Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Posted 21/1/2014 9:11 PM (#708976)
Subject: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

As some of you may know, I now own a R100 GTA in charcoal grey...

What else is there to say...

ITS PROPER FUCKED. Rust has really taken hold and I've taken this mammoth task on to simply say:

Gone are the days of plentiful Tros, Gone are the days of un-rusty Tros

Today I usher in a new age of restoration, an age where welders tire of endless shifts.

no longer do I wish to follow infidels cursing "its not worth it"

No longer can it be told a rusty metro, is a dead one.

They have seen so many decades now its time to stand!

Sons of metropower, of Metro owners club! My brothers!

I see in your eyes the same doubt that would take the motivation from me!

A day may come when the strength of steel fails, Where we Forsake our tools and break all bonds of ownership.

BUT IT IS NOT THIS DAY!

An hour of hopelesslness and shattered hands

when the age of metro comes crashing down!

BUT IT IS NOT THIS DAY!!!

THIS DAY WE WELD!!!!!!

I bid you stand, Men of the METRO!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Wheres my sill gone?!!!?

Oh there it is:

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Tucking her away with my make shift seat...

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

metro josh

Posted 21/1/2014 10:40 PM (#708985 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Member

Posts: 29

Location: Derby

Go for it you CAN do it !!

R100_vvc

Posted 21/1/2014 11:11 PM (#708986 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Expert

Posts: 2029
2000

Location: sittingbourne, kent

Rust looks worse when you poke at it,and left with a dirty hole.
But once you cut it out to a nice square clean shape it will look a lot better, well for me it does.

I bought myself a nice 1985 Austin metro with 15k on the clocks, not been on the road since 06
And expected floors to be mint, but no I got welding to do.

With your gta just try getting replacement panels where you can as it saves a lot of time and effort.
If in doubt cut it out

metrobruce

Posted 21/1/2014 11:51 PM (#708988 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Elite Veteran

Posts: 763
500

if you start by re joining the floor to the car as I have had to do with mine you end up feeling better about the job. a job like this seems bad but when you start welding it will come together rather quick. i bought a vvc gti some years ago and the inner and outer sills were that bad. there are a few metros in a scrap yard near to me so if there are any parts that you would like give me a shopping list and some funds +1 pint and I can gather them for you. if your not very good at welding at the moment you will be by the end of this project lol

metro190bhp

Posted 22/1/2014 7:32 AM (#708991 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Elite Veteran

Posts: 883
500

Location: birmingham

Go for it. Focus on one area at a time rather than looking at the lot and you will find it will come along quicker

Navrallymetro

Posted 22/1/2014 8:47 AM (#708994 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Member

Posts: 71

It took us 3 months, welding every evening and every weekend (sundays included) to get our shell finished. The difference was our car looked a whole lot better than yours, it even had an MOT?! But after a few pokes and removing the sound deadening we wondered had we bitten off more than we could chew. It was worth it though, I say go for it! And Good Luck!!

ralphh85

Posted 22/1/2014 9:02 AM (#708995 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Expert

Posts: 9862
5000

Location: Cornwall

get some pics up

Ralph

Mutts

Posted 22/1/2014 9:38 AM (#708996 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Lotus powered R100
MP Admin

5000

Location: Torbay, South Devon, UK

Morey

Posted 22/1/2014 1:24 PM (#709005 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Pictures added.

Alex-Metro

Posted 22/1/2014 1:26 PM (#709006 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Regular

Posts: 237
100

Location: Newcastle

Charcoal grey Gta mmmmmmm, shame it's quite rotten but still anything is possible

DotMatrix

Posted 22/1/2014 2:26 PM (#709008 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Expert

Posts: 4458
2000

Location: Jelling, Denmark

what a nice tutorial of where metro's normally rust

but seriously it doesn't look like it has ever had rust-proofing sprayed into the sills or inside the rear arches. I like your enthusiasm, god luck with the welding

111Sli

Posted 22/1/2014 6:18 PM (#709017 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Transport Guru
MP Moderator

Posts: 4947
2000

Location: Bromley, Kent

dipped in rust when new? lol that's mental!!

Oh and George, is that a cheeky little facelift going on aswell?

