The driver's side kick panel base plate is completely rotted and needs to be replaced
I didn't want to start rebuilding the rocker panels until this piece was replaced. It is the foundation of the inner body/fender structure and the attachment point for the two main front body bolts and driver's floor kick panel bolts to the chassis.
This is the replacement channel I got from M&T. it lines up perfectly with the oem piece.
The outer fender panel is removed....
...to reveal the lower front fender had been removed & reattached in a previous repair. I'm no longer surprised by these little "discoveries" and have come to expect them.
Little by little, the original piece was removed and the replacement fit in.
The bottom of the door support structure will have to be cut out to access the defroster feed elbow that needs to be repaired.
More cutting away rot.
....and I'm finally back to solid metal I use to can rebuild! The outside of the elbow is fabricated and welded in place.
After cleaning up the welds on the elbow the kick panel base is clamped into position and welded in place
A quick coat of rust converter is applied to protect it until the next time we'll work on it
