Body repair- bed side

My uncle backed into with his trailer. I knocked it out some, but the wrinkles amd crinkles are pretty rough. I am considering cutting it out and having a replacement piece welded in. Having no body damage repair experience, I was wondering if it is even worth it. The bed in general is solid, but beat to heck and back. I will post some more pics of other damage.

Edit- I got the truck from my dad and this damage was done prior to me getting it. Also, it may be easier to just get a used bed in better condition.

 

I think the answer would depend on the truck as a whole and what your eventual plans for it are

 

Plans are for daily driver. No mud other than what is necessary in my area, which is slim to none.

The frame, cab, and engine are good. Transmission will go into 4th every once and a while, but is hard and it grinds.

Right now my budget is nonexistent. Making plans is about all I can do right now.

 

When I say plans I am referring to long term. Is this something worth investing time and money to bring back to a high standard for you or just to drive until something better comes along in a year or two? If you do not have long term goals of keeping it I would just stop the area from rusting and drive it as is

 

Maybe junk it and put a working flatbed on there??

 

Ok- I got you. Yes, this is a long term truck. I believe this one was made on a day where everyone and everything was right at the factory. If I bring it back to top condition, my grandson that is due this month could be driving it when he turns 16 in 2032. My priorities of work are the engine, transmission, and then body.

I don't mind driving it like it is, but as time and money come open, this baby could be a real gem. So long term, it will be sweet.

I am wondering if repair is more cost effective than replace. As with most things, the more conversation, the more stimulation to the old brain...the answer comes easier.

 

Ok, sounds like you plan to keep it for the long run but still want it looking nice. Better for you to replace the bed.

 

I am not a flatbed kind of guy, but that is an option.

 

Chaosrob, that one you brought back to life is awesome. When it comes to that I am a skill level one.

Are you military? I thought I saw something about Hampton, VA. I have a good friend (he pastors in Hampton- Warwick Assembly of God) that I visit at least once a year.

 

Simply going over the area with some colormatched paint will make it much less noticeable.

Make or buy a wrap around rear bumper and itl be even less. or then you could just cut that section out altogether

 

Devin, great idea. I might have to look into this option. Hmmm. Thanks for the suggestion.

 

Thank you, it is appreciated. I think tony has the best bet for you, you should be able to find a decent bed for <500 bucks then plasticdip the truck.

I was military but have been out for a few years. I am actually in the St. Louis, Mo area

 

I would keep an eye out on local classified ads or junk yards. i have seen a few beds pop up locally in really nice condition for as low as $125 but usually closer to 250-500.

 

Thank you everyone for the suggestions. This place rocks.

 

Hey, what rear bumper is that?

 

Ones an Elite. the other is relentless.