AdrianSi

Posted 22/1/2014 11:07 PM (#709057 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Expert

Posts: 8490
5000

Location: Midlands

It looks like its got some front end damage looking at the Headlamp resister wire hole?

metrobruce

Posted 22/1/2014 11:48 PM (#709059 - in reply to #709008)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Elite Veteran

Posts: 763
500

DotMatrix - 22/1/2014 2:26 PM

what a nice tutorial of where metro's normally rust

but seriously it doesn't look like it has ever had rust-proofing sprayed into the sills or inside the rear arches. I like your enthusiasm, god luck with the welding

no just the rust enhancing sunroof drains

Gandi69

Posted 23/1/2014 11:47 AM (#709065 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Expert

Posts: 11052
5000

Location: Wolverhampton

id expect there to be mud everywhere in those sill covers and there isn't? was it a car that lived on the coast?

ralphh85

Posted 23/1/2014 11:52 AM (#709066 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Expert

Posts: 9862
5000

Location: Cornwall

at least you will be a pro welder by the end of it

Ralph

111Sli

Posted 23/1/2014 11:52 AM (#709067 - in reply to #709065)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Transport Guru
MP Moderator

Posts: 4947
2000

Location: Bromley, Kent

Gandi69 - 23/1/2014 11:47 AM

id expect there to be mud everywhere in those sill covers and there isn't? was it a car that lived on the coast?

In the sea I reckon!

SubbyGTi16v

Posted 23/1/2014 1:27 PM (#709073 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Elite Veteran

Posts: 732
500

Location: Towcester

Wow and i thought my shell was rotten. You have some rot in places mine didn't. But better in places where mine was well shot.
If money/time no object go for it.
I smile every day having restored my GTI and got it back on the road.
And every time some one compliments on it( don't see many of those etc ) you get a sense of pride.

Will aka Subbygti

itsonlyme

Posted 23/1/2014 8:19 PM (#709097 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Master Parts Seller

Posts: 2380
2000

Location: Andover Hampshire

I am so glad I let you have that, its gone to a good home, best of luck with that, I guess you booked the Mot for about 5 yrs time

redgrave66

Posted 24/1/2014 10:34 AM (#709109 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

purple_metty

Posts: 2165
2000

Location: leicsestershire

Good luck with this one you crazy man, this job will make grey hairs come early

Mad_shaun

Posted 25/1/2014 9:59 PM (#709179 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Veteran

Posts: 342
100

Location: Radstock

anything is possible - its just the time & money issue. My metro had lots of rust a few years back - take your time - cut out a section at a time - and soon you will make some progress.

xoodha

Posted 26/1/2014 6:00 PM (#709203 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: The can it be done project.

Member

Posts: 87

Been there done that....

Turned out alright though,

Morey

Posted 27/1/2014 9:57 PM (#709245 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

So progress today:

Found this hiding away in the corner of the cave:

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

This is the actual cave! and yes that is a mk1 fiesta that belongs to my dad. Slowly populating this space with various metro spares. The Gta actually came with several spares, 2 wings, gti bumpers and a gti spoiler and a mint gta interior.

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Next jobs:

Is cutting the rot out of the floors.
tackling the front chassis legs and front crossmember.
cut and trim good panels out of white shell i own
measure up seriously bad areas for donor panels
buy certain panels (certainly rear valance and possible front crossmember, arches

watch this space, alot of work still to come just preparing for welding. Let alone welding.

Have certain trouble areas, serious structural issues front subframe rear mounting point (driver side) and support rail seriously corroded. Have to drill out spot welds for seat mounts and also support beam for floor. remove and possibly replace. possibly chop entire spare wheel well out and replace after dropping the fuel tank and rear subframe down. probably as ruined as the front subframe was.

Also would like to add i was undoing the front subframes driver side, front mount, and well it crumbled to dust. The engine along with the subframe was holding on to only 3 points of the chassis. 3 out of 4 bolts sheared off from rust. and the grinder came out a few times...

SO MUCH GOD DAMN MOTHERFUCKING RUST ITS BEYOND CATASTROPHIC

111Sli

Posted 27/1/2014 10:06 PM (#709246 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Transport Guru
MP Moderator

Posts: 4947
2000

Location: Bromley, Kent

Wow! Quick word of advice. If you buy a genuine Rover rear panel from ebay that it has the wrong 'overplate' (?) on for the 'step' into the boot with the threads for an A series boot latch. It's hard to explain but if you saw you would understand. It is possible to take off and put a K series one on.

