quote:Originally posted by Chris Bell:
This weekend we got quite a bit more work done on the car. We got a new support piece installed to strengthen the side of the engine hatch opening area where we cut.
Check out the video of my dad welding it in
After we got the support piece in, we decided to get our new firewall panels installed. We used to have diamond plate on our firewall but with the new engine, we decided to go with a different design. We got a brushed stainless steel plate that turned out awesome. We finished both sides and were debating whether or not to do a top piece (since the engine will cover it) but since we have left over material, we're going to finish it off and do a top piece.
After we get the top piece in, we will be putting the motor in!
View more pics here
Gotta make Dad earn his keep!
I did the brushed stainless bulkhead and engine covers in my car too. I have never been sorry about that at all. I think they are a classy touch to add to any Pantera.
They can always be taken out. They are just held in by a few strategically placed stainless sheet metal screws.
I know you will love yours. They help so much in keeping the engine bay clean and presentable.
Don't use Brillo pads on them though. For some inexplicable reason the pads transfer steel to the stainless and that will leave rust stains.
Very weird if you ask me. Wipe them down with Windex like you would do with the glass and the chrome and a paper towel.
I've worked before with stainless sheet and have found that in the long run you, anyone, is better off putting 90 degree bent edges on the sheets. For one thing it hides the cut edges but more importantly if you don't the sheets have a tendency of developing ripples that you can see in the surfaces. Especially when they are exposed to heat/cool cycles. Just my opinion of a better way to do them and you definitely need a brake to do the bends on.
In my case that fit into wanting to install more firewall insulation because it created a space to put it and a shield to protect it.
Now stop talking and get back to work so we can see the finished product.
Dad has got to weld up those headers.