Eric,Don't install the drop offs with out fitting the qtrs ! You want to fit BOTH pieces at the same time..The drop offs may require some trimming to fit properly.. You can sheet metal screw them to the pan WHERE you think they go for now..But don't weld till you put the qtrs on. Also you need the gas tank forward strap bracket (you did save that from the old pan ?) You should also fit the gas tank .. the filler neck...rear body panel....Trunk lid ..BEFORE welding the floor in..Just use a few sheet metal screws when you have everything aligned.
Good advice, as always. I guess I need to put some braces in between the frame rails and underside of the trunk opening, then cut the quarters off next and replace the upper right corner/trunk surround area. It also looks like it's time to order a gas tank kit and some straps as well as the outer wheel houses.
I did actually keep the forward strap bracket (there were also two much smaller, although similarly shaped brackets as well - not sure of the exact locations on those), but I'm not sure how useable it will be. It's pretty rusted and very thin in areas (I was planning on fabricating a new one - simple bends, shouldn't be too bad).
I know you mentioned getting the longer pan, and it makes perfect sense. But honestly, I can't justify it - the gap is only 5", and a 6"x44" piece of 16 or 18 gauge sheet metal is way cheaper than $145 + oversize shipping charges (just to fill the gap). Aside from the dimpled area just to the passenger side of the middle, it shouldn't take too much effort to get it into shape.
The lesson I learned from this mistake of mine is to pay more attention to what I'm ordering beyond the price and just a quick glance at the picture.
I still don't get why they would make a 'full' and 'short' version of the trunk pan, though - maybe I'm just dumb or something.
