chrome side-strip removal and fill

[Jefe_505]

Anybody got any tips?

The kids have picked out a look they want to emulate (mostly de-badged and de-chromed). I'm here to help them do it, but I looked at the spots for chrome on the side, and they're deep enough that it gives me pause just filling it with putty.

What's the best way to fill it flush? flat bar welded in and then ground down?

[spl310]

The vast majority just have bondo filling the groove. What are you doing with the side trim?

[Linda]

The chrome is worth bucks so don’t bend it and it will pay for the Bondo etc
Linda

[JT68]

Just use the bondo-should last for years if there is no rust underneath. If you weld up those areas, you will forever ruin the rear clip for more correct restorations-that would be a shame and will put you in the PO thread of shame.

[Jefe_505]

The vast majority just have bondo filling the groove. What are you doing with the side trim?

The side trim is mostly missing.

I've got the stuff on the doors, but it's in pretty rough shape.

[Curtis]

Just say no, get some trim and put it on. Sorry, not a fan of cars with no trim. But it won't be parked in my garage so you get to do what you want.

[C.Costine]

Welding metal in could lead to a major project due to distortion of the sheet metal.

[Jefe_505]

Welding metal in could lead to a major project due to distortion of the sheet metal.

I know. I've been there, and I don't want to do it again.

So I guess it'll be kitty hair down in the groove and some glazing putty over top of it.

[theunz]

You can add me to the as one who does not like the trim delete look. The only cars, and there has been very few, that I thought Looked good without trim had large flares. Try looking up some of the Solvang threads and comparing pictures of cars with and without trim before you make any body mods. Of course individual choice is what makes the car hobby so interesting, so like Curtis said, your car your choice.
A much cheaper, and decent looking, option Other than finding the expensive OEM trim is the Cowels Proteckto trim. See the tech-wiki and click on “body”.

[dynaguy]

I filled in that area with a fiberglass reinforced Evercoat product on my '69 2000. It's stronger and more waterproof than standard bondo. Have used it on areas of cracking near trunk and headlight surrounds. Skim coat with a thin layer of good quality filler and/or glazing putty to get to final finish. FWIW

[Jefe_505]

I filled in that area with a fiberglass reinforced Evercoat product on my '69 2000. It's stronger and more waterproof than standard bondo. Have used it on areas of cracking near trunk and headlight surrounds. Skim coat with a thin layer of good quality filler and/or glazing putty to get to final finish. FWIW

Thanks!