Mayfair affair

This 1958 Dodge Mayfair was initially sent to the team at R3 Fabrications in Papakura for some restoration work, mainly on the lower sections of the body.

The lower sills and inner sills were riddled with old patchwork and heavy rust that necessitated replacing them. In addition, the floor sections and under body brackets were also suffering from heavy rust, so the exterior paint was completely stripped to see just how bad the body actually was. Luckily, it appeared to be fairly good around the roof and pillar areas, which were in solid condition.

With the help of some good replacement panels that were supplied by the owner, and a NOS rear panel, quarter panel, plus sill panels sourced from USA, work was able to commence on the restoration. All the floor sections were hand-fabricated by R3 Fabrications using traditional hammer forms and swaging techniques. With help from its new Caroliner spot welder, all floor sections were welded together to maintain a factory appearance, and strength was easily achieved. The boot floor has also been removed, acid dipped, and repaired.

Judging by these photographs, there’s still plenty of work ahead for the team at R3 Fabrications, however, they are confident that the owner will be cruising the streets at next year’s Beach Hop event.