The El Camino and I are waiting for spring.
Apparently a glutton for punishment, I took the 2 door '65 Impala apart. I know this isn't a Chevelle, but it is a close relative and the help on this site is great. If this post doesn't belong here, just tell me and I'll refrain.

Anyway, the frame proved completely solid - it's sandblasted and painted and I'm gathering together new suspension, steering, brake, and other parts to reassemble the frame area.

Now for the question. The body is bolted onto a rotisserie. Except for the trunk (which rusted from the inside out due to a bad trunk seal) and a few holes where the trunk joins to the rear fenders, the underside looked good with no rust through. But after pulling the carpet, there are holes rusted through on the outer edge of each seat area, on the sloping metal between the floor and the horizontal rocker area. The rocker itself is solid. The rusted area is maybe 3 inches by 5 inches on each side of the car and is directly above the floor brace that runs under the front seat area.

The floor brace itself looks good. But should I remove it before cutting out the rust and welding in new metal? Any experience with this type of problem?

Thanks, David

Leave the floor brace alone.. clean the floor and drill out the spot welds in the affected area..