Venting re cab corners - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

XXL · 08-12-2002, 07:46 PM

OK, I've had it! I think I need to roll this piece of @#$)(@#) cab into the street on trash day. I can't EVEN figure out how to make this cab corner fit right, and then I have to read ebfabman's post where he has evidently made a deal with the devil for his "mad skillz" at welding (either that, or he's had a lot of practice

).

I'm so pissed. My shirt is solid sweat all the way down to my belly button, and I'm still no closer than when I started. I've got the sheetmetal cut away to within about 3/8" of what looks like where the new corner would go, but when I fit it over the door jamb lip, it the other end (the innermost piece) wants to line up about 2" below the bottom of the cab. When I line that bottom back piece up, the top part that lips over the door jamb is crammed into the door. It's like the cab corner is racked or something. But it looks just like a mirror of the other replacement corner. I am so pissed!!!!! (Can you tell how hard I'm banging on the keyboard right now? #$!^)#$^)(@$#).

Anyway, I give up. I'm going to have to go find a body shop and deal with the International Brotherhood of Overpriced Bodyworkers we have up here in New England. If anybody has a referral in the Boston/Providence area, please shoot me an email. I've got to get this thing done... it's killing me!

{rant off. for now}

Kenneth

ebfabman · 08-12-2002, 07:54 PM

Kenneth, you got a way to post or email pics? I've fixed a lot of cars over the phone in the past, maybe we can do some body work over the computer........

jiggs · 08-12-2002, 08:15 PM

I have done quit a few as well, maybe I can help. All the replacement cab corners are going to fit terribly. The bodyshop guys are going to have to massage it in as well. I am interested to hear what efabman has to say about this.

Southpa · 08-12-2002, 08:25 PM

I did my cab corners a few years back, with a stick welder yet. It worked out well. Here are some pics on how I got it to fit. There are a few rules to follow. Unless the corners aren't made to fit your truck in the first place, it happens.

http://groups.msn.com/Alsplac/corners.msnw?albumlist=2

XXL · 08-12-2002, 09:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by ebfabman
Kenneth, you got a way to post or email pics? I've fixed a lot of cars over the phone in the past, maybe we can do some body work over the computer........

Here are some pics...

Notice that I can't get the body line to line up. Also, notice that there doesn't appear to be enough sheetmetal to get the back indentions to line up. Note that I put a flange on the cab cutout with this tool...

...so that I could have a nice overlap joint to weld with (that's what this tool is for). Argh!!!

Any ideas???

Thanks in advance everyone,

Kenneth

*Gee_Emm* · 08-12-2002, 10:03 PM

Looks to me like a case of crappy patch panels, I don't see any other reason for that not lining up????

Southpa · 08-12-2002, 10:11 PM

Kenneth, did you cut the old corner out to match the new panel? And if so, how did you do it? Also, you don't have to use the entire new piece. It looks like you have to cut a 1/2 inch or so from the back to get those lines to match (re: 3rd pic). The best way to fit a corner is to overlap the new onto the old, scribe around it, and then cut out the old with a die-grinder. I can't see how you would get a bad fit otherwise, unless the patch was made that way.

One thing I did notice (in pic #4 where the red arrow is pointing). Looks like you got corners from the same batch I had. The edge towards to door is about 1/2" too long. I had to cut the flange off and then rebend a new flange. Otherwise the corner angles out slightly in back. I only did it to one side, its not really noticeable with the box on.

ebfabman · 08-12-2002, 10:13 PM

Don't throw in the towel yet, everything is still fixable. I hope you havn't started on the other side yet. Your truck is in a lot better shape than the one I am working on right now. Do your doors fit good everywhere else? You may have to tack that corner patch at about the arrow in the pic fourth down, then kind of work or "wrap" the corner around in the direction of the back panel. You may have to do a little shrinking hammer/dollie work on the cab where your patch will "mate up" to it.

BTW that is exactly how the last cab corners I did fit, but you cut yours higher than I would suggest.

