Fixing holes in the side of the El Camino - Tie Downs

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Cuse99

Master Mechanic
Dec 21, 2020
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So my Elco came with the tie downs that are mounted on the exterior of the bed and run along each side. Mine were really loose so upon inspection.... (I'm not amazed anymore) I found that some of the mounting holes were deformed and the previous owner use dry wall screws and mounts to hold them in. Believe it or not, it didn't work.
So now I have these holes in the side of my quarter on each side. I'm thinking I have 2 options but would like some feedback on the 2nd options please.

1. I can get an appropriate size nutsurt/rivnut and try to remount the tie downs. Shouldn't be to hard. In the long run I don't want them but I have nothing else now and I don't mind them in the short term. Plus this might be the easy button, I'm not read for body work just yet.

2. Plug the holes with something. Not sure what I have no experience with body work. But I am willing to learn. The goal would be to plug the holes to keep water out to my fender, then just prime it for now. I'm not ready for body work just yet, to many other things to do.

I really appreciate any tips or tricks based on your experience. Thanks
 

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Doug Chahoy

Comic Book Super Hero
Nov 21, 2016
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For a temp/till bodywork, use 3M strip caulk. Easily removable later and seals good.
 

Cuse99

Master Mechanic
Dec 21, 2020
251
126
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For a temp/till bodywork, use 3M strip caulk. Easily removable later and seals good.
If I have to sure. I'm hoping to find something a little better if possible. This might be a good idea for the short, short term. Maybe just a few weeks to see if I can find a better solution.
 

jlcustomz

G-Body Guru
Nov 22, 2011
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Any sort of epoxy or any other filler would be guaranteed to shadow, even if you recessed the areas down a little.

As far as remounting, ya got options there. You could use what you call jacknuts, which would give an actual nut on the backside .Could use square plastic thread inserts. Both of course involve making a bigger hole.

When i last had my tiedowns, I got 12 each # 14 stainless screws from Ace Hardware, which are Bigger than the I think # 10 stock screws. may want to try one in the biggest hole, as that would be your easiest option.
 

Cuse99

Master Mechanic
Dec 21, 2020
251
126
43
For the short, short term I covered the wholes with clear Flex Tape. Wow this tape is awesome. Super sticky, thick and waterproof. I'll have to find other uses for this stuff.
I'll pick up som #14 stainless screws shortly to see if they work. If not I'll just keep the flex tape on till I'm ready for body work or a mo better short term solution till I get some body work.
 
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Rt Jam

G-Body Guru
Mar 30, 2020
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Grind the paint off. Hammer a piece of copper pipe flat at the end. Hold pipe behind hole. MIG weld a spot in the hole. 2" grinder disc and make it smooth.
 
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Ribbedroof

Comic Book Super Hero
Supporting Member
Jan 4, 2009
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Wellston, OK
Grind the paint off. Hammer a piece of copper pipe flat at the end. Hold pipe behind hole. MIG weld a spot in the hole. 2" grinder disc and make it smooth.
Not really accessible, double (enclosed) panel construction
 
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