Re: [FWDLK] 58 Mopar rust problem? Fact, Fiction, or just way overstated?

[<TheCarNutz@xxxxxxx>]

Although most of the current owners on the list are infactuated with their 57
to 59 fin cars and may find it hard to accept, these cars had a much deserved
bad reputation for being rust buckets.  I was a teen ager when these cars
were new, and even worked one summer at a Dodge dealership as a parts chaser.
 As others have pointed out, design changes and very sloppy workmanship were
contributing factors.  Not only did they rust out prematurely, the fit and
finish on the cheap interiors was a common complaint, as was the leaks and
rattles.  The 57's were the worst, and due to so many complaints the factory
did improve on the 58's and more on the 59's.  And although other cars of
that era had inherent rust problems expecially around the head lights, rocker
panels and lower quarter panels, none seemed to suffer the consequenses of
the "salt & cinders" as much as the Mopars.  It was often said by Mopar
diehards of the time, " if Chrysler Corp would just build the chassis,
suspension and drive train, and send it out and let someone else build the
body and put in the interior", it would be the perfect car!
                                    Bill B.