix my wheel well issues.
Looks Like your doing a great job, looks like you need to brace up the body with some small stock. Start at the front door pillars and make sure it's all square and work your way back making sure everything is were its supposed to be .
I echo what many others have said, and believe you should keep going. Plus your RUclips channel is called Slow car fix, this one will just be slower than you had hoped.
You need to fix the other body mounts first before you work on the back of the car. I’ve been doing restorations for over 45 years so I know exactly what you’re doing wrong.
The other body mounts are all new. The floor is a one piece floor with braces and all new body mount rubber. I just don't have them torqued down, just the bolts going through.
Don’t give up and don’t over think it too ! Your doing great job on the 55 and I know how disappointed it gets when you think you bought a pretty good car or truck and it turns out to be a POS ! I’m about to start on my 4dr 55 and I’m replacing the floor and 10 inches of the rear pan and sill but I’m not making a show car ! It’ll be a 10 to 20 footer and I’m ok with that because I can’t afford a clean, nice one ! I stop thinking of how much time I got in it because it’s my Dream car and I have more time then money. Well I hope I do I just turned 57 on the 7th 😂 Aloha my friend 😊🤙🤙🤙
Thanks for the kind words, and the "dream" part of it is what keeps me going. I wish I had of known the back was that bad, because I would have started there first. When you tweak the back, it changes everything. I have lots of work ahead of me yet. Happy Birthday!
Ed don't give up build the trunk floor, support off the frame. Angle, S/tubeing what ever. The Cold in Utah stopped my project... I thought. But it was an arthritic hip that had to be replaced, not sheet metal Positive MENTAL ATTITUDE helps. Money is spilled milk. 8k for my car is now 15k PLUS THE TITANIUM HIP.....LOL LET YOUR SETBACK BE YOUR STRENGTH, its only money, I try to give mine away... ask my wife. MB in Utah.... @@SlowCarFix
I had to give up on building my first hotrod after realizing that it was just above my skill set. It was a 37 dodge with So much rust, dents and cracks. Not really much to work with but your 55 isn't anywhere near as bad as mine was. Sometimes you have to step back and regroup then attack from a different side. Don't give up. Ask people for help when you need it.
Brother cutter, everything I say here is meant in the best way possible. I said a couple videos back don't buy more parts. You aren't going to correct anything with just more parts. There are variables in this metal that you just have to work out. ANY re stamp you buy will be different. And weirdly different. Your latest purchase assumed a new stamping would give you a factory location. But it is definitely not exactly like the original. an 1/8th here, 1/16th there. you know. You must be seeing this. It is almost like some of these were made to lay over the top and weld on, then bondo city. Is there anyone near you, that you can reach out to, to just get you back on track. You were going along well with your dolly work, and getting the front quarter sections in. So no more parts. send up the signal flare. Brent at halfass customs. Dan @ DD Speed shop? there are alot of sheet metal guys up on your side of the border. You have enough metal there. get some good help there, get on track and learn too. Plus, all parties can get a video up. My heart is with you on this. Don't give up, because in this state, it is a hard sell. You can do it. Oh, remember, the outside is the part of the car you look at.
I like that line "the outside is what you look at". I'm going to keep that in mind. Dan and Brent are one province over and about 24 hours of driving away. I don't think I'll have their help unfortunately. I definitely needed the tail light area parts I just bought, they will help big time, but now I just need to get that strength in. I have seen the inconsistency in the panels, but I've also seen inconsistency in the factory stuff on the car. It's certainly not precision fit. I'll get through it, or I'll cut it in half. Either way, I'm fortunate to be able to do this stuff. Thanks for watching and following along.