Panel you buy from ebay comes complete with light holders and everything but the no. 5 is wrong. Liam has a K series no. 5 he'll prob sell to a good home.

You'll also need the inside part of the rear valance. No. 1 in this diagram...

Morey

Posted 29/1/2014 8:34 PM (#709311 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

today more progress:

Stripped down the rear end. Rear subframe and fuel tank. The grinder came out a few times... lots of hammering smaller sockets onto slightly larger bolts to undo them. Lots of rust and lots of dirt, clag, moss plants webs and spiders.

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

SAY HELLO TO MY LITTLE FRIEND!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

the only thing holding the floor to the inner sill:

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

The car that will donate some panels and floor to the Gta. Fear not they are not rust stains, they are rust marks from parts stored inside.

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

dazz 111

Posted 29/1/2014 8:57 PM (#709314 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Extreme Veteran

Posts: 592
500

Location: kent

Underneath don't look too bad, get the wire wheel on the grinder and most of that'll clean up

Morey

Posted 29/1/2014 9:36 PM (#709319 - in reply to #709314)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Surprisingly not as bad as first expected. A few new areas of rust. But allot of it is pretty much as you say needs a good wire brush and paint.

It's almost ready for welding just the fuel lines to be removed and drill out spot welds here and there.

metrobruce

Posted 29/1/2014 9:43 PM (#709320 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Elite Veteran

Posts: 763
500

tommib's project teabag was like that, it was jeckulz shell aparrently and I think tommi bought it off metro cj, that was a gta too.

Morey

Posted 30/1/2014 5:50 PM (#709352 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

All gtas are like it. This one just stood in the wet for too long. Believe it or not on gravel.

I remember project teabag... Wasnt it scraped in the end?

cerbera

Posted 30/1/2014 8:36 PM (#709357 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Forum Admin & Insurance Guru Project Pride

Posts: 5690
5000

Location: Durham - North East UK

Yes was scrapped in the end.

AdrianSi

Posted 30/1/2014 9:13 PM (#709360 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Expert

Posts: 8490
5000

Location: Midlands

How good is that floor in the white one? I think I would be tempted to pretty much UN pick the whole lot front to rear as the majority of your boot floor looks knackered too. Or paint the white one grey ??

Morey

Posted 31/1/2014 9:41 AM (#709370 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Haha pretty much what I'm going to do, won't do the whole floor though as we all know welding in panel joins is a good way to create rust. However, the general consensus is to take majority of th floor and go from there...

Paint the white one grey?! But then I won't have months of fun welding!!

metro190bhp

Posted 31/1/2014 12:00 PM (#709374 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Elite Veteran

Posts: 883
500

Location: birmingham

Welding in panels joins wont create rust if done right. They tend to rust because people just grind the metal back to weld without protecting it. Always spray a weld through primer on any panel joins then seal them up but dont go mad on seam sealer because if over applied can make the rust situation worse

Marv_666

Posted 31/1/2014 7:10 PM (#709384 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

'88 MG METRO 1300

Posts: 1117
1000

Location: Dudley, Midlands

^ ^ ^ Agreed!

I like to hit it with a wire wheel on a brush, polish it up to a mirror finish...
treat it with a rust eater, once it's done it's job wire wheel again...
coat of a good zinc-rich primer on both mating faces, then weld it up...
wire wheel off all the burn marks and contaminants, etch prime, and waterproof asap.

Morey

Posted 1/2/2014 9:01 AM (#709402 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Duely noted both thanks for the advice!

Im happy to listen to your suggestions, after all this will all be a learning curve for me. Only 21 and done numerous amateur welding jobs now. This is a whole different scale!

metro190bhp

Posted 1/2/2014 2:14 PM (#709403 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Elite Veteran

Posts: 883
500

Location: birmingham

When you have finished welding paint the underneath in bonda primer. You will find it on ebay. Works really good on surface rusted areas. Another thing I would do is get some jenolite rust remover and any of your welded repairs that are left in bare metal just wipe some jenolite over with a cloth and it will stop the metal surface rusting until your ready to paint it all

Morey

Posted 1/2/2014 5:21 PM (#709410 - in reply to #709314)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

only had a couple hours today!

Managed to remove brake and fuel lines and binned the hydragas lines.

