I am putting my front end back together on my 69 Cutlass and have new inner fenders. I want to put new splash shields on but don't know the best technique or tools to install those pesky staples. Any suggestions?

 

Following this thread - also would like to know if there exists a template for these shields.

 

As far as the staples, if you had holes in the fender it would be easy to bend the staples with regular hand tools. Maybe you could make the holes with a different tool then install the staples by hand. On my car I didn't replace the inner fenders, only the splash guards. I carefully removed the staples and re used the staples and holes so it was easy.

 

I did what 4speed455 did with my '68 and '69. I'm thinking that, if you can place the splash shields where they are supposed to go, and then use a small drill (1/16") to make your staple holes, you can then put the staples in place and bend them over.

Bending the staples will most likely be a challenge but it can be done. When bending one side, the other side tends to pull out. If you keep enough pressure on the head of the staple while bending the ends, it will keep opposite sides from pulling out.

Randy C.

 

I replaced mine not long ago. Use the new staples that come with the splash guards and using needle nose pliers, push the staples through the guard, then into the plastic inner fender. When you have pressed both legs of the staple through, hold the staple in place, then on the other side of the plastic, use the needle nose pliers to pull the staple taught, then simply fold it over, in one smooth motion. Took me about 15 or twenty minutes to install all the staples for both sides. Looks sano, when done. Note, however, that my inner fenders were removed from the car and riding saw horses when doing this installation. You may be able to do in while the inner fenders are mounted in the car - I don't know.

 

Mine were out of the car when I did it, too...much less complicated, I'm sure, than if the inner fenders are installed.

Randy C.