XXL · 08-12-2002, 10:27 PM

I had to cut that high because of the damage the the original. I probably could have cut some of the innermost part off as the only damage the the rear was the part that hangs down was bent.

The doors are brand new shells I got from GMC Paul's. They seem to fit in the opening very well. Though I don't have any rubber in there to actually close them up tight, there appears to be an even gap all the way around and they swing smoothly.

The way I did the cut was to lay the patch panel over the old as best I could, and scribe a line. Then I cut to about 3/8" shy of the line-- 1) better to cut too little than too much, and 2) so I could create the previously mentioned flange.

Tomorrow, I guess I'm going to try tacking the top edge of the lip that goes in the door jamb (see attached pic) and try and twist it around from there. Man... it's been 3 hours and I'm STILL pissed!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks again for all your input.

Kenneth

XXL · 08-12-2002, 10:29 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Southpa

One thing I did notice (in pic #4 where the red arrow is pointing). Looks like you got corners from the same batch I had. The edge towards to door is about 1/2" too long. I had to cut the flange off and then rebend a new flange. Otherwise the corner angles out slightly in back. I only did it to one side, its not really noticeable with the box on.

BTW, I think I'll study this option as well. It really does look out of dimension if you measure the B pillar side of the patch panel it seems too long, but ONLY on the top.

@#)$%(@#$%)@#(%)!!!

Kenneth

ebfabman · 08-12-2002, 10:37 PM

Another thing to try is putting the cab corner panel "inside" the cab and see how it fits.

watchado · 08-12-2002, 10:46 PM

Where did you get the tool shown in the picture?

ebfabman · 08-12-2002, 10:55 PM

I would aslo suggest putting on the outer rocker first.

XXL · 08-13-2002, 08:04 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by watchado
Where did you get the tool shown in the picture?

Eastwood Company. I bought it a few years ago for a project and it has worked very well. I think it was about $60 or so... and it is very well made.

Kenneth

umrebelsfan · 08-13-2002, 08:47 AM

I had the same problem. Had ordered some from LMC, they seemed "long" just like yours. Bought one off of ebay as it came with some other stuff I needed (not black, I think they were TABCO, I can check if you like) was planning on throwing in the towel myself figuring all were the same. But then the auction panel fit MUCH better. The only complaint was the bottom lips did not really match. The patch was more finished and tucked under. Frankly the patch is probably closer to how most originals within the years were.

After alot of grinding and bondo I think I'll get it good enough as it should be hidden by the bed.

BTW as another amatuer, three hours is not enough time to give yourself. Relax, have another beer take a nap and go back to it. It took me waaay to long to realize this is my hobby and shouldn't be a job. I admit it is frustrating to wait all week on the UPS truck just to get junk though. I'm switching suppliers myself, just bought too much crap from some of the bigger vendors supplying our trucks. Notwithstanding my project seems to be moving along faster since I decided to put my tools up anytime I couldn't see for the sweat or started swearing.

Finally, I think my next truck won't be a 67 unless I can find one that needs no patch panels. I would imagine as the breed progressed subtle changes were made and the patches probably fit best on the later years. This is just a theory, but I would be interested in hearing what others think in this regard.

Good luck.

ebfabman · 08-13-2002, 09:36 AM

umrebelsfan, when you say "my next truck won't be a 67" and "patches probably fit best on the later years". Do you mean later than the 67-72 era, or 68-72's.

I'm curious if the 67-72 era GM trucks are anything more than old trucks to you, or if you feel "there's something special about these trucks", or maybe niether.

Your statement sparked my curiosity.

umrebelsfan · 08-13-2002, 10:45 AM

efabman,

I of course meant "within the breed" e.g. 70-72. I've always been partial to the year 67, because I think GM did it right almost all the way through the line. I don't have much interest in any other years other than 67-72.

I prefer earlier models within a particular run because it seems all manufacturers are guilty of just tacking cr*p on to generate new buyers. However, within our years the differences in the later trucks (more prevalent AC and amenities) probably would make a little more comfortable driver.