Found yet more rust on the minor scale, the exhaust shields even have created water traps and rusted out the floor. So they have all been binned aswell!

Then things went wrong, i broke two spot weld drill bits that are possibly 20 years old?!

Also got myself a wire brush attachment and set to work attacking suspect rust areas... Then the grinder blew up. Seems like all the gears in the thing have munched each other, the motor works just no drive!

Pics:

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 3/2/2014 8:26 PM (#709458 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Ok on my mission to salvage some decent metal and specific areas from the white Tro i own, i've made a bit of progress. Just went at it with an angle grinder and went through a tonne of discs.

Also been wire brushing with the grinder on most rust areas trying to determine whether or not it needs a plate etc. Has made it seem a bit more saveable now...

some areas in fact are completely sound and just had surface rust.

I'm on the hunt for metro arches and outer sills so hopefully welding can begin this month or next. Hand a few friends round who took the piss with a marker pen (see below)

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

itsonlyme

Posted 4/2/2014 8:53 PM (#709490 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Master Parts Seller

Posts: 2380
2000

Location: Andover Hampshire

George that so went to the right person, I would have not seen any hope there at all, it would have been squashed, good for you, I did the right thing handing that over, great effort to date

Morey

Posted 4/2/2014 11:04 PM (#709494 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Haha, you shouldve seen it! When the rust was untouched it looked as if i would never find the end. Now ive had a poke and a grind and a brush. Things seem feisable.

Gandi69

Posted 4/2/2014 11:10 PM (#709495 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Expert

Posts: 11052
5000

Location: Wolverhampton

Was that white one the Vvc in your sig or another car?

Morey

Posted 5/2/2014 8:03 AM (#709498 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Haha god no, it's a white k reg I bought a while back.

Morey

Posted 5/2/2014 8:39 PM (#709515 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

More progress today, we are heading in the right direction at least.

In a nutshell today i drilled out the spot welds for the seat mounts then proceeded to cut the rot out of the passenger side. The way i see it I'm going to fix the floors first then the sills. From there i will then tackle both the rear and front subframe mounts. then after that the spare wheel well.

decided to start over with the gearbox steady mount. I have a replacement i can just puzzle in and weld up instead of trying to figure out something else that could've ended up being a bodge.

Interestingly this car has had welding before in the passenger foot well (see below)

more to come next week!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 10/2/2014 8:32 PM (#709660 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

So today i had to butcher the subframe mounts to get them off, the bolts were rust-welded to the chassis and the mount.

i also test fit part of the k reg floor into the gta.

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 16/2/2014 12:43 PM (#709838 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Lots of progress recently, the first bits of fresh steel in! (after spending a haystack of money on gas)

the K reg is completely destroyed now!

also starting to shape and test fit more replacement panels.

Please remember i am only 21 and have very little welding experience a very tired welding gun (which i am replacing) so do not expect works of art. However they are solid and specific sections go really well, so i am getting there!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 4/6/2014 8:47 PM (#712510 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

I've not given in!

I have done a lot of plotting and lets say 'self motivation' to get this well and truly underway. Again bare in mind, I'm 22 have no direct guidance for welding - only the web and certain peoples distant advice. I've been progressing when it comes to welding - STILL NOT PERFECT - but better and frankly neater!

Its all in the preparation - nice bare metal - steady hand - patience and concentration.

Anyway here are the pictures of recent progress!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 4/6/2014 8:51 PM (#712511 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Here are some pics of my workspace...

if you would call it a unit...? To me its more like a shack!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

HOW IS THIS FOR SOME HEIGHT THEN! LOL!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 8/6/2014 6:15 PM (#712587 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

A long day of work today!

Got the entire inner sill finished! It took a bit of patience, but the measurements from door seal to floor should be 190mm. This ensures the outer sill panel i've still yet to purchase will fit properly. The angle steel i got came in relatively cheap at £25 for both, it was a tad to thick but it still works. a nice tidy strong weld! probably my best yet, i've downsized to 0.6mm wire and it seems to of helped me stop melting through the body.

The only c**k up being the back corner/fuel tank housing step up. But its strong just looks ugly

I NOW HAVE SOME STRUCTURAL RIGIDITY!!!!!!! finally able to sit/stand on the passenger side floor.