I restored a '55 Chevy several years ago and kept the body on the frame replacing body panels one at a time rather than cutting the car apart like you did. My '55 was full of rust and bondo and I had to replace most of what you're doing now. Your '55 shouldn't have been scrapped as you stated at the end of your video. You just went about repairing it in a way that makes the task a lot more difficult. Good luck. Those are great cars once they're back on the road. I did a picture compilation video of my '55 build. >> ruclips.net/video/mto5r8DLZ7c/видео.html
Time to ditch the body and find a another shell. Yes everything can be restored but this car is beyond the point of no return. Life is to short to deal this car. Find another 55 to work on and will be a lot happier in the end.
I would bite the bullet and spend the 20,000 on a new shell and have it painted to look like patina then you wont ever have to worry about rust or structural safety.
Hi its been a while since we talk ed do you have a friend that has a55 you could look at to measure or video to look at.I'm going out on a limb Montana garga
There's a few videos I'm going to watch before I go at it again, but I think every car is a bit different depending on where it rotted. I appreciate you following along.
Well your channel isn’t called Fast Car Fix. Line everything up as best as you can and brace it all up to keep it from moving, and then start adding panels back on. Clearly you’re frustrated with the build. Work on another project for a bit as you get your future plan of attack for this one.
Ha! Finally someone gets the slow car thing. I might have to break away to pull the engine from my Corsa soon, but other than that I need to stay on it. I don't want to lose the little momentum I have. Thanks for watching.
I always assumed Slow Car Fix was a reference to Corvairs. I think at heart you lean more the the side of perfectionism than someone like DDSS. Not a bad thing. Maybe there’s a way to find some middle ground. Hope you power through and get her back on the road, but understand the frustration of a project when it feels like you’re drowning. You can do it man!
@Andrew Reece it is a reference to Vairs, and my bug and model A, as well not really being terribly interested in performance stuff. It also works for my approach to these projects. I like to plan, be methodical and work the plan. That's likely why I have trouble with this one, it derails me at every turn. I have a lot of respect for Dan at DDSS, he encouraged me to start on RUclips and he knows how to get stuff done. However, I agree with you, I am a little more fussy than he is and I try hard to do things the best I can. Sometimes I have to do them again, but I learn. Thanks for watching and I hope you're enjoying the videos. Slow Car Fix, fixing Slow cars slooooowly. 😁
@@SlowCarFix I have a ton of respect for DDSS too. I’m a little picky about what I’m doing but that often gets in the way of getting projects done. Dan gets things done! Channels like this really motivate me to keep plugging along on my projects. I’ve said it multiple times that you Canadians have some of the best car channels on YT. Your channel, Fitzees Fabrications, DDSS, Halfass Kustoms, Make it Kustom, Wild West Garage, Carter Auto Restyling, and Cold War Motors. Lots of different content styles but one thing they all have in common is they keep on keepin on. If it was easy everyone would be doing it. Once you get something stabilized on your car you can trust I think the path forward will become clearer. Good luck!
USE THE THE. INFORMATION. KNOWN. THE SUPPORT. YOU HAVE TOO CONECT. THE. DOTS. THE ASS OF THE CAR. GETS. STRENGHT. FROM. COMPLETED. STRUCTURE. WHEEL. TUBS. TRUNK LINER. ROCKERS. REAR. VALANCE. YOU. GOT. THINK ABOUT. ITS. A. UNABODY. NO. SUPPORT. UNLESS. THE. INTEGRITY. IS. INTACT
He lives about 25 hours away, and he's got enough on his plate. I'm loving his take on things. A little different approach and style than I have, but he gets a lot done in a short period of time.
The body mount rubbers are all new and in place, but not tightened down so I can lift the car as I have. I haven't quit yet, but not sure what direction I'm going.
I think u wine to much put the body Mounts on the car weld the back fins on an the little truck pan on an go on to ur inner fender wells remake them out of sheet metal one peace at a time it will come to gather u can do it. Lol
We would like to see it completed. The bigger the challenge, the more pride you will have when its finished !
Thanks very much for the support.
