[DeTomaso] Unusual Techno Question: frame holes

[Charles Engles]

Dear Mike, 

                You have been exposed to an excess amount of "The World's
Rustiest Pantera".   These holes were made by previous owners and not by the
tin worm.

                                    Warmest regards, Chuck Engles



-----Original Message-----
From: Mike & Elizabeth [mailto:mbefthomas2 at gmail.com] 
Sent: Friday, July 28, 2023 5:08 PM
To: 'Charles Engles'; detomaso at server.detomasolist.com
Subject: RE: [DeTomaso] Unusual Techno Question: frame holes

Are these nice round holes that somebody put there, or do they have teeth
marks from the tin worm . . . ?

-----Original Message-----
From: DeTomaso <detomaso-bounces at server.detomasolist.com> On Behalf Of
Charles Engles
Sent: Friday, July 28, 2023 2:53 PM
To: detomaso at server.detomasolist.com
Subject: [DeTomaso] Unusual Techno Question: frame holes

Dear Forum,

 

             I am working on my brother's Pantera and pulled the drivetrain.
I began cleaning up the engine room and noticed several non-factory holes in
various frame rails and in the frame rails inside the rear fenders.

 

             They were from one of the three previous owners and certainly
have no function now.

 

              In my view, they permit water and moisture to enter the frame
rails.  My first thought was to seal the smaller ones with some black RTV
silicone and cover the bigger ones with duct tape covered with rubberized
undercoating spray.   Then I thought, perhaps all those various and sundry
holes might actually permit ventilation of those dark recesses and *might*
be left open.  

 

              Alex's car will ultimately, I think, be garaged in
Conncecticut.

 

                Opinions?  Leave open or seal up?

 

                            Warmest regards, Chuck Engles