New to the Board

[Thundarr]

I've been lurking and learning from the masters for a few months and I just purchased this 71 GMC Sierra Grande. It was formerly a long bed and a PO cut it down and replaced with a short bed.

It's got a good running 8-10 year old GM Goodwrench 350 crate motor that I'll massage for a few more horses. It needs body work and a good paint job with little rust.

Questions:

• The battery box and inner fender well is pretty well disintegrated from old batteries. What is the best approach to dealing with this. Weld in replacements or is it possible to change parts.
• Parts Suppliers? I am in the Dallas area and have ordered stuff from Brothers and Classic Industries. They were fine but Id rather not pay the shipping and it takes forever for delivery. Is there a more local option in the DFW area?

Thanks for all the inspiration. I look forward to learning more about these awesome vehicles.