I’M JOINING YOUR CHANNEL TODAY TO SEE YOU FINISH IT! Just start bracing it up and tack/screw it together. Just keep making adjustments until you get it right. Just remember it’s not always about the money. The experience you are gaining and the pride you will have when it’s done and done right will be priceless.
Thanks very much for the support and welcome!
Don't overthink it man , it's just an old car . I have 3 55 hits. My gasser was bad , I put the back together by leveling the frame , bolting the rear tail pan in place then jacking each quarter to the tail pan . I spot welded and checked the trunk lid fit , when it was ok I checked the door fit on each side then spot welded everything. After checking fitment I welded solid seamsealed and if it's off a little bit I don't care , in the end I did the best I could and drive it with a smile !just fix your car .
Thanks very much - I like your method - I am with you.
Hello Ed, asking your viewer's what we think is not going to change your mind. You are the x-factor. You are doing a great job. ✌
Thanks John, I appreciate that. I just like to think you folks are asking for the ride, might as well ask what you think. I usually have my own idea, but it's nice to hear what others think. Hopefully it stays positive. Thanks for following along.
@@SlowCarFix ok, got it. I have always told myself " that you don't really own your car, until you have restored it!"
@John Freeman I always say that you don't even own a car until you pull the engine out. My Corsa is an example, thought I could get away without pulling the engine because it was new, then it blew up.
No shame in getting help. Sometimes another eye is good and someone with some experience. You are keeping this very honest with the hurdles, pitfalls. Take a break, do some research, get help and come back to it.
I had a friend look with me, I have been reading all the feedback on here, which is great. I have a few things I might try. I'm trying to be as honest as I can be, not everything is a quick job if you want to do it the best you can. Thanks for watching.
Ed, In my humble opinion quitting is not in your DNA. You have had to go in many different directions in this build and if getting another shell is the answer. Then this isn't a compromise on you but rather another direction in achieving your end goal. Whatever it takes Sheree and I know you'll reach your goal. We will follow you thru each video till the end. Good luck, fingers crossed and a prayer for you.
Thanks very much Christian! I hope you guys are well, and I'm glad you are following along and I appreciate your support.
I just went through this with my 55. Mine had nothing when I got it. The only body mounts were the two in the very front coming down from the firewall. The key is to repair that rotted out area in the trunk at the rear where the inner quarters connect to that last 10 inches. I didn't even fix mine yet I just screwed some braces into the inner quarters going down to that rear body mount brace nothing fancy just used self drilling screws. The frame is very flexible if you jack it in front of the wheels it'll flex down and once you got that last 10 inches secured to the body you'll be fine the frame and spring mounts will clear the trunk pan just fine after that. I'm making it sound easy because it really is so don't sweat it.
Thanks very much. Good tips right there.
I really enjoy your videos and your thought process. Resolving a tough situation is never easy. A day or two away from a project is always beneficial. It sounds like to me that your wife has a lot of confidence in your abilities. I am not sure what I would do but one thing for sure you can't look back. When your do make your decision It will be the right one.
I'm really glad you're enjoying the videos. My wife has seen me pull off some crazy projects in the past, but this one is worse in my opinion. Thanks for the support and thanks for following along.
I would level the frame, put the body mounts in, bolt the body down. Mark the centre of the rear frame cross member and centre of rear panel with body mounts, bolt it down. Get trunk floor leveled up to where you like it and heavy tack it in place. Then work on getting both quarters at the same height so trunk lid fits them correctly then work from there. You can do it!
I think we're thinking alike - Thanks for sticking with me.
I totally agree. Get new mounts and bolt down floor and trunk then align body, tack weld and keep adjusting.
Hey Ed you got this brother. I think I read all the comments and there are some good ones. Think I would put all the body mounts in and bolt the floor down and the new trunk piece you got then find center of frame and body then line them up. Then jack those quarter panels up to the right hight make sure you door gaps are good to.
