Need Help with 65 Impala Floor Pan Replacement

Classic & Vintage Cars
1

I’m in the process of restoring my 1965 Chevrolet Impala and it looks like I need to replace the floor pan. I’m reaching out here because I could use some advice on a few things:

Sourcing the Parts

  • Where should I look for a replacement floor pan? I’ve checked a couple of classic car parts websites, but the prices vary widely. Does anyone have recommendations for reliable suppliers?
  • Are there aftermarket options that are worth considering?

Installation Tips

  • What’s the best way to go about removing the old floor pan? I want to make sure I don’t damage anything else during the process.
  • Any suggestions for tools or equipment I should have on hand? I’d love to hear from anyone who’s done this before.

DIY or Professional?

  • Is it realistic for a DIYer like me to tackle this? I’ve done some minor repairs in the past, but I’m unsure if this is within my skill set.
  • If I should go to a professional, how do I find someone who specializes in classic cars?

Additional Advice

  • Anything else I should know? I’m also open to any general tips on restoring a classic floor pan. What pitfalls should I avoid?

Thanks in advance for any help you can provide! Looking forward to your insights.

2

I’m in the middle of a floor pan replacement for my '65 Impala. Selecting the right floor pan is key! I’ve found that OEM parts usually fit better but can be pricey. Aftermarket might save you money, but check reviews for fitment issues.

3

That’s good to know! What brands do you recommend for aftermarket parts? I’m trying to balance quality and cost.

4

It’s always a trade-off! For aftermarket, I’ve had luck with brands like OER and Goodmark. Just make sure to measure everything accurately before purchasing.

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5

Don’t forget to consider the material of the floor pan. Steel is common, but if you live in a rust-prone area, you might want to look into galvanized options for added protection!

6

Great tip! Would fiberglass be an option too, or is that not advisable for floor pans?

7

Fiberglass can be lightweight and resistant to rust but may not provide the same strength as steel. I wouldn’t trust it for structural integrity, especially in an Impala.

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8

Also, double-check if you need a complete floor pan or if just sections can be replaced. Sometimes just the front or rear sections are damaged.

9

I’ve been reading that the fitment can vary by manufacturer, so don’t just rely on what’s advertised. Some users report gaps or misalignments even with ‘direct fit’ claims!

10

Wow, that’s frustrating! Has anyone here taken the plunge with a specific aftermarket company that they would recommend?

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11

I had decent luck with the AMD pans for my '66. They seemed to have a good reputation among the community, but I did have to do a little modifying for a better fit.

12

Modifying can be a pain but worth it in the end! Just remember to seal all seams properly to prevent rust from coming back, no matter what you choose!

13

I’m always skeptical about aftermarket parts. Sometimes they end up being a more expensive headache in the long run! OEM can be worth the cost if you want to avoid future issues.

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14

You can feel like a mechanic, but just remember to make sure your coffee is strong; it helps when fitting those tough parts! Who needs a gym membership when you have an Impala restoration?

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15

I recently did a floor pan replacement on my '65 Impala and found that using a spot welder was crucial for a solid install. Also, make sure to have a good buddy help you align it!

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16

Great tip! I’ve heard welding is pretty important, but what’s the best technique for it? I’ve never used a spot welder before.

17

Don’t forget to use proper safety gear when welding! I wore gloves and a face shield, which definitely helped. A respirator is also a must if you’re grinding or cutting metal.

18

Yeah, safety first! I could have used a respirator last time—my lungs were not happy with all that dust! Now I just look like a bearded lumberjack wearing all that gear! LOL.

19

Excellent point! Also, do you guys have recommendations for the best type of floor pan replacement? I’m considering steel vs. fiberglass.

20

I prefer steel for durability, but fiberglass can be a lighter option. Just make sure it fits well; that’s key for a good install. Anyone else have thoughts?

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