Having a problem installing the fenders on my 65 Malibu. I have the inner fenders on tight. Had to 'tip' the fenders to squeeze the radiator support on. Now, the lower fender bolts by the doors are about 1/4" to 1/2" off. Can't seem to stretch the lower fender to fit into the lower cowl area. Would appreciate if anyone has had the same problem and how they resolved it.
Thanks, John

John... Sounds like something isn't lining up quite right! Possibly an issue with new radiator support bushings (thats a guess).

I would suggest two things. First Loosen all the bolts attaching the radiator support, fenders, and inner fenders. And try to line them up before tightening.

Second suggestion is to do a search on the user "MARTINSR" (without quotes) he has many excellent posts on aligning body panels.. You should find your answer there!! Either way good luck.. and don't get so frustrated that you dent up your new panels http://www.chevelles.com/forum/smile.gif

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Normie,
I do have new bushings, also my body guy welded new patch panels at the bottom. I don't think the new patch panels are the problem. Going to loosen all the bolts and re-try it carefully. I have MARTINSR's door panel alignment printed. Will do a search.
John

Found MARTINS's post of 1-11-2002. What an AWESOME post on panel alignment! Will study this and go back out to the garage Sunday and try to apply some of his thoughts.

John, loosen ALL the bolts that hold the inner fender to the fender and you should be able to stick a drift punch in one of the lower fender bolts and pull it back to install the bolt in the other hole.

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1965 Buick Gran Sport Convertible
1965 Buick Skylark H/T
"Fan of most anything that moves human beings"

I did this recently.

you should really have the inner fender loose, and don't even try to put a bolt in the rear hole (by the firewall) before you have the outer fenders in. Don't tighten any of the bolts until you get the main outer fender bolts tight and the fender aligned.

You might also make sure you have the inner fenders on the right side of the outer fender flange around the wheel opening. Also, check the flanges around the core support are on the right side.

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Charles Perrell
cperrell@yahoo.com
65 malibu SS Convertible
283 2v powerglide

My Son and I loosened all the inner fender bolts and shaved about 1/3 off the largest radiator support rubber bushing and the fenders are on and look good. Now, we will work on the doors, the hood, and if I have to, will have my bodyshop do a once over on the adjustments when I take it in for the front end alignment this Fall. Thanks for the replies!
John