You got this what I always say is what one man can do so can another. Just remember it's just metal if it's not right just cut it and do it again. Don't get rid of her you can fix it she's a good old 55 just needs some more love. Best of luck to you
And Merry Christmas to you and yours. And remember to where gear heads we don't give up😁
Thanks very much! We finally got a load of snow here, so I'm working through that, but hope to get to have a look at the '55 again this weekend and decide what I'm doing. I appreciate your support and Merry Christmas to you and yours as well.
I actually gave up on one of my long term projects today. I have barely touched my '69 VW fastback in seven years due to the fact it had some tricky to repair structural rust. My welding and fab skills are no where near yours, so this helped in the decision to finally let it go to someone who has wanted it for years, and is itching to dive right in with the needed repairs. People like me would have to go without a '55 Chevy, because I could not afford a good one, and could never fix a bad one. Only you can decide if it is worth the additional time and moola to get it to the level you are ok with. In times like that I get my buddies over and see what they think...
Sorry to hear about your fastback, I love those cars. I really like the wagons too.
I had my buddy Kyle over to look at it with me on Saturday. It is nice to have a sounding board.
@@SlowCarFix It is not all bad news. Selling this car allowed the space and money to get my hands on a low mileage '65 Monza that might just be my new summer driver! I am finding Corvairs to be highly addictive...
@Volktales they certainly are. I've owned over 35 of them and the most I've had at once and on the road at one time is 7. We presently have 4. crazy stuff.
Hi Ed i think if you put two long braces angle iron or square tubing on the trunk floor front to back nut and bolt the two floor pan halfs to the braces to make the floor level and flat this should help make the floor stronger and help you to get things lined up EZR . then i would try to get both quarters lined up with the trunk lid and try fitting the three new rear parts. the two next to the trunk lid and the panel below the trunk lid. you may need to put a couple tack welds from the trunk lid to the quarters first so it can't move. then fit the new parts and tack them in place when everything lines up then tack the center part in. just make shore to put the tack weld where they are EZ to cut out. this is just my thought . the 55 convertibile im building was way worse than your car. it was broke in half when i got it. it looks pretty good now when i have it all clamped together with some new and a lot of used parts. i know you can do this just take your time.
i just thought of something else that may be causing problems too . the trunk torsion rods may be pulling the back of the car down ??
Thanks very much for the vote of confidence! I was thinking the same about some bracing on the floor where the new and old join. Tacking the trunk lid to the quarters, that's an interesting idea. I've seen guys mud them closed in a couple spots during body work to make their gaps. Tacking it might be what I need to hold things straight. Thanks for the comment.
You have gone this far see it through. I'm in kind of the same position with a 1969 Dodge D100 truck. Rusty, I decided to extend the cab and I guarantee no one else would have taken on the project but I'm now 60% along the way so it's going to get done and it will be correct and fully driveable. I'll enjoy every minute of it when it's on the road.
I've been through lots of these projects, but never this far in. I'll figure it out one way or another. Extended cab D100 would be a cool project.
Same deal with my '57, currently working on my trunk section, went the full trunk floor. I'm thinking once it's attached to the floor at the front and the body mounts in the rear, then i can align the quarters with the trunk edges and once welded will give it the support and the correct height. Right now it looks like my quarters are sagging a few inches as well, i have the rear of the body supported with an engine stand to keep it from getting worse. Good luck and keep driving on, videos like yours give others the motivation to keep going on their projects!
It really seems like this is a common problem. I looked at pictures of a potential replacement shell and it was sagging on one side and the trunk wouldn't close, same issue. One piece floor is the better option for sure, but I have what I have and this car was never going to be "correct" anyway. I'll figure it out one way or another. I'm glad folks can find inspiration from my work. That really makes it all worth while. Thanks for watching!
I’ve been going through a very similar situation with my dream car ‘57 bel air. It’s a 4 door that I’m converting to a 2 door as well. And the back end has kicked my butt as well. But I’m refusing to give up on the old girl. Now granted, I am making a lot of the sheet metal parts, along with some Danchuck parts so I’m not in it as much as you. But these tri fives deserves a second chance at life, and you can improve upon them so they don’t rust out again as the did from the factory. Keep it up Ed you’ll get there!
