1. stainless will last virtually for ever.... as you probably know, steel is only good for 5 to 10 years in these parts of the world.
2. Not positive, but I do know it has the same
TYPE of mount. Shouldn't be hard to modify your cross member if need be. Drill a hole or two.
3. If yours are rusted out, then replacements are a good buy. If you know how to weld and measure, they aren't too hard. Getting rickers lined up is the worst part.
4. the patch panel IS for repairing it. Again, if you can weld sheet metal, I would repair it with this route. Almost every original fender you'll ever see is rotted out there, the battery would leak and drip there and eat it up.
5. I would NEVER use that much rubber line, not safe, not strong, won't hold up to the weather... and a (fairly) straight steel tube is rather easy to run up the frame rail.
Headed up to your area saturday... if you see my yellow and calico burb... honk
