Reality check: chasing rust

Here goes: I'm starting my first complete resto on a Scout II. I got a great tub that definately (I won't say only) needed quarter panels. It's not perfect, but a good starting point for a rookie restoration, IMHO. I will have the entire tub media blasted before any sheetmetal replacement begins.

The perfectionist in me says:
Now that the quarter panels are off, why not drill out the inner quarters (and probably even the rear floor) to get to the surface rust and pinholes in the seams where the quarters meet the floor as well as the floor to its crossmembers.

Thoughts:
+ now is the only time to do it, ever.
+ I will know it's there, and I will like myself for it.
+ some structure, door pillars (and forward) will stay put
+ life is a journey, not a destination.
- it's ONLY a Scout tub, but what if I don't get everthing lined up when I weld it up, and the doors never fit right?
- I believe a quality resto COULD be done without going any further, by tedious repair, cleaning and sealing/caulking these areas,

Based on my searches and meanderings here at CHR, I understand that a lot of what this is about is my budget, time and personal satisfaction, and I further understand that it will take X times as long and cost XX times as much as I told my girlfriend it would.

Am I crazy, or am I just following my dream?
Time better spent on other things?
Has anyone else done this?

I really appreciate your honest opinion, so I will do my best to answer any questions.
Thanks,
Greg

(Please excuse the trailer in the photograph, I just got it home that weekend)

and the journey begins.:) Welcome

Welcome to CHR

Theres an old saying While your there you might as well.

Nows the time to do it,while you are in there!!!!I got mine put back together!!Click on the camera below my name.

Yup, if your going to do it, might as well do it right the first time...:3dSMILE:

Welcome, i think if the idea is already in your mind , you better go ahead and do now, cause if you dont , you will regret it

I had a 71 ScoutII that I did a frame off resto on in 83 through 84. I didn't have to get as deep into it as you are, but what a ride when it was done. It had a supsension lift and 35's on it. The 345 motor had been warmed up with a different cam and I ported and polished the intake and port matched the heads. A roll cage from a buddy that used to mud bog, and all kinds of safety equipment.

Unfortunately, I was coming home from the bar that I worked at one night. I was giving a gal a ride home and wasn't paying attention to the road and ended up rolling her down the highway. Fortunately no one was injured, other than a few bumps and bruises. But the truck was a total loss. She had been back together for 3 days. :mad:

Have fun getting this one reworked and have a great time in it.
I loved mine for the short time that we were together.

Thanks all for your interest. I was hoping to find an antagonist somewhere in the bunch, to tell me why I SHOULDN'T do it, but I guess everyones on board here. Looks like I'll be doing more drilling....

Greg

I won't be an antagonist exactly but perhaps this should be considered;
1. Are you planning on keeping the vehicle for a very long time,or
2. Are you planning on selling it as a fully restored 'frame off' restoration for a
considerable amount?
If not,,,I wouldn't. But thats JMO. Do what your heart tells you,as long as it is feasable.

One thing leads to another. and another. and another. Mine is costing me more than I told my girlfriend too.

Jim

Quote:

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Originally Posted by maddddog

One thing leads to another. and another. and another. Mine is costing me more than I told my girlfriend too.

Jim

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Ummmm, thats pretty much the case every time. :LOL: Unfortunately

They all do! Remember, YOU will know it!