Thanks, Paul, for the helpful thoughts on the state of my car's bodywork.
The cracking filler is just above the rear wheel opening, where the inner
wheel arch meets the fender. I believe that there is rust beginning at
that point, and displacing the filler. I plan to replace the outer panel,
and hopefully get away with just patching the inner -- it appears to be in
decent shape.
W/R/T the doors: I have considered reinforcements to the door, similar to
what you describe, particularly the backing plate for the mirror. This is
a weak spot of these cars, and seems to be if not easily fixed, then
easily improved. I have adjusted the doors, and the gaps are good all
around, and when the door is closed, the trim piece makes a straight line
from headlamp to taillight. When the door is opened, it droops 1/4" or
so. Does that mean worn-out hinges? How tough are those to replace?
Moss lists them at $80 apiece, two per door; which means over three
hundred dollars just to check and see.
Any suggestions about or experiences with door fit, rust repair, DIY
sills/floors etc. gladly welcomed -- I'll probably be digging into this
project at some point this summer.
Many thanks,
Matt
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