Tiffany Haney
Replacing the floor pans of a 1968 Camaro is a big job. Before starting, it is recommended to pull the complete carpet out and inspect the floor pan along with the inner rockers, trunk pan, and inner fenders. If you want to save money, you can remove the old floor pan yourself. The next step is to jack up the car and remove the old floor, including the torque boxes. The new floor is inserted from the front and underneath the car. Once the new floor is in place, it needs to be welded.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Model | 1968 Chevrolet Camaro |
| Parts | Floor pans, braces, seat frames, toe board panel, shifter tunnel cover, floor pan/trunk pan plug, rocker edges |
| Procedure | Jack up the car, remove the old floor, slide in the new floor from the front underneath, brace the car, weld |
| Challenges | Flimsy body without the floor, risk of cracking paint or windshield, rust, electrical wiring issues |
| Cost | $3000 for installation only, $15,000 for a Dynamark repro body |
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What You'll Learn
Removing the old floor pan
Prepare the Vehicle:
Begin by parking the Camaro on a level surface and engaging the parking brake. Remove the interior components, such as seats, carpeting, and any other necessary parts to gain access to the floor pan. It is important to take your time during this step to avoid damaging any reusable components.
Assess the Damage:
Once the interior is removed, thoroughly inspect the floor pan for damage, including rusted areas, soft spots, and rotted sections. Take note of the extent and location of the damage, as this will guide your removal process.
Jack up the Vehicle:
Using a jack, lift the Camaro by the rocker edges at the rear, and support it securely at the front edge of the rocker as well. Ensure that the vehicle is level and stable before proceeding.
Remove the Old Floor Pan:
With the car securely supported, begin the process of removing the old floor pan. This typically involves cutting out the damaged sections using appropriate tools, such as electric metal shears or a grinder. Be careful not to damage any surrounding structures or components that are in good condition. Remove the old floor pan sections, torque boxes, and any other associated parts that need replacement.
Clean and Prepare the Area:
After removing the old floor pan, clean the area thoroughly. Use wire brushes or grinding tools to remove rust, debris, and any remaining adhesive or residue. Ensure that the area is clean and smooth, providing a suitable surface for the new floor pan installation.
By following these steps, you will have successfully removed the old floor pan from your 1968 Camaro, setting the stage for the next phase of the restoration process—installing the new floor pan. Remember to work safely and wear appropriate protective gear throughout the entire process.
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Preparing the new floor pan
Firstly, it is important to ensure that you have acquired the correct floor pan for your 1968 Camaro. The floor pan should be a reproduction of the original, designed specifically for the 1967-1969 Camaro models. It should be manufactured with stamped steel, adhering to the original factory specifications. This ensures a precise fit and maintains the structural integrity of your classic car.
Before installing the new floor pan, you must thoroughly clean and prepare the underlying structure. This involves removing any residual adhesive, rust, or debris from the old floor pan installation. Utilize tools such as a grinder and wire brushes to scrape away rust and create a smooth, clean surface for the new floor pan to adhere to. This step is crucial for achieving a solid bond and preventing further corrosion.
Next, you should inspect the surrounding areas, such as the rockers, torque boxes, and firewall. Ensure that these components are in good condition and securely attached. If any issues are identified, address them before proceeding with the new floor pan installation. This includes repairing or replacing damaged parts to ensure a stable foundation for the new floor pan.
When preparing the new floor pan, carefully examine it for any signs of damage or defects. Ensure that it is free of any scratches, dents, or warping. It is crucial to have a pristine floor pan to ensure a proper fit and maintain the structural integrity of your Camaro. If necessary, lightly sand or treat any minor imperfections to create a smooth and uniform surface.
Finally, before beginning the installation, gather all the necessary tools and hardware. This includes items such as jack stands, a level, and welding equipment. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the installation process by referring to instruction manuals or seeking guidance from experienced individuals. Additionally, have the required safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, readily available to ensure a safe working environment.
By meticulously following these steps, you can effectively prepare the new floor pan for your 1968 Camaro, setting the stage for a successful and durable installation. Remember to take your time, work carefully, and address any underlying issues to achieve the best possible outcome.
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Inserting the new floor pan
Inserting a new floor pan is a challenging task that requires careful planning and execution. Here is a step-by-step guide to inserting a new floor pan in a 1968 Camaro:
First, jack up the car and ensure it is securely supported and level. Remove the old floor pan, including the torque boxes, and any necessary components such as the front sub-frame, driveshaft, and exhaust. It is important to note that removing the old floor pan can be a tedious process, and one must be cautious when disassembling to ensure that the components can be reinstalled.
