Ground Effects channels

[Dave Phillips]

Where can I either pick new aluminum/sheet metal ground effects channels? Ones I have are pretty nasty shape, and need new connectors as well. Going to eventually use them on the wagon conversion so I want to make sure they are in good shape.

 

[SHOck]

What do the channels look like? If they are like generic steel channels, you can pick up some at any decent hardware store. Otherwise, you are probably going to be limited to junkyard SHO's or SLO's with ground effects.

 

[Dave Phillips]

They're basically straight but with a slight lip that's been crimped in so as the panels are held tight to the body at teh top. I don't think fabrication would be very easy- I was thinking junkyard but was hoping to find new. Anyone out there near western KY that has a set off a wrecked car?

 

[rangerj]

Dave,

There are channels for the doors, front and back, and for the rocker panel (long one).

These are OEM parts. Try the Ford parts distributors that are "on line". These parts were used for the Sable and for the Taurus for several model years and should be available.

The channels are zinc plated steel and are held in place with large rivets. 1/4 inch if I remember right. Rivets that size take the large rivet tool. You can get one cheap from Harbor Freight, or may be able to borrow one (Auto Zone?).

Whenever I replace one of these channels I coat both sides with a thick (heavy viscosity like vasoline) grease to minimize future corrosion. You could also spray on a galvanizing paint (before applying the grease (DAH).

Do the back side, rivet it on, then do the out side and apply the panel or ground effects. rangerj

 

[TimboSHO]

Dave Phillips:
Ones I have are pretty nasty shape

Heh, that's an understatement for mine. I took the ground effects off, and the channels just fell off in 3 rusted chunks. Now a piece of duct tape keeps the ground effects off of the ground thumb