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Discussion Topic:
1938 Woodie gap in wood frame member
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Jacques1960 |
10-10-2020 @ 6:00 AM
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Member
Posts: 201
Joined: Aug 2020
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The wooden frame and panel insert gaps are all tight, with the notable exception of the right rear middle horizontal frame member, which has a 1/4” gap relative to the tailgate frame. Before I begin any disassembly, is there an internal means of closing this gap mechanically (tightening a screw or bolt) or is a longer, replacement wood member called for ? Photos attached. Thank you.
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kubes40 |
10-10-2020 @ 6:04 AM
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Senior
Posts: 3428
Joined: Oct 2009
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My guess, and only a guess, is one or more pieces never fit very well together. There's no "adjustment" back there. Without having that panel in my hands, I can't say for certain whether or not it could be disassembled and reassembled "tighter". Mike "Kube" Kubarth
This message was edited by kubes40 on 10-10-20 @ 2:20 PM
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Jacques1960 |
10-10-2020 @ 6:36 AM
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Posts: 201
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Was afraid that might be the case - wish that 1/4” had been spread out over several pieces. Door fit is perfect currently, so I best leave well enough alone.
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woodiewagon46 |
10-10-2020 @ 7:51 AM
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Posts: 705
Joined: Nov 2012
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Jacques, they were never an exact fit from the factory. Unlike a steel vehicle, you are driving something organic. The wood expands and contracts, seasonally and shrinks over time. Sure, a quarter inch might be a bit much and it might bother you, but anyone that is familiar with Woodies isn't going to care. My '46 had all original wood and it's not exact in a few places.
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woodiewagon46 |
10-10-2020 @ 8:24 AM
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Senior
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Joined: Nov 2012
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The issue with the 1/4" gap is that it will allow water infiltration into the un-varnished, mortis and tenon joint and that will lead to much larger problems. You can try and loosen all the bolts that secure the rear post, then use a pipe clamp from the rear post to the post just behind the rear door and see if it will close the gap. If you do try it this way, remember that the wood will "scar" easily so padding the clamp is a must. I would also have another set of hands to secure the clamp from falling. If it does move it, I would tap the post back and coat the joint with glue and re-clamp it and tighten all the bolts.
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Jacques1960 |
10-10-2020 @ 8:48 AM
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Posts: 201
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Thank you - no worries on the water though as I don’t drive it in the rain and “dry” wash only
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Jacques1960 |
10-10-2020 @ 10:15 AM
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Member
Posts: 201
Joined: Aug 2020
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I’m a little concerned about doors if I monkey with this too much - right now, door gaps are very good and operation smooth. Maybe what I need to be thinking about is stabilization of the gap versus mechanical correction ?
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woodiewagon46 |
10-10-2020 @ 1:20 PM
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Senior
Posts: 705
Joined: Nov 2012
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From the looks of your pictures I would think that it's the rearmost post that is your issue. As you state all the door gaps look good.
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Jacques1960 |
10-10-2020 @ 2:07 PM
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Posts: 201
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I’ll have to see if I can figure out how to put a bit of gentle pressure on the rear post without bracing to the nearest door post - very open to suggestions !
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mfirth |
10-11-2020 @ 4:46 AM
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Member
Posts: 208
Joined: Nov 2017
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You could possibly use a quality marine caulk like "Life Caulk". It comes in colors, is sandable & paint or varnishable. An honest repair that i would do if the car was mine. I'll bet your car is nice & a pic of the entire car would be nice. mike
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