Next, test fit the new floor pan before cutting the old one out. Make any necessary adjustments and take detailed notes to ensure a precise installation. Mark the rusty areas of the old floor pan with a crayon or similar implement to guide your trimming. When trimming, always cut on the small side, as it is easier to cut more than to add back what you have removed. Practice trimming on scrap metal if you are unsure, as floor pans are forgiving, and small mistakes can be corrected.
Now, you can insert the new floor pan. Slide it in from the front and underneath the car, tilting the rear end as high as possible and pushing it back. You may need to twist it slightly to get it into place. Once the new floor pan clears the firewall area at the front, it will almost drop into place. Ensure the edge of the new floor pan is above the firewall partial tunnel.
Finally, brace the car to prevent any flexing, and weld the new floor pan into place. With sturdy jack stands, the car should remain stable without flexing.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of inserting a new floor pan in a 1968 Camaro, ensuring a secure and precise installation.
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Welding the new floor pan
When it comes to welding the new floor pan for your 1968 Camaro, there are a few methods you can use. One popular method is to use a MIG welder to tack the new pan in place. First, cut along the edge of the new pan into the old pan, then press down the new pan and use the MIG welder to tack it in multiple places. Keep moving along the perimeter until the new pan is securely tacked into place.
Another method is to cut the opening with overlap on all four sides and then plug weld or spot weld the entire floor pan parameter, welding from the top. Alternatively, you can cut the opening with overlap on the front and back and no overlap on the sides, then plug weld or spot weld the front and back sections before butt welding the sides.
If you want a non-detectable repair, butt welding is the way to go. You can get the new pan close to the proper size, lay it into place, and press down to mark the outline. Then, cut along the marker line and butt weld the entire pan. This method is more tedious, but it will result in a factory-like finish.
It's important to brace the car properly to prevent any flexing during the welding process. Using sturdy jack stands can help ensure the car remains stable. Additionally, consider using clamps for butt welding to achieve a neater finish.
For grinding down your welds, an egg-shaped carbide bit for a die grinder is recommended over a disc grinder, as it provides more precision.
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Cost of replacement
The cost of replacing the floor pans of a 1968 Camaro can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the labour costs, and the location of the repair shop.
One of the most significant factors affecting the cost is the extent of the damage and the subsequent decision to replace the entire floor pan or only the affected sections. If you opt for a complete floor pan replacement, the cost will likely be higher, ranging from USD 1500 to USD 2000 or more, depending on the labour rates and specific requirements of your vehicle. On the other hand, replacing only the damaged sections of the floor pan can be a more cost-effective approach, potentially reducing the overall expense.
Additionally, labour costs can significantly influence the final price. If you have the necessary skills and equipment, performing the replacement yourself can result in substantial savings. However, if you plan to hire a professional, factors such as their level of expertise, the location of the repair shop, and their specific rates will impact the final cost.
It is worth noting that some Camaro owners have reported instances where previous owners installed new floor pans over the old ones without properly removing the original pans, resulting in a solid floor but an unsightly appearance. In such cases, additional labour may be required to address this issue, potentially increasing the overall cost of the replacement.
To obtain an accurate estimate for your specific situation, it is advisable to consult with reputable restoration specialists or body shops, as they can provide quotes tailored to your vehicle's unique needs.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of replacing floor pans on a 1968 Camaro can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the labour involved. One forum user received a quote of $3000 for the installation, which they found surprising. However, another forum user commented that this price seemed reasonable if the job was done well.
Replacing the floor pans on a 1968 Camaro is a big job, especially if you are doing it yourself and have limited welding experience. It is recommended to remove the interior and carpet to inspect the extent of the damage before deciding on a course of action. Some people choose to cut out only the damaged sections of the floor pans and weld in new pieces, while others opt for a complete floor pan replacement.
There are a few different methods for inserting a new floor pan into a 1968 Camaro. Some people insert the floor pan through the front window, while others remove the front sub-frame, drive shaft, and exhaust to slide it in from the front and underneath. It is important to ensure that the car is securely supported and level during this process.
To replace the floor pans on a 1968 Camaro, you will need a range of tools and materials, including a grinder, wire brushes, electric metal shears, and welding equipment. If you are not experienced with welding, it is recommended to seek professional help or consider using panel bond adhesive instead.
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