Reproduction Body

Has any used an MD Juan replacement body on there flatfender recently. I know the fit and finish 20 years ago left a lot to be desired?

Mike

 

I believe all replacement tubs sold by every distributor in the US are made by MD Juan. I bought mine from Willys-Overland two years ago. They claim to drill holes that are missing from MD. I sent them my original dash and they were "Supposed" to weld it in, however I dont believe this is what they actually did. I believe they simply removed the e-brake handle recess and welded that in instead. It was very poorly done also. I had to have my paintguy redo his paint job on the dash because the metal underneath was not straight and flat enough. I still needed to weld some holes closed in the firewall that were not original as well as the windshield hinge bracket holes. Talk to who ever you decide on over the phone and ask lots of questions. Overall after finishing the project I am happy with the tub but Im still keeping an eye out for an original one. Luckily the tub is the only replacement body item I needed although I got the whole kit until I can fix my hood and fenders. One major thing I have noticed is the sheet metal is thinner and the angle of the floor where it meets the firewall is not totally accurate, but nothing you can do about that. Hope this helps. If you are able to, fix the original tub, the lots of extra effort will be worth it in the end, plus the satisfaction of not getting a semi-correct reproduction. I'm only slightly biased towards original steel.