Project Jeep CJ-7
Restoring a Jeep Tub
Part Four
 

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Let the bodywork begin.  Along with body work I also was installing some armor which included a pair of Sun Rocker Panel Guards and Warrior Rear 1/4 Panel Guards.  The Sun Rocker Panel Guards were later removed leaving the bolt holes but the 1/4 panel armor will be painted the same color as the Jeep.

There were several places that needed patching.  These included the rocker panels where some cracks were visible and other places where a few holes were patched.  All the rust had been previously removed and coated with Coroless.

The holes from the antenna were patched.  They probably be relocated if I install a radio.

The seams were sealed with 
an aluminumized body bondo.

Sun Rocker Panel Guard drilled out and installed.  Later removed before painting.

The YJ fender flair was clamped in place to find the right position to mount the Guards.  Also the new front fender was installed temporarily to locate the Guard as well.

To the left and above are shots of the driver side Sun Rocker Panel guard.  This section of the tub at the rocker panel had a nice bow to it.  However the Rocker panel Guard is straight which left a nice 1/4 to 3/8 inch gap as seen in the left picture.  What I'll do here is pad the gap at the bolt with a few washers and close the gap with clear silicone sealant (great stuff).

Holes were measured and drilled in the 1/4 panel armor and then bolted in place using stainless steel hardware.  I also applied a few coats of paint to the body where the armor would be located and to the backside of the armor to keep rust at bay.

Ready for mounting.  The hole for the gas fill tube needed a little trimming before mounting the armor permanently.