The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop Derusting interior

I am trying to figure out if the metal headliner and back panel can be removed from the interior of my '62 C-10. I want to derust an insulate the space between the inner and outer panels if possible. From what I have read in the shop manual and factory assembly manual it appears as though everything is welded together, but I am not sure and remain hopeful that I can remove it. Assuming that it cannot be removed, however, does anyone have any suggestions for how to approach the derusting. I have read about the redi-strip process but am worried about residual chemicals leaking from the seams and ruining the paint. Also, would that process prevent further rust from forming? If not, how could I treat the space so rust would not form again?

That cab is all welded together. If you Really, really want to get inside- youcan open it up from the outside. Cut the roof all the way around the rain gutter, and you're in. You'll find, among other things, a small bit of factory sound deadening. If you putting in seat belts, you'll have access from above and below for the shoulder harnesses. If you put new insulation back in, don't put too much in because the roof will stick up too high. While you're in there, check the area over the windshield very thoroughly. Mice lived in his area on my original cab and did enough damage to warrant a new cab. I'm putting screening at the bottoms of the corners to slow them down the next time. K10

62 Chevy-
You might be going a little (or a lot) overboard. Fix the rust that you have. If you are really concerned about stopping rust make sure that all drain holes are kept clean, and have a good rust inhibiting service (Ziebart's) spray you interior panels. They drill holes into inaccessible panels and spray retardant, then cap off the panel. Every five years or so, have them retreat the truck.

What I'm really trying to say is don't throw money and time away trying to search for perfection in stomping out rust. Take reasonable precaustions, but don't completely cut apart your truck to make sure you get all the rust. You'll end up with a truck scattered all over your available garage space. Then you'll give up on putting it back together, and you'll sell it to someone else or take it to the junkyard - eventually. Also makes females extremely untractable.

If you really want to permanently eliminate rust and money is no object - you could always get a fiberglass cab and/or other panels for your truck. US BodySource makes them ($4000). I guarantee that it'll never rust....

k10 and Vaughn,
Thanks for the input. Since funds and space are both in short supply, I think I will just have to live without knowing what lies between those panels and just take care of what I can. I will look into Ziebart's though.