Thanks very much!
I have two Nash's that I am working on. One is a 1925 and the over is 1926. Trying find parts that don't even exist for a 100 year car.
Hi Ed it seems that the majority of comments wants you to keep going, but like John F. said the final answer lies with you. I certainly would like to see what comes of it and it seems like you are back on track. Good luck with the decision.
Thanks for the support. I'll figure something out.
your going in the right direction mate ! your exactly where I was on my video i did on the blue 57 mate go check it out mate !! Now that you have the body up off the frame but attacked to the cowl panel concentrate on put
Ting the tailpan on the the tail light section ends and making sure the trunk closes it’s not as bad as you think mate !!
That's encouraging! Thanks - I'll watch your video again. I think we're thinking the same thing.
@@SlowCarFix you mate your good you’ll see what I mean !!
You got this ed, no giving up now, slowly but surely, big job for sure, but I'm sure you're going to find a way to make it work, Aloha brother
Thanks very much! I appreciate the support. I'll figure something out.
I’m no expert but you should’ve finished up the floor pan before doing the back. New bushings and all. I’m enjoying the videos
The new floor plan is tacked in place in several points and sitting on new body mounts, just not bolted down. I didn't full weld it because it needs more work where it attaches to the floor. I'm glad you're enjoying the videos.
Keep doin what your doin, it will be fine. Been in that spot many times... keep the body lifted off the frame like you have it then do your body panels/work. While you have that body lifted do any frame/body mount work needed. Then set her down on the new body bushings to finish up... dont give up and definitely dont scrap that body...😉
Thanks very much for the support! I intend to remove the frame complete, but I have to get the car strong enough to allow that. Hopefully I can get something sorted.
@@SlowCarFix you can do it, time and patience brother. Just visualize the end product and when you get it done you can look back and say, "I did that"...😉
Think about this well the floor panel where it needs To go Put new body Bush in The areas where they need to be The body bushes will give you the space you need for the trunk It should level the car out✊️😎
The bushings are in, but just no bolts. I had them in for spacing. The car had bent downwards over time of having no rear support under the trunk floor and no vertical support in the inner trunk. I had to jack the body up in the rear. Check out my latest couple of videos on it. Thanks for watching!
I just subscribed to your channel. don't give up there are a lot of good comments here. Take your time to lift and support the body to install your new parts. You may have to repair inner trunk sides at the same time to give more rear quarter support. good luck
Thanks very much for subscribing and for the support! Check out the latest couple of videos. I've made some progress.
You have a gd plan. Get the car level and check the body mounts. Brace the car where you can and start with sheet metal screws or Clecos to get the metal lined up. Time to re-group. You’ll get it.
Thanks - I have lots of screws and cleco's. I'll need them.
Boy, I don't know what I would do at this point. If it were me, for my time into it I could walk with a lesson learned. But you have a lot of cash into it and that would be hard to walk from. I guess you need to figure out how much more money it is going to take vs starting over and then decide what's best for you. Either way your subs will stick it out with you. Wishing you the best and Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays to you, your wife and your family. ~Pat
Thanks very much for the support and I'm glad you folks are following along. For better or worse. I'm off for a bit at Christmas, I'll figure out one way or another what I'm doing. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
A second set of eyes maybe the best idea. Even if the they can’t solve your problem, kicking ideas back and forth my lead your a solution.
It helped for sure.
Its become like rebuilding an old house.You have to fix the foundation,and level all the cross beams before you go any farther,or nothing will be square any higher up.Since you have a new floor in it lift the body to the correct height off the frame,and put blocks of wood between the floor,and frame to hold it where it needs to be.Because of the cost of panels,and shipping I would look at making new lower sections of the inner structure,and weld them to the good upper that remains.Instead of trying to make it all look like original I would do like the race car builders who build tubs,and simplify the design as much as possible.Watch a few video"s on tubbing wheel wells to see how much they redesign.This cars no virgin so its no sin to get real creative building a new inner. Once the metal works done install rubber body mounts,and pull the wood blocking out.Sometimes when a project leaves you feeling sick its best to let it sit for a couple months then come back.Good luck either way you chose to go.