MarineNav · 08-13-2002, 11:07 AM

Hey XXL where did you get those patch panels from or at least who are they made by? I just want to know for future reference.

allgmcs · 08-13-2002, 11:52 AM

The trucks that I have installed corners on were solid down past the embossed indetions on the back so I cut below them. So I didn't have to worry with the indentions lining up. But sounds like you don't have that option. I did have the same problem of the top of the bend seeming like too big of a radius like in your pic. If I lined the rear up, the top of the flange stuck out toward the door over 1/4 inch. I ended up cutting a small slot in the middle of the radius down from the top about 4-5 inches. Then I pulled the top together to close the gap and welded the seem together. This was a bummer to have to do this to a new patch panel, but it was the only way. I tried tacking it in place and forcing (messaging) it in place, but it began to wrinkle. The fix turned out pretty good. Good Luck.

Southpa · 08-13-2002, 12:01 PM

Welcome to the world of metal fabrication Kenneth

! Every time I buy a panel/patch I expect it NOT to fit. That way, when it DOES fit easily, I'm very happy. But listen to efab, the man is a pro. Get that rocker on first so you have more of a guide for aligning your corner. And once you get a good fit, start welding from the door post and wrap it around, tacking as you go.

XXL · 08-13-2002, 01:10 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by umrebelsfan
BTW as another amatuer, three hours is not enough time to give yourself.

Actually the 3 hours was counted from when I first threw my hammer across the garage and into the sheetrock of the wall

.

I'm going to try again this evening by first tacking the rocker in place, then trying to get everything BUT the door jamb lip in the right spot, then I'll either cut a pie shape out of the corner to take up the slack in the overhanging part of the lip OR I'll cut off the lip and try to bend a new one. Geez!

Thanks again, and if anyone has any more ideas, keep them coming!

Kenneth

stllookn · 08-13-2002, 01:26 PM

ORENCE1 and I just built a patch panel for the leading edge of an inner fender last week. I was amazed how soft the steel is before it has been work hardened by forming. I am not sure if you can anneal this piece like you used to do in shop class to make the rolling around the corner easier. It looks like ebfab said that if you tacked the leading edge and pulled/rolled it around the corner the indentations in back would line up...he's da man. Failing that I might be inclined to cut it into two parts vertically and tack the two in place and then get some raw 20 gauge sheet (remnant) from your local steel supplier and use it as the filler between the two...if it is needed. Of course...I love welding and hammering so look for any excuse to do some extra welding...LMAO.

Slammed67 · 08-13-2002, 02:14 PM

Kenneth,

I had a similar experience as you are having. And if you have bought the same panels I did, then the ribbed part on the back of the cab WON'T line up for $hit. Of course I didn't realize that until I had it half way tacked on. Of course I'm not too concerned about it since the box covers that area. I started at the door and worked my way around to the back like was suggested. The lower lip didn't line up for $hit on mine either, but then again, it won't be seen once the box is on. I guess next time we by patch panels, we'll have to buy a set from 10 different vendors and hopefully one will be right! Good luck man!

XXL · 08-13-2002, 02:17 PM

FYI all, mine is a stepside so I'm a little more concerned about how the rear area looks. Maybe I should buy a fleetside bed

Or better yet, stop wearing my glasses. Then it would look fine like it is!

Kenneth

6869704X4 · 08-13-2002, 07:07 PM

Ive found my metalwork starts to look better after a few beers. But then I sober up.

