65 Suburban - Upper Door Jam Rust

[ScottN795]

Hello All,

I have recently acquired a 65 Suburban in exchange for a bunch of parts laying around our shop. I've been wanting one of these for years and finally have one, sort of... The issue, there is rust almost everywhere. The typical rust is there; fenders, front floor board, rear rockers, above the windshield and doors. The roof, drip rails and, rear floor (including barn door sill) actually look very good. Which leads me to my quandary...? I have several 60-66 trucks laying around (5 total) with plenty of clean sheet metal to fix the Suburban. Specifically, I have a fairly clean 65 cab that has most of the pieces I need. I also have good doors, hood and front fenders, so I'm not concerned with these parts. This will be a tremendous amount of work, and a very slow process, which I completely understand. My father in law is an old retired body guy, so I feel I have a great local resource. I could possibly try and find a clean Suburban to start with, however to generate the funds needed to buy one, I would likely need to sell a 72 Nova SS that I've owned for almost 20 years and did nearly a frame off on years ago. My kids don't remember a time before the Nova. I really don't want to to do that...

So, I'm thinking of doing way more work than probably makes sense on a truck that should likely be parted out. However, the primary cost I see is time and effort, and the few sheet metal pieces I will actually need to purchase, which aren't that expensive.

With all that said, I'm curious if anyone has documented the upper door jam replacement on 60-66 truck or Suburban? I'm also looking for feedback regarding the rear rocker replacement on these Suburbans. I realize that these rockers aren't officially offered for Subs, but I believe they are the same as the bed of a LWB truck? If there is an example of anyone doing this, I would appreciate being pointed that way as well.

Here are a few pictures to show what I'm talking about... I know it's bad Much worse than anything we've tackled for sure.

All input is appreciated!

If I do go forward with this, I'll document my steps and keep the list updated...

Thanks!
Scott