front fender question

[68lnb]

My 68 needs both front fenders and front bumper. It looks like the po was backing up when he sideswiped something with the drivers side in front of the wheel well. This pushed the whole front dog-house out of alignment, the frame is not damaged but the sheet-metal is moved at least an inch. So... should I try to re-align the sheet-metal BEFORE I bolt on the new fenders or does it matter? Also has anyone had any experience with GRUMPYS in PHX? Their fenders are cheaper than Goodmark and I would'nt have to pay shipping but are there quality issues? Useually there is a reason people ask more for their parts. Sorry to be so long winded!

[Longhorn Man]

I would inspect the rad core support, it may be trashed.
Otherwise, i would loosen all the bolts on the fender to cab on both sides, and then loosen the rad core support bolts and see what I could do.
It is an easy one man operation, but if you have a partner, it'll be a bit easier.

[68lnb]

Thanks Mr Man. The support looks OK. I think it was more of a gentle push than a big whack. I guess I'll try to get the alignment close before I take off the old fenders. Do 67's work on a 68? I like the "shaved" look.

[JimKshortstep4x4]

I would check the cab alignment, also. Just to make sure that it did not shift.

Jim

[68lnb]

Good point. I should replace the rubber mounts anyway, I guess now would be a good time. That being said, would it be better to remove the dog-house then "square" up the cab and go from there? I've never messed with body panel alignment before and I keep hearing about how frustrating it is. I was hopeing to avoid some of the rookie mistakes. Nothing beats experiance!