Hi, I need to replace my front deformation panel as its shot to pieces. Before i cut it all off i`d like to understand how i fit it back on! haha! the vans not garaged so once i cut it off i`ll want to replace fairly sharpish! I`m assuming its just plug welded along the top and bottom? and Do i just slap some seam sealer under the front panel lip to stop water ingress over the top of the deformation panel? seems a bit undignified! I know I`ll need to repair the inner valance in places too while im at it so that`ll also keep me busy.
Yes just exactly as you described, plug welds along the top and bottom edge and seam seal under the lip of the crossmember, you’ll also need to buy the two closing panels at either end as the deformation panel doesn’t reach all the way to the a-posts.
Theres a set of nose replacement videos from Snowdon Campers on youTube that may be useful. A mains powered reciprocating saw with good quality bi-metal blades is a great tool. Expect the inner valance and the bit between the front of the floor and the deformation panel to also have holes.. Like this.. .https://www.thelatebay.com/index.php?threads/breaking-tools-on-a-rusty-front-end.91510/
And make sure you took account of the fact the holes in the bumper are spaced a little away from the deformation panel (you can insert blind rubber grommets in the holes in the front of the new panel to act as Waxoyl access and spacers) and the bolts point out at an angle from straight ahead so the spacing of the new holes in the deformation panel will be a few mm less. Trial fit the bumper. Dont just measure it like I did. I had to make one hole in the bumper slightly oval to get the bolt through.
