Pasanger side frame rail

[TomS]

Well, while replacing my exhaust manifold gasket, on my 1972 Spider, I found that the frame rail from the firewall to the bumper is completely rusted. It is to the point that I can remove the metal with my hands and look inside the rail. This is work that I cannot do myself. So my question, is it worth fixing? The car only cost $500.00, so I could part it out? I was looking 71,72 for over a year. If anybody knows someone in the Philly area who does body work on fiats? Might be able to give me some kind of cost?

[So Cal Mark]

I'd inspect the rest of the car for rust first. I would expect you will find extensive rust if the front frame rail is that bad

[mbouse]

unless the car was sitting in a very unusual position and that corner was catching lots of direct and frequent moisture... i'd suspect that the floor boards are going/gone and would highly suspect shock tower damage as well

[TomS]

I Saw the rusted rail when I bought the car, thought it was forward of the cross member only. The rest of the car is ok, forgot to mention that it seems to be from the battery leaking. The tray that holds the battery is also gone. The driver side rail is perfect no rust. The floors have a small spot each side. The trunk has no rust.

[TomS]

Also, Before I bought the car, pulled the front wheels to check the shock towers. They had no rust. This is what make it a hard decision.

[racydave]

72's are pretty cool, and on a car that old there is always a chance of rust issues. But if you are attached to this particular car, GO for it! I hope that you are not totally dependant on someone else doing all the work.

[TomS]

Engine work I can do, body I can't.