Rust repair about to start

So this coming Tuesday it's down to the nasty and dirty rust issues. As you can see "Rose" needs a little helping hand, so a friend of mine is coming over next week to replace three floor pans and the complete trunk floor. In addition the trunk lid's lip is not looking so hot either, so it will be replaced with fresh metal. Drip rails in the trunk needs replaced in a couple of spots as well, so let's git'r'done! Here's some nasty "before" photos...enjoy!

I think the floor is not the biggest problem. Control supports and reinforcements of the structure.

Agreed, the structural integrity of the car is of utmost importance, so we're doing small cutouts, and one floor board insert at a time. The trunk floor comes in two pieces as well, so I feel there's no need for bracing the vehicle. The frame, doors and trunk lid are still on the car keeping the structural strength intact. However, if this was a convertible I probably would have added a few measures.

Finally got the mig welder back so here are some updated photos. Trunk floor is cut out and the new floors is being prepped for installment. Welding starting tomorrow (hopefully). Also removed the rear bumper as I have a Star Chief parts car with a straight bumper waiting in the wings.

At this point all I can say is WOW! And WHEW!

The 1st trunk board is in, and today my buddy picked this parts car in Utah for me. It's a Star Chief Sedan with Title for $400, so this is the bumper I've been talking about which will go on my Catalina Coupe. Lots of other goodies left as well, so I can't wait to get my hands on it!

Disassembling the Star Chief parts car

Slowly but surely the Catalina is getting rejuvenated, almost done with the rust repair moving forward little by little...


Drip rails taken from the StarChief parts car

That's a good phase of progress. Keep us updated.