Having had major front end accident repairs done a few years back, here is
what I learned. The British Motor Heritage fenders are close to 500 bucks
each. Changing the fender is simple and painless. The problem lies in the
fact that the new fenders still need a considerable amount of prep work to
make them ready. There is a very rough seam weld that runs from the
headlight opening around to the wheel opening. Plan on a couple hours of
labor and some filler to solve that problem. Then primer, then sealer, then
wet sanding, then paint, then more sanding, buffing, and polishing. The
time and labor guides did not give enough allowance to do the job. Even if
they don't want to do the work, a dealership body shop should be able to
provide you with an estimate to use with your insurance company. Then find
a good rust free used fender. Even if it has minor dings in it you will be
money ahead.
David Riker
74 Midget
78 Midget
63 Falcon
http://personalweb.sunset.net/~davidr
----- Original Message -----
From Butch Lewis <butchl at eudoramail.com>
To: <spridgets@autox.team.net>
Sent: Tuesday, January 11, 2000 10:30 AM
Subject: Fender Repair Estimate Needed
> Has anyone ever replaced, or had replaced the front fenders on a chrome
bumper midget? I am going to have the left front fender and headlamp
assembly replaced on a 1972 Midget. The insurance company of the driver who
ruined the fender by backing into it will cover the cost. However, the auto
body shop that I have dealt with in the past wouldn't even discuss the job
since they have enough late model cars coming through their doors to keep
them busy. While I search for someone I trust to do the work, I'd like to
have an idea of what it should cost before I accept or negotiate over the
$900 check that the insurance adjuster offered (according to the catalogs,
the fender alone is around $500). If it's of any help, the car is solid with
practically no rust (since one shop owner said he didn't like to work on
older cars because the rust creates unforeseen problems.
>
> Any experiences shared would be appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> Butch
>
>
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