What do you guys think of smoothing the seams where the rear quarter and taillight panel meet?This is the area around the outer side of the taillight assemlby) Also how about the lower two vertical tail panel to quarter seams on the lower part of the rear end? We are in the middle of putting quarters(not full) and tail panel on and are having a very hard time getting that rear seam by the lights match up. I have seen this area smoothed and kind of liked that. It makes it look finished and not just pieced together. It would save us alot of time. This is not just a daily driver but and the whole car is being renovated and it is costing me a ton. I wont do this if it is considered cobbing the body up or doing a crappy job on the body. Please tell me your opinions and if you have seen this before.( the smooth part)

Over time the filler will crack...

If we weld the seams entirely and grind smooth and then put a thin layer of filler would this work? I dont mean to just slather some mud on and hope for the best.

If you weld them it should be o.k. Do what you want, people wil pointout that its not correct, you want a hot rod or a correct collector? I like mine rods so...

They are "important" flex points... filler will crack... welding it solid would probably lead to a different area cracking.

Why don't they make sidewalks without expansion joints, it would look so much nicer smooth :)

I'm not sure I agree that welding it solid would lead to cracking somewhere else. I think you will be fine.

Although I do agree that you will catch flack from purest who will say it has been been done wrong. They are the same ones that go on and on about why your car is not a true SS or Z/28 even after you tell them you know and that you intentionally made a clone.

There is no "flex" at that point, they are there for simple assembly reasons. Welding them up will be a pain, but do-able.

Brian

I'm kinda confused about all the "cracking" concern. Seam sealer goes in there anyways, I think he's just asking about putting enough in there that there wouldn't be that "groove".

For some reason, this is an area that always catches my eye on First Gens. Personally, I think it looks good either way if done right. If you like the look of smooth and aren't trying to get show points, then do it! As to what others think, most "normal" people don't know the difference anyway.

Sorry, don't mean to rant.
Good luck!
Dan