Hello,
I have an 82 1/2 ton and need to replace the rocker panel and a cab corner, and some floor panels. Any way, I am welder by trade, so that doesnt scare me. But I have never done any body work. Do I have to X the door frame to replace the rocker? And are they put on with spot welds, or fully welded? How would you suggest replacing them? And, where could I get some good books on doing body work, and what is there title?
Thanks Alot,
Harvard

As far as replacing them, no, you do not have to brace the cab. They are spot welded into place about every 1" - 3" depending on the area. The straight shots they are farther apart. There are not any areas of the body that are fully welded (frame is another story). There is an inner rocker and an outer rocker (what you see). It will help to have a spot weld bit to cut out the spot welds.

Check out my sig below and go into my Project 69 Tangelo, you'll see the inner and outer and approx where the welds are located.

As far as books go, I have no idea...I took body work vocational classes in High School and worked with my Dad in a couple body shops so most of my experience was hands on.

Good luck,

Mike

Thanks Mike. I guess I will go to eastwood and get a spot weld cutter. Nice truck. What size would you suggest? Also, would I have to brace for the floor? Drivers side.
Thanks,
Harvard

If you do not want to use a spotweld drill bit, get yourself and 1/8" think cut off wheel. Many bodyman use them to grind their welds with them. Grind the spot weld and then use an air hammer to chisel the piece off. I bet I can beat you in half the time or more my way than with a spotweld drill bit and I bet I never drill all the way through by accident like you probably will. Try it, you will like it.