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Mad_shaun

Posted 8/6/2014 8:49 PM (#712590 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Veteran

Posts: 342
100

Location: Radstock

I think that you are doing well - I cannot weld for toffee - so A few years ago now I paid a body shop to do all my repair work.

Keep it up!!

R100_vvc

Posted 8/6/2014 9:13 PM (#712591 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Expert

Posts: 2029
2000

Location: sittingbourne, kent

Looking good. Dont matter too much how it looks, it puts it back on the road is the main thing

Morey

Posted 9/6/2014 8:57 AM (#712598 - in reply to #712591)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Thanks guys, underneath doesn't look Pretty with all the patches but I'm not that bothered about it as it won't be seen by many.

Can anyone recommend or link me up with some reputable panel suppliers. I need 2xsills 1x rear valance and 2xarches.

itsonlyme

Posted 9/6/2014 6:57 PM (#712604 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Master Parts Seller

Posts: 2380
2000

Location: Andover Hampshire

I admire your devotion George, its a mammoth task, well done for sticking with it, if I have anything you need its yours as I am seriously thinking of clearing my stock

Morey

Posted 12/6/2014 10:20 AM (#712646 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

you haven't got any panels tony have you?

Morey

Posted 12/6/2014 10:20 AM (#712647 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

you haven't got any panels tony have you?

jeckulz

Posted 12/6/2014 5:27 PM (#712651 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Big Lad Little Car

5000

Location: North West (Warrington)

Watching with intrigue.
Loved the speech at the start, I remember that kind of enthusiasm, the sort that recedes with one's hairline.

Good luck chap!

Morey

Posted 15/6/2014 6:49 PM (#712698 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Step by Step i am getting there, i can happily say that the passenger footwell floor is complete!

just need to plug weld the seat mounts/rail back in.

Still some improvement to be had with my welding, but in all honesty its pretty good. I just loose my steady hand in awkward locations and the very tired thin metal on this car likes to be a bastard and open up when laying a weld.

So from this...

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

to this:

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

and finished like this:

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 18/6/2014 10:42 PM (#712771 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

More progress today, a few messy welds today! nothing a good flap disc cant tidy up! think what made it worse was the angle/access to the area.

However, gearbox steady now on, rear subframe mount now fully solid and finished.

I also took the entire crossmember and chassis legs off the front as it was probably the most rotten thing on the car!!!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

itsonlyme

Posted 20/6/2014 9:27 PM (#712798 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Master Parts Seller

Posts: 2380
2000

Location: Andover Hampshire

such dedication, I am so impressed, I think all members should have a whip round and chuck in a quid or two for the restoration fund, I am happy to start the ball rolling

Morey

Posted 25/6/2014 9:17 PM (#712902 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

That's a damn good idea tony, but it would be a bit suspicious if I started it!!

Anyone is welcome to!

Lots of progress again!!!

I had a little tuition session from Matt (Pietaster) on welding, he's a close friend of mine originally met him at the Tro Fests. Anyway just a little guidance and advise and my welding has improved ten fold!!!

Very happy with todays welding. There is lots of photos in here so ill just shout out now what action I've done.

Removed the front crossmember as it was rotten, got the spare whole front of the 1.1L donor car I've yet to weld this on, I basically patched a few holes in a subframe mount removed the original and used the patched up one. I have also redone a section of the nearside inner sill/floor as it was not 190mm to the door seal ~(new outer sill panels wouldn't tolerate)~ begun the drivers side inner sill, and got on really well with my welding today. Very impressed!

couple other bonus pictures of me flooding the unit with my own sweat, and rust documentation really.

ENJOY:

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

itsonlyme

Posted 25/6/2014 9:51 PM (#712903 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Master Parts Seller

Posts: 2380
2000

Location: Andover Hampshire

That's a damn good idea tony, but it would be a bit suspicious if I started it!!

I am happy to start the ball rolling, if all members just gave a quid then it would be a huge help, lets start a cooperative, we all help each other but do it by numbers

111Sli

Posted 26/6/2014 12:19 AM (#712907 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Transport Guru
MP Moderator

Posts: 4947
2000

Location: Bromley, Kent

I'll donate too.

I'm still shocked at how such a low mileage car can disolve so much! Kudos for the work George and team. (Y)

ding

Posted 26/6/2014 4:04 PM (#712912 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Good shit Mr Styles. I've had scrapped it long ago.

