Floor Panel Rust Revealed

[1stTimer]

Hello Everyone,

Recently purchased a 72 Bronco Sport, this is my first time ever attempting a project like this so please excuse my lack of knowledge and ignorance. With that said, I started removing the vinyl flooring to reveal some pretty serious rust in the front and rear floor panels. What is the recommended solution for repairing this? I have found full body tubs but they seem to cost more than what I paid for the Bronco. I have also found replacement body floor panels but not sure how that works. Do you install the panels over the old? Do you have to cut out the old panels to install the new? Either method sounds like it may be a bit above my skill level so I may have to take it to an body shop to have the work done.

Thanks in advance for your responses!

 

[Seabronc]

Rust is only eliminated by cutting it out. From a labor stand point, replacing the entire thing is the easiest. However, if you can't afford an entire new section then you will have ot completely cut out the rusted section and replace it with new pieces. Attached are a couple of pictures of replacing a section from my recent project on my 83 FSB. Personally I find body work very similar to wood working except for the media you are working with.

I don't have a picture of the hole in the floor prior to fitting a replacement panel, ( you don't need to use the entire new panel, I cut the new panel down to what I needed). I used welding clamps to hold it in place to pre-drill holes for steel pop rivets and used structural epoxy for the final attachment. Also pictured is replacement of the rocker panel and the rear lower B post.

Good luck on your decision,

>-

 

[1stTimer]

Thank you very much for your response!! Very helpful! /emoticons/[email protected] 2x" width="20" height="20" />

Yeah I've found complete floor panels online and I will most likely use the entire panel just to get everything to an equal point.

Thanks again!!