Emilie Meyer
1970 Chevelles are known to have issues with rust, so it's important to check the floor pans for rust damage and consider replacing them. If you're thinking of replacing the floor pans on your 1970 Chevelle, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you'll need to decide whether to replace smaller sections and weld them in place or use a product like POR15 with a fibreglass mat, sand, epoxy coat, and paint. You'll also need to consider the type of floor pan you want to install, such as a one-piece or two-piece floor, and whether you'll need to remove the body from the frame. Additionally, you'll need to decide whether to do the job yourself or take it to a shop, which can be costly.
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What You'll Learn
Removing the old floor
Before removing the old floor, make sure your trunk is solid and fully welded. This provides a lot of support. You can then remove the floor and inner rockers by drilling or grinding out the spot welds. It is important to support the car with tubing or angle iron before doing this.
It is also recommended to weld the doors at two front and two rear points that can be removed later. Latch the top frame in the closed position before removing the floor completely.
If you are taking the body off the frame, make sure to brace the door openings as the car will be structurally weak without the frame and floor. The rockers need to be peeled back as the floor pan is sandwiched between the inner and outer rocker.
You can either replace smaller sections and butt weld in place or use POR15 with a fibreglass mat on the inside, sand, epoxy coat and paint. If you choose the latter, you will need to sand the underneath smooth and apply epoxy and paint.
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Ordering replacement parts
When ordering replacement parts for your 1970 Chevelle, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to assess the extent of the damage and determine which parts need to be replaced. This may include the floor pan, trunk pan, inner rockers, and floor braces. Given the age of the car, it is likely that these parts will be affected by rust, so it is recommended to opt for replacement parts that are designed to resist corrosion.
Chevelle Depot offers a range of replacement floor pans for the 1970 Chevelle, which are stamped to original equipment specifications. These floor pans include the correct shape and contours for a factory fit and appearance, as well as an EDP coating to resist corrosion. When ordering these parts, it is important to remember not to cut out your original panels before receiving the replacements, as measurements are given only as a guideline.
If you are considering replacing smaller sections of the floor pan and welding them in place, you may also need to order materials such as POR15 and fiberglass mat to complete the repair. Alternatively, you can opt for a one-piece floor replacement, which can be trimmed around the edges and welded into place.
When ordering replacement parts, it is essential to consider the labour costs associated with the installation. If you plan to install the parts yourself, you will need to factor in the time and equipment required for the job. However, if you prefer to have a professional body shop perform the repair, you can expect to incur labour costs, which can be significant.
Overall, when ordering replacement parts for your 1970 Chevelle floor pan, it is crucial to prioritize quality and ensure that the parts are designed to resist corrosion and fit your vehicle correctly. By taking the time to assess the damage, compare parts from different suppliers, and consider the installation process, you can make informed decisions and ensure a successful restoration project.
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Welding the new floor
Welding in a new floor for your 1970 Chevelle is a complex process, but with careful preparation, it can be a successful DIY project. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Preparation:
Before you begin welding, there are a few important steps to follow. Firstly, ensure that your trunk is solid and fully welded, as it will provide a lot of support during the process. Next, determine the extent of the damage and decide whether you need to replace the entire floor or just sections of it. If you opt for sections, you can butt weld them in place. If your floor supports need replacement, you can do so without removing the car from the frame. It is also recommended to replace all the frame bushings at this stage.
Removing the Old Floor:
Start by removing the old floor, including the inner rockers, by drilling or grinding out the spot welds. Be cautious not to cut through the braces accidentally. Use a tool to cut out the spot welds, as the floors are likely spot-welded to the braces. Use a shop light to locate the small indentations where the pans are welded to the braces. Once located, use a red or gold Scotchbrite pad on a die grinder to expose the welds.
Fitting the New Floor:
When you receive your new pans, don't cut anything until you have them in place. Mark their size with a marker, then make your cut slightly inside the mark. If there is only minor rust, cut it out and adjust your new pan to make a patch. Remember to be mindful of the braces' location during this process.
Now, fit the new floor half to the braces and the remaining old floor half. Once you're satisfied with the positioning, tack weld it to hold its place. You can use screws to hold the panel in place, which can be welded shut later. Then, remove the remaining old floor and fit the new floor half to the braces. If you want to butt weld them, cut a splice down the floor to create a gap for the weld. Alternatively, you can use construction adhesive between the sheets of metal before joining them.
Final Steps:
After welding, you may want to apply a seam sealer. You can paint the floors with POR-15 and a chassis coat. If you used screws, weld shut the holes to complete the process.
Remember, this is a complex process, and it's essential to take your time and work carefully. If you're unsure about any steps or don't feel confident, consider seeking professional help or advice from experienced individuals.
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Sanding and coating
Sanding:
Before you begin sanding, ensure your work area is well-ventilated and wear the necessary protective gear, including a respirator, eye protection, and gloves. Start by inspecting the floor pan for any rust or corrosion. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any rust or loose paint. Pay close attention to the areas where the kick panels, rockers, and lower cowling intersect, as these are prone to rust issues. Use a body filler or rust treatment if needed.
Once the rust is addressed, use a sanding block or an air sander with 80-grit sandpaper to smooth out the welds and create a uniform surface. Sand along the weld seams and any uneven areas until the welds are level with the surrounding metal. Vacuum or wipe away any dust created during the sanding process.
Coating:
Begin by applying a self-etching primer, such as the OER Professional Grade Red Oxide Self-Etching Sanding Primer, to the sanded areas. This primer will help prepare the surface for the final coating and ensure better adhesion. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.
After the primer is dry, apply an epoxy coating to the floor pan. Epoxy coatings provide a durable and protective finish. Sand the epoxy-coated surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) to smooth out any imperfections and create a uniform finish. Remove any sanding dust before proceeding to the final step.
As a final step, apply a coat of paint to the floor pan. Choose a paint that is specifically designed for automotive use and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. A high-quality paint, such as a professional-grade coating, will provide maximum protection and a sleek finish.
Remember to work in a well-ventilated area and allow adequate curing time for each coat applied. By following these steps, you'll achieve a smooth, protected, and visually appealing floor pan for your 1970 Chevelle.
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Cost of replacement
The cost of replacing the floor pans of a 1970 Chevelle depends on whether you decide to do it yourself or take it to a shop. If you decide to take it to a shop, a rough estimate for the cost of labour is $4000-$5000.
If you decide to replace the floor pans yourself, you can purchase a complete floor pan and trunk pan, both with braces, from Chevelle Depot. However, the cost of these parts is unknown.
It is important to note that replacing the floor pans of a 1970 Chevelle is a time-consuming and challenging task, as shared by a user who replaced the floor pans of a '68 Firebird. Twenty years ago, a shop charged $1000 per side for this job.
Before beginning the replacement process, it is recommended to strip the body down and take it off the frame. Additionally, ensure that you brace the door opening, as removing the frame and floor makes the structure weak.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of replacement depends on whether you are doing it yourself or taking it to a shop. A shop may charge around $1000 per side, whereas doing it yourself will cost less if you buy the parts individually.
First, ensure that your trunk is solid and fully welded before removing the floor. Then, remove the floor and inner rockers by drilling or grinding out the spot welds. Finally, lift the new floor into place and weld it in.
It is important to brace the door opening if you are taking the body off the frame. You can replace smaller sections and butt weld them in place, or use POR15 with a fibreglass mat, sand, epoxy coat and paint.
