Rotten rockers

[INI SLDR]

I am interested in cutting out my rocker below the door and at the pinch seam. I want to replace with 2x3 box tubing 3/16ths thick or similar. I have no money right now for a welder and was wondering if I can stick weld these on. I have access to a buzz box and have practiced with it before. Can I weld the sheetmetal to the thicker steel ok with stick? I have a grinder to clean up some boogery welds, I just don't want to burn through the sheetmetal. Open to suggestions.

 

[RyleyF]

I've seen a guy drive a cherokee around for a long time with no rocker panel (body shop donor), but with an old big-ass driveshaft welded in place just to stiffen it up. I don't see why it wouldn't work if you just make sure that the welds penetrate enough.

 

[WA-HCXJ]

I've seen a guy drive a cherokee around for a long time with no rocker panel (body shop donor), but with an old big-ass driveshaft welded in place just to stiffen it up. I don't see why it wouldn't work if you just make sure that the welds penetrate enough.

what does that have to do with someone that is going to wheel? make sure if you use stick to skip around alot so you dont get one section too hot and ward it badly.

 

[thecozmo65]

check these links for walkthroughs.
http://www.madxj.com/MADXJ/technical/technicalfiles/SRrockerPanels/RockerPanels.htm
http://www.madxj.com/MADXJ/technical/technicalfiles/ARrockerPanels/RockerPanels.htm

 

[andyr354]

With a buzbox it will be more difficult to weld to the thin steel on the XJ. get some thin sheet metal scraps and practice. You will need to focus most of the heat towards the thicker steel and just whip it over into the thinner as you travel.

I need to get around to the same thing. Found a pic on XJDB similar to what I am going to do. My pinch seam is almost completely gone to rust so there is not alot ther to weld to on the bottom. I think the kickers like in this pic are important in this situation.