Fitting GP 4 arches

[Sptwoman]

I've read several article and seen some pics on rear arches but do they all start out like these?

Are there any tips or best practices for cutting both old and new arches, aligning, fixing / bonding and finishing? Is it best to align the rear panel exactly / correctly before hand?
I'd rather miss out on all the boIIox moments if possible!!

[kolynos]

I am in the same position myself, its a case of fitting the whole panel, that some people do or cutting it down. Regarding the stradale arch, that should be cut away & then glassed to make tidy. I am going to have a word with my body man first & see what he suggests. :confused: What do you think of the so called build manual? :rolleyes:

[Sptwoman]

Dave,
I'm in favour of cutting less off the car and more off the arch panel. The trick is to keep the shape / curves of the original arch / body work I believe. Guy has suggested ways of bonding and blending in the arch in an earlier article but the work is in the positioning :( I'm going to spend some time today offering up and thinking of the final solution.
The build manual is fully comprehensive!!! The A4 file from Gerry is a starter but the club's forum is a living oracle which compliments it extremely well.
Part of Gerry's legacy I believe!! :rolleyes:
Well, the sun's out so here goes...

[Bernard]

Having done this years ago,... trim the square arched panel back to a 1" flange (approx) then thin the flange down by 50%...... then cut the main body section small flared arch off and thin down that section (after marking out and aligning the square arch) then bond the two sections together holding them together with large diameter washers and soft aluminium pop rivits........ there may be an earlier article on this site or on and earlier news letter
Cheers
Bernard

[Sptwoman]

Bernard,

There is an article I've read, which does mention the thinning by Guy. I'm happy with that, it's the alignment thing! I've got the rear section covered off in my mind 'cause it comes with most of the rear profile attached but the tub section is required to be completed 1st. Tricky bit.
Anyway I'm hoping to have Guy's company tomorrow evening so it may all become clearer then. Will post the findings / action plan there after.

Regards,

Allen

[guy mayers]

hmmmm - I'd better have a stress free day at work tomorrow, followed by an even less stressed evenings job interviewing....
You'd better have the kettle on Allen! See you tomorrow evening!
Guy

[Sptwoman]

Guy, I'll keep reminding myself....enjoy, enjoy, enjoy :D .... I don't do stress anymore... There is a secret to it though!!
I'll get prepared for tomorrow, see you then. What size overalls do you take? :rolleyes: