Patch panel help (maybe use scrap parts?)

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Feb 28, 2008 | 10:37 PM

rods4life

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From: Wood Ridge NJ

Patch panel help (maybe use scrap parts?)

I need to make patch panels for my running boards (the ribbed area) and my rear fenders (I need the front and rear sections including the flared edge). Any suggestions on how I can make these? Is anyone like me (never throws anything out) and have any scrap metal that these areas can be salvaged from?

I know where some fenders are but they are to nice and I would feel bad cutting them up.

I know they make a patch for the rear fender where the running boards meet, but this is a custom piece I am working on. I Want to extend both the front and back lower parts of the fender by 4-6 inches.

Thanks
AL

Feb 29, 2008 | 08:23 AM

AXracer

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From: Durham NC

If you want custom patch panels then they will need to be handmade or modified from stock pieces, exactly what "custom" means. In the case of the rear fender to running board extension, you might be able to use the available patch piece at the connection point if the two parts will meet as per stock then fill in the extra area above with formed sheet metal. For the running boards you might cut out the ribbed section completely and add a custom insert of polished diamond plate. That's the fun of custom, you don't need to put it back to original condition.
Mid Fifty and others sell repro running boards, would be much cheaper and easier than repairing rusted out ones if you want stock look.

Feb 29, 2008 | 09:46 PM

rods4life

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From: Wood Ridge NJ

AX very good points and very true but I for got to mention that I dont have a lot of money and this is a low buck project.

Thanks
AL

Feb 29, 2008 | 10:36 PM

AXracer

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From: Durham NC

Quote:

Originally Posted by rods4life

AX very good points and very true but I for got to mention that I dont have a lot of money and this is a low buck project.

Thanks
AL

All the more reason to make your own patch panels! A 1/2 sheet of 18 ga cold rolled steel is pretty inexpensive and will go a long way. Some sheet metal fab shops will even give or sell for a couple dollars their "drops" or smaller leftover pieces. Just don't get galvanized metal. Click here on member
keith56_cruz_cab and take a look at his gallery to see how he reworked his fenders and running boards and built custom panels.
I haven't had to do much patching except redoa couple previously patched bullet holes, but I have in process pix of some of my custom work in my galleries.