Don't expect a donation from me though.. You don't deserve one just yet

Morey

Posted 29/6/2014 6:31 PM (#712964 - in reply to #712598)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

rest of the inner sill completed.

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 9/7/2014 5:05 PM (#713163 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Front driver floor now finished! just need to amend/repair the jacking points and strengthening bars on either side as they have a few holes!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

itsonlyme

Posted 9/7/2014 7:24 PM (#713168 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Master Parts Seller

Posts: 2380
2000

Location: Andover Hampshire

I think you have put in more metal than it was built with originally

pickford

Posted 10/7/2014 7:31 AM (#713171 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Extreme Veteran

Posts: 586
500

Location: brighouse just shy huddersfield

Well done just had a look at this and I'm chuffed your saving this will be a nice tro once finished

petrol_head

Posted 10/7/2014 11:52 AM (#713172 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

drive it like its hired

5000

Looking good.
Welding is as best you can from that machine I reckon, well done.

Morey

Posted 10/7/2014 6:26 PM (#713177 - in reply to #713172)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

thanks for all the kind comments!

Morey

Posted 14/7/2014 5:22 PM (#713245 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

repairing/refurbing the drivers jacking area support rail that meets the subframe mounting area!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 31/7/2014 10:34 PM (#713531 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

New panels arriving, front valance/cross member completed and my god what a laborious task that was!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Morey

Posted 26/8/2014 8:37 PM (#714126 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Havent posted here for flaming ages, but progress hasn't suffered!

Concentrated on getting my sorry aching ass off the floor grovelling whilst working on the underneath, so I bit the bullet and went for the spit/rotisserie idea. 2 engine stands heightened then literally some 40x40 3mm box section attached to the front crash bar bolt holes and rear bumper bar holes.

Rather simply, it has made my life a lot easier, wish I had done it sooner. Lots of bits and bobs done, tidied up the underneath a little now I can get access easy. This is where progress will slow up as im attacking very complex areas of rust, such as the valance, wheel well boot floor and corners, subframe mounts and reinforcement box sections.

Bought a new welding mask, Auto darkening, also a powerfile which I might add is a welding dream tool! perfect for tight areas and grinding welds back!

lets start with a panorama lol!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

petrol_head

Posted 26/8/2014 9:42 PM (#714128 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

drive it like its hired

5000

Awesome

Tracktro

Posted 27/8/2014 9:14 PM (#714145 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa Rustoration

Veteran

Posts: 482
100

Location: Meuspath

Love the modified engine stands.

Top work

Morey

Posted 17/10/2014 7:17 PM (#715030 - in reply to #712598)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

The weldathon continues and i can finally see a light at the end of the tunnel.

I am a bit vague as to where i want to go with this car, do i try something new and refreshing like a original engine conversion... Go VVC, or stay standard.

I feel like it deserves something special, but I'm a bit wary of what will be another many hours work or enjoy what i've got.

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

MetroGaz

Posted 17/10/2014 8:26 PM (#715031 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Veteran

Posts: 335
100

Location: York, tis Cold Up North!

Hi

Good luck and I am pleased you feel you can see the light at the end of the tunnel as it is well worth it when you get the rot dealt with, everything else thereafter is a little more enjoyable to do and can be done in small slow stages.

Like you, my own Bluebell journal is now at a crossroads, which way to take it still unknown but I am pleased she is at least free of rot and mechanically sound.

Good luck and keep up teh great journal.

MG

111Sli

Posted 18/10/2014 11:15 PM (#715056 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Transport Guru
MP Moderator

Posts: 4947
2000

Location: Bromley, Kent

Still astounds me how rotten this car was for it's mileage and also being an early R100. They seemed to be better than the MPis. Well done George!

Morey

Posted 19/10/2014 11:45 AM (#715065 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Dave, i think its down to the location its lived. Its been at the end of a very very muddy farm road. That was its daily commute, even now the caked on dusty shit is everywhere!!

I would also like to say the damn twat who applied the seam sealer on this shell needs shooting. Some obvious areas the sealer missing the panel seam entirely! PLUS the amount of it, some places reaching up to 3cm deep!!!!

