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Thread: Macpherson struts

  1. #1
    Tyre Kicker

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    Macpherson struts

    Hello...apologies if I am posting in the wrong place. I live in France and am considering purchase of a 1300GT mk1 Escort.
    The housings at the top of the front struts are badly rotted. Is it simply a question of welding on plates? Also headlight surrounds and fascia plate rusted away in parts. Can a new entire front section be bought and welded into place? Costs?
    Thsnks in sdvance for any advice.

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    Re: Macpherson struts

    As the strut tops are an integral part of the structure any work or replacement steel has to be done right - many cars in the past just had bits of plate welded over rust to get through inspections - hopefully all sent to the crusher now! If the strut tops are gone its likely the strut reinforcement pieces in the wheel arch will be in need of attention also! All parts are pretty much available from suppliers in the UK - look at Magnum Panels to see what you can get to suit what needs doing . . . . http://magnumclassicfordpanels.co.uk...1-1968-75.html

    BTW a mk1 1300GT is a fairly rare car these days so is definitely worth buying and saving!

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    Racer Decade Plus User wildo105e's Avatar

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    Re: Macpherson struts

    Many cars that would have gone to the crusher are now saved as MK1 escorts of any model are getting rarer and going up in value. TBH strut tops/complete inner wings and front end panels have been done for a long time now. If they are bad give the rest of the car a check asit is likley there will be more rust around the car.

    these days it is just a question of ability and budget but a "GT" is worth saving. If you choose not to do it yourself there will be a someone else who would be happy to purchase it from you such is demand.

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    Re: Macpherson struts

    Thank you for the input. I had a 1300 GT back in the 70's and have always loved MK1 Escorts. Of course I am aware that RS and Mexico examples are highly sort after and out of my price league at the moment. I did not realise that the GT was so highly thought of. This is a four door example though and I always thought it was only the two door models that are appreciating.
    Anyway I have not seen the car as still locked down but the photos indicate rust around the top of the struts and the headlight surrounds. The owners says the body is sound and the engine rebuilt but I cannot verify at present. The interior certainly looks good.
    From what you guys say at an asking price of 2000 euros i think it is worth taking on even if some extensive welding is needed?

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    Re: Macpherson struts

    Sounds a fair price - seen base models sold for more!

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