Question about reproduction bedsides

[SLS]

Hey guys,

I've got a '71 Custom Deluxe SHORTBED that has bedside issues (rust and sloppy patch panel repairs).

I feel that I would save time and money by replacing then with new aftermarket or good originals (if anyone has them!...hint hint).

I would even replace the whole bed if I could locate a decent one at a decent price (hint hint again)...as the floor and cross supports are very rough too.

Anyway, my question is this:

Have any of you guys bought the repro ones...and how did they fit? I've seen good, and bad, reports about the hoods, doors, and fenders in the fitting and lineup areas...but have not seen anyone discussing the bedside repros. (I really wish the 'search' feature here was functional!).

I could disassemble the bed, locate and remove the spot welds and repair these bedside panels from the inside out...but when I consider the time involved I feel that just replacing them may be my best option...and concentrate my time and effort on stripping and repairing the ever elusive steel floor panel.


So, any thoughts on this? Any reports on installing repro bedsides (good or bad)? Any comments on the vendors who supplied you with these parts?

Thanks for reading and replying to this post!