08-12-2002, 07:46 PM	#1
XXL Señor Member Join Date: May 2002 Location: Edge of the world Posts: 5,367	Venting re cab corners OK, I've had it! I think I need to roll this piece of @#$)(@#) cab into the street on trash day. I can't EVEN figure out how to make this cab corner fit right, and then I have to read ebfabman's post where he has evidently made a deal with the devil for his "mad skillz" at welding (either that, or he's had a lot of practice ). I'm so pissed. My shirt is solid sweat all the way down to my belly button, and I'm still no closer than when I started. I've got the sheetmetal cut away to within about 3/8" of what looks like where the new corner would go, but when I fit it over the door jamb lip, it the other end (the innermost piece) wants to line up about 2" below the bottom of the cab. When I line that bottom back piece up, the top part that lips over the door jamb is crammed into the door. It's like the cab corner is racked or something. But it looks just like a mirror of the other replacement corner. I am so pissed!!!!! (Can you tell how hard I'm banging on the keyboard right now? #$!^)#$^)(@$#). Anyway, I give up. I'm going to have to go find a body shop and deal with the International Brotherhood of Overpriced Bodyworkers we have up here in New England. If anybody has a referral in the Boston/Providence area, please shoot me an email. I've got to get this thing done... it's killing me! {rant off. for now} Kenneth __________________ Craigslist \| ebay \| Engrishtees \| www.myattitudesucks.com \| Follow me on Twitter

08-12-2002, 08:15 PM	#3
jiggs poker face Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Posts: 218	I have done quit a few as well, maybe I can help. All the replacement cab corners are going to fit terribly. The bodyshop guys are going to have to massage it in as well. I am interested to hear what efabman has to say about this. __________________ If you could kick the person in the *ss responsible for most of your trouble, you wouldn't sit for a month.

08-12-2002, 10:11 PM	#7
Southpa Registered User Join Date: May 2000 Location: Victoria, BC, Canada Posts: 2,410	Kenneth, did you cut the old corner out to match the new panel? And if so, how did you do it? Also, you don't have to use the entire new piece. It looks like you have to cut a 1/2 inch or so from the back to get those lines to match (re: 3rd pic). The best way to fit a corner is to overlap the new onto the old, scribe around it, and then cut out the old with a die-grinder. I can't see how you would get a bad fit otherwise, unless the patch was made that way. One thing I did notice (in pic #4 where the red arrow is pointing). Looks like you got corners from the same batch I had. The edge towards to door is about 1/2" too long. I had to cut the flange off and then rebend a new flange. Otherwise the corner angles out slightly in back. I only did it to one side, its not really noticeable with the box on. __________________ 1970 GMC 1500 Custom Original 350/TH350 Victoria, BC, Canada You can wish in one hand and crap in the other. See which one gets filled first. Last edited by Southpa; 08-12-2002 at 10:17 PM.

08-12-2002, 10:13 PM	#8
ebfabman Registered User Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Concord, NC Posts: 2,489	Don't throw in the towel yet, everything is still fixable. I hope you havn't started on the other side yet. Your truck is in a lot better shape than the one I am working on right now. Do your doors fit good everywhere else? You may have to tack that corner patch at about the arrow in the pic fourth down, then kind of work or "wrap" the corner around in the direction of the back panel. You may have to do a little shrinking hammer/dollie work on the cab where your patch will "mate up" to it. BTW that is exactly how the last cab corners I did fit, but you cut yours higher than I would suggest. Last edited by ebfabman; 08-21-2002 at 10:48 PM.

08-12-2002, 10:27 PM	#9
XXL Señor Member Join Date: May 2002 Location: Edge of the world Posts: 5,367	I had to cut that high because of the damage the the original. I probably could have cut some of the innermost part off as the only damage the the rear was the part that hangs down was bent. The doors are brand new shells I got from GMC Paul's. They seem to fit in the opening very well. Though I don't have any rubber in there to actually close them up tight, there appears to be an even gap all the way around and they swing smoothly. The way I did the cut was to lay the patch panel over the old as best I could, and scribe a line. Then I cut to about 3/8" shy of the line-- 1) better to cut too little than too much, and 2) so I could create the previously mentioned flange. Tomorrow, I guess I'm going to try tacking the top edge of the lip that goes in the door jamb (see attached pic) and try and twist it around from there. Man... it's been 3 hours and I'm STILL pissed!!!!!!!!!! Thanks again for all your input. Kenneth Attached Images __________________ Craigslist \| ebay \| Engrishtees \| www.myattitudesucks.com \| Follow me on Twitter

08-12-2002, 07:54 PM	#2
ebfabman Registered User Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Concord, NC Posts: 2,489	Kenneth, you got a way to post or email pics? I've fixed a lot of cars over the phone in the past, maybe we can do some body work over the computer........

