[Crashed my wonderful 1968 Avanti II - RQA0277 Germany]

I am really happy about your responses that may be going in different directions but - I get a picture...

Please give me your opinion about the fiberglass-panels and other fiberglass-replacements. Studebaker Int has almost every part I need. Does anyone have an experience with using these? The other option is taking parts from an original avanti.

Marco 

[Crashed my wonderful 1968 Avanti II - RQA0277 Germany]

On 11/14/2022 at 5:54 AM, John D said:

Condolences on your loss. 

if the car has posi (twin traction) that can indeed be squirrelly in the rain. My 79 has a non posi 10 bolt and I actually prefer that in Seattle weather... 

This posi (twin traction) is that an item that could be chosen in the config of the customer? Is possible to change that to a safer kind?

[Crashed my wonderful 1968 Avanti II - RQA0277 Germany]

15 hours ago, Avanti83 said:

As above, the frames will interchange. I notice you haven't shown any damage behind the windshield and if the front door to front fender gaps are any indication (They are about as good as an Avanti gets) then the repairs would limited to the front panels. The hood even looks salvageable.

Remember, these cars are brittle and what looks like a lot of damage may not be as bad as you think. The need for a new frame says there was more damage lower down but the panels you need are available and probably the best way to go as you'll need to ship them over.

I'm curious about the need for a new engine as the damage your car has generally leaves the engine and trans in decent shape. 

You might look at this as an opportunity to get the new frame and suspension all renewed and then set a great looking body back on it.

Thank You for your reply. I understand that you would give the car a new frame instead of trying to repair the old one? Are the panels that are sold now good or is it better to take them from an existing car?

[Crashed my wonderful 1968 Avanti II - RQA0277 Germany]

I bought this car from England in summer of 2021. Took some time before I had all the items ticked before I got those German license plates. Had some nice rides but none with rain. So 6 weeks ago first time on a winding, wet road (Bavaria!) I loose grip on the rear wheels and take off. Car is regarded as a total loss by the insurance. The frame got hit badly by a rock, so it is not just the front of the body. So I am not shure what to do: If I would find another Avanti II from around 1968 that is as nice as this one I might consider to import it from the US to Germany. Repairing the car is difficult (but shurely somehow possible) Its just really difficult because in Germany there arent a lot of Avantis available. There are very few around. I need only need the doghouse and maybe the frame. 

So I am hoping for advice and or help from fellow Avanti-Owners. Is it better to buy new parts from the US or cannibalize an existing Avanti to get my RQA0277 on the road again. There is one for sale from 1981, so the question is - will the frame fit. I got a Chevrolet 327 engine with manual gearbox.