Spot Welds - best way to remove

[warrenz]

After some work on the panel across the back of the hatch, the one where the lock comes through I have decided I should replace the entire panel and clean up and POR the metal underneath.

 

What is the best way to break all the spot welds ?

 

Is it just drill them out and patch the holes later or is there a better idea ?

 

It got much worse underneath after I peeled up the end piece in the picture.

 

Warren

[Zeddophile]

device called a spot weld cutter - has a small drill in the end, and then a solid boring bit behind that (or more like a holesaw if its a cheapo one). Have tried drilling them, takes absolutely forever, and you need a large supply of drill bits. Have shattered a blade on the first weld I tried to drill with the cheapo holesaw cutter, no good.

 

The solid bit, however, goes straight through, and the small pilot drill in the end is replaceable on the one I have. Got it from Snap-On for around $35, from memory.

[Slow_Zed]

If there is paint still on the spot welds, it helps if you heat it up (ie oxy or gas flame) and then wire brush. this helps you to see them...

 

I normally just use about 8-10mm sharp (new) drill bit. go slow and it should last as long as you need.

 

Good luck