Re: [Amc-list] Matador unibody rust repair opinion/advice wanted

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

That's typical rust! Cut it back then patch some metal over it and weld. Yours isn't bad at all, and not in really stressed areas, and most importantly in areas that won't show. You can even use epoxy and rivets to fix this (the epoxy holds and seals, the rivets just apply pressure and keep the patches in place until the epoxy cures) if you don't have a welder. Then just prime and paint, both sides if possible. Some people use rubberized undercoating or brush on bed liner in these hidden areas. Just make sure it doesn't interfere with reinstalling the fender or show when the fender is in place. 

See that drain "vent" at the back of the "trough"? It may have got stopped up at one point. I always drill a couple 3/8" holes in the bottom of the trough in a couple more places along the length. If you use undercoating or bed liner make sure the drain holes are clear before reassembly. 

I'm more interested in that Aerostar radiator! I'm assuming it's from a 3.8L or 4.0L V-6 model? How does it work? I also see two nipples where you have the overflow hose attached, one with nothing on it. What's it for? If that thing fits the Matador really well, it will fit any AMC car made from 64 on! 

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Date: Wed, 10 Sep 2008 13:02:18 -0700
From: <dornbos@xxxxxxxxxxx>

Since I had the motor out of the 1973 Matador, I thought it would be a good time to clean up the engine compartment. I thought I should bang on all the rust spots with a hammer to see how bad they were and .... here's a link to a picture of one side (both sides are about equal.) The vehicle is relatively "rust free" but up near the firewall as you can see, the damage is severe. Does anyone have any advice for me here? 

http://rides.webshots.com/photo/2855781940068086797uTwfsa

This isn't a show car or a restoration but then on the other hand it isn't just a daily driver either. It's a hobby car. In other words, it doesn't have to be PERFECT but I don't want to cobble it real bad either.

-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
(free download available!)

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