Tub Dissection Advice Please

[Wortho]

I have acquired a tub and hope to utilise it for spares.

I need to cut the tub in to at least 3 sections for storage, what would be the best way to dissect the tub in order to keep them for spares?

Thanks

[dapinky]

The obvious answer is that it is better not to cut it until you know what you need it for.... but that probably doesn't help you at all!

If you are expecting to need a whole tub, then it needs keeping whole - and if you are hoping to use it for repair panels, then again, it's down to what you feel you may need.

I have the luxury of having enough space to be able to keep it whole, but if I didn't, then I would have a good look at what I have fitted, and see if any of the 'structural' bits are past their best (eg, sill outriggers).

If nothing obvious, then I wouldn't really know where to cut it up, as sods law dictates that whatever to cut today, you will need in the future.

If you are better with repairing structural items than pretty bodywork, then you may wish to keep the fibreglass 'shaped' bits complete (rear quaters etc) and graft them on if required - however, if you are happy to re-create the curved bits, then you will want to keep the metal bits intact.

If it helps, when my red one was written off, it was because of the cost of repair (and parts availability) - NOT because it couldn't be done - it suffered a big crack across the rear tub between the wheelarches (across the boot floor). I would have needed a 'rear end' to graft on, or spend ages repairing & reinforcing what I already had.... Then reshape the outer panelwork. As such, a 'cut' across the car just aft of the rear bulkhead, would have been ideal for me (as it wouldn't affect the metalwork too much).... but I have known other people who have had sill damage and have chopped big bits out of the sides for repair - so it is hard to advise.

[Simon_P]

The WSM and parts manual could be used as a guide they show the cuts and repair sections.

The rear wings and topshell are the ones to take time over careful removal as they are visible, so any joint requires a lot of work.

[Wortho]

Thanks guys thats very helpful, I just didn't want to wade straight in and cut up the shell just to get it moved asap.