My Comet has the high body metal trim that clips on to plastic clips that are fitted on studs that were welded to the body at the factory (see photo). Since I will be replacing most of my sheet metal my question is: has anyone ever tried to add these studs to sheet metal? I assume some sort of spot weld gun fitted with the studs was originally used. Other than using small headed screws and drilling into the body I'm unsure of how to replicate the studs without messing up the metal. I suppose two-way tape could be used instead but I think it might be obvious and stick up a bit. Any thoughts or personal experiences?
I am taking the trim poff my car so I ground them off but from what I remember they are very similar to the studs around the windshield? If they are someone , maybe Ebay had the clips and gave you some screw studs to replace any windshield studs that may be messed up or missing. I will try to find the link but they were screw/studs if that makes sense, meant to replace the studs
here's a link, you should be able to get these seperate. Look at the SS clip screws eBay Motors: 66 Mustang windshield & rear glass clips-FREE SHIP (item 200227174119 end time Jun-02-08 19:13:20 PDT)
They are similar to the winsdshield clip studs so it looks like those screws would work - the thought of having to screw them into new sheet metal on the doors fenders and quarters however is a little daunting. I really like the trim, it looks really good against black paint with the window chrome and rocker trim and it is unique to the Comet but I may have to opt to go without it. I was hoping someone on the board had experience putting the old trim on a new metal panel and could weigh in.
Rivets will work, line the plastic clip up, drill the hole, and rivet the clip to the fender. Or don't cut out any section with them, when you replace the quarter panel, there is no reason to replace the whole section, just replace what you need.
drill pilot hole, screw them in and tac weld them from behind. I thought I remembered them being similar but just wasn't sure. Isn't it odd how I ground mine off and you are trying to figure how to put yours on. That's what makes all our cars unique I guess.
Rivets are a good idea - my only concern is how to prevent rust from setting in where the holes are drilled. I suppose I could drill the holes then prime on the inside to avoid any bare metal before the rivets go in. I was planning on replacing the lower part of the quarters only and preventing the removal of the studs there if I can avoid it but I definitely will be replacing the doors and fenders so I will likely have to opt for rivets for them. Thanks.
Another good idea. Some areas would be pretty tight for a weld though - especially the peice that runs along near the top of the door skin.
If you use rivets, you could seal them on the inside with some POR15. When your ready, I'm always ready & willing to help!
Thanks Dave, I've actually been looking around the area for POR-15 but mostly got a lot of blank looks where I inquired. I'm assuming it's a limited distribution thing around here?
Some guy in Komoka (or Mt. Brydges) sells it and someone else in St. Catherines,. I usually stock up when I goto the USA, I have a few cans of different colours, so if you need any let me know, or I'll get you that guys contact info.
That's basically my backyard so it would be sweet to be able to find it so close. When you get chance please shoot me his contact info. Thanks again...
