which should I put on first? My tail light panel is off and I have a new one, but in the process of removing it I have one trunk bracket rotted. I don't know if it matters but it seems to me the panel should be put on first, but I'm VERY new to body work so ANY help would be appreciated!!!
What part is the trunk bracket? I have done my brothers entire rear sheetmetal replacement from 1/4 to outer wheel wells, gas tank, both sides of gas tank that includes trunk dopoffs, tail light panel and the area below the tail light panel.
I have found that it is better to remove and replace one item at a time (if its possible) to maintain some sort of fixed dimensions (especially with repo parts). If you were to remove the entire rear sheet metal and start from scratch, nothing would line up. I'd put the tail panel back on since its already off, then replace the trunk brakets.
What part is the trunk bracket? I have done my brothers entire rear sheetmetal replacement from 1/4 to outer wheel wells, gas tank, both sides of gas tank that includes trunk dopoffs, tail light panel and the area below the tail light panel.
I have found that it is better to remove and replace one item at a time (if its possible) to maintain some sort of fixed dimensions (especially with repo parts). If you were to remove the entire rear sheet metal and start from scratch, nothing would line up. I'd put the tail panel back on since its already off, then replace the trunk brakets.
Hint: Be sure to keep your trunk lid installed when installing the tail light panel and welding. It makes a good reference for getting the gaps "just right."
Thank you both for your advice. The trunk lid is off, but I will install it again for reference. As far as the metal goes: I took the tail light metal off and one of the trunk brackets just 'popped' off as I was drilling the stock welds off. I was concerned w/lining it up, but you two gave good advice that I can follow to get it straight. Again, thanks!!