Stepdown Rocker Panel Help Needed

joe53HH

Can someone tell me what the 2 small round holes are for on the leading edge of my '53 hornet rocker panel? It appears they are under the wide stainless trim. I am wondering if it is for a special trim retainer. On the trailing edge do I use the U-nuts for only one of the oblong holes that go behind the rear quarter? Do I place any rubber gasket between the rocker panel pocket and the frame when I attach the rocker? The body service manual does not have the greatest diagrams in their explanation. Thanks for your help.
Joe

[Deleted User]

Joe, The front holes are for two different "T" shaped retainers. One is for the standard wide triangle profile stainless trim for Hornets, Commodores etc . The other is for the narrower profile trim for Wasps etc. Those holes were put in for the tip of the trim which will have a tendency to try to pop out. Obviously the holes were punched in before the trim retainers were welded on . The rear tab has two holes in close proximity for two reasons. One is the one of the holes goes with a screw and is for a rocker to frame spacer near the rear wheel opening. The other hole is for a screw and goes the the fender itself plus the paint molding as well.

joe53HH

Thanks for the information Hudzilla! Any suggestions where I may obtain the "T" shaped trim retainers? Am I correct in assuming I would use only one of the holes on that rear tab based on the model I have? When I look at my rocker and rear fender I can't see how to screw into the hole that is farthest in the rear.
Thanks,
Joe

[Deleted User]

As far as your other question about sealer I would not seal the bottom at all. The last thing you want is for the rocker to hold water if any gets in. As far as sealer in that area goes the factory used gum type body sealer to seal the threashold plate and keep water out from above.
Roger

[Deleted User]

The "T" retainer you need for your Hornet is available. if you need them I'd be happy to help. On the question of the rear tab, both holes are used no matter the model. Just make sure you have the spacer secured onto the perimeter frame. The other hole should have a screw retainer clip on the rocker so your screw can secure the fender to the rocker as well as hold the paint mold retainer strip in place.

[Deleted User]

Seal all top surfaces, but at the bottom, put 2 small stainless washers at every screw, this way water can drain out and no rust. Walt.

joe53HH

Thanks all for the good advice. Hudzilla, I will need your help for the "T" retainers. I could not find them in the parts that came with the car. My email address is HETjoecronin@prodigy.net. (drop the HET) thanks again.