Newbie needs help. Bought salvage 2008 Avalon (80k miles) to rebuild and use as primary car. Made big mistake and bid on car without inspecting it. After taking out damaged parts (condenser,radiator, fuse box, air box, etc.) I see not only core support to replace (I expected) but also damage to left apron panel and associated upper support rail. I don’t see any damage to tower and the right front end appears undamaged. See pics of original damage and damage to left portion of core support and left apron/rail. I measured the upper rail and it is about 1/4” out of alignment from tower to rail on undamaged side. Also the engine seems untouched though I haven’t attempted start it given destroyed fuse box and radiator.
I’d like advice on options and opinions on my plan to:
1) drill out and replace left portion of radiator support. Middle and right hand portion of supports seems uneffected and thought I might be able to drill out left damaged part. Is this advisable or feasible?
2) I hope to be able to cut out (with sawzall) the damaged left apron panel and weld in a replacement.
3) It appears the apron is attached to top rail support via spot welds. So I’d like to separate rail from apron and hammer it back to align with right rail measuring from opposite tower. ( not sure how to measure proper height of rail ).
Note my experience working on cars is limited to minor mechanical repairs and I have zero experience doing body work or welding. But I would like to give it a go based on YouTube videos reviewed.
I’ve already sunk $2k and don’t want to waste more money on a futile effort. One body shop told me they would need to replace entire front (tower,apron,core support) but don’t have measuring equipment to do job, the other shop wouldn’t provide estimate claiming they don’t want liabilty since they won’t be doing complete repair. I’m also concerned the NJ DMV inspection would not issue a rebuild title if it isn’t repaired by an accredited autobody shop.
So if a cost-effective rebuild plan possible I’d take my losses and part the car out.
Appreciate any advice and opinions.