Can this be repaired?

Val

If so please inform me as to how as I am not a metal smith.

bob ward

Its hard to know the skill level required and how big a job it will be until all the filler is removed, but yes, that looks repairable.

Jon B

As Bob said, you need to first clean all that plastic crap out and assess the extent of the problem.

But first....have these lights been changed over to a sealed beam? Kits were made for this purpose after sealed beam lamps came out in 1940, and possibly one was installed here. OR, someone attempted his own ''upgrade" using whatever parts he could find, and then filled in the gaps with Bondo. If you intend to go back to the original light system (glass lens, reflector, "prefocus" lamp and all the hardware) you might possibly discover that no repair was necessary at all.

PAULARGETYPE

IT LOOKS TOP ME LIKE IT'S ALL ORIGNAL TO ME IT'S THE RIGHT HEAD LIGHT BUCKET AND WIRES I WOULD FIX IT FOR SURE IT DOESN'T LOOK THAT BAD TO ME BUT THEN I'VE SAVED A FEW THAT EVERY ONE SAIDIT COULD NOT BE SAVED

[Deleted User]

Feeling around with a magnet will give you a clue as to how much putty in in that area.
Roger

Val

Jon B yes the lights were changed over to a sealed beam at some point. It is my intent to go back with the original set up and I have the parts to do so but the right side (which is shown) seems to be sunk in more on the outboard edge and the head lamp frame isnt set in correctly. It was a poor patch job and the sealed beam hid this but I discovered it when I pulled them off to install originals.

Paulargetype, any advice you can give is greatly appreciated. As I said I am not a metalsnith nor a body guy by no means. Engines I can do and did on this car but body work is new to me.

Val

Thanks Roger will do that tomorrow when I get in. Also I may be attending the gateway club meet this weekend. Provided I dont have to work.

rambos_ride

At a min, you'll need a grinder, torch, hammer and dollies and a LOT of patience.

Usually the metal is strechted of weakened. Sometimes its too thin to weld from novices grinding on it too much.

So the problem becomes shrinking and streching the metal to get it back in shape.

Then theres body and paint work...honestly if you don't already have the tools it might be better for your sanity and pocket book to farm it out to someone reputable.

[Deleted User]

Very good Val , we will have a sign out on hwy 100 to help folks find the right road. Its just north of Kampsville couple miles.
Roger

Val

Probably best if I do leave it to a professional. Roger, any one you can recomend that is close?

[Deleted User]

The guy I used to use retired recently. I'll ask a couple guys to see who they have been
using.
Roger

Val

Thanks, and I wasnt able to make th emeet bt will try the next time.

[Deleted User]

We missed you ,I rode up there in with my friend Mike in his 49 convertible . Very nice open car weather day .The next event is a joint meet with the Chicago /Milwaukee folks up in Clinton / Hayworth Illinois next month.
Roger

Val

Good deal, I also see you have one in forest park some time.

[Deleted User]

At the History Museum we sponsor the Orphan Car Show on October 20th. Quite a few cars there as a rule .
Roger