Rusty rocker panels

[S Dufore]

Has anyone tried to replace the rocker panels on a metro? Both of my cars have started to rust through in a few areas . These cars are in great condition except this problem. I would rather not do the Bondo thing ,but replace the whole rocker if possable.l've been unable to find where they are joined , It looks as if they are one unit.
Some idea as what to expect would be very helpful.
Steve

[frets14]

Steve, I'm no expert, but I've had a rather good time fabricating new rocker panels onto my 91 convertible this past summer. I used the sheet metal from the side of an old refrigerator and spot welded it into place all around it with a small MIG welder. I haven't actually finished the job, yet. I have one more section to do. Then I will have to use a little filler on the seams and repaint. I think it will look respectable for an amateur. One of my coworkers told me that I am now obligated to put the Whirlpool emblem from the refrigerator on the Metro! Good luck! Another Steve

[geozukigti]

The problem with just replacing the rockers is they're part of a uniside. The whole side of the car is stamped, and welded in. Your best bet is to cut out the whole rocker, and cut one from a metro with a good rocker and weld it in. Or do a fiberglass job on it.

[MoJoWrrrrKen]

I don't know where you guys live, but my '92 xFi (which I just bought a few months ago, for $500), has spent its entire life in southeastern Wisconsin. They spread road salt all over the place here, every winter.

The engine's in great shape at 127k, but my rocker panels -- not to mention the bottoms of the doors, and the whole underside of the car, actually -- are all showing the effects of having driven through so much corrosive road spray, for so much time.

The car's paint job isn't that bad. It's only when the thing's up on a hoist -- and you start to look up, from underneath -- that your heart will start to sink. I actually thought about taking it to a body shop and asking them to "do something" that will slow down the rust cancer, concentrating on the underside of the car.

Is that even possible? (I *really* like driving the little guy, after getting the new Yokohoma's on the front, and having the 4-wheel alignment done, it's like a skateboard with doors.) I'm not worried about the nicks and dents and little imperfections in the fenders and quarterpanel. I want to avoid having the floor rot out.

Any practical suggestions anyone might have will be greatly appreciated.

[sbiddle]

The biggest thing to worry about with rust is the attachment area for the control arms. These are prone to rust and if they fail in flight, a wing (wheel) falls off. I'd like to know a welding procedure to prolong the life of this part of the body.