SAAC Forum

The Cars => 1968 Shelby GT350/500/500KR => Topic started by: hurlbird on November 20, 2020, 12:36:28 PM

Title: Header bow rust fix
Post by: hurlbird on November 20, 2020, 12:36:28 PM
Under the vinyl top just above the windshield I can see the signs of rust underneath. Id like to repair that without going overboard. Is it as simple as removing staples and pull the top back a bit exposing the rusted areas for repair and fold back/staple? thanks
Title: Re: Header bow rust fix
Post by: Coralsnake on November 20, 2020, 01:06:06 PM
Unlikely that easy . That header is cast and I think its an alloy thats not easily repairable.

I think the last time I did that it was a replacement part. There was something with the threads or bolts for the latches that needed to be changed as well. It required a full top redo.
Title: Re: Header bow rust fix
Post by: hurlbird on November 20, 2020, 09:38:55 PM
bummer.. thanks
Title: Re: Header bow rust fix
Post by: 68blk500c on November 20, 2020, 10:36:43 PM
The front header bow is some kind of alloy material which deteriorates; not rust, however.  Similar to what happens to aluminum marine parts through galvanic corrosion.  Tough to repair.  If replacing, understand there are variations from year to year having to do with the latch pivots and the hooking mechanisms, as well as some hardware.     
Title: Re: Header bow rust fix
Post by: hurlbird on November 23, 2020, 01:56:34 PM
thanks!!
Title: Re: Header bow rust fix
Post by: Coralsnake on November 23, 2020, 02:22:11 PM
It can be done, but I would not say "easily"

Title: Re: Header bow rust fix
Post by: Bob Gaines on November 23, 2020, 04:07:10 PM
Quote from: 68blk500c on November 20, 2020, 10:36:43 PM
The front header bow is some kind of alloy material which deteriorates; not rust, however.  Similar to what happens to aluminum marine parts through galvanic corrosion.  Tough to repair.  If replacing, understand there are variations from year to year having to do with the latch pivots and the hooking mechanisms, as well as some hardware.     
+1 die cast /pot metal . It is hard to weld repair satisfactorily and typically more economical and better results to be replaced with another undamaged or less damaged part.