What kinda metal for tailgate skin?

[Senor_paco]

Guys, i was looking at metal for skinning my tailgate, and would like an opinion on good metal. Now this isn't a Sir Michaels sking, I'm doing it myself. But there are os many choices of metal, galvanized, galvannealed, the list goes on. I figure I'll buy a sheet and trim out what I need. I have some square tube that I'll be clamping to help form the metal to the tailgate, and will mig weld the sides, and can use a torch to help it lay flat if need be. I can drill holes in the sheet every 6" or so, and use short panheads or tack weld, grinding all smooth later.

any advice on how to proceed? all is welcomed. I plan on using 18 gauge, since I've been playing w/16, and it's a lot harder than 18.

[Senor_paco]

Sorry, mods pls move to paint/body. Thx.

[glock35ipsc]

I would use either 18 gauge cold rolled sheet, or aluminum killed steel. The latter is easier to work with, shape, form, etc., but costs more and is harder to find. On the other hand, pre-formed tailgate skins are rather inexpensive.

[59 fleet]

Rust inside between the cover and tailgate can be a problem. Suggest using galvannealed or electrogalvanized to give some protection inside the tailgate. Just sand it well on the outside to get good paint adhesion.