Reproduction front wing fit

[lukedc]

Hi,

I have a 1963 FHC and am currently working on the bonnet which has rust along the wheel arch wired edge (and elsewhere). I was wondering about the Martin Robey replacement wings (MRE83) and how well they are likely to fit. I have seen some posts/comments that there could be issues, however MR say that they've made considerable improvements recently and they are now "a much better fit". Has anybody used these "relaunched wings" and can comment on their fit etc?

Regards Luke

[Gfhug]

Luke, have you considered Monocoque https://www.monocoque-metalworks.com/main/ for your parts? People speak highly of their panels. How expensive they are vs Robey when import duties and shipping added can’t say. But worth looking at.

Geoff

[Geoff Allam]

A “much better fit” is a pretty vague description. The chance of those wings bolting right on and fitting is about like winning the lottery. If the wing you have now fits well and has minor rust issues patch panels would be the way to go and would be much less expensive. Perhaps you could post a few pictures of what you are describing which makes it much simple to advise. Monocoque Metalworks does not supply complete wings as far as I know but they do supply excellent patch panels that fit properly. Hutsons has also been mentioned as a source.

[Paul bow]

Agree with Geoff whole heartedly, repair your original take it back to bare metal and any rust pitting coat with fertan leave to dry 24 hrs, then after a light sand a good epoxy primer before using your fillers..
3 years later no rust.. on original knackered wings, see pics below before n after.
If it’s rotten to where the wire forms the wheel arch, then simply remove all the metal but leave the wire in place, and replace with new metal, then trim your new metal back to the wire leaving 5mm overhang, little heat and hammer n dolly it over gently, will be as good as new with a bit of lead on the outer panel (fillers today very good as well) just need the inside edge as it folds over looking neat, a 36 grit fibre disk helps here.. save a good 1k and original

Hope this helps

[lukedc]

Thanks Paul some helpful suggestions (and you have a very nice e-type!). I have repaired the wings. The wired edges were a challenge but there was a useful YouTube video about how to fold the sheet metal over the wire with a hammer and dolly. Turned out fine after a bit of practise.

[Paul bow]

No problem Luke and what’s more is not only have you saved £1k on a reproduction wing but you’ve kept the original, brilliant