Thanks for the comment - this really got me thinking. If I just make things square and straight panels, like an old tubbed drag car, that might be a lot easier. I can always upholster the trunk after. You're right, I need to get creative IF I'm going to save this thing.
Just take your time, you'll get there. Watch some half rod videos on RUclips he's really good on the 55-56 Chevy you can learn a lot from him. Best of luck.
I'll check it out. Thanks!
I have polished a few turds in my day as well. Overlooking what it really is, because you wanted that car. It happens all the time. I think you are on the right track elevating the body off the frame. As shitty as it is. You have done so much. Do you quit now?. I have wanted a 55 most of my life. You do not have to rush it. But, maybe as you said get a helping hand to get past this point. Keep the faith. Do not know where you live. But. If i was close i would offer help.Cheers!.
Thanks for the positive and kind words. I appreciate the support.
How do you build a Hot Rod, put together and take it apart, then repeat 50 or 60 times, enjoy the journey young Man, you can do it.
That's a good quote. Thanks for the support!
I know every car is a little different my 54s are that way I put @5x7 on 2of my cars and my 2dr. They won't cit its sat I don't know how long and I can't get my tires too clear the body and brake drums the shackle so maybe the bushing are froze I don't want to put disk on the readjust get the tires on UT I don't want to tub the car either.! we are both having our issues.if you can get a solid floor and body mounts on yours that will help slot if your frame is good.
The one thing that looks okay on this car is the frame. At least I have that going for me. I didn't really want to tub mine either, but a mini tub might be an option to fix my wheel well issues.
Looks Like your doing a great job, looks like you need to brace up the body with some small stock. Start at the front door pillars and make sure it's all square and work your way back making sure everything is were its supposed to be .
Thanks, I'm thinking something similar.
I echo what many others have said, and believe you should keep going. Plus your RUclips channel is called Slow car fix, this one will just be slower than you had hoped.
Thanks Frank. I appreciate the support. This one certainly won't be as quick of turn around, but it's what I want. How's the truck(s) coming?
Truck progress is at a standstill for the winter. Too cold to work in a non heated shed!
Enjoying watching your videos. Keep up the great work.
You need to fix the other body mounts first before you work on the back of the car. I’ve been doing restorations for over 45 years so I know exactly what you’re doing wrong.
The other body mounts are all new. The floor is a one piece floor with braces and all new body mount rubber. I just don't have them torqued down, just the bolts going through.
Don’t give up and don’t over think it too ! Your doing great job on the 55 and I know how disappointed it gets when you think you bought a pretty good car or truck and it turns out to be a POS ! I’m about to start on my 4dr 55 and I’m replacing the floor and 10 inches of the rear pan and sill but I’m not making a show car ! It’ll be a 10 to 20 footer and I’m ok with that because I can’t afford a clean, nice one ! I stop thinking of how much time I got in it because it’s my Dream car and I have more time then money. Well I hope I do I just turned 57 on the 7th 😂 Aloha my friend 😊🤙🤙🤙
Thanks for the kind words, and the "dream" part of it is what keeps me going. I wish I had of known the back was that bad, because I would have started there first. When you tweak the back, it changes everything. I have lots of work ahead of me yet. Happy Birthday!
Never Give Up On Your Car Ever!!
I think I'm sticking with it now! Thanks for the support!
Excellent!! It will come out Awesome and you’ll be proud & so will we!
Man up and finish what you started you will be happy when finished!
check out the videos that followed this one. The car has come a long way.