Morey

Posted 20/10/2014 7:43 PM (#715102 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Metromartin

Posted 21/10/2014 12:51 AM (#715106 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

MP Admin

Posts: 17870
5000

Location: Gloucester

your welding skills have come on no end! Keep up the good work!

aquascrotum

Posted 22/10/2014 10:47 AM (#715124 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Regular

Posts: 112
100

Location: Armagh, Northern Ireland

This thread just proves that metro ownership is the ultimate welding apprenticeship.

Fair play. Brings back recent memories that I've been trying to suppress, and brings on cold sweats from thinking of what likely needs done for next MOT...

SaTaN_eAt_ChEeSe

Posted 13/11/2014 12:01 PM (#715713 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Regular

Posts: 158
100

Location: Yate

Wow! Metro Dedication Level = Boss!

Morey

Posted 22/12/2014 7:05 PM (#716317 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

prepare to be bombarded by my progress, lots and lots done. Im almost finished. Only 1 arch and rear valance to do!

Im so glad its almost over and reassembly can begin! Hopefully i will actually finish the weldathon in january!

pictures will tell the story!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

petrol_head

Posted 22/12/2014 11:18 PM (#716320 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

drive it like its hired

5000

getting there

Gandi69

Posted 23/12/2014 12:23 PM (#716322 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Expert

Posts: 11052
5000

Location: Wolverhampton

Hats off to you for sticking at this mate, you've put a lot of effort in here and pretty much nearly rebuild that shell from the ground up.

Jamie114

Posted 23/12/2014 10:38 PM (#716324 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

New user

Posts: 22

Location: Birmingham

LOOKING GOOD GOT TO BE CLOSE TO FINISHED NOW

Morey

Posted 24/12/2014 8:44 AM (#716328 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Thanks for all the support guys this car has drained 2 sheets of steel, 6 repair panels, 2 20 ltr gas bottles and 3 reels of welding wire.

I can taste the end of the welding!

Morey

Posted 22/1/2015 5:40 PM (#716651 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

2nd to last welding job complete, the arch went on alot better than the other side, but will still need filler!

The last thing i need to do is weld on a rear valance, which should be a doddle, if the panel would just turn up!

1 last weld, then i can put the torch down for good and get the thing seam sealered, painted and undersealed!

A year this month this Rusty bucket has had my slavery, all those hours gone into it!

It has taught me so much about welding and fabrication i owe it that much!

Enough talk, lets illustrate the progress!

Untitled by MetroMorey, on Flickr

matt

Posted 25/1/2015 7:28 PM (#716732 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Expert

Posts: 1303
1000

Location: South Derbyshire

Top work and dedication mate

Mad_shaun

Posted 30/1/2015 1:45 PM (#716799 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Veteran

Posts: 342
100

Location: Radstock

well impressed!

ding

Posted 2/8/2016 9:39 PM (#722501 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Anyone know what happened to this thing? Did he finish it all or give up and start curling his hair

Morey

Posted 30/10/2016 10:36 AM (#722850 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Events Organiser
MP Admin

Posts: 1923
1000

Location: Somerset

Long time no update, so here we go!

Weldathon was completed a year ago, not much has happened since, but rust prevention, epoxy paint, stone chip and dynax cavity wax.

It's also had a couple jobs done like loom repairs and interior floor paint.

(I am doing things on a budget, but from this still ensuring a decent car)

20150507_095102 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20150513_132106_Richtone(HDR) by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20150513_132125_Richtone(HDR) by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20150513_132157_Richtone(HDR) by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20150527_120725_Richtone(HDR) by MetroMorey, on Flickr

A commemorative photo to signify the end of the welding:

20150527_130917 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20150529_140933 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20150810_150431 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20150810_150441 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20150916_133458 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20151012_134304_Richtone(HDR) by MetroMorey, on Flickr

Lets not drain the sunroof into the sills anymore yes?

20151012_134330_Richtone(HDR) by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20151022_135715 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20151022_135722 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20151028_134049 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

The car is now back on its wheels!!!!

20151104_133228_Richtone(HDR) by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20151104_134030_Richtone(HDR) by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20160704_131302 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20160704_143112 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

20160706_182500 by MetroMorey, on Flickr

111Sli

Posted 2/11/2016 1:59 PM (#722858 - in reply to #708976)
Subject: RE: Charcoal Grey GTa RusTROation

Transport Guru
MP Moderator

Posts: 4947
2000

Location: Bromley, Kent

Great work!! Can't wait to see this done (Y)