Hey folks. I own a 69 442 and am no expert in body work. So I'd like to know if removing the front windshield to access the rust on the dashboard channel is something a novice like me can tackle or should I take it to a body shop? Thanks in advance.

 

Depends. You have to know yourself and your capabilities. Are you generally a handy kind of guy? How's your self-discipline? Do your projects usually get completed or do they languish in the shop or garage after you get bored and move on to other things? How much time do you have available? How hard are you willing to work?

 

I would say if you are confident with welding in sheet metal yourself, go for it. If not, take it to a good honest (read honest) body shop that has a good reputation.

 

You will need to be very careful removing the windshield so you don't crack it. As mentioned you will need to evaluate your skills at welding, body work and paint.

 

That is a well known problem with our Cutlass' and Chevelles, etc. The metal there is really thin. Problem is once you get that far in you see you "might as well" (MAW's) fix other things while in there, this can lead to a complete restoration and car will be apart for 10 years! So beware!

 

I had to repair rust in the same area in my car years ago. Now replacement panels are available.

it took lots of cutting, bending, trimming, and welding to repair it. It turned out well.

 

Thanks, guys. After reading your comments, coupled with my own research, it confirmed my thoughts that it will be a lot of work. Unfortunately, I'm not a welder and have little experience in sanding, so I'll have to find a reputable body shop that can tackle this, as I also have some rust bubbling underneath the vinyl top. Ugh.

 

This is unfortunately all too common with these cars. Doing it right requires significant disassembly of the interior to prevent fire and to access all the rust.

 

Yep. Thanks, Joe.
On a side note, my 442 was born with the C50 Cameo White with a black vinyl top as I was lucky to find the build sheet while looking under the back bench seat last month. Do you know if the C50 Cameo White is a regular white color as the color of my car, or is it more of a cream color like I've seen on the Olds paint charts for C50?

 

Cameo White is plain white - that's what was used on the 69 H/Os also.

 

Well then that's good news for me. Thanks again.