Re: 1697 damage - photo inspection

["d_rex_2002" <rich@xxxx>]

James,

>From the photos and your descriptions, it appears that the initial
impact from the accident (front right) has caused the underbody to
shift diagonally on its frame mounts. In most cases, this results
in cracked or elongated holes in the fiberglass underbody. This 
explanation should help you to understand the left rear damage from
the slight twist that occurred from the power of the front impact.
You may want to remove the rear fascia, to relieve the stress on the
left rear corner of the fascia, to prevent tearing or stud pull-out.

Of course, you will probably need to wait until the claim has been
processed before you can do much. Keep a cover on the car for now.
Depending upon the extent of the damage, a body - frame separation
may be the easiest way to do both a full inspection and repairs.

The good news is this would be an excellent opportunity to inspect
the entire frame for rust, replace TAB's (if not done recently),
replace the hard steel brake lines with new stainless brake lines
and other related tasks that are best done with the body off.

As for replacement parts, both the vendors and many individuals
have parts you can get to facilitate the repairs. Although I rarely
sell my spare parts, since I try to use everything on my projects,
including damaged panels (hover conversion), I do have several
partial underbodies that would make good donors for your repairs.
Let me know if you need or wish to go this route.

>From the photos you have posted, without seeing the frame and other
details, my first impression is that 1697 is very repairable.

Good luck on "getting her back" and getting her back in shape.

Later,
Rich W.


--- In dmcnews@xxxx, "James LaLonde" <deloreandmcxii@xxxx> wrote:
> Well bad news...
> upon closer inspection it looks like the damage was substantial 
> enough to perhaps total the car. No word from Metlife yet... but I 
> think they'll scrap her. I will be keeping the salvage regardless. 
> 
> snip <