08-12-2002, 08:25 PM	#4
Southpa Registered User Join Date: May 2000 Location: Victoria, BC, Canada Posts: 2,410	I did my cab corners a few years back, with a stick welder yet. It worked out well. Here are some pics on how I got it to fit. There are a few rules to follow. Unless the corners aren't made to fit your truck in the first place, it happens. http://groups.msn.com/Alsplac/corners.msnw?albumlist=2 __________________ 1970 GMC 1500 Custom Original 350/TH350 Victoria, BC, Canada You can wish in one hand and crap in the other. See which one gets filled first.

08-12-2002, 10:03 PM	#6
Gee_Emm Account Suspended Join Date: Sep 2000 Posts: 4,002	Looks to me like a case of crappy patch panels, I don't see any other reason for that not lining up????

08-12-2002, 10:37 PM	#11
ebfabman Registered User Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Concord, NC Posts: 2,489	Another thing to try is putting the cab corner panel "inside" the cab and see how it fits.

08-12-2002, 10:46 PM	#12
watchado Registered User Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: Oklahoma Posts: 139	Where did you get the tool shown in the picture? __________________ '70 Chevy in Shambles

08-12-2002, 10:55 PM	#13
ebfabman Registered User Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Concord, NC Posts: 2,489	I would aslo suggest putting on the outer rocker first.

08-13-2002, 08:47 AM	#15
umrebelsfan Registered User Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Oxford, MS USA Posts: 123	I had the same problem. Had ordered some from LMC, they seemed "long" just like yours. Bought one off of ebay as it came with some other stuff I needed (not black, I think they were TABCO, I can check if you like) was planning on throwing in the towel myself figuring all were the same. But then the auction panel fit MUCH better. The only complaint was the bottom lips did not really match. The patch was more finished and tucked under. Frankly the patch is probably closer to how most originals within the years were. After alot of grinding and bondo I think I'll get it good enough as it should be hidden by the bed. BTW as another amatuer, three hours is not enough time to give yourself. Relax, have another beer take a nap and go back to it. It took me waaay to long to realize this is my hobby and shouldn't be a job. I admit it is frustrating to wait all week on the UPS truck just to get junk though. I'm switching suppliers myself, just bought too much crap from some of the bigger vendors supplying our trucks. Notwithstanding my project seems to be moving along faster since I decided to put my tools up anytime I couldn't see for the sweat or started swearing. Finally, I think my next truck won't be a 67 unless I can find one that needs no patch panels. I would imagine as the breed progressed subtle changes were made and the patches probably fit best on the later years. This is just a theory, but I would be interested in hearing what others think in this regard. Good luck. __________________ 67 Short Step 250

08-13-2002, 09:36 AM	#16
ebfabman Registered User Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Concord, NC Posts: 2,489	umrebelsfan, when you say "my next truck won't be a 67" and "patches probably fit best on the later years". Do you mean later than the 67-72 era, or 68-72's. I'm curious if the 67-72 era GM trucks are anything more than old trucks to you, or if you feel "there's something special about these trucks", or maybe niether. Your statement sparked my curiosity.

08-13-2002, 10:45 AM	#17
umrebelsfan Registered User Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Oxford, MS USA Posts: 123	efabman, I of course meant "within the breed" e.g. 70-72. I've always been partial to the year 67, because I think GM did it right almost all the way through the line. I don't have much interest in any other years other than 67-72. I prefer earlier models within a particular run because it seems all manufacturers are guilty of just tacking cr*p on to generate new buyers. However, within our years the differences in the later trucks (more prevalent AC and amenities) probably would make a little more comfortable driver. __________________ 67 Short Step 250

08-13-2002, 11:07 AM	#18
MarineNav Official Beaver Inspector Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: MCAS Cherry Point, NC Posts: 119	Hey XXL where did you get those patch panels from or at least who are they made by? I just want to know for future reference. __________________ 70' C-10SWB beater with a heater, one day haulin a$$ with class



