I was reading a restoration progress post where the fellow was trying to replace the rear apron on a 65 bug with a "proper" replacement apron made by Klokkerholm and supplied by Wolfsburg West. He had such a difficult time getting it to mate / match with the existing body metal on the car, and a replacement 66 bug rear engine cover, that WW gave him a refund (including shipping) on the apron, even though he had hacked it up quite a bit trying to make it fit.
Is this a common problem in the VW repair / restoration world? I thought these replacement panels were made from original molds, or copies of original molds ..if so, how could they be that far off? I've already started accumulating the required replacement panels for my 66 off-body project ...but now I'm getting a bit concerned. Anyone else got horror stories to tell?? Comments?
Are replacement body panels really that bad???
Difficult to answer
Panels may be problematic. I say that because you are cutting the old metal out because of damage or rust. That process alone can make it difficult to say if a replacement panel will work. The process of taking damage out causes tho orginal panels to move no matter how well you brace them. Be prepared to have to do a lot to make replacement panels fit. If they go easy be happy.
An apron replacement is not easy front or rear. You have to get the deck lid/hood and fenders all aligned which is not easy as if the apron is damaged, the fender wells are probably also toast. Getting it all aligned side to side and top to bottom is a challenge. Be ready for the worse.
I replaced from drivers a post forward and it was not fun. It involved getting the fender, apron, hood, a post and door all right. After a couple of days work getting cut out and welded back in, I then had hours of body work just to get it all straight.
Be patient and prepare for more work that expected. If it is easy, be happy. Panels may never fi good luck!
An apron replacement is not easy front or rear. You have to get the deck lid/hood and fenders all aligned which is not easy as if the apron is damaged, the fender wells are probably also toast. Getting it all aligned side to side and top to bottom is a challenge. Be ready for the worse.
I replaced from drivers a post forward and it was not fun. It involved getting the fender, apron, hood, a post and door all right. After a couple of days work getting cut out and welded back in, I then had hours of body work just to get it all straight.
Be patient and prepare for more work that expected. If it is easy, be happy. Panels may never fi good luck!