Thanks for the video
thanks for watching
Ed don't give up build the trunk floor, support off the frame. Angle, S/tubeing what ever. The Cold in Utah stopped my project... I thought. But it was an arthritic hip that had to be replaced, not sheet metal Positive MENTAL ATTITUDE helps. Money is spilled milk. 8k for my car is now 15k PLUS THE TITANIUM HIP.....LOL LET YOUR SETBACK BE YOUR STRENGTH, its only money, I try to give mine away... ask my wife. MB in Utah.... @@SlowCarFix
I had to give up on building my first hotrod after realizing that it was just above my skill set. It was a 37 dodge with So much rust, dents and cracks. Not really much to work with but your 55 isn't anywhere near as bad as mine was. Sometimes you have to step back and regroup then attack from a different side. Don't give up. Ask people for help when you need it.
Brother cutter, everything I say here is meant in the best way possible. I said a couple videos back don't buy more parts. You aren't going to correct anything with just more parts. There are variables in this metal that you just have to work out. ANY re stamp you buy will be different. And weirdly different. Your latest purchase assumed a new stamping would give you a factory location. But it is definitely not exactly like the original. an 1/8th here, 1/16th there. you know. You must be seeing this. It is almost like some of these were made to lay over the top and weld on, then bondo city.
Is there anyone near you, that you can reach out to, to just get you back on track. You were going along well with your dolly work, and getting the front quarter sections in. So no more parts. send up the signal flare. Brent at halfass customs. Dan @ DD Speed shop? there are alot of sheet metal guys up on your side of the border. You have enough metal there. get some good help there, get on track and learn too. Plus, all parties can get a video up.
My heart is with you on this. Don't give up, because in this state, it is a hard sell. You can do it.
Oh, remember, the outside is the part of the car you look at.
www.youtube.com/@RestoringChristine1956
I like that line "the outside is what you look at". I'm going to keep that in mind. Dan and Brent are one province over and about 24 hours of driving away. I don't think I'll have their help unfortunately.
I definitely needed the tail light area parts I just bought, they will help big time, but now I just need to get that strength in. I have seen the inconsistency in the panels, but I've also seen inconsistency in the factory stuff on the car. It's certainly not precision fit.
I'll get through it, or I'll cut it in half. Either way, I'm fortunate to be able to do this stuff. Thanks for watching and following along.
@@SlowCarFix Just hang in there and keep swinging. The fight isn't lost as long as you are still fighting.
Can’t afford $$$ To quit now . Your doin Great
Thanks!
What do the rest of the body mounts look like on the rest of the car?
All the body mounts are new.
well i'll be dipped , ok parts car, next project
That's the easy button right there.
Yes, you give up. There’s your answer
You come help!
@@SlowCarFix I have my own unfinished projects and 3 kids. I’m about as useful as a screen door on a battleship
I restored a '55 Chevy several years ago and kept the body on the frame replacing body panels one at a time rather than cutting the car apart like you did. My '55 was full of rust and bondo and I had to replace most of what you're doing now. Your '55 shouldn't have been scrapped as you stated at the end of your video. You just went about repairing it in a way that makes the task a lot more difficult. Good luck. Those are great cars once they're back on the road. I did a picture compilation video of my '55 build. >> ruclips.net/video/mto5r8DLZ7c/видео.html
Thanks very much for the kind words, and I'll be sure to check out your video.
Time to ditch the body and find a another shell. Yes everything can be restored but this car is beyond the point of no return. Life is to short to deal this car. Find another 55 to work on and will be a lot happier in the end.
You're not wrong. That doesn't make me smart enough to take your advice. I'll figure something out, but I'm determined to have A '55 on the road.
@@SlowCarFix trust me I under stand that. I have been there myself. I quess I am just bit burned out on rusty car. I do hope that you do succeed.
I would bite the bullet and spend the 20,000 on a new shell and have it painted to look like patina then you wont ever have to worry about rust or structural safety.
You buying? haha!
