Rocker Panel Repair

[ThePooper]

Hi everyone,

I'd like to replace Zippy's rocker panels, but don't know how involved it will be. Anyone out there replaced the panels themselves? Currently there are a couple small dents on both rocker panels, enough to bug the crap out of me. I'm just trying to see if replacing the panels is too big of an undertaking for a couple small dents.

Thanks!
Lisa

[noR]

cut & weld much? They're part of the frame.

[marvins_dad]

Here ya go...
http://www.newbeetle.org/forums/show...ghlight=rocker

[ThePooper]

Crap, crap, crap. I was hoping welding wasn't involved, but of course it is. I'm good at both painting and body work, but never touched a welder in my life. And, I'd guess, using Zippy as a guinea pig isn't a good idea. The part itself is $108, so I'll call a friend of mine who also happens to own a body shop.

Thanks for the replies, and the link!

Lisa

[marvins_dad]

I had a friend that worked at VW that was going to get the part at his cost for $50...you could check around on that pricing. 1stvwparts.com is about the lowest OEM site I have found.

They ended up shaping then filling mine instead of cutting and welding. They did such a good job you can't tell any difference in the shape.

[ThePooper]

Yeah, $108 was my cost at the VW dealer. I'll ask my buddy what he'll charge me, then go from there.

[katwalk]

mine are messed up too, It's way to easy to damage so I'm trying to think of something to replace them with that WON'T damage so easy
I'm wondering if there's a way to make a mold and make rubber ones so if you hit something it bounces

[LadybugEwa]

Here's the repair thread on Ladybug: LINK

[2Wirehiars]

I remember there being an after market black plastic cover
for the rocker panels that went up the wheel covers partially as well.....I would love to find some now for my 2006 new beetle....any thoughts>

[Lmhansen]

I am seriously considering getting some side skirts to cover up the damage on mine. I didn't do the damage, nor did my wife, so the side skirts should be fairly safe.