front pan replacement....anyone local have pictures?
 

hoping that someone has pics of their suspension jig they used when replacing their front pan- I want to do this myself, but any advice or pics from someone who has been there done that sure would help.

thanks
Kevin

Front Pan replacement Jig
 

I'm in the same situation with a 73 so any information will go to good use for two guys.

Have you ordered your replacement steel? Chosen a vendor?

I'll gladly work as a tool monkey if you'll let me watch/help when you operate.

thomas

I think that the DIY book has some handy pics. I believe that if you are only doing the front pan and are careful about removing it, it should be straight forward and not require a jig. Measurements and using the gas tank as a "jig" of sorts should help as well.

This might be of interest. http://www.hillmanimages.com/912/jesse.html

I found this when I was just about ready to buy a car needing a front pan. From the looks of it you can use the front a-arms as a jig, sort of.

I have replaced 5 pans so far. Two for my cars and a few friends worth. YOu do not need a jig. AFter you drop the front suspension take a few measurements. You need the distance from the rear pickups to the front pickups. Measure both sides and average the numbers. If you cut carefully along the seams it should fall into place. When you see the parts it will all make sense. The placement is defined by the inner fender wells and lateral gas tank supports.

AFter you fit the new pan and clamp in place check your measurements. When you have them close take a cross measurement to make sure the pan is square. Then start tacking the welds. Check your measurements often. Once you have tacked all the way around, and its stil square, start welding it in place.

If you really want to make a jig the factory manuals have all the measurements. I think its page 870 or so.

I have used pans from several vendors. I found Restoration Design to be the best fit and highest quality. The reason is the number of spot welds that hold the front pickups in place and overall quality of the stampings.

Best of luck!