One of my son's is planning on buying a small welder so is brother can weld some patches on his Jag. That got me to thinking about fixing the rust on the Ranger. LMC Truck has a patch panel that looks like it'll work
http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/fr/full.aspx?Page=21
Since I don't know anything about doing this type of body work, can anyone point me in the right direction? This job probably won't happen for several months, but want to do research.

 

I've not done this work yet, but yes, cutting away rusted metal and welding in new is the best way. I hear the LMC patches panels are fine. Go to YouTube and watch a bunch of rust repair videos, and read up on other websites for a crash course. You can do it, if you can use the welder!

 

Once you are committed to repairing rust, it is usually better to leave the old panel in place and remove all the paint, primer and bondo to determine the extent of the rust damage. It might turn out to be easier to fabricate a couple small patches than to cut the whole panel off the side of the box and replace a huge piece. Less seam welded repair is easier to blend into the side contour than a huge welded panel.

 

I completely agree. It's important to note, also, that it's a good idea to cut at least 2" past the rust, to help prevent it from rusting through again. Some people suggest even 4" past the rust. It's a good idea to limit the use of any body fillers to what is only required! I hope to do some rust repair on my '94 when the weather gets better. No garage for this guy, unfortunately.

 

Thanks for the advice, GREATLY appreciated!! It will be a learning experience for us.