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Post by oldcarbuff on Mar 9, 2013 12:52:10 GMT -5
When I finally got the awing rail off I realized how awful it looked. It had really had some abuse. Now for the repairs. Attachments:
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Post by oldcarbuff on Mar 9, 2013 12:53:03 GMT -5
I devised a way to open the track and restore the shape. Attachments:
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Post by oldcarbuff on Mar 9, 2013 12:56:37 GMT -5
I made these two "slugs" from steel rod. One is 5/16 and one 3/8. Then, using a piece of 1/4 steel I was able to drive them through the channel. which opened the bent in sides. Attachments:
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Post by oldcarbuff on Mar 9, 2013 12:57:59 GMT -5
Be sure to brush in a little lubrication to help them slide. Attachments:
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Post by oldcarbuff on Mar 9, 2013 12:59:53 GMT -5
driving them through worked great! The smaller one going first lifted the sides allowing the 3/8 slug to restore the full shape. Occasionally I would tap the sides down against the slug to help form any high spots. Attachments:
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Post by oldcarbuff on Mar 9, 2013 13:01:37 GMT -5
Now just a few clean-ups with a file and pinchers to adjust the gaps and it is time to clean and polish. New awning in the works? You bet. Mark Attachments:
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Post by dawgpound on Mar 9, 2013 15:25:04 GMT -5
I wish I thought of how to repair my awning rail, as easy as you did!! I ended up buying an Awning Rail Channel Spreader from across the big pond....United Kingdom. Attachments:
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Post by oldcarbuff on Mar 10, 2013 10:51:38 GMT -5
Ross, seeing this tool makes me think I could weld a 1/4 plate to the slug and use it to pound as one piece although the loose slug idea really worked well and having the smaller lead slug to begin the opening of the really smashed areas worked great. I will post more after I get cleaned up and polished pieces.
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