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08-13-2002, 11:52 AM	#19
allgmcs Registered User Join Date: Nov 2000 Location: Greens Fork, IN Posts: 220	The trucks that I have installed corners on were solid down past the embossed indetions on the back so I cut below them. So I didn't have to worry with the indentions lining up. But sounds like you don't have that option. I did have the same problem of the top of the bend seeming like too big of a radius like in your pic. If I lined the rear up, the top of the flange stuck out toward the door over 1/4 inch. I ended up cutting a small slot in the middle of the radius down from the top about 4-5 inches. Then I pulled the top together to close the gap and welded the seem together. This was a bummer to have to do this to a new patch panel, but it was the only way. I tried tacking it in place and forcing (messaging) it in place, but it began to wrinkle. The fix turned out pretty good. Good Luck. __________________ 72 GMC C-10 Super Custom

08-13-2002, 12:01 PM	#20
Southpa Registered User Join Date: May 2000 Location: Victoria, BC, Canada Posts: 2,410	Welcome to the world of metal fabrication Kenneth ! Every time I buy a panel/patch I expect it NOT to fit. That way, when it DOES fit easily, I'm very happy. But listen to efab, the man is a pro. Get that rocker on first so you have more of a guide for aligning your corner. And once you get a good fit, start welding from the door post and wrap it around, tacking as you go. __________________ 1970 GMC 1500 Custom Original 350/TH350 Victoria, BC, Canada You can wish in one hand and crap in the other. See which one gets filled first. Last edited by Southpa; 08-13-2002 at 12:04 PM.

08-13-2002, 01:26 PM	#22
stllookn Saving 1 truck at a time! Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Kent, WA Posts: 6,465	ORENCE1 and I just built a patch panel for the leading edge of an inner fender last week. I was amazed how soft the steel is before it has been work hardened by forming. I am not sure if you can anneal this piece like you used to do in shop class to make the rolling around the corner easier. It looks like ebfab said that if you tacked the leading edge and pulled/rolled it around the corner the indentations in back would line up...he's da man. Failing that I might be inclined to cut it into two parts vertically and tack the two in place and then get some raw 20 gauge sheet (remnant) from your local steel supplier and use it as the filler between the two...if it is needed. Of course...I love welding and hammering so look for any excuse to do some extra welding...LMAO. __________________ '68 C20 Longhorn 50th Anniversary 400/TH400 '68 C20 Longhorn 50th Anniversary 468/TH400w/buckets '72 C20 Halfhorn (Longhorn w/o cab and front clip) '69 Flxible Cruiser (look up ugly in the dictionary)

08-13-2002, 02:14 PM	#23
Slammed67 Progress = 0% Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Kansas City, MO Posts: 2,108	Kenneth, I had a similar experience as you are having. And if you have bought the same panels I did, then the ribbed part on the back of the cab WON'T line up for $hit. Of course I didn't realize that until I had it half way tacked on. Of course I'm not too concerned about it since the box covers that area. I started at the door and worked my way around to the back like was suggested. The lower lip didn't line up for $hit on mine either, but then again, it won't be seen once the box is on. I guess next time we by patch panels, we'll have to buy a set from 10 different vendors and hopefully one will be right! Good luck man! __________________ Jason - '67 GMC swb \| '57 Bel-Air 4dr hardtop \| '56 210 4dr Wagon \| 2000 GMC Sierra

08-13-2002, 02:17 PM	#24
XXL Señor Member Join Date: May 2002 Location: Edge of the world Posts: 5,367	FYI all, mine is a stepside so I'm a little more concerned about how the rear area looks. Maybe I should buy a fleetside bed Or better yet, stop wearing my glasses. Then it would look fine like it is! Kenneth __________________ Craigslist \| ebay \| Engrishtees \| www.myattitudesucks.com \| Follow me on Twitter

08-13-2002, 07:07 PM	#25
6869704X4 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: SE NM Posts: 769	Ive found my metalwork starts to look better after a few beers. But then I sober up. __________________ The more I learn about women, the more I love my truck.

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