PLS Help! Replacing front lhs panel and bumperbar.. AGGH! - Ford Forums

04-29-2002, 23:55

Hey guys..

Basically looking to get a white front-left panel to replace the old damaged one. Also, how much would I be looking at paying for one of these at pick-a-part or something?

How are the panels connected to the shell, and are they hard to replace yourself? Also if the bumper bar has been disconnected from the plastic arms that reach out can you still fix this cheaply?

If you've seen a white EA fairmont cruising around the western suburbs with a slightly damaged front left panel, and bumper hanging off at the left, thats ME!!

PLS help guys, cuz i don't know shite!!!

Thanks,
Dave

Troutman · 04-30-2002, 13:08

This info will only be useful if nobody else knows any better.

I was quoted $80 for a secondhand RH front panel for my father's car, and brand new (probably non genuine) they cost the same but you have to add painting. We didn't do it in the end.

The parts are connected via bolts I believe, and possibly screws underneath. I presume all this applies to EAs as well, but I wouldn't be surprised if you could get a better deal than $80.

Sundeep · 04-30-2002, 16:59

If it is the original panel, then there's the chance of sealer being underneath the mounts. The panel still can be removed easily, but you may need to chisel the places where there is sealer.

The panels are pretty cheap from wreckers and it is easy to source EA panels in the 'stark' white paint. When ever I go to the p-a-p in Kilsyth there is usually a white EA sitting there.

Sundeep
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SPHELL · 04-30-2002, 22:30

hey. from memory, the front guards are connected with about 5 or so bolts on top (when u open the bonnet) and a bolt down the bottom corner of the panel and one at the top. you have to partly open the front door to slide a socket wrench in there to get the bolt at the bottom of the guard. You also have to take off the mudflaps if u have any. It's easy to connect the front bar to the plastic bits that stick out...there should be plastic clips that slot in then u turn them around to lock it in. Like I mentioned in a previous post, I've got a front guard for $40 if u want it (genuine Ford)...you'll have to paint it white though. Whatever u do don't buy the non-genuine panels...they are SO shitty and will have creases in the sheetmetal even when they are brand new.

Sundeep · 05-01-2002, 20:18

hehe yeah,

Some dodgy panel beaters 'specialising' in taxi's use dodgy parts. I remember when my dad's old faithful EA had a big front ender they fitted crap parts. They fit like shit, the bonnet was out about 2cms in front of the lights instead of being flush.

It pissed me off how my dad didnt even notice/care about it, it looked as ugly as sin :eek:

Sundeep
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