@@SlowCarFix lol no
@@jlarocque84 it was worth a shot!
Hi its been a while since we talk ed do you have a friend that has a55 you could look at to measure or video to look at.I'm going out on a limb Montana garga
There's a few videos I'm going to watch before I go at it again, but I think every car is a bit different depending on where it rotted. I appreciate you following along.
Step away from the project come back later with a fresh point of view.
Not a bad idea.
👍🏻🍺
Thanks
Buy a 99/newer Camaro/Firebird and do the body swap.
put a 99 camaro body on a '55 chassis? that doesn't really seem productive Chris. Did you write your Camaro off yet so I can get the engine?
Come get it. It on blocks in the front yard
@@chrissilver5019 right where they all end up. Hope you guys are well.
Well your channel isn’t called Fast Car Fix. Line everything up as best as you can and brace it all up to keep it from moving, and then start adding panels back on. Clearly you’re frustrated with the build. Work on another project for a bit as you get your future plan of attack for this one.
Ha! Finally someone gets the slow car thing. I might have to break away to pull the engine from my Corsa soon, but other than that I need to stay on it. I don't want to lose the little momentum I have. Thanks for watching.
I always assumed Slow Car Fix was a reference to Corvairs. I think at heart you lean more the the side of perfectionism than someone like DDSS. Not a bad thing. Maybe there’s a way to find some middle ground. Hope you power through and get her back on the road, but understand the frustration of a project when it feels like you’re drowning. You can do it man!
@Andrew Reece it is a reference to Vairs, and my bug and model A, as well not really being terribly interested in performance stuff. It also works for my approach to these projects. I like to plan, be methodical and work the plan. That's likely why I have trouble with this one, it derails me at every turn.
I have a lot of respect for Dan at DDSS, he encouraged me to start on RUclips and he knows how to get stuff done. However, I agree with you, I am a little more fussy than he is and I try hard to do things the best I can. Sometimes I have to do them again, but I learn. Thanks for watching and I hope you're enjoying the videos. Slow Car Fix, fixing Slow cars slooooowly. 😁
@@SlowCarFix I have a ton of respect for DDSS too. I’m a little picky about what I’m doing but that often gets in the way of getting projects done. Dan gets things done! Channels like this really motivate me to keep plugging along on my projects. I’ve said it multiple times that you Canadians have some of the best car channels on YT. Your channel, Fitzees Fabrications, DDSS, Halfass Kustoms, Make it Kustom, Wild West Garage, Carter Auto Restyling, and Cold War Motors. Lots of different content styles but one thing they all have in common is they keep on keepin on. If it was easy everyone would be doing it. Once you get something stabilized on your car you can trust I think the path forward will become clearer. Good luck!
USE THE THE. INFORMATION. KNOWN. THE SUPPORT. YOU HAVE TOO CONECT. THE. DOTS. THE ASS OF THE CAR. GETS. STRENGHT. FROM. COMPLETED. STRUCTURE. WHEEL. TUBS. TRUNK LINER. ROCKERS. REAR. VALANCE. YOU. GOT. THINK ABOUT. ITS. A. UNABODY. NO. SUPPORT. UNLESS. THE. INTEGRITY. IS. INTACT
Hav e Dan come help ya
He lives about 25 hours away, and he's got enough on his plate. I'm loving his take on things. A little different approach and style than I have, but he gets a lot done in a short period of time.
Quitting is for wimps, you got the parts. now use your knowhow to muscle it into place and have at her! (Hint)... go to your support rubbers. ;)
The body mount rubbers are all new and in place, but not tightened down so I can lift the car as I have. I haven't quit yet, but not sure what direction I'm going.
I think u wine to much put the body Mounts on the car weld the back fins on an the little truck pan on an go on to ur inner fender wells remake them out of sheet metal one peace at a time it will come to gather u can do it. Lol
I don't know if this comment is an insult or a compliment. Watch some of the more recent videos and you'll see how I made out.