To return them to original,It may be possible to cut them in "half" around the "jam" , body work it and weld back, grind welds and skim with filler. Cutting them open will allow great access to hammer and dolly them. When cutting things apart, screw on some plates by match drilling plate and part. Drill proper size holes for sheet metal screws or cleco's. Of course mark where the plates go. You will need at least three holes in each plate, two on one side of the intended cut and one on the other side. Then do the cutting and when ready to weld back together, temporarily attach these alignment jigs/plates until tacked well. Warping will not be a factor when welding around the edge as it may be on the flat. Latches and mechanisms will have to be removed but all will fit back exactly by using the alignment method as stated or your alignment idea. The hinge area will be a challange. I am familiar with TF but not AD stuff. Cutting close to the inside edge would be the best. I am not sure if the hinge mating threads piece is only attched to the outer half or also attached to the inner. If it's both, that's a problem with my idea. Anyway just brainstorming. Good luck.
Last edited by bartamos; 10/28/2011 8:03 AM.
