Removing the Topshell

[Grockle]

I have recently purchased a tired M100 and I am planning to refurbish it. The information on this site is really helpful and I am greatful for all the help it provides. I have removed the seats and floor carpet and I am currently waiting for some advice from a repair company to deal with the rusted inner cill. I want to remove the topshel but I am finding many of the bolts are turning with their nuts due to the type of fixing. Is there an easy way of removing them without drilling them?

[daveiow]

Hi Grockle
Just out of interest where in the world are you? Your chosen LEC name has a connection to my location(which you may be aware of) but no problem if you are the shy retiring type!

daveiow

[norman lovie]

The x 4 bolts at the rear bottom of the cabin, you can get into the nuts from underneath - the plates the nuts are on are turning due to the weld tab,s failing so you can grind these off and plan to replace - all 4 of mine are spinning
the rear top bolts going into the rear suspension upper mounting area can be accessed once the struts are removed
the rear x 2 going through the boot floor can also be accessed
x 4 going into the front - dunno haven't got there yet - but suspect if you get them turning then grind the head off and punch the bolt through - again nut's will have to be renewed once the chassis is dropped
i,m at the same point - and am now preparing to remove the tank - get rid of all fuel source so I can grind away with a bit of precaution, might just drain the tank and flush it
overall from what i can see, I expect to replace all the nuts by welding them to plates which then get spot welded to the chassis - I think the fronts will need to be replaced with rivet nuts

[Specky]

The easiest way is to peel and tease back the respective gages and use a 19mm spanner on the floating nuts.

my next task on the project car is to overhaul the sills... Remove, galvanise and refit.

But I just need the time...so she sits and waits

TTFN