[Huck]

I would not assume that pulling a top off a blazer with good rocker boxes and cab mounts will prevent the body from moving. Even with a perfect body--it tends to sag and twist a bit once you pull the top especially if you have things like the front clip off or outer rocker panels. K5's are not the stiffest bodies GM ever built by a long shot. The factory assembly manual refers to shimming body mounts and over time, all the rubber mounts will sag, spred out a bit etc. The top is about the only good reference for proper alignment of the windshield frame, firewall, rear quarters, doors, etc. Before welding any patch panels, floors, etc. I would put the top on and make sure it is firmly bolted in place --kind of like a Jig. Also remember to cut out the smallest amount of original material to get a solid welding base. Replacing a complete section when you only need a small part usually creates bigger problems. My .02 based on a few ~~