Tech Tips - Stan The Answer Man

Stan has done restoration, resto-mod and everything in between when it comes to a frame-off adventure from the ground up. Send him your questions about how to do your star makeover.

Hi Stan - I've had some big problems fitting my after-market quarter panels for my 1968 Mustang fastback. They don't want to line up with the contour of the original sheet metal on the car .What"s the deal with the bad fit?

L.M.

Hi L.M -

Not all body panels are created equal so it pays to do a little homework before you buy after-market parts. I would check with the boys from your local Ford club to find out who has already been through the process.

A basic rule of thumb is still that you get what you pay for in consumer world. Stick with the guys with a track record when it comes to body replacement parts because a poor fit means many long hours of frustration for the do it yourselfers who will quickly learn that patience will be in short supply if a 68 Mustang replacement quarter fits like a 57 Studebaker quarter on your Pony.

These are the moments of frustration that may lead to tighter gun laws when you shoot your Pony because you cheaped out on parts. I always use good parts because they cut down on installation time and help me maintain a firm grip on my sanity.

Good luck,

Stan