New Rocker Panels

Hello,
I own a 94' XJ and inspection is up. I brought it in and it failed because the rocker panels were rusted out (which I knew). I don't have the knowledge or tools to do any body work, so I have to take it to a body shop to have the work done. If the mechanic is going to have to cut out the old rocker panels and put new ones in, I figure why not put in more substancial rocker panels.

Does anybody have custom rocker panels (not guards) and could direct me to a website, company or person who fabricates them? Should I upgrade so they are less likely to rust out?

I live in Maine, the roads are either salty, sandy, or wet. Things seem to rust fast, so that's where I'm coming from.

Any help much appreciated! Thanks!

unless you form them your self, body panels are most all made from the same gauge sheet metal.

Just make sure that all the old rust is cleaned out and the inside of the rocker panel is given a good dose of rust treatment after it is installed.

I don't know of any HD rocker panels for the jeeps.

JD

Take a look here. I just did this on my 89 XJ and it came out beautiful. It will out last the jeep.

http://www.madxj.com/MADXJ/technical/technicalfiles/SRrockerPanels/RockerPanels.htm

Nice job!!

A practical solution to a continuing problem. What about the small gap between the new rockers and the door sill? have you treated it with the anti-rust metal preserver??

JD

Check your PM I sent you a few details and a pic. Hope it helps.

I agree good Job. If you were building a bumper what guage would you use if you used 1/4 for rockers?

Thanks for the helpful responses. I'm just going to take it to the body shop and see what they have to offer.

I took my jeep to the body shop and got an estimate of $1400. To me, that sounds outrageous. $864 of that is labor. 21.6 hours. It's about $200 in parts, $200 in painting and the last $200 is for another minor repair that must be done to one of the doors.

I have never done any type of body work, nor do I have the tools, but for that price, I'm considering buying some tools. Has anyone changed out their rockers? Is it a complicated process? Do you cut the old rusted ones out with a torch or a reciprocating saw? Is it difficult to install them?

Thanks.