'28/'29 Repro Cowl Patch Panels?

[svm99]

I need to replace the lower sections of my cowl panels. Are the repro patches formed with the correct panel curves or should I just start forming my own from scratch? I've heard some say the complete repro panels are a lot of work to install also. Any body have experience with these?

Thanks, Paul

[Bassman/NZ]

I used the complete panels. I thought it would be easier than welding in the patches..... I think in the end it may have been easier to use the patches. The complete panels are unfinished, they're certainly not a bolt in fit. If you are good at sheetmetal welding and finishing, I would recommend the patches.

[29restorod]

To me its a lot easier to just replace the hole quarter. Use a spot weld cutter to cut the spot welds free,and use the same cutter to cut matching holes in the new panel. Mig weld the spots and grind down,no body work. its even easier if the firewall is out of the car already.

[BRENT in 10-uh-C]

Originally Posted by svm99

I need to replace the lower sections of my cowl panels. Are the repro patches formed with the correct panel curves or should I just start forming my own from scratch? I've heard some say the complete repro panels are a lot of work to install also. Any body have experience with these?

Thanks, Paul

Paul, how picky are you going to be, ...and what are your expectations? On a scale of 1 - 10, my experiences are they are about a 7½ to 8 on shape. THAT may be good enuf for your needs. They can be worked to get the shape even closer if you have a 'wheel', or a planishing hammer & dolly.

.

[Fred K-OR]

I had no experience is patching panels so I just looked for some good used panels. I found some good one but had to do a little bit of patching. They fit, had no problems with them and they look great.

If you do want to go with used panels, may want to try Bert's in Denver.

[svm99]

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Originally Posted by Fred K-OR

I had no experience is patching panels so I just looked for some good used panels. I found some good one but had to do a little bit of patching. They fit, had no problems with them and they look great.

If you do want to go with used panels, may want to try Bert's in Denver.

Is Bert's a Model A parts seller?
Paul J.

[Special Coupe Frank]

Originally Posted by svm99

Is Bert's a Model A parts seller?
Paul J.

Yep. New and used parts.

They have an excellent reputation.

[Jack 34pu]

Just picked up a lower patch panel set from Bratton"s (great people to deal with) and the metal shaping is not that great. You will have to hand form somewhat to get the shape perfect. My original cowl panel curved edge is pretty sharp while the patch is more rounded. It will take some hammer work to get it right. (sold in pairs only)

[Fred K-OR]

Originally Posted by svm99

Is Bert's a Model A parts seller?
Paul J.

Yes and phone is 800-321-1931, web is www.modelastore.com with email [email protected].

[svm99]

Thanks for all the info. I'll give Bert's a call tomorrow and check on some parts. I looked at their site, quite a bunch of stuff, I hadn't heard of them before.
Paul J.

[wrndln]

If the rusted out areas are not real large (wider than 5 or 6"), I would cut the rusted area out and MIG or TIG weld in a homemade patch using 20 ga sheetmetal. If you cut the patch first, then lay it on the area to be patched, you can trace around the patch piece and then with a die grinder, cut the area in the cowl panel. I have done 2 or 3 this way and they turned out well, and used very little filler to finish the cowl. I feel the original sheetmetal is better than any repro patches or whole panel. Most sheetmetal I have found, doesn't fit or look right. Just my opinion. If you would like to see a few pictures of the patching I did, send me a PM.
Rusty Nelson

[bobscogin]

Originally Posted by 29restorod

To me its a lot easier to just replace the hole quarter.

My thinking too, and that's what I did. I used Howell's cowl panels and they fit well.

Bob

[svm99]

Originally Posted by Fred K-OR

Yes and phone is 800-321-1931, web is www.modelastore.com with email [email protected].

Fred, thanks for the lead, I've got a pair on the way from Berts. Very fair people to deal with on the phone thus far.

Thank you to all for your responses, hopefully saved me some effort.
Paul J.