What gauge/type sheet metal for 1956 body

[dicer]

Originally Posted by mdstitt

The fact remains that the floor, A-pillars, and bedsides are heavier than the rest of the truck. I have not measured them, but they are most likely either 16 or 17 gauge. I used 16 gauge to repair my floor and it is very close to the same thickness as the original. The 18 gauge was noticeably thinner.

I do apologize for my statement before. I went back in my notes, and I too measured .042 for the front fenders, hood, doors, etc. So dicer is correct. 18ga was just the closest I could find to purchase.

I just measured the back of step, some where around .054 or so that makes it
17 gauge, I think the folded edge on the floor was in the 18 gauge area, I'm sure GM didn't want to have to wear their dies with too thick of material. I'll have to check the floor some place else when I can get to it better.
I can now sure see that they could have done a bit better on the construction of the floor and how it attaches to the frame, its amazing that a fully loaded seat with some hefty people doesn't bend that floor, since there isn't much support to it. I guess I'm slowly understanding why some folks do the modifications that they do. It sure is tempting.