FATBOB

As the MK4 escort is getting thin on the ground, for good examples. So people restore them at great time, effort and expence. Its not like ford are going to make any more! So I've been looking at various body panel websites and it dawned on me. Could you buy all the panels and build a new body shell yourself?

http://www.autopanels-castleford.co....cort%20mk4.htm

I know lining everything up would be tough, but compaired to the lenghts some people go too. Making two cars one, building space frames, etc etc.
Am i being daft? Could this be done? Has anyone done it before? Or am i just crazy?!?!

Your thoughts people

SteveH

I know andrewg built his focus basically from scratch, around a spaceframe. Dunno how it works cost wise compared to restoring one though?
Interesting idea for sure

spue2001

at the factory all the panels are fitted together on jigs and then fitted together in large chunks , eg chassis , left side you get the idea , lining new panels up on a repair job can be a nightmare i would imaging that he whole process would take some time and would make you want to burn the car in the end , not to mention the problems with welding the whole thing together

adie_mwell

most people usually take any mk4 escort shell get them either dipped or shot blasted then u can get a rough idea of what ull need in most cases will be 2 new quarters 2 sills 2 wings front and rear panel doors or skins and any other stuff maye scuttle and a panels.

matts1

to be honest, if you way up the equipment, the panels, the man hours, there is very little chance anyone would pay the cost.

Add to that the fact that people will then need to run it as a q plate and loose all of their rs's history etc, making their car less valuable, it just don't add up.

RickyLee53

Can't you buy most shells brand new from the dealers anyway? a mates got a combo mk3 escort and the shell wasn't that much IIRC about 4 years ago from the dealers.

Tonyt1t

be lucky to find an rs shell left over tho surely?